Citalopram and Tiredness: What Users Say (Page 2)

• Eli...
• January 12, 2019

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I'm a 57-year-old male who has suffered from generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) on and off during my life. It was only three years ago that I started taking medication for it. I started out with buspirone, and it worked great for 1.5 years, but then its effect just started tapering off and not really working for me. I tried without it for about 6 months and was feeling good, but had another bout of anxiety. My doctor recommended Celexa 40mg in the morning once a day. The first few days were horrible, I felt spaced out, tired, and could not function at all. I talked with a nurse family member, and she said the dose was too high. I cut down to 20mg (half a pill) for two weeks. I did that and then bumped it back up to 40mg. It worked! My side effects slowly went away. I have been on Celexa for over three months and feel much better now. Buspirone had more of a calming sedation feel, while Celexa puts me in a better frame of mind. That is the best way to describe the difference between them. Anxiety symptoms have gone away. It might be a rough start, but stick with it."

• Had...
• June 24, 2016

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "So far, so good. I'm only four days into taking it. I take it at lunchtime every day and notice I get a bit drowsy and yawn like crazy for a couple of hours after I take it. However, my anxiety is already feeling better so this side effect is nothing in comparison! My anxiety was becoming debilitating, just so much stress...I lost my mom to cancer, my cat passed away, going through a possible separation, just horribly stressful situations now. I have a lot of support from my family and friends and feel like this is the first step in getting back in check."

• Dan...
• June 17, 2021

For Anxiety and Stress "Anxiety came out of the blue for me. At the beginning, I was anxious but could cope with it. That soon changed, it manifested every day until I was having panic attacks, couldn’t sleep or eat. My GP prescribed me sertraline 25 mg, which was the worst! Made everything 500% worse. (Terrible drug.) I took them for 3 days, then stopped. My GP then prescribed me citalopram 10 mg. I felt slightly better the first week, still feeling anxious but not as bad. Managed to sleep but woke up early and ate. I didn’t have many side effects: yawning a lot, felt tired the first week, some stomach trouble but nothing major. I’m now on day 12, some days are better than others. Remain anxious in the mornings. Some days it lasts an hour then leaves, and I feel relatively normal, other days it lasts the whole day. I’m hopeful that this medication will improve my symptoms in a few weeks. I take my medication in the morning. I’m hoping to feel normal soon. Hang in there, guys."

• Dan...
• June 17, 2021

For Anxiety and Stress "Anxiety came out of the blue for me. At the beginning, I was anxious but could cope with it. That soon changed, it manifested every day until I was having panic attacks, couldn’t sleep or eat. My GP prescribed me sertraline 25 mg, which was the worst! Made everything 500% worse. (Terrible drug.) I took them for 3 days, then stopped. My GP then prescribed me citalopram 10 mg. I felt slightly better the first week, still feeling anxious but not as bad. Managed to sleep but woke up early and ate. I didn’t have many side effects: yawning a lot, felt tired the first week, some stomach trouble but nothing major. I’m now on day 12, some days are better than others. Remain anxious in the mornings. Some days it lasts an hour then leaves, and I feel relatively normal, other days it lasts the whole day. I’m hopeful that this medication will improve my symptoms in a few weeks. I take my medication in the morning. I’m hoping to feel normal soon. Hang in there, guys."

• Sof...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 2, 2015

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I was depressed with extreme generalized anxiety disorder. I was a total mess to the point where I couldn't function properly in my daily life. I was put on Valium (Diazepam) but it's a very temporary fix, plus it's extremely addictive. So my doctor changed my medication and put me on 20 mg of Citalopram (Celexa) a day. What a lifesaver it has been. Depression has disappeared 100% and my anxiety is reduced by 80%. The only side effects I'm noticing are a decrease in my sex drive, it's almost gone. Also, I feel slightly tired sometimes. But it's totally worth it. I guess you can't have your cake and eat it too."

• Ano...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• December 9, 2013

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "For the last 7 months, I have taken 30mg/day. It eased 90% of my anxieties and obsessive thoughts. My family and friends quickly noticed my new, laid-back state. I laughed more and cried (a whole lot) less. I have never been so emotionally stable. However, these benefits come at a price. First, I'm extremely tired. Next, my libido is gone. Also, my memory is awful. I constantly forget simple conversations or tasks. Similarly, I now struggle to articulate my thoughts. I often stumble over words and lose my train of thought mid-conversation. Lastly, at times, I feel like an emotionless zombie. For these reasons, I plan to taper off the medication. I instead hope to learn new coping techniques."

• JJa...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 26, 2019

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "After 10+ years of worsening anxiety and panic attacks, I finally was prescribed citalopram. Started on 10 mg, which made me feel tired and sluggish with some diarrhea the first couple of weeks. Then increased to 15 mg, now on 20 mg - it has been 3 months and I don’t get but a few panic attacks here and there when in high-pressure situations (Dr. says he will likely increase to 30 mg after my next follow-up). But the daily nausea, gagging, and stomach problems are gone, and I don’t constantly feel like I’m going to pass out or throw up. I can enjoy going out to public events without panicking. I finally feel normal, and that constant self-monitoring, analyzing, panicking voice that was always in the background is subdued."

• Its...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 4, 2018

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "Was on Zoloft for months for panic disorder. Thought nothing could ever help me. After months of going from 25 mg to 200 mg of Zoloft, my doctor finally switched my medication to the same one (Celexa) my mother takes for depression. The first about 8 days or so were awful. Withdrawing Zoloft and Celexa side effects. Hot flashes, nausea, dizziness, dry mouth, extreme panic, and tiredness. Then suddenly I just felt better. Happier. Less anxious. Normal again. It saved my life!"

• Bee...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 31, 2019

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I've been on 10 mg of Celexa for about 6 months now. I remember automatically feeling 'happier' after a few days being on it (placebo effect maybe :)). I started to notice I also wouldn't dwell on things that upset me. I went through a horrid breakup. I remember not thinking as much about my ex and being able to feel more positive and not ruminate on negative thoughts that would typically trigger my anxiety and moodiness. Everyone has different experiences on SSRIs, so it's hard to find the right one. The only issues with this medication were the complete loss of libido and occasional digestive issues. I also suffer from IBS, so if you have a sensitive stomach, this may give you occasional digestive issues? And lots of yawning, lol! Other than that, this SSRI was the best I have ever been on (Zoloft makes me sick and tired..)"

• Jud...
• October 5, 2011

Citalopram for Depression "To all starting out on Celexa, please don't judge it by the first 3 weeks. I am now at 8 weeks and I've never felt better. My doctor said the full effect will be felt at 8 weeks - I can truly tell. The first 3 weeks I was beyond tired, getting up and getting to work was painful. I'm usually a night owl but I was ready to crash after dinner every night. By week 4 all of my energy came back. My moods were amazing, my social skills did a 180-degree turn. This medication truly changed my life. I haven't tried anything before for my anxiety/depression as I am in my early 20s. I knew I needed help when my illness began to destroy my personal relationships. The constant yawning, tiredness, fogginess will go away. Your body will adapt."

• Jud...
• October 5, 2011

Citalopram for Depression "To all starting out on Celexa, please don't judge it by the first 3 weeks. I am now at 8 weeks and I've never felt better. My doctor said the full effect will be felt at 8 weeks - I can truly tell. The first 3 weeks I was beyond tired, getting up and getting to work was painful. I'm usually a night owl but I was ready to crash after dinner every night. By week 4 all of my energy came back. My moods were amazing, my social skills did a 180-degree turn. This medication truly changed my life. I haven't tried anything before for my anxiety/depression as I am in my early 20s. I knew I needed help when my illness began to destroy my personal relationships. The constant yawning, tiredness, fogginess will go away. Your body will adapt."

• LIZ...
• May 27, 2015

Citalopram for Depression "I have depression and high anxiety. I have had these most of my life but refused treatment. Now, having a son of my own, I have realized I need to be better for him. I have only been on it for a week and have noticed a lot of improvements! I no longer feel upset about my life. I can talk to my child like he should be talked to, not because I'm stressed and anxious all the time. I have had a few side effects so far: weird dreams, headaches, muscle spasms, dry mouth, and tiredness, but to feel 'normal' is worth it. I finally feel like I'm going to be okay."

• Joe...
• August 11, 2017

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I suffered from extreme panic attacks, lack of concentration, constant worry, and restlessness, which led to a stint of sleep deprivation. I am currently two and a half weeks in and have gone through the gamut of side effects: increased anxiety, night sweats, tiredness, and loss of sexual desire. But I can gladly say that these side effects are already seemingly disappearing and I can focus again! It's amazing, my sense of humor isn't back yet as I am generally sarcastic, which I am struggling hard with right now, but ultimately I can feel the drug working. My girlfriend doesn't think I'm completely insane (which is nice), and I feel like I am on the better side of the Celexa now."

• TIm...
• August 14, 2011

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "The doctor said it would take 10 days to 2 weeks to kick in, but at day 8 I noticed a real difference. I was on Wellbutrin for several years and took myself off 2 years ago. But as life happens, I need a happy pill again. I was having severe panic attacks, which I had never experienced before. So glad to have my doctor prescribe Celexa, it's so awesome to feel normal again. The only real side effect was yawning for a few weeks. No sexual side effects at all, it's better because I feel better. So if you are questioning it, don't, for the sake of you and your loved ones. Try it."

• Mom...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 9, 2013

Citalopram for Postpartum Depression "I am not sure if I had postpartum depression or not. My youngest child is 2, and it seems ever since having her I've not been the best mom out there, or wife. I was very moody all the time, and just recently it has gotten worse. I felt like I was always on a rage at home, yelling at everyone, everything getting on my nerves, snapping at family members, it was terrible. Celexa saved my life! I felt improvement within days. I feel more calm and no longer have the urges to yell and get angry with anyone. I have experienced headaches, fatigue, and yawning but nothing compared to how I was feeling before so I can handle the side effects. I am on week 3 now, hoping they diminish with time."

• Hay...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 8, 2015

Citalopram for Depression "Within a few weeks of starting Celexa, my depression disappeared almost completely. The side effects that are the most noticeable for me are tiredness, weight gain, and sensitivity to light. The stuff does its job, but the side effects are a bit hard to deal with."

• Mis...
• July 27, 2015

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I battled with severe panic attacks and generalized anxiety. It got so bad that I was unable to leave the house. The panic attacks would happen everywhere and would feel dizzy, sweat, have palpitations, and diarrhea. I would eventually run out of the store crying. I turned to my doctor who recommended 20mg of Celexa. After about 5 weeks of pretty harsh side effects such as extreme tiredness, restlessness, and agitation, the panic attacks stopped. Thanks to Celexa, I got my life back and was able to go out again. It was a lifesaver. I've been on it for about two years now, and have started to successfully wean off. The reason I didn't give it a 10 is because it took a while to kick in and the side effects were pretty severe."

• Anonymous
• January 31, 2012

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I've always been a worrier, since I was a child. I assumed it was normal because it was all I'd ever known. After a bad break up and a lot of professional stress, I decided to see my doctor for a 'crutch' to get me through the worst of it and was fully intending for the medication to be a short-term situation. I've always been against taking medication for my stress. However, in the two months I've been on Celexa, I've decided I'd be more than happy to stay on it forever, as long as it keeps working. The obsessive worrying is just gone, poof! I can worry about something for a few minutes and then move on with my life. I'm happy and vibrant, and I feel completely normal now. I had side effects - Yawning, sleeplessness only for the first 2 weeks"

• Kee...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• June 24, 2019

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "Been on citalopram approx. 3 months. Dr. started me on 20 mg dose. I had every side effect for the first 4 weeks: headaches, nausea, tired, stomach cramps, and increased anxiety. Dr. eventually increased me to 30 and then 40 mg due to continued anxiety. Was sooooo tired every day. Constantly yawning when people were speaking to me. Now have cut down slowly to 10 mg and feel fantastic. My anxiety is gone and my social anxiety is greatly reduced. My advice is to start slowly and expect things to get worse before they get better. I highly recommend this drug, but keep reading the positive reviews to get you through the start."

• Car...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• January 26, 2015

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I had severe generalized anxiety disorder when my doctor prescribed Celexa to me. I had awful symptoms including severe nausea and stomach turning, headaches, restlessness, drowsiness, tiredness during the day, oversleeping, lack of focus, and the list goes on! Celexa has really leveled me out. I can focus, and I'm not making myself sick over minor everyday stress. I'm happier and more balanced. I couldn't have asked for a better result. I'm currently on a 40 mg dose, and it has worked consistently for nearly a year."

• bil...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 2, 2014

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I was given 10mg, and a week later, he went up to 20mg. So far, I have had constant yawning, sweating attacks, nausea, and now diarrhea. I also have problems sleeping at night, and this made me tired in the afternoon, but I now split the dose, one before bed and one when I get up... that has helped the symptoms, and they are less bothersome now. The sweating is the worst, I ordered Odaban, and it is wonderful! You can even apply it to your face and head, and that is where I sweat. I have not had any more feelings of doom and gloom and excessive worrying. I feel like I am getting back to normal, but it's been 2 weeks, and I'm not there yet. So I guess so far so good."

• Ced...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 5, 2017

For Generalized Anxiety Disorder "I was started on citalopram at 20 mg. The first one I took made me feel like I was 'high,' but that was pretty much the only side effect I felt that first week, besides a lot of yawning. I was prescribed 30 mg after a month of being on 20 mg, to help deal with my social anxiety. I've been on 30 mg for about 3 months now, and I feel amazing. I've felt anxiety all my life, and it's only until now that my anxiety has lessened to almost the point of non-existence. I feel 'normal,' I can talk to anyone, I smile at everyone I meet. Everything is amazing! I hope your journey is as great as well! ♡♡♡"

• 100...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 8, 2012

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I was having quite a bit of stress that was job-related. I was put on 10mg a day, and this dose works great for me. I experienced yawning, more frequent urination, and dry mouth in the beginning. I cannot say enough about this medicine. It has helped me immensely with very few side effects. I have had some difficulty reaching orgasm but do not have any issues with libido. I feel anyone dealing with depression/anxiety should give this medicine a shot. I myself read the reviews and was so optimistic that it would do wonders for me like it did for many others after I had done my homework. I consider this to be a miracle."

• Anonymous
• September 7, 2009

Citalopram for Anxiety and Stress "I tried taking Celexa for 1 month. The main reason for choosing this medicine over others was the cost - very affordable. However, I was taking it for sadness, fatigue, irritability, and anxiety, and Celexa only made me more tired. It did work well for the stress and anxiety, but I slept a lot. I often fell asleep when I didn't want to. I am now trying another medicine that does not make me sleep, but it is very expensive and does not knock out the nerves and stress like Celexa does."

• Anonymous
• October 5, 2008

Citalopram for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder "After 3 months of severe anxiety and depression, which got worse before my periods, I wound up having a panic attack and went to the ER. I thought my life was ending, my world was upside-down. I had no drive to do anything and worried all of the time. My doctor figured out that I had PMDD and prescribed me Celexa along with YAZ. I haven't felt this good ever. The first month on Celexa I was very tired, but other than that, I have felt great."