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Can long-term use of Celexa cause brain damage?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I took Celexa for more than 10 years. It was prescribed by my cardiologist and was maintained by my MD. I drank while on it and had several bad experiences. I asked to be taken off and my MD just told me to stop. This was another bad experience. This was about six years ago. I suffered with what is called adjustment disorder two years ago and was on Paxil for a year and then weaned off by a psychiatrist. However, still I am suffering daily with mild depression despite bi-weekly psychologist visits. I am wondering could I have suffered brain damage due to Celexa. Articles I am reading online concerning to me the above. Should I look into a medicine for my current depression?

Answered by Dr. Bharat Udey

Education:

MD Psychiatry

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bharat Udey is an expert in the field of Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine. Heis experienced and well-versed in all the treatment modalities in Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Regarding brain damage from long-term use of Celexa (Citalopram), as such you need not be worried about this as Celexa is one of the safest antidepressant. However, your habit of alcohol consumption might have resulted in brain damage. For mild depressive features, medications are not prescribed as first line management. Rather, psychotherapy such as cognitive behavior therapy is recommended as first line intervention. However, if there is worsening of symptoms then medications are must for treatment. Thank you.

Answered by
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 26, 2016
Reviewed At July 31, 2023

Education:

MD Psychiatry

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bharat Udey is an expert in the field of Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine. Heis experienced and well-versed in all the treatment modalities in Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Celexa Brain Damage Companion

How it works

Long-term use of certain medications and lifestyle choices can raise health questions. Here's what you should know about citalopram, alcohol, and brain health.

1

About
Citalopram

2

Alcohol
Impact

3

Depression
Symptoms

4

Brain
Concerns

5

Psychotherapy
Role

6

Medication
Necessity

Mental Health Safety Notice

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, or are in a mental health crisis, please stop using this tool and seek emergency care immediately — contact emergency services or a crisis helpline in your area. This tool cannot provide crisis support. This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Dr. Bharat Udey

Geriatrics

Education:

MD Psychiatry

Professional Bio:

Dr.Bharat Udey is an expert in the field of Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine. Heis experienced and well-versed in all the treatment modalities in Geriatrics, Psychiatry, Sexology, Sleep Medicine.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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