Citalopram side effects

[Saraukulele]

Hi forum, last time I was here I got some great advice from you all and I'm happy to say, I took the leap and saw my GP about my issues. Long story short, I've started a course of daily citalopram 10mg to see if this helps with some of my recent anxiety problems. I've previously been on citalopram, albeit a couple of years ago now but it was to help me come off a previous med that caused me severe withdrawal. I'm 1 week in to this small dosage and I'm beginning to wonder about the side effects. My transition from one med to another a few years ago must have been a lucky escape because I don't recall anything more than some dry mouth and tiredness - this time, I've been experiencing more anxiety, more panic attacks, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, brain fog and sever mood swings. I understand these are all very normal side effects but it's becoming a struggle with each passing day. I can't sleep the whole night through without waking up and thats making my days blur passed. Can anyone relate to this and give any advice? Or should I just go see my GP again?

[Hidden]

Hello, your new med is taking you on a remarkable ride with all the symptoms you are describing in just the week you have been taking it. You didn't mention taking any other medication, so I assume that's not a factor. Did these symptoms begin the first day or after several? I know many GPs are quite competent, but they are not the experts in psychiatric medications and their chemical interaction which your body's chemistry. I definitely would contact your GP as soon as possible, and perhaps talk with him about a possible referral to a psychiatrist for now.

I've not taken this medication, but it took years of adjusting my medications to find the best results. For my PTSD that includes a med for anxiety, depression (anxiety's cousin), sleep and pain due to a serious truck accident. Have therapy from the same neuropsychiatrist to handle my PTSD nightmare as well as explanation for the purpose of each medication. Instead of Ambien for sleep, I have a very small dose of muscle relaxer with a modest level of Xanax. and it works well for me usually......I'm still dealing with the death of my service dog, so sleeping is not easy at the moment, as I'm sad, grieving, but not depressed or anxious. Guess what I am saying, do what you need to do to feel comfortable with your doctor(s) and question any medication that affects you like this.

Hopefully, other members in this venue have actual experience with your medication and may have more insight than I. I wish you the best and hope to hear good news from you soon. Maybe there should have been better chemistry courses in high school that incorporated medical aspects. Did have a course in college called medications which explained how typical medications in the home work or don't work.....like aspirin, mouthwashes, shampoos and conditioners, lotions, anti-inflammatories, Tums, hang over remedies, i.e.

[Saraukulele in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for the reply I've just found some more related forums on here and have been getting some very helpful advice! It's literally been since day one, however I have recently gotten over a sinus infection and finished a course of antibiotics a few days before I began this course of meds. I wonder if I'm taking them at the wrong time of day - I've always taken meds before bed but I think could be what's disrupting my sleep. I was very surprised to be feeling such a barrage of effects so quickly too but so far most people can relate and looks like this is pretty standard. Most cases I've read this lasts for a week or two and then should level out so fingered crossed. Thanks again for your reply! Much appreciated! X