Citalopram

[sailorbaejon]

Hi folks, hope we’re all doing well!

I just started on Citalopram, testing more regularly in case of any INR impact, wondered if anyone had experience or knowledge of how big any change might be and in what direction?

My first test after three days of starting the Citalopram suggested my INR raised a bit.

Cheers for any thoughts / advice.

Take care everyone.

Hugs

SBJ x

[HollyHeski Administrator]

Hi, have no personal experience but am aware of increased bleeding risk, so really glad your keeping a close watch on your INR. Keep in contact for your experience with this as will also help others thinking of trying. x

[Greenmil3]

I was on same meds for over a year with no significant increase toINR for me

[MaryF Administrator]

Not a drug I have used, I am glad a close eye is being kept and that it works out for you. MaryF

[Imaginaryfem]

hi my dr just stopped my citalopram as she said they have just found out it causes an increased risk of bleeding

[user666]

most SSRI’s can increase bleeding risks without raising INR. If your range is under 3 than this offsets bleeding risks. Many, people on blood thinners have used SSRI’s without incident. All medicine carry risk but the benefits far outweigh the risks usually.

[sailorbaejon]

Update time!

INR target range 2.0 to 3.0

Regular Warfarin dosage 12 mg/day

INR test results prior to starting Citalopram:

07/02 = 2.3

16/02 = 3.8*

19/02 = 2.5

05/03 = 2.8

12/03 = 3.1

13/03 started Citalopram

16/03 = 3.4

18/03 = 2.7

20/03 = 2.8

23/03 = 3.0

27/03 = 2.4

02/04 = 2.8

Which all seems pretty decent, AC clinic are happy with everything, and dosage not changed

Also, I do usually self test weekly as the testing strips have a BB date on them…so I don’t like to waste them!

* The higher 3.8 was after a week on holiday when diet had changed, both in terms of not a lot of green veg, plus a couple of nights with a beer or a couple of glasses of wine. Even small diet or small alcohol intakes can create a quick change, but it seems to settle down ok.

But possibly really importantly, I’m feeling so much happier with hugely reduced anxiety after just 3 weeks of Citalopram.

I know it might not work for everyone, but if you’re wondering and not sure, then I’d say it’s certainly worth a conversation with your doctor.

Cheers, hugs etc

SBJ