Patient/caregiver was educated on side effects of using Citalopram as follows:
Genitourinary side-effects
- Citalopram can also induce frequency of urination or polyuria. Individuals with history of poorly controlled diabetes, frequent urinary tract infections, and intake of diuretics can also present with frequent urination. Such individuals taking citalopram, must be aware of this side-effect, as citalopram can aggravate the discomfort of polyuria significantly. Severely increased frequency of urination can contribute to loss of body fluid and dehydration. Dehydrated individuals can present with low blood pressure, episodes of confusion, increased risk for falls & accidents, and increased risk for urinary tract infections. Observing compliance with timed voiding recommendations and other hygienic practices can help reduce the discomfort of polyuria. Compliance with daily fluid intake recommendations and rehydration measures can help with preventing dehydration and development of any UTIs.
Serotonin syndrome
- Serotonin is one chemical in the brain, which in permissible amounts, is believed to reduce anxiety and promote happiness and well-being.
- Very excessive concentrations of serotonin in the brain can lead to serotonin syndrome. Individuals with serotonin syndrome can present with mania, excitement, hallucinations, agitation, insomnia, pounding heartbeat, very rapid heart rate, overactive reflexes, and diarrhea.
- Citalopram use, especially along with a few other antidepressants, such as, imipramine, fluoxetine, and sertraline, can significantly increase the serotonin levels in the body and lead to development of serotonin syndrome.
- Report symptoms of serotonin syndrome to your physician promptly for any appropriate measures to be considered.
Other constitutional side-effects
- Individuals taking citalopram can also present with sexual dysfunctions, such as, compromised interest in sex, difficulty attaining and maintaining erection, and/or difficulty having an orgasm.
