Celexa (citalopram) is a prescription medication that belongs to the group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) used for the treatment of depression. Some of the patients have reported suicidal thoughts when starting to take this drug. This side effect is most likely to occur during the first 3 months of the treatment in patients younger than 24. Celexa may cause life-threatening birth defects in babies, but you need to continue taking this medicine even if you think you may have become pregnant. A relapse of depression is likely to occur if you suddenly stop taking Celexa, so all the risks and benefits should be weighed when talking to your health care provider. If you are currently taking a MAO inhibitor (rasagiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, selegiline, or phenelzine) wait for at least 14 days before you can safely take this medicine. If you are not sure whether the drug you are currently taking is a MAO inhibitor, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Being allergic to this medicine is a contraindication for taking Celexa. The following conditions need to be reported to your health care provider: manic depression, liver or kidney disease, a history of suicidal thoughts, drug or alcohol abuse, seizures or epilepsy, as they are likely to interfere with the treatment. Nausea, sweating, drowsiness, insomnia and dry mouth are the most commonly reported side effects of Celexa. They are generally mild and tend to go away soon. If you develop new symptoms or the ones you have become worse you need to consult your health care provider. The following symptoms are supposed to cause concern: trouble sleeping, hyperactivity, aggressiveness, hostility, irritability, agitation, impulsiveness, panic attacks, restlessness, suicidal thoughts or severe depression.