Does Celexa affect appetite?

Celexa (citalopram) is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, and while it is not typically associated with significant weight gain or loss, it can affect appetite in some individuals. Here’s what you need to know:

How Celexa Works

Celexa works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which can help regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. By increasing serotonin levels, Celexa can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety and help individuals feel more calm and relaxed.

Impact on Appetite

While Celexa is not typically associated with significant weight gain or loss, it can affect appetite in some individuals. Some people may experience an increase in appetite, while others may experience a decrease in appetite while taking Celexa.

In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, researchers found that patients receiving Celexa experienced a small but significant increase in weight over the course of the study. However, the increase in weight was relatively modest and did not appear to be clinically significant.

Other Factors that May Affect Appetite

It is important to note that there are many different factors that can affect appetite, including stress, anxiety, and other medical conditions. In some cases, changes in appetite may be related to the underlying condition being treated with Celexa, rather than the medication itself.

What to Do if You Experience Changes in Appetite

If you experience changes in appetite while taking Celexa, it is important to discuss this with a healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting the dosage of Celexa or switching to a different medication. In addition, following a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage changes in appetite and promote overall health and well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Celexa is not typically associated with significant weight gain or loss, it can affect appetite in some individuals. It is important to discuss any changes in appetite with a healthcare provider and to follow a healthy diet and exercise routine to promote overall health and well-being.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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