Is Celexa similar to Xanax?

Celexa and Xanax are both medications used to treat mental health conditions, but they are not the same and work differently in the body.

Celexa

Celexa is an antidepressant medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Celexa works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. It is typically taken once daily and can take several weeks to start working.

Xanax

Xanax is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and insomnia. Xanax works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps regulate anxiety and stress. Xanax is typically taken as needed and can start working within minutes to hours.

Differences between Celexa and Xanax

While both Celexa and Xanax are used to treat mental health conditions, they work differently in the body. Celexa is an antidepressant that takes several weeks to start working and is typically taken once daily. Xanax is a benzodiazepine that works quickly and is typically taken as needed.

Additionally, Xanax has a higher risk of abuse and dependence compared to Celexa. Xanax can also cause more severe side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Celexa and Xanax are both medications used to treat mental health conditions, but they are not the same and work differently in the body. Celexa is an antidepressant that takes several weeks to start working and is typically taken once daily, while Xanax is a benzodiazepine that works quickly and is typically taken as needed. It is important to discuss any potential risks and benefits of these medications with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.


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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