What should I avoid while taking Celexa?

Celexa is a medication used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, and while it is generally safe and well-tolerated, there are some things to avoid while taking it. Here’s what you need to know:

Avoid Alcohol

It is important to avoid alcohol while taking Celexa, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. In addition, alcohol can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can interfere with the effectiveness of Celexa.

Avoid Certain Medications

Some medications can interact with Celexa and increase the risk of side effects or reduce its effectiveness. These medications include monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), blood thinners, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is important to discuss any medications you are taking with a healthcare provider before starting Celexa.

Avoid Stopping Suddenly

It is important to not stop taking Celexa suddenly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and headache. Instead, it is important to gradually reduce the dosage of Celexa under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Avoid Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery

Celexa can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, which can interfere with driving or operating heavy machinery. It is important to avoid these activities until you know how Celexa affects you.

Studies on Celexa and Avoidance

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals taking Celexa and certain other antidepressant medications had an increased risk of falls compared to those not taking these medications. It is important to be cautious when performing activities that require coordination or balance while taking Celexa.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Celexa is generally safe and well-tolerated, it is important to avoid alcohol and certain medications that can interact with it. It is also important to not stop taking Celexa suddenly and to be cautious when performing activities that require coordination or balance. It is important to discuss any concerns or potential risks with a healthcare provider.


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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