Why was Celexa taken off the market?

Celexa, which is the brand name for the medication citalopram, has not been taken off the market. It is still available and widely prescribed as a treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. However, there have been some concerns about the safety of Celexa in certain populations.

FDA Warning and Safety Concerns

In 2011, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning about the use of Celexa in individuals with certain genetic variations that affect the metabolism of the medication. Specifically, the warning stated that doses of Celexa greater than 40 mg per day should not be used in individuals with the genetic variation known as CYP2C19 poor metabolizers, as this can lead to an increased risk of heart problems.

The FDA also warned that the use of Celexa and other similar medications, known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults. It is important to closely monitor individuals taking Celexa for signs of suicidal thoughts or behavior, particularly when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage.

Effectiveness and Safety

Overall, Celexa is considered to be an effective and safe medication for treating depression and anxiety disorders when used as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Like all medications, it can cause side effects in some individuals, and it is important to discuss any potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Celexa has not been taken off the market. While there have been some concerns about the safety of the medication in certain populations, it is still widely prescribed and considered to be an effective and safe treatment for depression and anxiety disorders when used as prescribed by a healthcare provider. It is important to closely monitor individuals taking Celexa for any signs of side effects or suicidal thoughts or behavior.


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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