I have been taking citralopram for about 10 weeks and it has been the worst experience of my life. The first two weeks the increased anxiety was so bad that I couldn't sleep at all and felt like checking into the hospital and asking to but sedated, it was that bad. I am still feeling anxious most of the time so they haven't worked at all. I will be coming off them as soon as possible but expect to experience side effects.
This is a seriously bad drug and I wouldn't advise anyone to take it. I have taken Seroxat in the past and have had no problems at all. On this I had to take to weeks off work whihc I put down entirely to the effects of the drug. Take it at your peril!
Hi there Caroline
Like you I experienced terrible anxiety whilst taking citalopram. I now take paroxetine (seroxat) and have had no problems with them.
However, everyone reacts differently to different drugs. So just because they gave us a terrible experience it doesn't mean it will do the same for others. Same with seroxat, I have read some people's experiences of this drug and it hasn't all been good. In fact, some posted warnings as you have above about their terrible experience with seroxat.
I'd suggest anyone reading here about citalopram after being prescribed it to go ahead and give it a go. It has helped more people than it has caused problems so defintely one to try.
I hope you find an AD that works for you very soon Caroline, sorry Citalopram didn't work. :cry:
Good luck for the future.
Melbi x
Hi Caroline,
I agree with Melbi. I was on Citalopram 40 mg for 12 months, then gradually back to 20 mg. It has helped me (with major depression), whereas Efexor caused horrendous side effects which made me almost dependent re driving and looking after myself. The side effects I experienced with Citalopram disappeared after reducing to 20 mg.
I would make the point however that Citalopram is an SSRI. It may alleviate stress and anxiety in some but its main purpose is to address a seratonin imbalance in the brain, which contributes to depression, which of course often travels with stress and anxiety. There are other drugs which target stress, and anxiety, which may be better for you, even though you may feel both much more since taking the Citlopram.
Kind regards
I was on Citalopram for anxiety and depression, at first it heightened my anxiety then after a month my anxiety improved. Citalopram may not suit everyone, for me this type of medication helped me through a difficult time, you have to overcome the side effects for it to work.
Hi guys
Thank you for your input, it is very much appreciated.
As an x user of citalopram (made me worse) I don't think everyone should assume it will make everyone else worse too.
Again, I will say, If you have been prescribed it, then please don't be put off by what you read here. It has helped a lot of people and could very well help you too.
Melbi x
I agree with this I had a terrible experience for 2 weesk and then took myself off yesterday. I don'tknow if there will be withdrawal symptoms but they can't be worse