10 Citalopram Side Effects You Should Know About

Citalopram (Celexa) is a commonly prescribed antidepressant. It belongs to a medication class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). And it works by raising serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical messenger believed to play a role in mood, energy, and sleep, among other functions.

Citalopram is well tolerated by many people. However, it still has potential side effects. Keep reading to learn about 10 notable citalopram side effects.

1. Nausea

Nausea is a common side effect of citalopram. In fact, about 20% of people taking citalopram in clinical trials reported experiencing it. Besides having potential mood-boosting benefits, serotonin is also involved in digestion. So raised levels can sometimes trigger nausea and other gut-related side effects.

Promotion disclosure

Citalopram

Avg retail price

$33.96(Save 74.97%)

GoodRx discount

$8.50

See all discounts

How it works

Use GoodRx to find medications, pharmacies, and discounts.

GoodRx discounts can help you pay less for your prescription.

Bring your free coupon or savings card to the pharmacy.

The nausea will likely get better as your body gets used to citalopram. But in the meantime, try these tips to help lessen the severity this side effect:

• Take the medication with food.

• Stay hydrated.

• Avoid greasy, spicy, and high-fiber foods.

• Eat smaller meals several times a day, instead of larger meals two or three times a day.

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist about over-the-counter nausea medications.

If your nausea isn’t better after a few weeks of taking citalopram, it’s time to talk to your provider.

2. Dry mouth

Dry mouth is about as common as nausea for people taking citalopram. SSRIs can lower the amount of saliva you make, which can cause your mouth to feel dry. In addition to being frustrating, over a long period of time, uncontrolled dry mouth can lead to dental problems.

There are many ways you can help manage your dry mouth at home:

• Sip on water and other cool liquids throughout the day.

• Chew or suck on ice chips.

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candy.

• Brush and floss your teeth twice a day.

• Try an alcohol-free mouthwash.

• Try saliva substitutes, such as Biotene.

If these strategies don’t help relieve your dry mouth, let your provider know. They may have other suggestions that can help.

3. Sleep changes

Citalopram can cause changes to your sleep. This may include causing you to have trouble falling asleep or to feel extra sleepy. Keep in mind that sleep changes are also common symptoms of depression. So these sleep-related issues may not be solely caused by citalopram.

Citalopram is usually taken once a day. Changing the time you take your dose — with your healthcare provider’s OK — can help manage the effects of sleep changes related to the medication. If citalopram makes you drowsy, take your dose in the evening. If it keeps you up at night, try taking it first thing in the morning. Optimizing your sleep routine and eating nutrient-filled foods are also good tips for managing this side effect.

4. Sweating

Citalopram can also cause you to sweat more than usual. Your body uses serotonin to help regulate your temperature. Higher levels of serotonin can sometimes lead to a slightly higher body temperature — and more sweating to help regulate it. This could be problematic during hotter weather, in warmer climates, and while exercising.

Stay hydrated and wear clothes made from moisture-wicking fabrics if you experience unusual sweating while taking citalopram. For some people, taking a lower dose or switching to another antidepressant may be an option to help relieve this side effect. But there are also prescription medications that help reduce sweating. Talk with your healthcare provider to see what options might be right for you.

Note: Sweating can also be a symptom of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious citalopram side effect, which we’ll discuss further down. If you experience sweating along with fever, tremors, or a fast heartbeat, seek medical care.

5. Tremors

Tremors are another common citalopram side effect. This often shows up as shaky hands. Like the side effects listed above, higher serotonin levels are likely the driving force behind these tremors.

If you’re having tremors related to citalopram, they might improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If not, talk with your healthcare provider about alternative options. Tremors typically go away once you stop taking citalopram. And you may tolerate a different SSRI or antidepressant better.

Note: Similar to sweating, tremors can also be a symptom of serotonin syndrome. So you should seek medical attention if you experience fever, muscle spasms, or a rapid heart rate in addition to tremors.

6. Sexual problems

As we’ve discussed, citalopram helps boost serotonin activity. This can affect levels of hormones, like testosterone, in the body and cause sexual side effects for some people.

With antidepressants like citalopram, commonly reported sexual problems include:

• Erectile dysfunction

• Delayed ejaculation

• Absent or delayed orgasm

• Lower sexual desire (libido)

These sexual side effects might get better on their own over time. But it’s possible you may experience them the entire time you’re taking citalopram.

In some cases, a lower dose of citalopram may resolve or improve these side effects. Switching to a different antidepressant may also help some people. Bupropion and mirtazapine (Remeron), for example, have a lower risk of sexual side effects. So talk to your healthcare provider about your options.

7. Weight changes

Weight gain is a common concern people have when they first start taking antidepressants. Although weight gain is possible, citalopram has a low risk of this side effect. And when it happens, the degree of weight gain is usually minor. During clinical trials, very small amounts of weight loss were also noted with citalopram.

Everyone’s experience with weight changes related to SSRIs is unique. Eating a nutritious diet and including regular exercise in your routine are steps you can take to help prevent or manage weight changes. But let your healthcare provider know if you’re experiencing weight changes you’re uncomfortable with.

8. Suicidal thoughts

All antidepressants, including citalopram, carry a risk of suicidal thoughts, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. Children and young adults under 25 years old are more likely to experience this serious side effect. If you or a loved one taking citalopram is experiencing unusual mood or behavioral changes, seek medical help right away.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, you’re not alone, and help is available. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or text HOME to 741-741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.

9. Serotonin syndrome

As discussed, citalopram works by increasing serotonin levels. But too much serotonin in the body can lead to serotonin syndrome. This is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect.

Mild symptoms of serotonin syndrome include sweating, tremors, and a fast heart rate. More severe symptoms include a high fever and uncontrollable arm or leg movements. If you believe you might be experiencing serotonin syndrome, contact your healthcare provider. Serious cases may require treatment in a hospital setting.

It’s rare for citalopram to cause serotonin syndrome on its own. Taking citalopram with other serotonin-raising medications increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Ask your pharmacist and provider to review your medication list to help identify and manage this potential interaction.

10. Higher risk of bleeding

Citalopram can raise your risk of bleeding, because serotonin plays a role in blood clot formation. Higher serotonin levels can interfere with your body’s natural ability to form blood clots. However, it’s rare that citalopram causes serious bleeding on its own.

There is a higher risk of this side effect if you take other medications that can cause bleeding. Examples include blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Sharing a medication list with your provider and pharmacist can help you avoid or limit this type of interaction.

Symptoms of serious bleeding to watch for include:

• Excessive or large bruises

• Menstrual periods that are much heavier than usual

• Red or black stools

• Blood in vomit, which can appear as vomit that’s red or looks like coffee grounds

If you experience any of the above symptoms, seek medical attention right away. For more mild bleeding, such as gum bleeding and unusual or long-lasting nosebleeds, reach out to your healthcare provider to let them know.

When should I contact my healthcare provider about citalopram side effects?

Citalopram side effects are usually mild. And many of them tend to improve over time, as your body adjusts to the medication. But if you’re experiencing side effects that are concerning or bothersome, talk to your healthcare provider. Just be sure not to stop taking citalopram without talking to them first. This can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

If you experience severe citalopram side effects, like suicidal thoughts or serious bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Why trust our experts?

Written by:

Victoria Dadebo, PharmD, BCPS

Victoria Dadebo is a freelance pharmacy writer who began contributing to GoodRx in 2022. She has experience in both community and hospital settings, and she is furthering her pharmacy training to specialize in mental health.

Edited by:

Christina Aungst, PharmD

Christina Aungst, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She began writing for GoodRx Health in 2019, transitioning from freelance writer to editor in 2021.

Reviewed by:

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS

Joshua Murdock, PharmD, BCBBS, is a licensed pharmacist in Arizona, Colorado, and Rhode Island. He has worked in the pharmacy industry for more than 10 years and currently serves as a pharmacy editor for GoodRx.

Our editorial standards

Meet our experts