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Cymbalta vs. Celexa

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Cymbalta (duloxetine) and Celexa (citalopram) are both medications used to treat depression, but they belong to different drug classes. Cymbalta is an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) that also treats anxiety, diabetic neuropathy, fibromyalgia, and long-term pain. Celexa, on the other hand, is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) and is primarily used for depression. Cymbalta can be taken once or twice daily, while Celexa is typically taken once daily. Both medications can cause side effects like nausea and dry mouth, but Cymbalta has a broader range of side effects, including headache and drowsiness. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. Celexa has a lower risk of weight gain compared to Cymbalta. Additionally, both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable.

Duloxetine

(Cymbalta)

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Citalopram

(Celexa)

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Summary for Cymbalta

Prescription only

Duloxetine (Cymbalta) helps treat depression and anxiety. It can also help with some types of chronic pain, such as nerve pain from diabetes. Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is a type of antidepressant called an SNRI, or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Most people take it by mouth once a day, but some with depression might take it twice a day. Side effects include nausea, headache, and dry mouth. When it's time to stop taking the medication, the prescriber will slowly lower your dose to help prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Indications for Cymbalta

Pros and Cons for Cymbalta

Pros

  • Taken once a day for most people
  • Can take at any time of day
  • A first-choice option for depression
  • An option for some types of chronic pain, like nerve pain from diabetes

Cons

  • Can take several weeks before you feel its full effects
  • Might not be a good option for people who drink heavily or have liver or kidney problems
  • Can cause nausea or dry mouth
  • Can interact with many medications, including other antidepressants and certain pain relievers

Common Side Effects for Cymbalta

  • Nausea (23%)
  • Headache (14%)
  • Dry mouth (13%)
  • Drowsiness (10%)
  • Feeling tired (9%)
  • Trouble sleeping (9%)
  • Dizziness (9%)
  • Constipation (9%)
  • Diarrhea (9%)
  • Low appetite (7%)
  • A lot of sweating (6%)
  • Stomach pain (5%)

Warnings for Cymbalta

  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • Liver damage
  • Changes in blood pressure and risk of falls
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Higher risk of bleeding
  • Severe skin reaction
  • Withdrawal symptoms
  • Low sodium levels
  • Sexual problems
  • Not for use alone for bipolar disorder because of the risk of mania
  • Angle-closure glaucoma in certain people

Summary for Celexa

Prescription only

Citalopram (Celexa) is a first-choice medication for treating depression in adults. This antidepressant belongs to the drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Citalopram (Celexa) is typically taken by mouth once daily. It typically takes a few weeks or longer of consistent treatment to notice an improvement to your mood. Common side effects include nausea and dry mouth. There's a low risk for weight gain, but suddenly stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms (e.g., upset stomach, trouble sleeping, anxiety).

Indications for Celexa

Pros and Cons for Celexa

Pros

Cons

  • Can take a couple months before you feel the full effects of this medication
  • Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels or heart rhythm
  • Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
  • Not FDA-approved for children

Common Side Effects for Celexa

  • Nausea (21%)
  • Dry mouth (20%)
  • Sleepiness (18%)
  • Trouble sleeping (15%)
  • Sweating (11%)
  • Tremor (8%)
  • Diarrhea (8%)
  • Ejaculation problems (6%)

Warnings for Celexa

  • Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
  • Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
  • Serotonin syndrome
  • Withdrawal
  • Higher risk of bleeding
  • Not for use in bipolar disorder by itself
  • Glaucoma
  • Low sodium levels

Prices with our coupons for Cymbalta vs. Celexa

Price Card Drug Icon
Duloxetine30 capsules / 60mg
$11.45$32.37
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Price Card Drug Icon
Citalopram30 tablets / 20mg
$9.00$9.00
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