Anonymous asked this question on 4/13/2000:

I'm being treated for depression with celexa (citalopram). I have been taking augmentin for bronchitis and had also done some over-the-counter sudafed and Afrin for congestion. Also, I have been stealing my daughter's ritalin, grinding it up, and snorting it. Last week I had a few angry outbursts. Could the interaction of these drug have resulted in the anger or does celexa have those side effects alone? I'm on 20 mg.

caringheart gave this response on 4/14/2000:

Hello, When you started taking celexa alone did you have any angry outburst? Alot of drugs do interact with each other, next time you mix medicines be sure to ask your doctor. Some times drug interactions can be fatal.

Citalopram (Celexa), are a form of antidepressant categorized as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that affects mood. Normally, when your brain releases serotonin, it recalls (or reuptakes) some of it. SSRIs block that recall, making serotonin more available to brain receptors which, in turn, relieves the symptoms associated with depression. Like any drug, SSRIs have limitations and side effects and must be taken with care.It's true that safety is a big factor in the popularity of SSRIs, and that they do have relatively fewer side effects than other antidepressants. But they're not without problems. They can cause symptoms such as nausea, headaches, diarrhea, fatigue, bloating, dizziness, appetite disturbances, nervousness and insomnia. Some people also report weight fluctuations. For many, side effects improve in a couple of weeks. One of the more bothersome side effects of SSRI use is sexual dysfunction, including decreased interest in sex and difficulty with arousal and orgasm. Unlike other side effects, sexual dysfunction may continue as long as you're on the medication. It's one reason why many stop taking it. As I was saying beforeI t's best to be cautious when mixing drugs. Your doctor needs to know about all drugs you take, including over-the-counter medications and supplements. An extremely rare but dangerous side effect of SSRIs is serotonin syndrome. Symptoms can include confusion, hallucinations, fluctuations in blood pressure, fever, seizures, coma and even death. Serotonin syndrome can occur when an SSRI combines with other drugs that affect the serotonin system, such as certain pain medications and illegal drugs. You also should avoid taking SSRIs with St. John's wort because it decreases the drug's effectiveness and increases the chance for side effects. And when combined with certain antihistamines, SSRIs can cause an irregular heartbeat, which may be life-threatening. Because SSRIs remain in your system for some time after you stop taking them, your doctor may need to monitor you more closely if another antidepressant is prescribed after SSRIs are stopped. I hoped this helped and take care

The average rating for this answer is 5.

Anonymous rated this answer a 5.

Thank you very much for your thoughtful comments and the research you did on celexa. I have an appointment with my psychiatrist on Wednesday. Your answer was one of the more helpful I received.