Celexa (Generic)

Generic Celexa is used in the treatment of depression; anxiety and stress; postpartum depression and belongs to the drug class selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Generic Celexa is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Take this medication orally usually once daily, with or without food; or as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It is important to continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.

Side effects include:

• Nausea, drowsiness, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, upset stomach, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen,notify your doctor promptly.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur:

• vomiting, loss of appetite, unusual or severe mental/mood changes, increased sweating/flushing, unusual fatigue, uncontrolled movements (tremor).

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur:

• blurred vision, stomach pain, fever, joint pain, muscle pain, unusually fast heartbeat, decreased interest in sex, changes in sexual ability, change in amount of urine. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikelybut very serious side effects occur: weight changes, taste changes, changes in menstrual period, unusual swelling of the hands/feet/face, seizures, painful and/or prolonged erection. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems, kidney problems, seizures, heart problems, other mental/mood disorders (e.g., bipolar disorder), thyroid problems, any allergies. This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. The elderly should take caution when using this product because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Certain medications taken with this product could result in serious, even fatal, drug interactions. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (e.g., furazolidone, isocarboxazid, linezolid, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, selegiline, tranylcypromine) within 2 weeks before or after treatment with this medication. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for additional information.

This drug is not recommended for use with: weight loss drugs (e.g., sibutramine, phentermine). Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: other SSRI antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), nefazodone, trazodone, tramadol, venlafaxine, "triptan" migraine drugs (e.g., sumatriptan, zolmitriptan), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, nortriptyline), cimetidine, lithium, itraconazole, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., clarithromycin, erythromycin), any herbal/ natural products (e.g., melatonin, St John's wort, ayahuasca). Tell your doctor if you take any drugs that cause drowsiness such as: medicine for sleep, sedatives, tranquilizers, anti- anxiety drugs (e.g., diazepam), narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., carbamazepine), muscle relaxants, certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.