Celexa, a commonly prescribed antidepressant used to treat a major depressive disorder, may cause some sexual side effects, such as reduced sex drive, delayed or no orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. These side effects are treatable by a change in medication, which a qualified healthcare provider should only do.
What Is Celexa (Citalopram) & How Is it Used?
Celexa (citalopram) is an FDA-approved medication for the treatment of major depression disorder (MDD). This medication is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a type of medication that increases the level of serotonin in the body and the brain. 1 It’s responsible for managing aspects of mood and mental health, including feelings of anxiety and happiness. Low levels of serotonin in the body contribute to depression symptoms.
The medication is taken orally, either as a tablet or a liquid and daily in the morning or evening. A doctor may prescribe this medication if you are showing symptoms of major depressive disorder. It can also be used as a medication for anxiety and medication for depression.
What Causes Celexa Sexual Side Effects?
Anti-depressants’ sexual side effects may bring more anxiety to a person taking medication. It may trigger a consideration of stopping the medication, hoping the side effects will disappear. However, it is advisable that once you start experiencing these side effects, you should let your healthcare provider know, and they will advise on the following steps to take.
Side effects, such as low sex drive and delayed ejaculation/orgasm in both men and women, can be caused by an increase in serotonin which affects testosterone and dopamine. These hormones control libido in the body, and a change may result in decreased libido.
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Citalopram Sexual Side Effects
Celexa, as one of the anti-depressants for major depressive disorders, also contributes to sexual side effects in both men and women. Some of the side effects affect the sex drive in all genders and the ability for pleasure. However, research shows that not everyone taking this medication gets these side effects, and 2% of the patients suffer these symptoms.2 Therefore, unless you get these symptoms, you should not worry about the sexual symptoms as they are not as common as the other side effects of Celexa.
Sexual Side Effects of Citalopram in Women
Sexual side effects in women caused by Celexa may cause additional anxiety and depression as she is trying to figure out what is happening to her. These symptoms include low libido, delayed orgasm, and lack of lubrication. It may cause problems in the relationship because their partner might think they are no longer interested in the relationship. The good news is that these symptoms are treatable.
Common citalopram sexual side effects in women include: 3
- Reduced sex drive
- Lack of lubrication
- Delayed or no orgasm
Sexual Side Effects of Citalopram in Men
Antidepressants are known to cause side effect, and as alarming as they may sound, it only affects a small % of people taking the medication. In men, sexual side effects may include low sex drive, delayed ejaculations, and erectile dysfunction. Sexual side effects can affect confidence and may lead to anxiety and depression in men. These struggles may bring relationship problems if the man is not openly talking to his partner about how the medication affects his sexual life.
Common citalopram sexual side effects in men include: 3
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Delayed or absent orgasm
- Delayed ejaculation
How to Cope With Sexual Side Effects of Celexa
Some people experience sexual side effects with Celexa. The good news is that healthcare providers can help you ease the side effects while simultaneously creating a balance between getting better and living your life optimally. Several recommended ways may minimize the symptoms, as recommended by your qualified medical provider. Some of these options include
Adjust Your Dose
Celexa is typically prescribed between 10mg to 40mg. A medical provider can adjust your Celexa dosage to see if this will reduce the sexual side effects you’re experiencing. The dose is depended on the severity of your mental health issue and your recovery journey. Please remember that you should not adjust the dose to avoid antidepressant withdrawal symptoms or other complications.
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Consider Switching Antidepressants
Antidepressant switching is typical and expected in the medical field as the medical provider works towards getting the best fit for your depression. If you still experience sexual side effects after having your dosage adjusted, your doctor may consider switching your antidepressant to see if symptoms improve. A licensed medical provider should make the switch as they understand the risks and are aware of the best way to do it to prevent complications. 4
Consider Therapy
Therapy is a research-backed treatment for mental health disorders with minimal side effects. If the medication’s side effects affect your day-to-day living, you may combine therapy with medication.
Psychotherapy may be beneficial for coping with the sexual side effects of Celexa as it helps you open up and discuss the root causes of your problems. Having conversations about your side effects with your partner can help you feel more supported as you manage them.
If you have a busy schedule, online therapy options may be helpful, as you can schedule a session at a time that works for you. However, before you start your sessions, finding the right therapist for your needs is crucial as it helps you get the best out of the therapy sessions.
Natural Remedies
You are bound to enjoy sex when your body is at its best. To achieve this, you should take plenty of fluids, take a warm bath, and exercise, making your body more comfortable. Several natural remedies for anxiety can help you ease the symptoms.
Questions to Ask Your Health Team
Medication side effects may take a toll on a person, especially if they were not well prepared on how to handle them; therefore, understanding and talking to your doctors about the medication they have prescribed may help reduce instances of unexpected symptoms.5 It also helps you prepare and know when you are suffering from anything else, as you can differentiate the symptoms. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms on their hotline number, or you can call 911 for help.
Questions to ask your care team about the sexual side effects of Celexa include:
- How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Celexa?
- Am I at risk for more severe symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety /depression medications?
- What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
- When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing sexual side effects?
- Is there anything I should tell my therapist about this new medication?
- How long can I stay on Celexa?
- Does citalopram cause erectile dysfunction?
- After how long do Celexa sexual side effects go away?
In My Experience
In my experience, sexual side effects may make antidepressants such as Celexa less appealing. One thing to remember is that even though you and your doctor may decide to taper off Celexa, it is not a guarantee that the sexual side effects will go away. Depression is also known to affect the sexual health of a person, and therefore, the best way to get better is to take medication as well as combining with therapy. These symptoms may reduce after a few weeks, and a medical doctor will also help in creating a balance between your recovery and optimizing your sexual health.
Additional Resources
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For Further Reading
- Celexa (Citalopram) For Anxiety: Effectiveness, Dosage, & More
- How to Get a Prescription for Celexa (Citalopram)
- Does Celexa Cause Weight Gain? – Choosing Therapy
- How Do Antidepressants Make You Feel? Possible Side Effects & Changes
- How to Get Antidepressants: Everything You Need to Know
- Zoloft (Sertraline) Sexual Side Effects: What They Are & How to Manage Them
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