Uses
Celexa is primarily used as treatment for depression, through the restoration of serotonin balance in the brain. This results in the improvement of certain mood disorders in patients.

How to take Celexa
Celexa is in the form of oral intake tablets. Normally it should be taken at approximately the same time, on a daily basis, and with or without prior food intake. Although the initial usual daily dosage is 20mg, the drug should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor; the latter may adjust the dosage as deemed necessary. Prescription directions on the label must be observed. Users should take Celexa even though they feel well; if it is taken regularly, its full effect is achieved in a few weeks.

Side effects
Possible adverse effects include excessive sweating, nausea, drowsiness, insomnia, weight changes, frequent urination, upset stomach, and a dry mouth. Serious side effects include seizures, problems in maintaining balance and coordination, a quickened heartbeat, tremors, twitching, shivering, and stiff muscles. In such cases immediate medical help is necessary.

Drug precautions
Potential users Celexa as treatment should inform their doctor beforehand if they have a disease of the kidney or liver, if they suffer from seizures, or are experiencing manic or suicidal thoughts. The drug may not be prescribed for them; otherwise the dosage will be adjusted or monitored to consider such conditions as previously stated. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also inform of their condition before taking on the drug.

Drug interactions
Drugs for pain, swelling, arthritis, or fever may interact with Celexa, including aspirin, etodolac, ibuprofen, nabumetone, naproxen, piroxicam, diclofenac, and indomethacin. Other medications which interact with Celexa include carbamazepine, warfarin, cimetidine, and lithium; antidepressant drugs such as amitriptyline, sertraline, escitalopram, paroxetine, fluoxetine, nortriptyline, fluvoxamine, and imipramine; almotriptan, zolmitriptan, frovatriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan, and naratriptan.

Overdose
Common indications of overdose include tremors, nausea, seizures, vomiting, sweating, a quickened heartbeat, dizziness, drowsiness, and coma. In such cases immediate and professional medical help is recommended.

Missed dose
Take a missed dose immediately upon remembering it. But if the next intake is almost due, leave out the missed dose, and take the succeeding one as scheduled. Don't take an extra dose to make up for the missed one.

Storage
The drug must be stored in room temperature, between 15 to 30°C, away from moisture and heat.