When you take citalopram, a common SSRI antidepressant used to treat depression and anxiety. Also known as Celexa, it works by balancing brain chemicals—but it can also affect your heart’s electrical system in ways most people don’t expect. One of the most serious, though rare, risks is QT prolongation, a delay in the heart’s electrical recovery phase that can lead to dangerous irregular heartbeats. This isn’t just a footnote in the prescribing info—it’s something you should understand if you’re on this medication, especially if you have other health conditions or take other drugs.
QT prolongation doesn’t cause symptoms on its own, but it can trigger a life-threatening rhythm called torsades de pointes, a type of ventricular arrhythmia that can cause fainting, seizures, or sudden cardiac arrest. The risk goes up with higher doses of citalopram (above 40 mg/day), in older adults, in people with existing heart conditions, or if you’re taking other drugs that also stretch the QT interval—like certain antibiotics, antifungals, or anti-nausea meds. Women and people with low potassium or magnesium levels are also more vulnerable. It’s not something you can feel, which is why doctors check your heart history before prescribing and may order an EKG if you’re at higher risk.
Most people take citalopram without any heart issues, but awareness saves lives. If you’ve ever passed out unexpectedly, felt your heart race for no reason, or had unexplained dizziness, tell your doctor. Don’t stop your medication on your own—sudden withdrawal can be dangerous too. Instead, talk through your full list of medications and health history. Your provider can adjust your dose, switch you to a safer alternative, or monitor you with simple tests. The goal isn’t to scare you, but to make sure you get the mental health benefits of citalopram without putting your heart at risk.
Below, you’ll find real-world insights from posts that dig into how citalopram compares to other antidepressants, what side effects actually matter, and how to spot hidden risks when combining medications. These aren’t theoretical discussions—they’re based on clinical data, patient experiences, and practical guidance from doctors who’ve seen the consequences firsthand.
Citalopram and escitalopram are effective antidepressants but carry QT prolongation risks at higher doses. Learn the safe limits, who's most at risk, and why escitalopram is often preferred over citalopram for heart safety.
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