{"id":4550,"date":"2022-10-11T08:48:29","date_gmt":"2022-10-11T15:48:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=4550"},"modified":"2023-10-16T09:12:52","modified_gmt":"2023-10-16T16:12:52","slug":"celexa-vs-luvox","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/celexa-vs-luvox\/","title":{"rendered":"Celexa (Citalopram) vs. Luvox (Fluvoxamine): Which Should I Take?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Whether you\u2019re managing anxiety, depression, or both at once, the last thing you want to do is navigate the complex world of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, we\u2019ll compare the details of each medication, how they impact anxiety and depression, side effects, contraindications, and more. If you\u2019d like to learn more about either of these medications, SSRIs, or alternative treatments, the healthcare providers on Klarity can help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In as little as 48 hours, we\u2019ll connect you to a certified and licensed medical professional in your state qualified to evaluate, diagnose, and treat your anxiety or depression. Find a provider<\/a> today.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Luvox<\/th>Celexa<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for fluvoxamine<\/td>Brand name for citalopram<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Immediate release tablets, Extended-release capsules
\n
\n<\/td>		\u2022 Immediate-release capsules
\n\u2022 Immediate-release tablets
\n\u2022 Clear, peppermint-flavored liquid suspension
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Tablets:
\n\u2022 25 mg
\n\u2022 50 mg
\n\u2022 100 mg
\n
\nExtended-release capsules:
\n\u2022 100 mg
\n\u2022 150 mg
\n<\/td>		Capsules:
\n\u2022 30mg dose
\n
\nTablets:
\n\u2022 10 mg
\n\u2022 20 mg
\n\u2022 40 mg
\n
\nLiquid suspension:
\n\u2022 10mg of citalopram per dose
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Social phobia or social anxiety disorder (SAD)
\n\u2022 Major depressive disorder (MDD)
\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
\n\u2022 Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\n\u2022 Eating disorders
\n<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Major depressive disorder (MDD)
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
\n\u2022 Binge eating disorder
\n\u2022 Alcohol use disorder
\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder
\n\u2022 Panic disorder or PTSD
\n\u2022 Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
\n\u2022 Postmenopausal flushing
\n\u2022 Premature ejaculation
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (fluvoxamine):
\n\u2022 $20 to $46 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $400 for a 30-day supply
\n
\n<\/td>		Generic (citalopram):
\n\u2022 $2.65 to $18.24 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $4 for 30-day supply*
\n
\n*With coupon codes or insurance
\n
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Fatigue, dizziness
\n\u2022 GI upset, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
\n\u2022 Increased anxiety or nervousness
\n\u2022 Increased or excessive sweating
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Trouble urinating
\n\u2022 Breathing problems
\n\u2022 Sexual dysfunction, including lack of desire or orgasm<\/td>		Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Nausea or GI upset
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Changes in appetite
\n\u2022 Drowsiness or fatigue
\n\u2022 Increased sweating
\n\u2022 Blurred vision
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Worsening depression
\n\u2022 Suicidal ideation
\n\u2022 Serotonin syndrome
\n\u2022 Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
\n\u2022 High fever, resulting in increased sweating, shivering, or goosebumps
\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
\n\u2022 Agitation or restlessness
\n\u2022 Loss of muscle coordination or uncontrollable muscle twitching or rigidity
\n\u2022 Diarrhea
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Dilated pupils
\n\u2022 Confusion or altered consciousness
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Liver disease
\n\u2022 Prior heart attack or severe heart disease
\n\u2022 Heart arrhythmias
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder or prior episodes of mania
\n\u2022 Seizure disorder
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
\n\u2022 NSAID medications, including ibuprofen
\n\u2022 Warfarin and other blood-thinning medications
\n\u2022 Other SSRI medications and antidepressants
\n\u2022 ADHD medication, like Adderall
\n\u2022 St. John\u2019s Wort
\n\u2022 Most pain medications, including opioids
\n\u2022 Thiazide diuretics
\n\u2022 Recreational drugs, such as MDMA
\n<\/td>		Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Depression or other mental illnesses
\n\u2022 Heart conditions
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 MDMA
\n\u2022 St. John's Wort
\n\u2022 ADHD medications, such as Adderall
\n\u2022 Antipsychotic medications
\n\u2022 Tricyclic antidepressants
\n\u2022 Buspar
\n\u2022 Some migraine medications
\n\u2022 Lithium
\n\u2022 Antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications
\n\u2022 MAOIs
\n\u2022 Drugs that affect heart rhythm
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

What is Celexa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Celexa<\/a> is the brand name for the antidepressant citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This class of antidepressants helps balance serotonin levels in the brain by preventing certain receptors from reabsorbing it. Blocking serotonin reabsorption increases the amount available to regulate sleep\/wake cycles and mood.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Doses and Forms of Celexa<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Celexa is available as coated tablets and as a liquid suspension. Each tablet is oval-shaped and embossed with the dosage amount on one side and \u201cFP\u201d on the other. The 20 and 40 mg tablets are also scored. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These tablets are color-coded by dosage amount to make them easier to identify: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • 10 mg: peach\/light orange<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • 20 mg: coral\/diluted red<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • 40 mg: white\/no color<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    The liquid suspension contains 2 mg\/ml of citalopram and comes with a pipette cap to make it easier to measure. It contains natural peppermint flavoring to improve the taste. Most patients begin with a daily dose of 20 mg and gradually increase it to no more than 40 mg daily, depending on the healthcare provider’s recommendation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Conditions Celexa Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Celexa can treat a variety of conditions, but it\u2019s only FDA-approved to treat clinical depression in adults. It boosts serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood, sleep, and metabolism. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Celexa Can Treat Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Celexa is most often prescribed to treat depression and anxiety, especially since individuals with one disorder often experience the other as well. Low serotonin can cause everything from fatigue and apathy to racing thoughts, increased heart rate, and panic attacks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Increasing serotonin levels can reduce these symptoms to manageable levels, making it easier to practice good sleep, enjoy favorite activities, and stave off panic attacks. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Off-Label Uses for Celexa<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Prescription medications often prove effective in treating various conditions. However, the FDA must evaluate and approve a medication for each potential use. That means a drug may be safe to prescribe for treating things it\u2019s not yet been FDA-approved for. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Several such uses for Celexa include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Alcoholism<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Hot flashes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Binge-eating disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Post-traumatic stress (PTS)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      Increasing serotonin levels in the brain can alleviate the emotional effects of these conditions, making them easier to manage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Celexa Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Brand-name Celexa costs between $4 and $10 for a 90-day supply of tablets, and the prices for its generic counterpart \u2014 citalopram \u2014 are comparable at $3 to $17. The oral solution costs about $92 for a 240mL bottle. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Celexa Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Those taking Celexa may experience several common side effects during the first few weeks of use. Most side effects fade or disappear completely as your body acclimates. However, if symptoms worsen \u2014 or you experience severe symptoms \u2014 contact your healthcare provider immediately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Common side effects of Celexa include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Sexual dysfunction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Dizziness or drowsiness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Dry mouth, increased thirst, sweating, or urination<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Reduced appetite, nausea, diarrhea, constipation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Anxiety, agitation, or tremors<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Weakness or tiredness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Insomnia or chronic yawning<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Nosebleeds or heavier menstrual bleeding<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Cold symptoms, including congestion, sneezing, and sore throat<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        Severe symptoms require immediate medical attention. These include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Feeling faint, racing heartbeat, dizziness, or feeling like you may pass out<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Blurred vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Manic episodes<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Rigid muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Headache, confusion, thinking or memory problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Weakness, feeling unsteady<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Celexa Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          Speak with your healthcare provider before taking Celexa, as it may interact poorly with the following pre-existing conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          • Heart problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Long QT syndrome (you or a family member)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Stroke<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Bleeding problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Sexual problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Liver or kidney disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Glaucoma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Seizures or epilepsy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Bipolar disorder <\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • An electrolyte imbalance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

            If you experience any significant changes in mood or behavior, including suicidal ideation or thoughts of self-harm, contact your healthcare provier immediately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Celexa Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            Individuals who take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or the Tourette syndrome medication pimozide should not take Celexa. If you plan to replace your MAOI medication with Celexa, stop taking the MAOI for at least 14 days before starting Celexa to prevent them from interacting. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Additionally, Celexa may interact with certain herbal supplements, Parkinson\u2019s disease medications, opioids, blood thinners, migraine medications, or other antidepressants. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            What is Luvox?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

            Luvox is the brand name for the SSRI medication fluvoxamine. Like Celexa, Luvox helps increase and balance the amount of serotonin available in the brain by blocking receptors from reabsorbing it. Higher serotonin levels help counteract the symptoms of depression, especially those related to mood, appetite, and sleep\/wake cycles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Common Doses and Forms of Luvox<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            Luvox is available in tablet form in 25, 50, and 100 mg dosages. Brand-name Luvox tablets are oval-shaped and come in a blister pack. Generic fluvoxamine tablets are round and also come in a blister pack. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Adults taking Luvox usually start with a daily dose of 50mg and increase it to no more than 300 mg daily under a healthcare provider\u2019s supervision. Children aged 8 to 17 typically take 25mg at first, gradually increasing to 200 mg daily.  <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Conditions Luvox Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

            Luvox can be prescribed either on- or off-label to treat a wide range of conditions, the most common being clinical depression, anxiety, and anxiety-related disorders. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Some of the other conditions it treats include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Eating disorders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

              Luvox is FDA-approved to treat major depression and OCD. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Luvox Can Treat Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

              Like other SSRIs, Luvox relieves the symptoms of anxiety-related conditions and depressive disorders by making more serotonin available in the brain. Regulating brain chemistry this way improves mood, helps individuals feel calmer and evens out sleep\/wake cycles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Some of the depression- and anxiety-related conditions Luvox treats include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              • Major depressive disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Generalized anxiety disorder <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Panic disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Social phobias<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                Though Luvox is only FDA-approved to treat depression and OCD, it\u2019s also considered safe to prescribe for anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Off-Label Uses for Luvox<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

                Aside from anxiety, Luvox is also prescribed off-label for mood-related conditions that could benefit from an increase in serotonin. These include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Eating disorders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Borderline personality disorder (BPD)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                  Luvox Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  Brand-name Luvox can cost between $32 and $402 for a 30-day supply, depending on your pharmacy and required dosage. The generic version, fluvoxamine, usually costs between $25 and $30 for a month\u2019s worth. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Luvox Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  Like Celexa, Luvox may cause a range of common side effects during the first few weeks of use. These usually diminish or disappear as your body gets used to the medication. However, if symptoms are unbearable \u2014 or you experience severe symptoms \u2014 contact your healthcare provider immediately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Some common side effects include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \n
                  • Feeling dizzy, weak, sleepy, or tired<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Constipation, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Dry mouth or change in taste<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Headache or shakiness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Excess gassiness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Feeling nervous and easily startled<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Excessive sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • Common cold symptoms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                    The following symptoms are signs of a serious problem and need to be addressed immediately: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                      \n
                    • Allergic reaction, including hives; swelling of the face, mouth, and throat; difficulty breathing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Signs of low sodium, including headache, brain fog, weakness, seizures, or trouble balancing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Coughing up or vomiting blood; blood in the urine or stool; unusual vaginal bleeding; bleeding that cannot be easily stopped<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Abnormal weight gain or loss<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Difficulty passing urine<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Sexual problems, such as difficulty orgasming or lowered sex drive\n
                        \n
                      • Erection lasting more than 4 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                      • Unusual menstrual flow<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                        With all SSRIs, including Luvox and Celexa, a potentially deadly condition called serotonin syndrome may arise. This condition results from too much serotonin overwhelming the brain.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                        Get medical attention immediately if you experience: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                          \n
                        • Agitation <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Change in balance <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Confusion, hallucinations <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Fever or flushed face<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Racing or abnormal heartbeat <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Muscle spasms or stiffness <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Seizures, shivering, or shaking <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Excessive sweating <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Severe diarrhea, upset stomach, or vomiting <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Severe headache <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                          Luvox Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                          Luvox is contraindicated for those with the following conditions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                            \n
                          • Bipolar disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Bleeding problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Depression<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Glaucoma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Heart attack or heart disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Heart rhythm problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Mania (feeling elated)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Liver disease<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                            Those who use tobacco should speak to their healthcare provider before starting Luvox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                            Luvox Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                            Luvox may interact adversely with certain supplements and medications, including the following: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                              \n
                            • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Tourette\u2019s syndrome medications, like pimozide<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Warfarin and other blood thinners<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • St. John\u2019s Wort <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Tryptophan<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Other SSRIs and antidepressants<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Stimulant medications like Adderall<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Certain pain or migraine medications<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                              This is not an exhaustive list. Be sure to disclose all medications, vitamins, and supplements you\u2019re taking when speaking to your healthcare provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\t\t

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