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from eMedTV.comDepression, even in its most severe form, is highly treatable. As with many illnesses, getting depression treatment early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment for depression are medication (antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In some cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Some people may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression (see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people, Celexa is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well-tolerated. However, side effects can occur, or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative. Some example of substitute depression medications include:
- Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
(Click Celexa Alternatives to learn more about these alternatives and Dealing With Depression to learn other ways of managing depression.)
People who take too much Celexa may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shakiness (tremor)
- Drowsiness
- Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
- Amnesia (memory loss)
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Trouble breathing
- Blue skin
- Muscle pain
- Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Coma
- Loss of life.
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
(Click Celexa Overdose for more information.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD