FDA Warns of Celexa Risks

Antidepressant Celexa could pose a risk of fatal heart complications, FDA officials are warning doctors. The health regulators are currently advising doctors not to prescribe high doses of the drug.

The drug can interfere with the heart’s electrical activity at doses above 40 milligrams, according to an online posting by the FDA. The label for Celexa previously stated that some patients should receive 60 milligrams, but the FDA has changed that language to reflect more current advice.

The updated Celexa label will stress that Celexa not be used in patients who have experienced congestive heart failure. Patients with low levels of potassium and magnesiu, and other conditions that could be negatively affected by the heart’s pumping action should also be cautious.

Patients should stop taking Celexa or change their dose without first talking to their doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause side effects. Any patient who has shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat or dizziness while taking the medication should see their doctor.

“Studies did not show a benefit in treatment of depression at doses higher than 40 mg per day,” the FDA states. Celexa is made by Forrest Laboratories and is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Do you or a loved one take Celexa?

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