Celexa vs. Lexapro: Key Differences You Should Know

Celexa vs Lexapro: Learn differences, uses, side effects, and effectiveness to choose the right antidepressant for better mental health results.

Celexa vs. Lexapro: Key Differences You Should Know

About 21.0 million adults in the United States are struggling with Major Depressive Disorder. Choosing the right antidepressants can be challenging, especially with two identical medications: Celexa and lexapro. Both medicines belong to the SSRI class and share a similar mechanism of action. Understanding these and their difference can help patients choose the right medicine for better results

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What is Celexa, its Uses, and How Does It Work?

Celexa is an FDA-approved prescription antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder. Celexa contains citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by boosting serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood.

Approved Uses

Major depressive disorder (MDD)

Off-label Uses

What is Lexapro, Its Uses, and How It Works?

Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram. It is an FDA-approved medicine that belongs to a drug class, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing a neurotransmitter, serotonin, in the brain.

Approved Uses

Off-label Uses

Social Anxiety Disorder
Panic Disorder
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

5 Differences Between Celexa and Lexapro

No.	Features	Celexa	Lexapro
	Generic Name	Citalopram	Escitalopram
2.	Age Groups	Adults only	Major Depressive Disorder: 12 years or older Generalized Anxiety Disorder: 7 years or older
3.	Dose Ranges	Tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg	Tablets: 5 mg, 10mg, 20mg
4.	Efficiency	Less effective than Lexapro.	Studies suggest that Lexapro is more effective than Celexa.
5.	FDA-approved Uses	Major Depressive Disorder	Major Depressive Disorder Generalized Anxiety Disorder

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7 Common Side Effects of Celexa and Lexapro

These are the shared side effects of celexa and Lexapro

Nausea
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Decreased appetite
Headache
Weight changes
Sexual dysfunction

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Q. Can we take Celexa and Lexapro together?

No, Celexa (citalopram) and Lexapro (escitalopram) should never be taken together. Since both are closely related SSRIs, combining them does not increase effectiveness and can actually be dangerous. Taking both at the same time may lead to serious side effects such as serotonin syndrome, which can cause symptoms like rapid heartbeat, confusion, sweating, and tremors. It can also increase common SSRI side effects, including nausea, dizziness, and fatigue, and may raise the risk of heart rhythm problems, particularly with higher doses of Celexa.

Always consult a healthcare professional at Therapy Fleet before making any changes to your medication.

4 Possible Drug Interactions of Celexa and Lexapro

Celexa and Lexapro share possible drug interactions.

The major interaction risk for SSRIs (Celexa and Lexapro) is with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), because it can cause serotonin syndrome.
Other medications for migraine, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and serotonergic drugs with SSRIs also cause serotonin syndrome.
Another medicine, pimozide (an antipsychotic), is also contraindicated because it causes harmful effects on the heart.
Taking Celexa or Lexapro with aspirin, NSAIDs, or blood thinners may increase the risk of bleeding.

Who Should Not Take Celexa or Lexapro?

Celexa or Lexapro are not safe for everyone, so they should be taken under a doctor’s prescription. The following individuals don’t use medicine or use it with caution as provided by a licensed doctor:

People Using MAOI’s Medicines
People having heart issues
Having any allergic reactions
People with a history of bipolar
Pregnant women

Can I switch from Celexa to Lexapro?

Yes, but it should be done under a doctor’s supervision. Celexa and Lexapro are both antidepressants that are switched when they don’t work well or cause side effects. Studies show that switching antidepressants involves a gradual tapering process. Gradually lower the dose of Celexa, and then start Lexapro from a lower dose. This process helps to reduce side effects.

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Conclusion

Celexa is an SSRI used to treat major depressive disorder, and Lexapro is an SSRI used to treat major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro is more effective than Celexa.

Consult with a licensed healthcare provider with Therapy Fleet today and receive personalized antidepressant support.

Mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you’re going.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions our therapist at Therapy Fleet receives about Celexa and Lexapro:

1. Are Lexapro and Celexa addictive?

Lexapro and Celexa are not addictive and do not cause any risk of dependency.

2. What causes more weight gain, Celexa or Lexapro?

Celexa is more likely to cause more weight gain than Lexapro, especially with long-term use. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper sleep can help manage weight changes during treatment.

3. Can depression get worse with Lexapro?

All antidepressants, including Escitalopram (Lexapro), may cause a tendency to suicidal ideation in some cases during the start of the treatment.

4. Is Celexa or Lexapro better tolerated?

Studies suggest Lexapro may be better tolerated than Celexa, as escitalopram is a purer form of citalopram. However, note that individual responses vary.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

At TherapyFleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.