Citanew Side Effects

Citanew Tablet is a medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder. Like all medications, Citanew can have potential side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some individuals may experience no side effects at all. Below are some common and less common side effects associated with Citanew.

Common Side Effects of Citanew

1. Nausea: Some individuals may experience mild to moderate nausea when taking Citanew. Taking the medication with food may help reduce this side effect.
2. Dry Mouth: Citanew can cause dry mouth, which can be bothersome for some people. Staying hydrated and using sugar-free gum or lozenges may help alleviate this symptom.
3. Headache: Headaches are a possible side effect, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. They are often temporary and diminish over time.
4. Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Some people may experience difficulty falling asleep or changes in sleep patterns when taking Citanew. Taking the medication in the morning or adjusting the timing of your dose may help.
5. Fatigue: Citanew can cause fatigue or drowsiness in some individuals. It’s important to be cautious when engaging in activities that require mental alertness, such as driving until you know how the medication affects you.
6. Sweating: Increased sweating or night sweats are possible side effects of Citanew.
7. Sexual Side Effects: Some individuals may experience sexual side effects, including decreased libido, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (in men), or difficulty achieving orgasm.

Less Common or More Severe Side Effects of Citanew

1. Suicidal Thoughts: In some cases, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults, Citanew may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Close monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential, especially when starting or changing the dosage of the medication.
2. Serotonin Syndrome: Although rare, serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there is an excessive buildup of serotonin in the body. Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and tremors. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
3. Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Citanew, while rare, can occur. Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
4. Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping Citanew abruptly or missing doses can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, irritability, and flu-like symptoms. It’s essential to taper off the medication under medical supervision if discontinuing treatment.
5. Bleeding: In rare cases, Citanew may increase the risk of bleeding or bruising, particularly when used in combination with blood-thinning medications.
6. Hyponatremia: Very rarely, Citanew may lead to low sodium levels in the blood, which can cause symptoms like headache, confusion, weakness, and seizures.

Citanew is one of the leading brands of Escitalopram, manufactured and marketed by Hilton Pharmaceuticals Pakistan.

Presently, Citanew is available in Tablets and Oral Solution forms.

Citanew Tablets : 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg strengths.

Citanew Oral Solution : 1 mg/ml strength.

Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): Do not take Citanew if you are currently taking or have recently taken an MAOI. Combining Citanew with MAOIs can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. A sufficient washout period (usually 14 days) should occur between discontinuing an MAOI and starting Citanew.

Serotonergic Medications: Citanew can interact with other serotonergic medications, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and some triptans used for migraine headaches. Combining these medications can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Anticoagulants (Blood Thinners): Citanew may increase the risk of bleeding when taken concomitantly with anticoagulant medications like Warfarin or Heparin. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your anticoagulant dosage and monitor your blood clotting parameters closely.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs like Ibuprofen or Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Citanew. Inform your healthcare provider if you are using NSAIDs regularly.

Antiplatelet Medications: Medications that inhibit platelet function, such as Clopidogrel or Ticagrelor, may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with Citanew. Your healthcare provider should monitor you closely if you are on both medications.

Antidepressants and Antipsychotic Medications: Combining Citanew with other antidepressants or antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of side effects or interactions. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosages or select alternative treatments carefully.

Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C19: Citanew is metabolized by the enzyme CYP2C19 in the liver. Drugs that inhibit or induce this enzyme may affect the levels of Citanew in your bloodstream. Your healthcare provider should consider these interactions when prescribing medications.

St. John’s Wort: St. John’s Wort is an herbal supplement used for depression and anxiety. It can reduce the effectiveness of Citanew and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Avoid combining these substances.

Cimetidine: Cimetidine, an over-the-counter medication used to reduce stomach acid, can increase Citanew levels in the blood. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust your Citanew dosage if you are taking cimetidine.

Alcohol: Alcohol can interact with Citanew, potentially increasing the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It is advisable to limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.

Other Medications: Various other medications and supplements can interact with Citanew, so it’s important to provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all prescription and over-the-counter drugs, as well as any herbal or dietary supplements you are taking.

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