Citalopram Side Effect...

[cat]

I'm just wondering is anyone has experienced a problem with their heart rhythm after being on Citalopram long term.

I've been taking 40mg Cit for 31/2 yrs and although my GP had told me about Long QT syndrome [DLMURL]http://www.mhra.gov.uk/Safetyinformation/DrugSafetyUpdate/CON137769[/DLMURL] so far I've been ok.

However, over the last 2 wks I've developed a very irregular heart beat & extreme breathlessness which another GP thinks could be connected to Cit.

If you have developed this I'd be interested to know how it was managed. Did you successfully reduce Cit dose or change to another med? What was the outcome?

I'd be grateful for any thoughts as very worried at the moment. Thanks

 

[KP the nut]

I sort of get what you describe. But, I just put it down to my weight, I never thought it could be Cit. I'm still on 60mg and have been for over 12 months.

 

[JustBe]

I've been told that anything over 40mg. can be dangerous :(

 

[DharmaGirl]

Me too! I'm short of breath and have palpitations and I also thought it was the weight. Makes sense it was the med.

 

[Sazza]

Like someone has said there was a warning issued last year in august i think, that stated doses above 40mg could cause increased risk of heart rhythm problems. Saying that a psychiatrist still wanted to up mine to 60mg but i refused as i was aware of the warning. I am now however back on small dose.

Any of you on them having symptoms i'd discuss with your GP. Cat is your Gp reducing the dose now in light of issues you are having? If you have reduced have the heart issues settled any?

 

[Abstract]

Thanks everyone. I had no idea about this and somehow seem to have missed it.

 

[cat]

An update - It turns out the problem I have is nothing to do with Citalopram, my cardiologist has given the all clear to carry on with Cit but to reduce the dose when possible.

So, I'm waiting for more tests.........

 

[Abstract]

Sorry to hear you are having this Cat. Glad you can continue with the meds as I imagine that would complicate things further. Changing meds is always a pain. Goodluck with the rests.

 

[JustBe]

I hope it's not serious cat.

 

[KP the nut]

((((Cat)))), thank goodness you are having it checked.

 

[cat]

Thanks everyone. It's really good having your support.

This is not a subject many people understand, the back lash of ptsd & all that comes with it. 5 yrs ago I was fit, healthy, went to drs on rare occasions & didn't take sick leave. Now I seem to be there all the time & have this constant question of whether I'm fit for work hanging over me.

Still I shouldn't complain, psychologically I am so much better, understand myself more & do not suffer fools (ex-husbands in particular!!) gladly! You see, there are some positives to PTSD!