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What Causes Diarrhea While On Citalopram?
Question: My Dr currently has me on Citaliphram. I was on 40mg, and he increased to 60mg a day. I have diarrhea prob every 3 days and then nothing for 3 days or so. Not complaining because it's better than not being able to go. Just wondering if it could be the med. Or is it normal in a 57 year old. My diet is different now. I used to cook all the time for the family. Now they are all gone, I eat protein bar for breakfast and nuts for snack. Sometimes just chips or something for dinner.
Brief Answer:
Yes, Citalopram gives diarrhea in 8% of patients.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
Citalopram gives diarrhea in around 8% of patients. So yes it is a side effect but not very common.
If these pattern of bowel movement has started right away after you increased the dose of the medicine then it may be from it. Your body will need around 3-4 weeks to be adjusted with it.
Make sure you drink more then 2 litters of water per day and that you are not losing weight.
In your age also you should consider also doing a colonoscopy if you haven't done one in the last 7 years.
Avoid milk because it makes diarrhea worse.
If worse or not better, I would recommend seeing a local doctor.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Otherwise please close and rate the answer.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
Yes, Citalopram gives diarrhea in 8% of patients.
Detailed Answer:
Hello,
Thank you for using HCM to post your health query.
I read carefully your question and I understand your concern.
Citalopram gives diarrhea in around 8% of patients. So yes it is a side effect but not very common.
If these pattern of bowel movement has started right away after you increased the dose of the medicine then it may be from it. Your body will need around 3-4 weeks to be adjusted with it.
Make sure you drink more then 2 litters of water per day and that you are not losing weight.
In your age also you should consider also doing a colonoscopy if you haven't done one in the last 7 years.
Avoid milk because it makes diarrhea worse.
If worse or not better, I would recommend seeing a local doctor.
Hope this is helpful.
Let me know if you need more clarifications.
Otherwise please close and rate the answer.
Regards,
Dr. Papaqako
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Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Raju A.T
Answered by
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