Can You Use Marijuana If You Take Citalopram?
Article written by
Tina MagrabiSenior Content Writer
Content reviewed by
Dr. Lewis JasseyMedical Director - Pediatric Medicine
Using marijuana while taking citalopram is not recommended, as the combination may increase the risk of side effects such as irregular heartbeat and drowsiness.
Learn more about the potential drug interactions between the antidepressant citalopram and cannabis. Note that the information in this article does not constitute medical advice, and you should speak with your doctor before making any decisions about modifying antidepressant use.
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What Is Citalopram?
Citalopram (brand name Celexa) is a prescription antidepressant medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This antidepressant is usually administered once daily in tablet form.
Uses and How It Works
SSRIs like citalopram increase serotonin in the brain, helping people with depression achieve mental balance. In addition to general depression and major depressive disorder, citalopram may also be prescribed to treat:
Like all prescription medications, citalopram comes with certain side effects. Common side effects of citalopram include constipation, increased thirst, muscle or joint pain, decreased appetite, sexual problems in males, and more.
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Potential Benefits and Risks of Mixing Cannabis and Citalopram
The potential risks of mixing cannabis and citalopram are likely greater than the potential benefits.
Potential Benefits
Low doses of cannabis and citalopram may be tolerable in some people. The possible benefits of using low doses of the two drugs may include an intensified state of relaxation and anxiety reduction. But there is no way to predict who may benefit from mixing citalopram and weed, so refrain from combining them without prior doctor approval.
Potential Risks
The potential risks of combining citalopram and cannabis include:
- Increased drowsiness or lightheadedness
- Fast and/or irregular heartbeat
- Sweating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Increased anxiety
- Serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when serotonin levels are too high)
Other side effects may occur when taking marijuana and citalopram together. Always reach out to a medical professional if you experience moderate to severe side effects, especially if you have thoughts of self-harm.
What to Do If You Need to Use Both Citalopram and Marijuana
If you need to use citalopram and marijuana together, consult with your physician before doing so. Citalopram is one of many prescription drugs that may interact negatively with cannabis, so it’s essential to seek medical advice before combining the two.
Additionally, do not stop taking citalopram without guidance from a healthcare professional. You should always speak with your doctor before deciding to modify antidepressant drug use.
The Bottom Line
It is generally not advisable to use marijuana and citalopram simultaneously, and serotonin syndrome is one of several serious outcomes that may result from combining the two drugs. Speak with your primary care provider before using cannabis with citalopram or any other prescription drug.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does CBD affect citalopram?
Experts recommend exercising caution when using CBD and citalopram. The cannabinoid may alter the effects of citalopram in some people, but further research is needed to determine precisely how CBD interacts with citalopram.
Can you take CBD with antidepressants?
Taking CBD with prescription antidepressants like citalopram is not recommended unless under the supervision of your doctor. CBD has been shown to ease depression and anxiety in some individuals, but check with your doctor before modifying any prescription antidepressant to avoid potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Does CBD interact with SSRIs?
CBD has antidepressant effects and may interact with SSRIs like citalopram, especially in adolescents and other young people. To be safe, do not combine CBD with any SSRIs unless your physician suggests you do so.