Celexa Side Effects Targeted by Health Canada, FDA

Ottawa, ONHealth Canada is currently reviewing an antidepressant following reports that heart damage may be one of the Celexa side effects for certain doses, The Canadian Press reported.

The organization has begun research to find out the extent of the alleged damage that may be caused by the drug. The study outlined the effect of high doses of Celexa on the electrical activity of the heart, according to the news source.

Health Canada announced that the alleged changes in electrical activity occur after taking 60 milligrams a day, and these developments could potentially lead to serious and possibly fatal abnormal heart rhythms, the Press reported.

The organization suggested that patients should talk with their health care provider if they are at all concerned about the potential side effects. These could include dizziness, difficulty concentrating, feelings of anxiety, nausea or vomiting.

Health Canada noted that individuals who are taking the drug should seek immediate medical attention if they experience an abnormal heartbeat, shortness of breath, dizziness or faint as a result of exhaustion, according to the news source.

The drug is in a family of drugs called selective seratonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, and is commonly prescribed to individuals who are experiencing a significant level of depression. The current recommended dose is 20 milligrams a day for adults, though people who are not responsive to this level are given a larger quantity of the medication, the Press reported.

Officials from Health Canada noted that individuals who have heart conditions or a history of low levels of magnesium or potassium in the blood may be at higher risk of developing an abnormal heart rhythm while prescribed to the medication.

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that the organization is informing health care professionals and patients that Celexa should no longer be prescribed at doses greater than 40 milligrams a day, due to the fact that the heart would be affected and the higher concentration wouldn't have a significant impact on an individual.