Citalopram experiences?

[Honeybuney]

Hi. I’m currently suffering with anxiety and depression. I’m on day 3 of citalopram and my hands won’t shop shaking. I’m tired and weak. I know the first couple weeks of this medication is hard but it’s making my anxiety worse. I’m shaky and feel odd. I couldn’t even cry even if I wanted too. I’m on 20mg.

Once the side effects wear off its very good. I hear voices as well as suffering from panic attacks and it works really well for me but takes a while to get used to.

I also felt jittery and had sleep issues for about a fortnight. Since then it's been a dream and controls my anxiety really well.

If you have any suicidal thoughts then contact your GP ASAP. Otherwise, try to ride it out - a month seems reasonable for any initial side effects to dissipate, but for most people it seems to be quicker.

I wouldn’t say I feel suicidal. Just numb. Don’t want to live but also don’t want to die. It’s weird. How long do you think it took for you to work. I almost feel hungover today. Thank you both for replying.

I was on it. I remember my GP telling me I might feel worse to begin with. I think it took just over a week to start helping.

Having said that, that sounds very unpleasant OP. Maybe ask for another GP appointment tomorrow.

I think the numbing effect is very common with SSRIs. It might go away soon or you might need to try different forms until you find one that suits you.

It took about 3 weeks for me to feel a significant improvement in my anxiety.

I found it horrific for a couple of weeks. Actually phoned GP sobbing. They said it's one of the most common ones that people find it difficult to settle on but then should work.

I think most ADs change the gut microbiome so that may be why it's a bit bumpy. 🤔 Just my unscientific opinion though.

The key for me with ADs is always taking them at a consistent time of day. Then I do get the benefits and improve.

@Honeybuney how is your citalopram journey going?

Really great. Feeling like myself again. Thank you for checking in.

@Honeybuney oh perfect! Did you stick at 20mg?

@MrsBrown24 yes I stuck at 20. I will say it took about six weeks to fully feel the benefits for me. Are you currently on citalopram?

@Honeybuney I am. Had a horrible time last Wednesday to this Wednesday, then upped to 30mg Thursday and Friday and touch wood so fair I feel so much better. Haven't even needed diazepam !

@MrsBrown24 amazing. Fingers crossed it will stay that way. The early days are rough but once you get through them it’s bliss. Good luck.