Using Celexa for Migraine? See FDA Warning

Written by
Nancy Harris Bonk - Tuesday, September 06, 2011


The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued safety announcement for Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide), an antidepressant sometimes used in Migraine prevention. This safety warning states that patients are not to use Celexa (citalopram hydrobrimde and its generics) in doses greater than 40 mgs per day. These higher doses of Celexa were found to cause abnormal changes in the electrical activity of the heart. Studies have not shown a benefit in the treatment of depression at doses higher than 40 mg per day. Previously, the labeling information on Celexa said that certain patients may require a dose of 60 mgs a day for depression treatment. The citalopram drug label has been revised to include the new drug dosage and usage recommendations, as well as information about the potential for QT interval prolongation and Torsade de Pointes.

Changes in the electrical activity of the heart (prolongation of the QT interval of the electrocardiogram) can lead to an abnormal heart rhythm (including Torsade de Pointes), which can be fatal. The QT interval stands for the timing of electrical motions of the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. Your doctor measures the time it takes for the QT interval to occur, and in a split second sees if it is occurring normally. Patients at particular risk for developing prolongation of the QT interval are those with underlying heart conditions and those who are predisposed to low levels or potassium and magnesium in their blood.

http://www.healthcentral.com/migraine/c/202/143699/migraine-warning/?ap=2004