Dangers Of Mixing Celexa (Citalopram) & Weed (Marijuana)

Celexa is a brand-name prescription drug commonly used in the treatment of major depression and other mental health disorders. Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is a psychoactive drug used both recreationally and medicinally in the United States. 

Celexa and marijuana share some side effects, specifically drowsiness and other sedative effects. 

It is not recommended to combine these two substances because it increases the risk of dizziness, fatigue, and lightheadedness. In addition, both drugs can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. 

Effects Of Marijuana & Celexa

Celexa, the brand name for citalopram, belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat depression and anxiety disorders. 

Side Effects Of Celexa

Side effects of citalopram may include:

• nausea/vomiting
• diarrhea
• tiredness 
• dry mouth
• insomnia
• anxiety
• dizziness

Zoloft, Paxil, Lexapro, and Prozac are other SSRI medications that share similar side effects with Celexa. 

Effects Of Marijuana & THC

Marijuana is the dried leaves and stems of the cannabis plant. There are two active ingredients in marijuana, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). 

THC is a mind-altering chemical that produces the “high” associated with marijuana. People can smoke/vape marijuana or eat baked goods containing THC (known as edibles). 

THC may cause the following side effects:

• altered senses
• euphoria
• mood changes
• impaired coordination
• impaired cognition

Marijuana can produce more severe adverse effects when used in high doses, including hallucinations, delusions, panic attacks, and psychosis. 

Effects Of CBD

CBD is not a mind-altering substance and does not produce a high. It has been studied for its effectiveness in reducing symptoms of a wide range of health problems, including epilepsy. 

There is currently one FDA-approved drug containing CBD, known by the brand name Epidiolex, which is used to treat seizures. 

CBD may cause the following side effects:

• dry mouth
• drowsiness
• decreased appetite
• diarrhea
• lightheadedness
• nausea

Can You Mix Marijuana & Celexa?

Cannabis has been studied for its potential to reduce symptoms of a wide range of health issues, including depression and anxiety. People sometimes smoke weed (marijuana) to self-medicate.

Although marijuana may cause relaxation and euphoria, these effects are short-lived. Long-term cannabis use may worsen depression symptoms. 

Potential Interactions

Research on the effects of mixing marijuana with Celexa and other antidepressants is limited. However, available research shows the potential for drug interactions. Both drugs share similar sedative side effects, which increase the risk of falls and accidents. 

Mixing marijuana with Celexa may increase the following side effects:

• diarrhea
• insomnia
• dry mouth
• nausea
• dizziness
• drowsiness
• fatigue

Risks Of Mixing Marijuana & Celexa

Unless monitored by a healthcare professional, using any form of cannabis with antidepressants should be avoided. 

Marijuana may interfere with depression treatment goals because it is a mood-altering substance. Long-term use of marijuana may increase paranoia, anxiety, and depression symptoms. 

Increased Sedation

Any form of marijuana not regulated by the FDA is subject to variations in strength and purity. Even if you use marijuana regularly, you may unintentionally use a high potency dose. This may negatively interact with antidepressants and cause serious side effects. 

Marijuana can cause drowsiness and other sedative effects, which can interfere with daily tasks. Driving and other tasks that require attention and concentration can be hindered. Taking other drugs that cause drowsiness increases the risk of car crashes, falls, and accidents. 

Marijuana Toxicity

Serotonin syndrome is a condition that occurs when someone accumulates toxic levels of serotonin in the body. This condition can occur when antidepressants are mixed with other substances that increase serotonin. 

In severe cases, serotonin syndrome can cause fever, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms include:

• agitation
• confusion
• increased heart rate
• dilated pupils
• muscle rigidity
• sweating 
• diarrhea

A marijuana overdose can resemble symptoms of serotonin syndrome, including dilated pupils, muscle rigidity, and increased heart rate. Severe cases of serotonin syndrome may require immediate hospitalization. 

Mixing marijuana with antidepressants may interfere with diagnosis and treatment for symptoms of both marijuana and serotonin toxicity.

Increased Suicidality

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has found antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children and adolescents. 

Anyone under the age of 24 taking an antidepressant is usually monitored for signs of worsening depression, behavioral changes, and suicidal thoughts. 

Long-term marijuana use may worsen mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety. In addition, antiepileptics (like the prescription cannabidiol Epidiolex), increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. 

If you notice worsening depression or signs of suicidal thoughts in a loved one, seek medical attention immediately. 

Marijuana is an addictive substance and may interfere with depression treatment. Please contact Ark Behavioral Health today to learn about our addiction treatment options.