Create an account to receive alerts on new research
SaveShareAsk AI
Celexa
Depletes
Prolonged use of Celexa can impact 9 essential nutrients.
Folic Acid
Research suggests that folic acid supplementation can significantly improve the effectiveness of SSRI medications such as fluoxetine (commonly known as Prozac). This benefit seems to be linked to lowering blood levels of homocysteine, an amino acid. Elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with depression. Supplementing with sufficient folic acid may help the body regulate homocysteine levels, potentially creating a more favorable environment for antidepressants to work effectively.
Replace with Folate (0.2mg as L-5-Methylfolate) (0.34 DFE)
Research: Alec Coppen, John Bailey. Enhancement of the antidepressant action of fluoxetine by folic acid: a randomised, placebo...
Chromium
Research suggests the trace mineral chromium may offer some benefits for people experiencing depression, particularly those with atypical depression. Atypical depression is characterized by symptoms like increased appetite, carbohydrate cravings, and weight gain, alongside feelings of sadness and low mood. Studies show chromium supplementation might improve these specific symptoms in people with atypical depression who also have strong carbohydrate cravings. The potential explanation lies in chromium's possible effects on insulin utilization and brain chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine, both of which are involved in mood regulation. Supplementation with chromium is suggested to support mood and help protect against depression.
Replace with Chromium Picolinate (200 mcg)
Research: Docherty JP, Sack DA, Roffman M, Finch M, Komorowski JR. A double-blind, placebo-controlled, exploratory trial of chromium...
Also Benefits From:
Magnesium
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation. Research suggests it may also play a part in mood regulation. Studies have found a link between low magnesium intake and depression, particularly in younger adults. Magnesium is involved in various processes that impact mood including neurotransmitter function, stress response, and sleep regulation. Maintaining adequate magnesium levels could be beneficial for mood regulation and reduce the risk of depression.
Research: Jacka FN, Maes M, Pasco JA, Williams LJ, Berk M. Nutrient intakes and the common mental disorders in women. J Affect Disord....
Selenium
Selenium is a mineral that has emerged as a potential player in mood regulation. Studies demonstrate a link between lower dietary selenium intake and an increased risk of depression. Researchers propose that selenium's role as an antioxidant and a building block for proteins involved in cellular balance (redox homeostasis) might be a reason for this connection. The antioxidant properties could be particularly relevant because chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are implicated in depression.
Research: Pasco JA, Jacka FN, Williams LJ, Evans-Cleverdon M, Brennan SL, Kotowicz MA, Nicholson GC, Ball MJ, Berk M. Dietary selenium...
Vitamin B1
Thiamine (vitamin B1), a water-soluble B vitamin essential for energy production and nervous system function, is emerging as a potential player in mood disorders. Beyond its role in energy production, thiamine seems to have a significant impact on the nervous system. Studies suggest it's involved in maintaining healthy neurons, their communication (neurotransmission), and overall nervous system balance (homeostasis). This involvement extends to mood, cognitive function, and even the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Given its crucial role in neurological health and energy production, supplementation is suggested to support mood and protect against depression.
Research: Duc HN, Oh H, Yoon IM, Kim MS. Association between levels of thiamine intake, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and...
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a crucial nutrient involved in various bodily functions. A deficiency in this nutrient can lead to neurological and psychiatric problems, including depression. Vitamin B12 is involved in the production of neurotransmitters which play a key role in regulating mood, sleep, and motivation. Insufficient levels of B12 can disrupt their production, leading to symptoms of depression like low mood, fatigue, and loss of interest in activities. A severe B12 deficiency can damage the myelin sheath, a protective layer around nerves. This damage can interfere with nerve signals, leading to symptoms like memory problems, anxiety, and depression.
Research: Syed EU, Wasay M, Awan S. Vitamin B12 supplementation in treating major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial....
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin known for promoting bone health and increasingly recognized for its potential role in various bodily functions. Studies suggest this nutrient may help improve symptoms of depression and anxiety. Research shows that vitamin D supplementation can reverse some of the behavioral changes caused by chronic stress, including anxiety and depression-like behaviors in animal models. This positive effect might be due to vitamin D's ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, both of which are linked to depression. Additionally, some studies in humans show a connection between low vitamin D levels and depressive symptoms, with supplementation helping improve these symptoms.
Research: Mikola T, et al. The effect of vitamin D supplementation on depressive symptoms in adults: A systematic review and...
Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone-7)
Research demonstrates that vitamin D3 and K2 can provide greater benefit together. Vitamin D3 and K2 help move calcium into your bones, where it's most beneficial. This prevents calcium buildup in your arteries and blood vessels. Their combined action can boost bone health, promote cardiovascular health, and combat inflammation. Both vitamins show promise in regulating inflammation, a key factor in many health concerns. By collaborating, vitamin D3 and K2 offer a broader spectrum of benefits, potentially protecting against serious illnesses and promoting overall well-being.
Research: Kuang X, Liu C, Guo X, Li K, Deng Q, Li D. The combination effect of vitamin K and vitamin D on human bone quality: a...
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters, chemical messengers in the brain that influence mood. Zinc has antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are implicated in depression, and zinc's antioxidant effects could be beneficial in this regard. Studies have found an inverse association between dietary zinc intake and depression. This means people with lower zinc intake seem to be more likely to experience depression.
Research: Li, Zongyao, et al. Association of total zinc, iron, copper and selenium intakes with depression in the US adults. Journal...
Health Impact
Celexa-induced nutrient depletion can lead to a range of health problems
High Homocysteine & Vascular Risk
Meta-analyses of randomized trials show that folic acid supplementation lowers homocysteine and modestly reduces stroke and overall cardiovascular disease risk in some populations, especially where baseline folate status is low, highlighting the adverse vascular profile of folate deficiency.
Research: Li Y et al. Folic acid supplementation and the risk of cardiovascular diseases: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled...
Folate-Related Megaloblastic Anemia
Hematology and nutrition reviews describe folate deficiency as a classic cause of megaloblastic anemia and mucosal abnormalities, frequently exacerbated by medications that antagonize folate metabolism.
Research: O’Leary F, Samman S. Vitamin B12 in health and disease. Nutrients. 2010;2(3):299-316. (discussion of folate and B12 in...
Reduced Insulin Sensitivity
A systematic review and meta-analysis of chromium supplementation in type 2 diabetes suggests small improvements in fasting glucose and HbA1c in some trials, but high-quality randomized studies in prediabetes found no clear benefit, indicating that the clinical impact of chromium depletion remains uncertain.
Research: Asbaghi O et al. Effects of chromium supplementation on glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes: a systematic...
Unfavorable Metabolic Profile
Narrative reviews highlight associations between low chromium and metabolic derangements, yet interventional trials show heterogeneous results, suggesting that any effect of depletion is modest and context-dependent.
Research: Anderson RA. Chromium and insulin resistance. Nutr Res Rev. 2000;13(2):267-286.; Asbaghi O et al. Effects of chromium...
Side Effects
Common side effects of Celexa, some of which may be related to nutrient depletion
Review
Common side effects of Celexa (citalopram) may include:
1. Nausea
2. Dry mouth
3. Fatigue
4. Sexual dysfunction
5. Headache
6. Dizziness
7. Insomnia
8. Weight changes
9. Increased sweating
10. Constipation
Less common but more serious side effects of Celexa may include:
1. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
2. Serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
3. Seizures
4. Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
5. Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
6. Abnormal bleeding or bruising
7. Mania or hypomania (in patients with bipolar disorder)
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any concerning side effects while taking Celexa.
1. Nausea
2. Dry mouth
3. Fatigue
4. Sexual dysfunction
5. Headache
6. Dizziness
7. Insomnia
8. Weight changes
9. Increased sweating
10. Constipation
Less common but more serious side effects of Celexa may include:
1. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
2. Serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
3. Seizures
4. Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
5. Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
6. Abnormal bleeding or bruising
7. Mania or hypomania (in patients with bipolar disorder)
It is important to talk to your doctor if you experience any concerning side effects while taking Celexa.
Get Support
We've developed a formula to replenish the nutrients depleted by Celexa.
Shop Third-Party Supplements
Chromium Picolinate
by Pure Encapsulations
Pure Encapsulations Chromium supplement is a dietary supplement designed to support healthy glucose metabolism and overall metabolic function, using a highly bioavailable form of chromium.
Strength: 200 mcg
Buy now
Chromium Picolinate
Expert Research
Recommended
Recommended
Folate
by Pure Encapsulations
Pure Encapsulations' Folic Acid supplement provides a high-quality, bioavailable form of folic acid to support healthy fetal development, cardiovascular health, and overall cellular function.
Strength: 800 mcg
Buy now
Folate
Expert Research
Recommended
Recommended
Antidote is a free resource, supported among other sources by affiliate commissions for purchases made through links on our site. Read full disclaimer
Next Steps
Save this report and share it with your healthcare provider or a family member
Ask our expert AI assistant additional questions related to Celexa.