Citalopram dose doubled from 20mg to 40mg...worried too big a step!

Posted , 3 users are following.

A number of years ago I was on this medication and was increased to 40mg at a rate of 10mg per week. After 4 weeks I suddenly felt much better, like someone flicking a light switch on! This time, I was started at 20mg and, after 2.5 weeks, this was doubled.

I feel dreadful 6 days in. . .hot, cold, panicky.

One of my 'issues' is ongoing pain, source not yet determined. It can be severe. I have also been prescribed co-codamol (codeine/acetaminophen) 500/30. If I take the painkiller at night when I'm sleepy, it seems to help me get a good 5/6 hours rest. If I have a really bad day and take the painkiller during the day, it makes everything far worse. ..the pain and the depression symptoms.

Anyone else been on this combination of meds? I am seriously worried ...is it the double dose that is making me feel awful, or is it the SSRI / codeine mix? Should I be worried about serotonin syndrome?

Thank you.

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  • Posted

    Hi, I've double my dose from 20mg straight to 40mg before and I recall the side effects lasted a couple of weeks but were bearable. If you can, bear them for a little longer. If you're really struggling you should perhaps speak to your doc for reassurance.

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