Citalopram to replace Sertraline

Posted , 6 users are following.

I have been on Sertraline for 10 months and quit it because of complete lack of libido. The Sertraline worked wonderful - I didn't have any side effects and the taper was just easy - none of the issues I read on the Internet. It was just so good to be back to my old self in regards to sex.

Now my GP advised to start Citalopram 10mg and go up to 20mg because I am super depressed and anxious and am almost losing my job (and mind). I read that it increases your anxiety and I am already going through a very demanding time professionally and personally, I am afraid I won't cope.

Is anybody able to compare the two? The GP is saying the sexual side effects are less with Citalopram.

thanks!

0 likes, 12 replies

12 Replies

  • Posted

    I started at 20mg and my libido was awful after settling in that dosage. My doc lowered me to 10mg and it helps but still there at times. Sorry I didnt say what you wanted to hear. Just being honest.

    • Posted

      hi i agree im afraid. i was on it for 4 and a half years and on it again now and it def hss sexual side effects. As i understand it all SSRIs do. Perhaps talk to your doc about pregabalin and welbutrin as an option. Thats what my previous psychiatrist suggested when i mentioned the sexual side effects.

    • Posted

      Yes I heard the same about SSRI's, that is why I am thinking if instead of changing, sertraline is the way to go... I think I heard some nasty things about Wellbutrin and also taking into consideration having a baby so not sure how safe that is.

  • Posted

    how long have you been off? maybe what youre feeling now is withdrawal as it doesnt always happen straight away!

    • Posted

      I have been off since mid-October after taking it for 10 months. I didn't have any withdrawal symptoms, but I had some pretty difficult life events and I almost could not cope mentally with the stress.

    • Posted

      oh wow did not know that. But it is difficult to say when the circumstances suck also.

  • Posted

    God I would take low libido over anxiety any day of the week. I would say because of the illness I have less interest....the only thing I want is to get back to work, feel like myself again....then Im sure everything else will fall into place. I know its different for everyone, but you could have a long enough road ahead to settle with citralopram, side effects etc. I hope it is a quick recovery for you

    • Posted

      I know, it is such a pity we make a trade-off between anxiety and sex life. Being anxious all the time is debilitating, but you also want to have at least some libido, I think like I am wasting this part of the human experience after all.

    • Posted

      I totally understand x Ive been in a limbo for so long now with anxiety, dose changes and mental health....I really hope it works quickly for you x

  • Posted

    wishing you all a merry Christmas and all try and have a good day love and God bless to all xxx

Report or request deletion

Thanks for your help!

We want the community to be a useful resource for our users but it is important to remember that the community are not moderated or reviewed by doctors and so you should not rely on opinions or advice given by other users in respect of any healthcare matters. Always speak to your doctor before acting and in cases of emergency seek appropriate medical assistance immediately. Use of the community is subject to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and steps will be taken to remove posts identified as being in breach of those terms.