Does Celexa (Citalopram) Cause Tinnitus?

Celexa is what is referred to as an “ototoxic” drug, which means that it can have a toxic effect on some people who take it, causing various health problems including tinnitus. This antidepressant is just one medication on a long list that can cause problems with tinnitus. Although not everyone who takes Celexa or other ototoxic drugs develops problems with tinnitus, there are some people that do.

Those who suffer from depression will want to discuss their options with a doctor before taking Celexa, especially those who already have tinnitus. There are many different alternatives to taking antidepressants for the treatment of depression, including methods which are much healthier and more natural. Certain antidepressants come with fewer side-effects and a lessened risk of an ototoxic reaction. It is important to discuss these options with a doctor before starting on any kind of medication at all.

Ototoxicity is a problem which is associated with many different medications, including antidepressants like Celexa as well as certain antibiotics. This type of reaction to these medications tends to affect the cochlea or the vestibular, both of which play important roles in balance and coordination. Some of these medications can also cause hearing loss along with tinnitus which can vary with regards to intensity and duration.

Some people who have taken Celexa have complained of experiencing problems with tinnitus while others have not. Whether a person develops problems with tinnitus short term or long term depends on the individual and the dosage of the medication.

While not everyone or even most people experience problems with tinnitus from taking Celexa, it is still important to take into consideration that it is a risk. These medications are very powerful and can have an otoxtic effect which can cause all sorts of health problems which should be considered before using them.