Celexa Heart Rhythm Problems Reviewed by Health Canada

Canadian health officials have launched a review of the potential side effects of Celexa, which may cause patients to suffer serious heart rhythm problems. 

Health Canada announced the Celexa safety review on October 13, based on the findings of a recent study that found the antidepressant could interfere with coronary electrical impulses. The findings of the review could result in revised dosing recommendations or prescribing information.

The review comes several weeks after the FDA released a warning about Celexa heart problems, indicating that the drug could cause abnormal heart rhythms and recommended that it no longer be prescribed at doses that exceed 40 mg per day.

In Canada, Celexa is available in 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg tablets. Health Canada warns that some patients are prescribed 40 to 60 mg per day despite Canadian prescribing information calling for 20 mg per day. 

Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide) belongs to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It was originally created in 1989 by Lundbeck, and is approved for the treatment of major depression. However, it is often used off-label to treat other psychological disorders.

Patients with low potassium and magnesium are at increased risk of the serious heart problems from Celexa, the FDA warned. The agency also noted that data suggests doses above 40 mg per day do not provided any increased benefit for patients.

Neither the FDA or Health Canada have provided information about reports of serious illnesses or deaths associated with the Celexa heart problems.

Patients have been advised to talk to their health care provider if they have been prescribed a daily dose of Celexa exceeding 40 mg. They were also warned to seek immediate medical attention if they experience irregular heartbeats, shortness of breath, dizziness or fainting while taking Celexa.