How to Switch From Effexor to Celexa

Effexor, commonly known as venlafaxine, is an antidepressant drug manufactured by Pfizer. Effexor is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. Doctors believe that the drug works by affecting your serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Celexa, also known as citalopram, is another antidepressant manufactured by Forest Laboratories. Celexa increases the amount of serotonin in your brain. Celexa similarly treats social anxiety disorders, in addition to panic and eating disorders. Before switching antidepressant medications, it is imperative that you see your doctor.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor about your Effexor dosage. If you are unhappy with your treatment on the drug, ask your doctor to switch to Celexa. Your doctor will give you a prescription for Celexa and instructions to switch from Effexor to Celexa.

• 2

  Take your Effexor as scheduled and according to the directions of your doctor. Your doctor will likely have you take a lower dose of Effexor each day.

• 3

  Take your Celexa at the same time at the lower dosage prescribed by your doctor. While lowering your Effexor dose, each day take a higher dose of Celexa to offset the lower dose of Effexor, in the amount recommended by your doctor.