Active ingredient: Citalopram

Brand Name: Celexa, Cipramil

Drug class: Antidepressant, Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors

Mechanism of Action:

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and anxiety.
Citalopram blocks the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its levels in the brain to improve mood. Additionally, SSRIs like Citalopram are associated with increased levels of allopregnanolone, a neurosteroid synthesized from progesterone, which plays a crucial role in regulating reproductive functions

Effect on fertility biomarkers

Citalopram may cause hormonal imbalances that can lead to menstrual irregularities and, in some cases, vaginal dryness, which could affect fertility. SSRIs like citalopram can occasionally disrupt the ovulation process by impacting the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, though this is relatively rare. It may also cause sexual dysfunction (reduced libido, difficulty with arousal), which can indirectly affect fertility.

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References:

Uzunova V, Wrynn AS, Kinnunen A, Ceci M, Kohler C and Uzunov DP (2004). Chronic antidepressants reverse cerebrocortical allopregnanolone decline in the olfactory bulbectomized rat. Eur J Pharmacol. 486(1): 31–34 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14751405/ Jacobsen, N. W., Hansen, C. H., Nellemann, C., Styrishave, B., & Halling-Sørensen, B. (2015). Effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on three sex steroids in two versions of the aromatase enzyme inhibition assay and in the H295R cell assay. Toxicology in Vitro, 29(8), 1720-1725 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0887233315001666?via%3Dihub Timby E, Hedström H, Bäckström T, Sundström-Poromaa I, Nyberg S and Bixo M (2011). Allopregnanolone, a GABAA receptor agonist, decreases gonadotropin levels in women. A preliminary study. Gynecol Endocrinol Off J Int Soc Gynecol Endocrinol. 27(12): 1087–1093. DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2010.540603 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21190418/

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Disclaimer: The information provided may not include all possible interactions or side effects of medication. The effects on fertility biomarkers can vary and may depend on the dosage, how long the medication is used, the medical condition, or other factors. This database is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider or a qualified health professional if you have questions about medications, fertility, or medical conditions.