Long term antidepressant use

Former Member

I think I've been on citalopram for almost two years and so far it's been great. The problem is that I don't feel empathy the way that I used to, it's almost as if the citalopram blocks it. I'm wondering if this was the case for anyone else or whether they noticed any side effects from long term use of meds?

Past User

I'm actually back on citalopram now after quite a long absence from being on it but all in all I've taken it for a year or two. I can definitely relate to often feeling a lack of empathy but I'm not sure I've ever really linked it to the medication itself. I will say that I often felt quite flat, as if it stabilised my moods so that the extreme lows weren't there as often but I also didn't feel any highs either. For me it's like it induced apathy as apposed to lowering empathy, if that makes any sense at all.

Former Member

Hey @Salix_alba_2019

It's really positive to hear that the citalopram is helping you. It could be worth having a chat with your GP about how you are feeling cause they may be able to help you as they may know more about the medication, do you have regular reviews with your GP? 

Sending hugs