Suppressive effect of citalopram on plasma concentrations of thromboxane B₂

Abstract

Background. Citalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRi), is widely used to treat major depression. Patients treated with SSRIs suffer more frequently from bleeding disorders caused by the antiplatelet effect of SSRIs. Methods. To investigate the potential suppressive effect of citalopram treatment on plasma thromboxane B₂ levels and its possible correlation with actual plasma concentration of citalopram. Plasma concentrations of thromboxane B₂ and citalopram were examined in a cohort of 77 aspirin-treated geriatric patients before and in the third week of citalopram therapy. Results. Citalopram therapy led to a significant decrease of plasma concentrations of thromboxane B₂ compared to its levels before initiation of the therapy. Furthermore, we have shown negative correlation in thromboxane B₂ levels and actual plasma concentration of citalopram. Actual plasma concentrations of citalopram were significantly higher compared to younger adult patients treated with similar dose. Conclusions. In this study we have shown that even short-term citalopram therapy led to a suppression of thromboxane B₂ production in aspirin-treated patients. This suppressive effect correlates with actual plasma concentration of citalopram.

Key Words::

• Antiplatelet effect
• aspirin
• cyclooxygenase-1
• depression
• plasma
• SSRIs

Acknowledgements

Supported by the Charles University project PRVOUK P25/LF1/2.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflict of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.