What Causes Unilateral Testicle Discomfort After Taking Citalopram And Zopiclone?

Posted on Fri, 22 Jan 2016

Question: I have been taking Citalporam and Zopiclone for 6 weeks and have noticed an improvement with my anxiety. Today however I experienced slight discomfort in right testicle a handful of times spread out over an hour and twice followed by a warm sensation spreading through my back. Could this be a side effect of medication or something else. I feel fine otherwise but now a little worried and anxious. my last Dr appointment was Dec.21st and I am booking a follow up next week or sooner
thx

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
It is not side effect

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for writing to us. I can understand your concern.
Unilateral right side testicle discomfort is not side effect of zopiclone or citalopram. Citalopram can cause erectile dysfunction as side effects. You are taking since 6 weeks and it happened just once as well as side effect occurs bilateral. Considering these aspect it is not side effect of citalopram.
Possibility of some stretching of muscles related to thigh (which involves scrotum and back) is there as you have felt sensation in back also.

If you have any problem during sex, urinating or walking, then only some intervention is needed. Otherwise it is not serious matter and your doctor will give assurance after examination.

Hope I have answered your query, I will be happy to help further.
Regards,
Dr.Chintan Solanki.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (10 minutes later)

What about the hot flash I experience, it feels like a hot rush through my back and it comes after the right testicle discomfort. I did do some new exercises yesterday leg extensions but it just seems odd to start this afternoon and sporadic for last 5 hours.thx

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (13 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
it is muscular problem likely

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for follow up and information.

It is possible that during new exercise some overstretching of muscle has happened and which is responsible for your problem. I suggest taking OTC pain killer like tylenol, ibuprofen or diclofenac to relieve discomfort. If your problem is severe and not relived , better to consult doctor for examination.

And considering your history second possibility for hot flash experience is anxiety. Many patient with anxiety problem feel hot flushes. However before putting this as a cause I would like to examine first.

Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (10 minutes later)

I'm sorry but I have OCD+ anxiety so in other words the slight discomfort in right testicle could be a direct cause of muscle strain? Thx

Answered by Dr. Dr. Chintan Solanki (48 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
yes muscle strain can cause such problem

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for clearly asking your doubts.

Yes testicle is placed in scrotum musculature and during exercise it can be strained. However on and off discomfort may be due to anxiety. Due to OCD you may be over concerned.

If you do not have any swelling, significant pain or tenderness in testicle ; no need to worry. If I were your treating doctor I would like to examine you physically and then want to reassure you.

Take pain killer as I mentioned and You can also take lorazepam for your anxiety.

All the best.

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar