Is cacao safe with Celexa and Lisinopril medication?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

You are asking an important and very responsible question. Here is a breakdown based on your current medications and a ceremonial dose of cacao (which is a high-dose, ritual use of raw cacao, rich in theobromine, and sometimes MAO (monoamine oxidase) inhibiting compounds):

Your current medications:

1. Celexa (Citalopram) 10mg – an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant.

2. Lisinopril 20mg – for blood pressure.

3. Birth control – hormone-based (assumed combined oral contraceptive).

Cacao ceremonial dose: key concerns:

1. High theobromine content (similar to caffeine).

2. Can raise heart rate and blood pressure slightly.

3. Some preparations may contain MAO inhibitors (depends on how the cacao is fermented).

Potential interactions:

1. Celexa (SSRI) + ceremonial cacao: No direct, dangerous interaction — but high theobromine can increase anxiety, agitation, or jitteriness, especially if you are sensitive or just starting SSRI treatment. Serotonin syndrome risk is low, but still possible if cacao is mixed with other psychoactive or herbal agents (e.g., MAOIs, mushrooms, etc.)

2. Lisinopril + ceremonial cacao: Theobromine may slightly counteract Lisinopril by raising blood pressure or heart rate, though this is typically mild. If you have had low blood pressure on Lisinopril, you may feel dizzy or lightheaded.

3. Birth control + cacao: No interaction. Birth control is safe with ceremonial cacao.

So, can you participate?

Yes, with caution. If:

1. You feel stable on your medications (especially Celexa).

2. You do not have heart rhythm issues, palpitations, or uncontrolled blood pressure.

3. You are not taking any additional serotonergic, stimulant, or herbal agents.

Tips if you go ahead:

1. Take a half dose of ceremonial cacao first and observe how you feel.

2. Stay hydrated (cacao is mildly diuretic).

3. Avoid other stimulants (coffee, energy drinks).

4. Let the facilitator know your meds (in case they add other herbs or psychoactives).

Would you like a short checklist of what to ask the ceremony facilitator for or signs to watch for during/after the event?

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.