Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.
MEDICAL REVIEWER

Dena Westphalen PharmD

Licensing & Certifications:

  • Registered Pharmacist
  • Aseptic Training Certification

Professional Background

Dr. Dena Westphalen is a pharmacist with expertise in clinical research and drug information. She has interests in neurology, oncology, and global health. Dr. Westphalen currently works as a research pharmacist and medical science liaison. She a recipient of the Natural Medicines Recognition Award.

Dr. Westphalen believes in providing non-biased information to empower individuals to enable them to be advocates for their own healthcare. In addition to medically reviewing content for ChoosingTherapy.com, Dena also reviews content for Healthline Media. In her free time enjoys playing ice hockey and hiking in the mountains.

Education:

Doctor of Pharmacy, Creighton University

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Areas of Focus

  • Oncology Expertise
  • Medical Education
  • Clinical Research & Trials
  • Scientific Communications
  • Regulatory Affairs
Citalopram (Celexa) Drug Uses Warnings Dosage More

Celexa (Citalopram): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

Celexa (citalopram) is an antidepressant approved to treat depression and anxiety in adults. Celexa is a brand-name medication, and it contains the generic drug citalopram. Celexa is also used off-label to treat similar symptoms in conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). People will likely experience mild symptoms such as vomiting and nausea to start, but there are still chances for more severe health risks.

April 4, 2020
Celexa vs. Zoloft_ Choosing Which Is Right for You

Celexa vs. Zoloft: Choosing Which Is Right for You

Celexa and Zoloft are both antidepressants approved to treat major depressive disorder and be successful in treating other mental health disorders. These antidepressants are FDA approved but may have side effects as one begins medication.

April 4, 2020
Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

Duloxetine (Cymbalta): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an antidepressant medication in the drug class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) that increases serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. It differs from the chemical structure of other antidepressants, but is still considered a first-line treatment for depression. It has side effects that are generally well tolerated by millions of users, but it's essential to speak to your physician to see if treatment with duloxetine may be a good option for you.

April 4, 2020
Lexapro

Lexapro (Escitalopram): Drug Uses, Warnings, Dosage, & More

Lexapro (escitalopram) mainly treats depression and anxiety in adults and adolescents. Most people respond well to treatment, but it can cause suicidal thoughts, serotonin syndrome, seizures, and manic episodes.

April 4, 2020