Drug interactions
Amiodarone + Citalopram
Severity: Major
Amiodarone and Citalopram: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Both drugs prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone may also modestly increase citalopram exposure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amiodarone and Citalopram can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Amiodarone belongs to Cardiovascular; Citalopram belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation, with possible CYP2C19/3A4 inhibition by amiodarone raising citalopram levels.
What to do
Avoid if possible and choose an SSRI with less QT effect, such as sertraline. If combined, keep citalopram at or below the labeled maximum, monitor ECG and correct electrolytes.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Amiodarone
- Amiodarone + Amisulpride Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Arsenic trioxide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Eliglustat Contraindicated
Other interactions of Citalopram
- Cisapride + Citalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amiodarone with Citalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amiodarone and Citalopram can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Both drugs prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone may also modestly increase citalopram exposure.
How serious is the interaction between Amiodarone and Citalopram?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid if possible and choose an SSRI with less QT effect, such as sertraline. If combined, keep citalopram at or below the labeled maximum, monitor ECG and correct electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Amiodarone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Amiodarone with, for example, Amisulpride, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Amiodarone page.
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