Drug interactions
Amitriptyline + Artemether
Severity: Major
Amitriptyline and Artemether: 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
Artemether can prolong the QTc interval, and amitriptyline has similar effects. The combination raises the risk of torsades de pointes, particularly with electrolyte disturbance or cardiac disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amitriptyline and Artemether 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.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation through cardiac potassium channel blockade.
What to do
Avoid if possible, or obtain an ECG before and during treatment. Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
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 Amitriptyline
- Amitriptyline + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amitriptyline with Artemether?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amitriptyline and Artemether 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. Artemether can prolong the QTc interval, and amitriptyline has similar effects. The combination raises the risk of torsades de pointes, particularly with electrolyte disturbance or cardiac disease.
How serious is the interaction between Amitriptyline and Artemether?
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, or obtain an ECG before and during treatment. Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
What other medicines interact with Amitriptyline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Amitriptyline with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Amitriptyline page.
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