Drug interactions
Amitriptyline + Sage
Severity: Minor
Amitriptyline and Sage: minor 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
Sage has been reported to have sedative properties, so combining it with amitriptyline, which is itself strongly sedating, may add to drowsiness. The evidence is theoretical and the effect is likely small with culinary or modest herbal doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amitriptyline and Sage have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible additive CNS depressant effects; the mechanism for sage is not well established.
What to do
Advise patients to be aware of increased drowsiness and to avoid driving if affected. Discourage concentrated sage supplements during amitriptyline therapy.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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 Sage?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Amitriptyline and Sage have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Sage has been reported to have sedative properties, so combining it with amitriptyline, which is itself strongly sedating, may add to drowsiness. The evidence is theoretical and the effect is likely small with culinary or modest herbal doses.
How serious is the interaction between Amitriptyline and Sage?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to be aware of increased drowsiness and to avoid driving if affected. Discourage concentrated sage supplements during amitriptyline therapy.
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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