Drug interactions
Amoxapine + Chloroquine
Severity: Major
Amoxapine and Chloroquine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Chloroquine and the tricyclic antidepressant amoxapine both prolong the QT interval. Combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amoxapine and Chloroquine 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 blockade of cardiac repolarising potassium currents leading to QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid if possible; otherwise obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs and correct electrolyte disturbances.
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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References
Other interactions of Chloroquine
- Chloroquine + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amoxapine with Chloroquine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amoxapine and Chloroquine 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. Chloroquine and the tricyclic antidepressant amoxapine both prolong the QT interval. Combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Amoxapine and Chloroquine?
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; otherwise obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs and correct electrolyte disturbances.
What other medicines interact with Chloroquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloroquine with, for example, Cisapride, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Chloroquine page.
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