Drug interactions
Amoxapine + Imipramine
Severity: Major
Amoxapine and Imipramine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 are tricyclic antidepressants, so combining them duplicates therapy and adds QT prolongation, anticholinergic effects, sedation and seizure risk. Serotonergic and overdose toxicity are also increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amoxapine and Imipramine 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 pharmacodynamic effects on cardiac conduction, monoamine reuptake and anticholinergic activity.
What to do
Avoid combining the two and use a single antidepressant. If a switch is needed, taper one before starting the other and monitor ECG.
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 Imipramine
- Dronedarone + Imipramine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amoxapine with Imipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amoxapine and Imipramine 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 are tricyclic antidepressants, so combining them duplicates therapy and adds QT prolongation, anticholinergic effects, sedation and seizure risk. Serotonergic and overdose toxicity are also increased.
How serious is the interaction between Amoxapine and Imipramine?
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 combining the two and use a single antidepressant. If a switch is needed, taper one before starting the other and monitor ECG.
What other medicines interact with Imipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imipramine with, for example, Dronedarone, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Imipramine page.
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