Drug interactions
Artemether + Citalopram
Severity: Major
Artemether and Citalopram: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph
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 can prolong the QTc interval, so together they may increase the risk of torsades de pointes. Risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance, bradycardia or heart disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether 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.
Why it happens
Additive prolongation of cardiac repolarization (QTc).
What to do
Avoid the combination if an alternative antimalarial or antidepressant is available. If it is unavoidable, obtain an ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
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 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 Artemether with Citalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether 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 can prolong the QTc interval, so together they may increase the risk of torsades de pointes. Risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance, bradycardia or heart disease.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether 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 the combination if an alternative antimalarial or antidepressant is available. If it is unavoidable, obtain an ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
What other medicines interact with Citalopram?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Citalopram with, for example, Cisapride, Dronedarone, Escitalopram. The full list is on the Citalopram page.
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