Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Citalopram
Severity: Major
Artemether / lumefantrine and Citalopram: 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
Artemether/lumefantrine can prolong the QT interval and citalopram has dose-related QT effects. Combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine 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.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible, or consider temporarily withholding citalopram during malaria treatment. If both are needed, obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes.
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 / lumefantrine with Citalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine 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. Artemether/lumefantrine can prolong the QT interval and citalopram has dose-related QT effects. Combined use increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmias.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine 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 combining where possible, or consider temporarily withholding citalopram during malaria treatment. If both are needed, obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes.
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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