Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Desipramine
Severity: Major
Artemether / lumefantrine and Desipramine: major 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
Lumefantrine inhibits CYP2D6, which can raise desipramine levels, and both artemether/lumefantrine and desipramine can prolong the QT interval. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Desipramine 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 QT prolongation, with CYP2D6 inhibition by lumefantrine increasing desipramine exposure.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider reducing the desipramine dose.
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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Other interactions of Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Desipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine and Desipramine 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. Lumefantrine inhibits CYP2D6, which can raise desipramine levels, and both artemether/lumefantrine and desipramine can prolong the QT interval. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Desipramine?
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. If unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider reducing the desipramine dose.
What other medicines interact with Desipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Desipramine with, for example, Disopyramide, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Desipramine page.
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