Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Citalopram
Severity: Moderate
Buprenorphine transdermal and Citalopram: moderate 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
Transdermal buprenorphine is labeled with a QT-prolonging warning, and citalopram prolongs QT in a dose-dependent manner. Together they may raise arrhythmia risk, and the combination also carries a small serotonin syndrome risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Citalopram can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive QTc prolongation and weak additive serotonergic activity.
What to do
Monitor ECG when risk factors exist, correct potassium and magnesium, and keep citalopram at the lowest effective dose. Counsel patients to report palpitations or syncope.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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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 Buprenorphine transdermal with Citalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Buprenorphine transdermal and Citalopram can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Transdermal buprenorphine is labeled with a QT-prolonging warning, and citalopram prolongs QT in a dose-dependent manner. Together they may raise arrhythmia risk, and the combination also carries a small serotonin syndrome risk.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Citalopram?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor ECG when risk factors exist, correct potassium and magnesium, and keep citalopram at the lowest effective dose. Counsel patients to report palpitations or syncope.
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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