Drug interactions
Ceritinib + Escitalopram
Severity: Major
Ceritinib and Escitalopram: 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
Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and ceritinib inhibits CYP3A4, which contributes modestly to escitalopram metabolism, possibly raising escitalopram levels. The combined effect may increase the risk of torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ceritinib and Escitalopram 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.
Ceritinib belongs to Oncology; Escitalopram belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QTc prolongation, plus ceritinib CYP3A4 inhibition that may increase escitalopram exposure.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and choose a less QT-active antidepressant; if unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider limiting the escitalopram 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 Escitalopram
- Cisapride + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Pimozide Contraindicated
Other interactions of Ceritinib
- Ceritinib + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Eletriptan Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Tolvaptan Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ceritinib with Escitalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ceritinib and Escitalopram 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 prolong the QT interval, and ceritinib inhibits CYP3A4, which contributes modestly to escitalopram metabolism, possibly raising escitalopram levels. The combined effect may increase the risk of torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Ceritinib and Escitalopram?
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 where possible and choose a less QT-active antidepressant; if unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider limiting the escitalopram dose.
What other medicines interact with Escitalopram?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Escitalopram with, for example, Cisapride, Citalopram, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Escitalopram page.
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