Drug interactions
Chlorpromazine + Desipramine
Severity: Major
Chlorpromazine and Desipramine: 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
Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, raising arrhythmia risk. Chlorpromazine also inhibits CYP2D6, which can increase desipramine levels and add to anticholinergic and sedative effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpromazine 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.
Chlorpromazine belongs to Central Nervous System; Desipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation and chlorpromazine inhibition of CYP2D6-mediated desipramine metabolism.
What to do
Avoid if possible; if combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider desipramine levels and dose reduction.
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 Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Chlorpromazine
- Chlorpromazine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Metrizamide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpromazine with Desipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlorpromazine 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. Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, raising arrhythmia risk. Chlorpromazine also inhibits CYP2D6, which can increase desipramine levels and add to anticholinergic and sedative effects.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpromazine 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 combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes and consider desipramine levels and dose reduction.
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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