Drug interactions
Ciprofloxacin + Pitolisant
Severity: Major
Ciprofloxacin and Pitolisant: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Pitolisant can prolong the QT interval, and ciprofloxacin has similar effects, so combined use raises the risk of ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with cardiac disease or electrolyte disturbances are most vulnerable.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ciprofloxacin and Pitolisant 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.
Ciprofloxacin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Pitolisant belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic QT prolongation.
What to do
Prefer an alternative antibiotic. If both are needed, perform an ECG and correct electrolytes, and monitor for palpitations or syncope.
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
- Ciprofloxacin 250mg film-coated tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: drugs known to prolong QT interval; "drugs known to prolong QT interval") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Ciprofloxacin
- Agomelatine + Ciprofloxacin Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Fezolinetant Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Tizanidine Contraindicated
- Ciprofloxacin + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Alosetron + Ciprofloxacin Major
Other interactions of Pitolisant
- Alfuzosin + Pitolisant Major
- Amiodarone + Pitolisant Major
- Amisulpride + Pitolisant Major
- Anagrelide + Pitolisant Major
- Asenapine + Pitolisant Major
- Bupropion + Pitolisant Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ciprofloxacin with Pitolisant?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ciprofloxacin and Pitolisant 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. Pitolisant can prolong the QT interval, and ciprofloxacin has similar effects, so combined use raises the risk of ventricular arrhythmias. Patients with cardiac disease or electrolyte disturbances are most vulnerable.
How serious is the interaction between Ciprofloxacin and Pitolisant?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an alternative antibiotic. If both are needed, perform an ECG and correct electrolytes, and monitor for palpitations or syncope.
What other medicines interact with Ciprofloxacin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ciprofloxacin with, for example, Agomelatine, Fezolinetant, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Ciprofloxacin page.
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