Drug interactions
Citalopram + Dolasetron
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Dolasetron: 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
Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT prolongation and is serotonergic, and dolasetron also prolongs cardiac intervals. Combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes and, less commonly, serotonin syndrome.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Dolasetron 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.
Citalopram belongs to Central Nervous System; Dolasetron belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation and possible additive serotonergic effects.
What to do
Avoid if possible and use an antiemetic without QT effect. If combined, obtain an ECG, keep citalopram at or below recommended maximum doses and correct electrolytes.
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 Dolasetron
- Apomorphine + Dolasetron Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Dolasetron Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Vandetanib Contraindicated
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 Citalopram with Dolasetron?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Dolasetron 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. Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT prolongation and is serotonergic, and dolasetron also prolongs cardiac intervals. Combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes and, less commonly, serotonin syndrome.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Dolasetron?
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 and use an antiemetic without QT effect. If combined, obtain an ECG, keep citalopram at or below recommended maximum doses and correct electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Dolasetron?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dolasetron with, for example, Apomorphine, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Dolasetron page.
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