Drug interactions
Citalopram + Fingolimod
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Fingolimod: 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
Fingolimod causes bradycardia and may prolong QT, and citalopram also prolongs QT. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia, especially after the first dose.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Fingolimod 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; Fingolimod belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation with fingolimod-induced bradycardia.
What to do
Avoid if possible; otherwise obtain a cardiology review and ECG before starting fingolimod and monitor after the first dose. 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 Citalopram
- Cisapride + Citalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Fingolimod
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Ponesimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Siponimod Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Fingolimod?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Fingolimod 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. Fingolimod causes bradycardia and may prolong QT, and citalopram also prolongs QT. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia, especially after the first dose.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Fingolimod?
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; otherwise obtain a cardiology review and ECG before starting fingolimod and monitor after the first dose. Correct electrolytes.
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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