Drug interactions
Citalopram + Gepirone
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Gepirone: 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 and both enhance serotonergic activity. Combined use raises the risk of arrhythmia and serotonin syndrome. Gepirone labeling advises against combining it with other QT-prolonging drugs in many settings.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Gepirone 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; Gepirone belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation plus additive serotonergic effects (SSRI with a 5-HT1A agonist antidepressant).
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and do not co-prescribe two antidepressants without clear need. If used, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for signs of serotonin syndrome.
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 Gepirone
- Clarithromycin + Gepirone Contraindicated
- Gepirone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Gepirone + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Gepirone + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Gepirone + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Gepirone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Gepirone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Gepirone 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 and both enhance serotonergic activity. Combined use raises the risk of arrhythmia and serotonin syndrome. Gepirone labeling advises against combining it with other QT-prolonging drugs in many settings.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Gepirone?
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 do not co-prescribe two antidepressants without clear need. If used, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for signs of serotonin syndrome.
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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