Drug interactions
Citalopram + Granisetron
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Granisetron: 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 granisetron adds a smaller effect. Both drugs also affect serotonin pathways, so serotonin syndrome is possible though uncommon.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Granisetron 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; Granisetron belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation with possible additive serotonergic effects.
What to do
Keep citalopram within labeled maximum doses, correct electrolytes, and obtain an ECG in patients at risk. Prefer a different antiemetic if QTc is prolonged.
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 Granisetron
- Apomorphine + Granisetron Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Granisetron Major
- Amisulpride + Granisetron Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Granisetron Major
- Artemether / lumefantrine + Granisetron Major
- Artemether + Granisetron Major
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 Granisetron?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Granisetron 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 granisetron adds a smaller effect. Both drugs also affect serotonin pathways, so serotonin syndrome is possible though uncommon.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Granisetron?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Keep citalopram within labeled maximum doses, correct electrolytes, and obtain an ECG in patients at risk. Prefer a different antiemetic if QTc is prolonged.
What other medicines interact with Granisetron?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Granisetron with, for example, Apomorphine, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Granisetron page.
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