Drug interactions
Citalopram + Lefamulin
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Lefamulin: 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
Lefamulin can prolong the QT interval, and citalopram has a dose-dependent QT effect. Combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes, especially with electrolyte disturbances.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Lefamulin 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; Lefamulin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Additive QT interval prolongation.
What to do
Use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic when feasible. If needed, obtain an ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor for arrhythmia.
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 Lefamulin
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Pimavanserin Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Alfuzosin + Lefamulin Major
- Amiodarone + Lefamulin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Lefamulin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Lefamulin 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. Lefamulin can prolong the QT interval, and citalopram has a dose-dependent QT effect. Combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes, especially with electrolyte disturbances.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Lefamulin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a non-QT-prolonging antibiotic when feasible. If needed, obtain an ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor for arrhythmia.
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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