Drug interactions
Citalopram + Methylene blue
Severity: Contraindicated
Citalopram and Methylene blue: contraindicated interaction.
Last updated
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
Methylene blue inhibits MAO-A and, with SSRIs like citalopram, can cause severe serotonin syndrome. Reactions can include altered mental status, hyperthermia, seizures and neuromuscular abnormalities.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Methylene blue are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.
Why it happens
Reversible MAO-A inhibition by methylene blue added to SSRI-mediated serotonin reuptake blockade.
What to do
Avoid unless methylene blue is needed for an emergency; then stop citalopram and monitor for CNS toxicity. Resume only after the labeled interval after the last methylene blue dose.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
- If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
- Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?
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Other interactions of Citalopram
- Cisapride + Citalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Methylene blue?
MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Citalopram and Methylene blue are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. Methylene blue inhibits MAO-A and, with SSRIs like citalopram, can cause severe serotonin syndrome. Reactions can include altered mental status, hyperthermia, seizures and neuromuscular abnormalities.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Methylene blue?
MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid unless methylene blue is needed for an emergency; then stop citalopram and monitor for CNS toxicity. Resume only after the labeled interval after the last methylene blue dose.
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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