Drug interactions
Citalopram + Quinidine
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Quinidine: 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 prolong the QT interval, and combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Citalopram labeling warns against combination with other QT-prolonging drugs.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Quinidine 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; Quinidine belongs to Anti Parasitic.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation; quinidine's CYP2D6 inhibition may also modestly raise citalopram exposure.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible, using an antidepressant with less QT effect such as sertraline. If used together, monitor ECG and keep potassium and magnesium normal.
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 Quinidine
- Adagrasib + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Artemether / lumefantrine + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Quinidine Contraindicated
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 Quinidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Quinidine 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 prolong the QT interval, and combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Citalopram labeling warns against combination with other QT-prolonging drugs.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Quinidine?
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, using an antidepressant with less QT effect such as sertraline. If used together, monitor ECG and keep potassium and magnesium normal.
What other medicines interact with Quinidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Quinidine with, for example, Adagrasib, Arsenic trioxide, Artemether / lumefantrine. The full list is on the Quinidine page.
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