Drug interactions
Citalopram + Rifabutin
Severity: Minor
Citalopram and Rifabutin: minor 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
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and can lower citalopram concentrations, possibly reducing antidepressant effect. The induction is weaker than that of rifampicin, so the effect is generally modest.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Rifabutin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Citalopram belongs to Central Nervous System; Rifabutin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 (and possibly CYP2C19), increasing citalopram metabolism.
What to do
Monitor for reduced antidepressant response and adjust the citalopram dose within labeled limits if needed. Reassess the dose after rifabutin is stopped.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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 Rifabutin
- Cabotegravir + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Lorlatinib + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Rifabutin + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Apixaban + Rifabutin Major
- Axitinib + Rifabutin Major
- Brexpiprazole + Rifabutin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Citalopram and Rifabutin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and can lower citalopram concentrations, possibly reducing antidepressant effect. The induction is weaker than that of rifampicin, so the effect is generally modest.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for reduced antidepressant response and adjust the citalopram dose within labeled limits if needed. Reassess the dose after rifabutin is stopped.
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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