Drug interactions
Citalopram + Sertraline
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Sertraline: 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
Combining two SSRIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome without clear added benefit. Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT prolongation and sertraline may add to this, raising arrhythmia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Sertraline 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; Sertraline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic effects from dual reuptake inhibition and additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use and cross-taper cautiously when switching. If overlap is unavoidable, monitor for serotonin toxicity and check ECG and electrolytes.
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 Sertraline
- Isocarboxazid + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Selegiline + Sertraline 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 Sertraline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Sertraline 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. Combining two SSRIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome without clear added benefit. Citalopram causes dose-dependent QT prolongation and sertraline may add to this, raising arrhythmia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Sertraline?
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 concurrent use and cross-taper cautiously when switching. If overlap is unavoidable, monitor for serotonin toxicity and check ECG and electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Sertraline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sertraline with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Sertraline page.
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