Drug interactions
Citalopram + Terbinafine
Severity: Minor
Citalopram and Terbinafine: 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
Citalopram is metabolized mainly by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 with a smaller CYP2D6 contribution, so terbinafine produces only a modest rise in its levels. Because citalopram has dose-related QT effects, a small increase is of some relevance.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Terbinafine 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; Terbinafine belongs to Anti Fungals.
Why it happens
CYP2D6 inhibition by terbinafine slightly reduces a secondary pathway of citalopram metabolism.
What to do
No dose change is routinely required; consider ECG monitoring in patients with QT risk factors.
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 Terbinafine
- Terbinafine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Terbinafine Major
- Eliglustat + Terbinafine Major
- Flecainide + Terbinafine Major
- Imipramine + Terbinafine Major
- Maprotiline + Terbinafine Major
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 Terbinafine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Citalopram and Terbinafine 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 is metabolized mainly by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 with a smaller CYP2D6 contribution, so terbinafine produces only a modest rise in its levels. Because citalopram has dose-related QT effects, a small increase is of some relevance.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Terbinafine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No dose change is routinely required; consider ECG monitoring in patients with QT risk factors.
What other medicines interact with Terbinafine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Terbinafine with, for example, Thioridazine, Desipramine, Eliglustat. The full list is on the Terbinafine page.
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