Drug interactions
Citalopram + Valerian
Severity: Minor
Citalopram and Valerian: 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
Valerian has sedative properties that may add to the drowsiness and psychomotor impairment sometimes seen with citalopram. Clinically important effects are uncommon and evidence is limited.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Valerian have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression, with valerian acting through GABAergic activity.
What to do
Advise patients to watch for excess sedation and to avoid driving until the response is known. Stop valerian if drowsiness is troublesome.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Valerian?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Citalopram and Valerian have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Valerian has sedative properties that may add to the drowsiness and psychomotor impairment sometimes seen with citalopram. Clinically important effects are uncommon and evidence is limited.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Valerian?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to watch for excess sedation and to avoid driving until the response is known. Stop valerian if drowsiness is troublesome.
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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