Drug interactions
Citalopram + Vemurafenib
Severity: Major
Citalopram and Vemurafenib: 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
Vemurafenib causes concentration-dependent QT prolongation, and citalopram adds to this effect. The combination increases the risk of torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Citalopram and Vemurafenib 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; Vemurafenib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive QTc prolongation through pharmacodynamic synergy.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible; if both are needed, obtain ECGs at baseline and periodically and correct potassium and magnesium. Consider an alternative antidepressant.
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 Citalopram
- Cisapride + Citalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Vemurafenib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Citalopram with Vemurafenib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Citalopram and Vemurafenib 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. Vemurafenib causes concentration-dependent QT prolongation, and citalopram adds to this effect. The combination increases the risk of torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Citalopram and Vemurafenib?
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 if possible; if both are needed, obtain ECGs at baseline and periodically and correct potassium and magnesium. Consider an alternative antidepressant.
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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