Drug interactions
Clomipramine + Huperzine a
Severity: Minor
Clomipramine and Huperzine a: 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
Huperzine A inhibits acetylcholinesterase, while clomipramine has anticholinergic effects that oppose cholinergic stimulation. The net effect is a likely reduction in the benefit of huperzine A, and the combination has not been well characterized.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clomipramine and Huperzine a 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
Pharmacodynamic antagonism between cholinesterase inhibition and antimuscarinic blockade.
What to do
Monitor cognitive response to huperzine A. Consider a less anticholinergic antidepressant if cognition is a treatment goal.
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 Clomipramine
- Arsenic trioxide + Clomipramine Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clomipramine with Huperzine a?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Clomipramine and Huperzine a have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Huperzine A inhibits acetylcholinesterase, while clomipramine has anticholinergic effects that oppose cholinergic stimulation. The net effect is a likely reduction in the benefit of huperzine A, and the combination has not been well characterized.
How serious is the interaction between Clomipramine and Huperzine a?
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 cognitive response to huperzine A. Consider a less anticholinergic antidepressant if cognition is a treatment goal.
What other medicines interact with Clomipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clomipramine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide, Droperidol. The full list is on the Clomipramine page.
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