Drug interactions
Cyclobenzaprine + Desipramine
Severity: Major
Cyclobenzaprine and Desipramine: 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 cyclobenzaprine with desipramine duplicates tricyclic activity and increases the risk of serotonin toxicity, anticholinergic effects, sedation and arrhythmia. Both are metabolized by overlapping CYP pathways, which may raise levels further.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cyclobenzaprine and Desipramine 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.
Cyclobenzaprine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Desipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic, anticholinergic and cardiac conduction effects of two tricyclic structures, with possible metabolic competition.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If both are needed, monitor for serotonin syndrome, anticholinergic toxicity and ECG changes.
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 Cyclobenzaprine
- Cyclobenzaprine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
Other interactions of Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cyclobenzaprine with Desipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cyclobenzaprine and Desipramine 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 cyclobenzaprine with desipramine duplicates tricyclic activity and increases the risk of serotonin toxicity, anticholinergic effects, sedation and arrhythmia. Both are metabolized by overlapping CYP pathways, which may raise levels further.
How serious is the interaction between Cyclobenzaprine and Desipramine?
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 where possible. If both are needed, monitor for serotonin syndrome, anticholinergic toxicity and ECG changes.
What other medicines interact with Cyclobenzaprine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyclobenzaprine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Cyclobenzaprine page.
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