Drug interactions
Debrisoquine + Imipramine
Severity: Major
Debrisoquine and Imipramine: 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
Imipramine can reduce the antihypertensive effect of debrisoquine, so blood pressure control may be lost. This is the same class effect seen with guanethidine-like drugs and tricyclics.
What this interaction means in plain words
Debrisoquine and Imipramine 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.
Why it happens
Imipramine blocks the neuronal amine uptake pump needed for debrisoquine to reach adrenergic nerve terminals.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible, and use a different antihypertensive class. If it cannot be avoided, monitor blood pressure closely.
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 Imipramine
- Dronedarone + Imipramine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Debrisoquine with Imipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Debrisoquine and Imipramine 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. Imipramine can reduce the antihypertensive effect of debrisoquine, so blood pressure control may be lost. This is the same class effect seen with guanethidine-like drugs and tricyclics.
How serious is the interaction between Debrisoquine and Imipramine?
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, and use a different antihypertensive class. If it cannot be avoided, monitor blood pressure closely.
What other medicines interact with Imipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imipramine with, for example, Dronedarone, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Imipramine page.
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