Drug interactions
Desipramine + Formoterol
Severity: Major
Desipramine and Formoterol: 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
Desipramine and formoterol can each prolong the QT interval, and tricyclics also potentiate adrenergic cardiovascular effects. Together they may cause tachycardia and ventricular arrhythmias, particularly in patients with heart disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desipramine and Formoterol 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.
Desipramine belongs to Central Nervous System; Formoterol belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation and tricyclic-mediated potentiation of beta-agonist adrenergic effects via norepinephrine reuptake blockade.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG and monitor QTc, heart rate and potassium. Avoid in patients with long QT or significant cardiac disease where alternatives exist.
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 Formoterol
- Adagrasib + Formoterol Major
- Amiodarone + Formoterol Major
- Amisulpride + Formoterol Major
- Amitriptyline + Formoterol Major
- Amoxapine + Formoterol Major
- Arformoterol + Formoterol Major
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 Desipramine with Formoterol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desipramine and Formoterol 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. Desipramine and formoterol can each prolong the QT interval, and tricyclics also potentiate adrenergic cardiovascular effects. Together they may cause tachycardia and ventricular arrhythmias, particularly in patients with heart disease.
How serious is the interaction between Desipramine and Formoterol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG and monitor QTc, heart rate and potassium. Avoid in patients with long QT or significant cardiac disease where alternatives exist.
What other medicines interact with Formoterol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Formoterol with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Formoterol page.
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