Drug interactions
Escitalopram + L-tryptophan
Severity: Moderate
Escitalopram and L-tryptophan: moderate 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
Tryptophan is a serotonin precursor, and with an SSRI it can raise serotonin enough to cause serotonin syndrome, as reported with other antidepressants. The risk is greater with high doses of tryptophan.
What this interaction means in plain words
Escitalopram and L-tryptophan can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Increased serotonin synthesis plus reduced reuptake produces additive serotonergic effect.
What to do
Avoid high-dose tryptophan supplements with escitalopram. Monitor for agitation, tremor, diarrhea and hyperthermia if used.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Escitalopram
- Cisapride + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Escitalopram with L-tryptophan?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Escitalopram and L-tryptophan can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Tryptophan is a serotonin precursor, and with an SSRI it can raise serotonin enough to cause serotonin syndrome, as reported with other antidepressants. The risk is greater with high doses of tryptophan.
How serious is the interaction between Escitalopram and L-tryptophan?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid high-dose tryptophan supplements with escitalopram. Monitor for agitation, tremor, diarrhea and hyperthermia if used.
What other medicines interact with Escitalopram?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Escitalopram with, for example, Cisapride, Citalopram, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Escitalopram page.
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