Drug interactions
Fluoxetine + Valerian
Severity: Minor
Fluoxetine and Valerian: 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
Valerian has sedative properties and may add to the central nervous system effects of fluoxetine. This may cause drowsiness and impaired psychomotor performance.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fluoxetine and Valerian 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
Additive CNS depression through GABAergic effects of valerian.
What to do
Advise patients about drowsiness and caution with driving. Stop valerian if excessive sedation occurs.
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 Fluoxetine
- Fluoxetine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Fluoxetine + Mavacamten Contraindicated
- Fluoxetine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Fluoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Fluoxetine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Fluoxetine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fluoxetine with Valerian?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Fluoxetine and Valerian have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Valerian has sedative properties and may add to the central nervous system effects of fluoxetine. This may cause drowsiness and impaired psychomotor performance.
How serious is the interaction between Fluoxetine and Valerian?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients about drowsiness and caution with driving. Stop valerian if excessive sedation occurs.
What other medicines interact with Fluoxetine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fluoxetine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Mavacamten, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Fluoxetine page.
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