Drug interactions
Formoterol + Imipramine
Severity: Major
Formoterol 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 and other tricyclics can prolong QT and increase the cardiovascular effects of beta-agonists such as tachycardia and arrhythmias. Formoterol labeling advises caution with tricyclic antidepressants because its cardiovascular effects may be potentiated.
What this interaction means in plain words
Formoterol 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.
Formoterol belongs to Respiratory; Imipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation and tricyclic-related noradrenergic and anticholinergic effects that potentiate beta-agonist cardiovascular actions.
What to do
Avoid if possible, particularly within two weeks of starting the tricyclic. If both are required, monitor heart rate, ECG and potassium and use the lowest effective formoterol dose.
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 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 Formoterol with Imipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Formoterol 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 and other tricyclics can prolong QT and increase the cardiovascular effects of beta-agonists such as tachycardia and arrhythmias. Formoterol labeling advises caution with tricyclic antidepressants because its cardiovascular effects may be potentiated.
How serious is the interaction between Formoterol 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 if possible, particularly within two weeks of starting the tricyclic. If both are required, monitor heart rate, ECG and potassium and use the lowest effective formoterol dose.
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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