Drug interactions
Formoterol + Nortriptyline
Severity: Major
Formoterol and Nortriptyline: 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
Nortriptyline can prolong QT, cause tachycardia and potentiate sympathomimetic cardiovascular effects. Formoterol labeling advises caution with tricyclics because of possible additive arrhythmic effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Formoterol and Nortriptyline 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; Nortriptyline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation and tricyclic blockade of norepinephrine reuptake that potentiates beta-agonist cardiovascular effects.
What to do
Avoid if possible, especially when starting the tricyclic. If both are needed, monitor ECG, heart rate 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 Nortriptyline
- Disopyramide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Formoterol with Nortriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Formoterol and Nortriptyline 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. Nortriptyline can prolong QT, cause tachycardia and potentiate sympathomimetic cardiovascular effects. Formoterol labeling advises caution with tricyclics because of possible additive arrhythmic effects.
How serious is the interaction between Formoterol and Nortriptyline?
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, especially when starting the tricyclic. If both are needed, monitor ECG, heart rate 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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