Drug interactions
Foscarnet + Imipramine
Severity: Major
Foscarnet 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 foscarnet may each prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet-related electrolyte disturbances heighten the risk. Serious ventricular arrhythmias are possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Foscarnet 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.
Foscarnet belongs to Anti Virals; Imipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation aggravated by electrolyte depletion.
What to do
Obtain ECG at baseline and during treatment, correct calcium, magnesium and potassium, and switch antidepressant if QTc becomes prolonged.
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 Foscarnet
- Cidofovir + Foscarnet Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Foscarnet Major
- Adefovir + Foscarnet 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 Foscarnet with Imipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Foscarnet 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 foscarnet may each prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet-related electrolyte disturbances heighten the risk. Serious ventricular arrhythmias are possible.
How serious is the interaction between Foscarnet 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: Obtain ECG at baseline and during treatment, correct calcium, magnesium and potassium, and switch antidepressant if QTc becomes prolonged.
What other medicines interact with Foscarnet?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Foscarnet with, for example, Cidofovir, Pimozide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Foscarnet page.
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