Drug interactions
Foscarnet + Nortriptyline
Severity: Major
Foscarnet 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 and foscarnet can each prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet may cause electrolyte depletion. Together they increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Foscarnet 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.
Foscarnet belongs to Anti Virals; Nortriptyline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation with electrolyte disturbances.
What to do
Monitor ECG and electrolytes, replace deficits promptly, and consider a different antidepressant if QTc prolongs.
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 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 Foscarnet with Nortriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Foscarnet 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 and foscarnet can each prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet may cause electrolyte depletion. Together they increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Foscarnet 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: Monitor ECG and electrolytes, replace deficits promptly, and consider a different antidepressant if QTc prolongs.
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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