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Drug interactions

Hydroxychloroquine + Maprotiline

Severity: Major

Hydroxychloroquine and Maprotiline: major 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

Maprotiline, a tetracyclic antidepressant, can prolong the QT interval and hydroxychloroquine adds to this effect. Together they raise the risk of ventricular arrhythmia including torsades de pointes.

What this interaction means in plain words

Hydroxychloroquine and Maprotiline 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.

Hydroxychloroquine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Maprotiline belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive blockade of cardiac potassium channels producing QT prolongation.

What to do

Consider an antidepressant with less QT liability; if combined, check baseline ECG and electrolytes and monitor QTc.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Hydroxychloroquine with Maprotiline?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Hydroxychloroquine and Maprotiline 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. Maprotiline, a tetracyclic antidepressant, can prolong the QT interval and hydroxychloroquine adds to this effect. Together they raise the risk of ventricular arrhythmia including torsades de pointes.

How serious is the interaction between Hydroxychloroquine and Maprotiline?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Consider an antidepressant with less QT liability; if combined, check baseline ECG and electrolytes and monitor QTc.

What other medicines interact with Hydroxychloroquine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxychloroquine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Cisapride, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Hydroxychloroquine page.

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