Drug interactions
Imipramine + Lumefantrine
Severity: Major
Imipramine and Lumefantrine: 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
Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, and lumefantrine may modestly inhibit CYP2D6, which could increase imipramine concentrations. Together this raises the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipramine and Lumefantrine 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.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation plus possible CYP2D6 inhibition by lumefantrine.
What to do
Avoid if alternatives are available. If combined, obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor for arrhythmia and tricyclic toxicity.
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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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 Imipramine with Lumefantrine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imipramine and Lumefantrine 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. Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, and lumefantrine may modestly inhibit CYP2D6, which could increase imipramine concentrations. Together this raises the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Imipramine and Lumefantrine?
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 alternatives are available. If combined, obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor for arrhythmia and tricyclic toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Imipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imipramine with, for example, Dronedarone, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Imipramine page.
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