Drug interactions
Imipramine + Trifluoperazine
Severity: Major
Imipramine and Trifluoperazine: 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 QTc interval, so combining them increases the risk of torsades de pointes and ventricular arrhythmia. Additive sedation and anticholinergic effects may also occur. Phenothiazines may also inhibit CYP2D6 and raise tricyclic concentrations.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipramine and Trifluoperazine 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, with possible CYP2D6 inhibition by the phenothiazine increasing imipramine exposure.
What to do
Avoid the pairing where an alternative exists. If it is required, check baseline and follow-up ECGs, correct electrolytes, and monitor for anticholinergic and sedative effects.
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 Trifluoperazine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imipramine and Trifluoperazine 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 QTc interval, so combining them increases the risk of torsades de pointes and ventricular arrhythmia. Additive sedation and anticholinergic effects may also occur. Phenothiazines may also inhibit CYP2D6 and raise tricyclic concentrations.
How serious is the interaction between Imipramine and Trifluoperazine?
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 the pairing where an alternative exists. If it is required, check baseline and follow-up ECGs, correct electrolytes, and monitor for anticholinergic and sedative effects.
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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