Drug interactions
Imipramine + Vilazodone
Severity: Major
Imipramine and Vilazodone: 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
Vilazodone combines serotonin reuptake inhibition with 5-HT1A partial agonism, and with imipramine can lead to serotonin syndrome with agitation, hyperthermia, tremor and autonomic instability. Imipramine's own serotonin reuptake inhibition makes the effect additive.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipramine and Vilazodone 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 belongs to Central Nervous System; Vilazodone belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic activity through reuptake inhibition and 5-HT1A agonism.
What to do
Avoid if possible; if used together, start low and monitor for serotonin syndrome, stopping both agents and giving supportive care if it occurs.
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
Other interactions of Vilazodone
- Isocarboxazid + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Imipramine with Vilazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imipramine and Vilazodone 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. Vilazodone combines serotonin reuptake inhibition with 5-HT1A partial agonism, and with imipramine can lead to serotonin syndrome with agitation, hyperthermia, tremor and autonomic instability. Imipramine's own serotonin reuptake inhibition makes the effect additive.
How serious is the interaction between Imipramine and Vilazodone?
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 possible; if used together, start low and monitor for serotonin syndrome, stopping both agents and giving supportive care if it occurs.
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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