Drug interactions
Imipramine + Vortioxetine
Severity: Major
Imipramine and Vortioxetine: 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 enhance serotonergic neurotransmission, so combined use may cause serotonin syndrome. Vortioxetine is a CYP2D6 substrate and imipramine may have modest effects on its exposure, and tricyclic cardiac and anticholinergic effects remain.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipramine and Vortioxetine 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; Vortioxetine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic activity through serotonin reuptake inhibition and receptor modulation.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible; if needed, use low doses and monitor for serotonin toxicity and ECG changes.
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 Vortioxetine
- Isocarboxazid + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
- Linezolid + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Vortioxetine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Imipramine with Vortioxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imipramine and Vortioxetine 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 enhance serotonergic neurotransmission, so combined use may cause serotonin syndrome. Vortioxetine is a CYP2D6 substrate and imipramine may have modest effects on its exposure, and tricyclic cardiac and anticholinergic effects remain.
How serious is the interaction between Imipramine and Vortioxetine?
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 combination if possible; if needed, use low doses and monitor for serotonin toxicity and ECG changes.
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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