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Drug interactions

Lorcaserin + Nortriptyline

Severity: Major

Lorcaserin and Nortriptyline: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: US FDA label

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

Lorcaserin is a serotonin 5-HT2C agonist, and combining it with serotonergic antidepressants may raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Lorcaserin has been withdrawn from the US market.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lorcaserin and Nortriptyline 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.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive serotonergic activity.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible. If both are used, monitor for agitation, tremor, hyperthermia and clonus.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lorcaserin with Nortriptyline?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lorcaserin and Nortriptyline 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. Lorcaserin is a serotonin 5-HT2C agonist, and combining it with serotonergic antidepressants may raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Lorcaserin has been withdrawn from the US market.

How serious is the interaction between Lorcaserin and Nortriptyline?

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 where possible. If both are used, monitor for agitation, tremor, hyperthermia and clonus.

What other medicines interact with Nortriptyline?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Nortriptyline with, for example, Disopyramide, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Nortriptyline page.

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