Drug interactions
Mefloquine + Protriptyline
Severity: Major
Mefloquine and Protriptyline: 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 agents can prolong the QT interval and tricyclic antidepressants can also lower the seizure threshold, as can mefloquine. The combination may increase the risk of arrhythmia and seizures.
What this interaction means in plain words
Mefloquine and Protriptyline 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 QTc prolongation and additive lowering of seizure threshold.
What to do
Prefer an alternative antimalarial or antidepressant. If both are needed, obtain an ECG and monitor for arrhythmia, seizures and neuropsychiatric 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 Mefloquine
- Arsenic trioxide + Mefloquine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Mefloquine Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Mefloquine Contraindicated
- Levoketoconazole + Mefloquine Contraindicated
- Mefloquine + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Mefloquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Mefloquine with Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Mefloquine and Protriptyline 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 agents can prolong the QT interval and tricyclic antidepressants can also lower the seizure threshold, as can mefloquine. The combination may increase the risk of arrhythmia and seizures.
How serious is the interaction between Mefloquine and Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an alternative antimalarial or antidepressant. If both are needed, obtain an ECG and monitor for arrhythmia, seizures and neuropsychiatric effects.
What other medicines interact with Mefloquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Mefloquine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Dronedarone, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Mefloquine page.
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