Drug interactions
Modafinil + Nortriptyline
Severity: Minor
Modafinil and Nortriptyline: minor 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
Modafinil promotes wakefulness and may counter the sedation of nortriptyline. It may also modestly raise tricyclic levels through CYP2C19 inhibition, particularly in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers.
What this interaction means in plain words
Modafinil and Nortriptyline have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Modafinil belongs to Central Nervous System; Nortriptyline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Opposing CNS effects and possible CYP2C19 inhibition by modafinil.
What to do
Monitor for tricyclic adverse effects, including anticholinergic effects and arrhythmia, after starting modafinil. Consider levels if toxicity is suspected.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Nortriptyline
- Disopyramide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Nortriptyline Contraindicated
Other interactions of Modafinil
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Modafinil with Nortriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Modafinil and Nortriptyline have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Modafinil promotes wakefulness and may counter the sedation of nortriptyline. It may also modestly raise tricyclic levels through CYP2C19 inhibition, particularly in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers.
How serious is the interaction between Modafinil and Nortriptyline?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for tricyclic adverse effects, including anticholinergic effects and arrhythmia, after starting modafinil. Consider levels if toxicity is suspected.
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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