Drug interactions
Modafinil + Protriptyline
Severity: Moderate
Modafinil and Protriptyline: moderate 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 may inhibit CYP2C19 and reduce clearance of tricyclics, raising protriptyline levels in some patients. Both can also increase heart rate and cause insomnia or anxiety.
What this interaction means in plain words
Modafinil and Protriptyline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Possible CYP2C19 inhibition by modafinil plus additive stimulant and cardiovascular effects.
What to do
Monitor for tricyclic adverse effects such as tachycardia and anticholinergic symptoms, and consider ECG or levels if toxicity is suspected.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Modafinil
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Modafinil with Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Modafinil and Protriptyline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Modafinil may inhibit CYP2C19 and reduce clearance of tricyclics, raising protriptyline levels in some patients. Both can also increase heart rate and cause insomnia or anxiety.
How serious is the interaction between Modafinil and Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates it moderate, 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 such as tachycardia and anticholinergic symptoms, and consider ECG or levels if toxicity is suspected.
What other medicines interact with Modafinil?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Modafinil with, for example, Lenacapavir, Leniolisib, Lorlatinib. The full list is on the Modafinil page.
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