Drug interactions
Olanzapine + Paroxetine
Severity: Minor
Olanzapine and Paroxetine: 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
Olanzapine has a small effect on QTc and paroxetine has minimal QT liability, so additive prolongation is modest. Paroxetine has little effect on olanzapine levels, which is cleared mainly by CYP1A2 and glucuronidation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Olanzapine and Paroxetine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Olanzapine belongs to Central Nervous System; Paroxetine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Possible small additive effect on cardiac repolarization; not a well-established interaction.
What to do
No routine change needed. Consider an ECG and electrolyte check if other QT-prolonging drugs or cardiac risk factors are present.
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 Paroxetine
- Isocarboxazid + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
Other interactions of Olanzapine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Olanzapine with Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Olanzapine and Paroxetine have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Olanzapine has a small effect on QTc and paroxetine has minimal QT liability, so additive prolongation is modest. Paroxetine has little effect on olanzapine levels, which is cleared mainly by CYP1A2 and glucuronidation.
How serious is the interaction between Olanzapine and Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine change needed. Consider an ECG and electrolyte check if other QT-prolonging drugs or cardiac risk factors are present.
What other medicines interact with Paroxetine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Paroxetine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Paroxetine page.
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