Can I take Amitriptyline and Esomeprazole together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
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Taking esomeprazole alongside amitriptyline may increase the levels of amitriptyline in your bloodstream. This could make you more likely to experience side effects such as extreme sleepiness, a dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, or a fast heartbeat.
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Why this happens
Amitriptyline is broken down in the liver by specific proteins (enzymes). Esomeprazole can slow down the activity of these proteins, which means the amitriptyline stays in your system longer and reaches higher levels than intended.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou can take these medicines together, but you should be aware of the potential for increased side effects. If you feel unusually drowsy, dizzy, or notice your heart racing, speak to your doctor. They may decide to adjust your dose of amitriptyline.
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Important precautions
Back to contentsSuicidal thoughts and behaviour
Amitriptyline can increase thoughts of self-harm or suicide, particularly when first starting treatment or changing doses. Seek immediate medical help if your mood changes or you have distressing thoughts.
Glaucoma (specifically acute angle-closure glaucoma
Do not take amitriptyline if you have a history of narrow-angle glaucoma, as it can cause a sudden, dangerous increase in eye pressure.
Severe bacterial diarrhoea (C. difficile)
Esomeprazole reduces stomach acid, which can increase your risk of serious gut infections. Seek medical advice if you develop severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, stomach pain, and fever.
Food and drink warnings
Back to contentsAlcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking amitriptyline can make you feel very sleepy and unsteady on your feet. It is best to avoid alcohol, especially when you first start treatment or if your dose is increased.
Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)
Amitriptyline can sometimes cause a fast or irregular heartbeat. High intake of caffeine can worsen these side effects and may also interfere with the sedative effect of the medicine.
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Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
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Taking these two medicines together can cause your blood pressure to drop too low. This may make you feel very dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when you stand up quickly from a sitting or lying position. It can also make you feel more drowsy or sleepy than usual.
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Can I take Lisinopril and Potassium together?
Taking lisinopril and potassium supplements together can cause the levels of potassium in your blood to become dangerously high (a condition called hyperkalaemia). While your body needs potassium for your heart and muscles to work, too much of it can lead to serious heart rhythm problems or even cause the heart to stop. Symptoms of high potassium can include muscle weakness, tingling sensations, or palpitations, but often there are no symptoms until the level is very high.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
25 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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