Can I take Amlodipine and Citalopram together?

Why this happens

Both medications have the potential to affect the 'QT interval' (the electrical timing of the heart). Citalopram is known to cause this effect, especially at higher doses, and amlodipine may occasionally contribute to this or change how the heart responds to electrical signals.

What you should do

For most people, this combination is safe, but you should use caution. Ensure your doctor knows you are taking both. Seek medical help immediately if you feel a sudden fast or pounding heartbeat, severe dizziness, or if you faint. Your doctor may occasionally want to check your heart rhythm with an ECG (heart trace) or monitor your salt levels (electrolytes) through blood tests.

Important precautions

Depression and anxiety disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting this medicine or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if this happens.

Heart rhythm disorders (Long QT syndrome)

Do not take citalopram if you have a history of abnormal heart rhythms or are taking other medicines that affect heart rhythm, as it can cause a life-threatening heart rhythm change.

Severe aortic stenosis

Amlodipine can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure if you have a severely narrowed heart valve (aortic stenosis).

Bleeding disorders

Citalopram increases your risk of serious bleeding, especially if you are also taking aspirin, warfarin, or other blood-thinning medicines.

Low sodium levels (Hyponatraemia)

Citalopram can cause a serious drop in blood sodium levels, especially in the elderly. Seek medical help if you experience extreme tiredness, confusion, or muscle twitching.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking these medicines can make you feel more sleepy or dizzy. It is best to stop drinking alcohol or keep your intake to a minimum until you see how the medicines affect you.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of amlodipine in your blood, which may make your blood pressure drop too low and increase the risk of side effects like headaches or swollen ankles. Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Citalopram can sometimes cause feelings of restlessness or jitteriness, especially when you first start taking it. Caffeine is a stimulant that can worsen these side effects and may increase feelings of anxiety. It is advisable to monitor your caffeine intake.

Using other medicines

Taking 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.