Can I take Citalopram and Paracetamol together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 25 Jan 2026
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There is no known direct interaction between citalopram and paracetamol. It is generally considered safe to take these two medicines together at the recommended doses.
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Why this happens
Citalopram (an antidepressant) and paracetamol (a painkiller) are processed by different pathways in the body and do not interfere with how the other works.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou can take paracetamol while taking citalopram. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packet or as advised by your doctor. If you find you need to take paracetamol every day for more than a few days, speak to your GP.
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Important precautions
Back to contentsHeart rhythm disorders (Long QT syndrome)
Citalopram can affect your heart rhythm. You must not take it if you have a pre-existing heart rhythm problem or are taking other medicines that affect the heart's electrical activity.
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.
Liver disease or heavy alcohol use
Taking more than the recommended dose of paracetamol can cause fatal liver damage. Do not take it with any other products that also contain paracetamol. You should avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking paracetamol. Chronic heavy drinking increases the risk of serious liver damage.
Bleeding disorders
Citalopram increases your risk of bleeding, especially if you are also taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood-thinning medications like warfarin.
Food and drink warnings
Back to contentsAlcohol
It is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking citalopram. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of the medicine, making you feel more sleepy or dizzy, and may worsen your underlying symptoms.
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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 omeprazole and simvastatin together can increase the amount of simvastatin in your blood. This may increase the risk of side effects, particularly muscle pain, weakness, or a rare but serious condition called rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown).
Treatment and medication
Can I take Magnesium 5 in one and Progynova together?
Taking magnesium supplements at the same time as Progynova (estradiol) may slightly reduce how much of the hormone your body absorbs. This could potentially make your hormone replacement therapy (HRT) less effective.
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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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