Can I take Lansoprazole and Sertraline together?

Why this happens

Lansoprazole can slow down the liver enzymes (specifically CYP2C19) that are responsible for breaking down sertraline. Because the sertraline is broken down more slowly, it builds up in your body.

What you should do

You can take these medicines together, but you should be aware of increased side effects. If you notice any unusual symptoms like extreme agitation, a very fast heartbeat, or muscle stiffness, contact your doctor. Your doctor may choose to adjust your sertraline dose if you need to take lansoprazole long-term.

Important precautions

Depression and anxiety disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting sertraline or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if you notice any changes in your mood or behaviour.

Bleeding risk

Sertraline increases your risk of bleeding, especially in the stomach. Taking it with lansoprazole helps protect your stomach, but you must avoid taking ibuprofen or aspirin unless specifically prescribed by your doctor.

Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)

Sertraline can cause a serious drop in blood sodium levels, especially in older patients or those taking diuretics. Seek medical help if you experience extreme confusion, weakness, or unsteady gait.

Serotonin Syndrome

Do not take sertraline with other medicines that increase serotonin (such as St John’s Wort or certain painkillers like tramadol), as this can cause a life-threatening reaction involving high fever, agitation, and muscle rigidity.

Heart disease (specifically Long QT Syndrome)

Sertraline can affect your heart rhythm. If you have an existing heart condition, particularly a 'long QT interval', you must be monitored closely as this medication can increase the risk of serious heart rhythm disturbances.

Severe diarrhoea

Lansoprazole can increase your risk of serious bowel infections. If you develop severe or persistent watery diarrhoea, or a fever, contact your doctor immediately and do not take anti-diarrhoeal medicine.

Lupus (SLE) or skin reactions

Contact your doctor if you develop a skin rash, especially in areas exposed to the sun, as lansoprazole can cause a rare but serious autoimmune skin reaction.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking lansoprazole. Alcohol increases the amount of acid your stomach produces, which can make your symptoms worse and counteract the effects of the medicine.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking sertraline. Combining alcohol with this medicine can increase the risk of side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It may also make your depression or anxiety symptoms worse.

Food (Timing)

Lansoprazole works best if you take it at least 30 minutes before food. Taking it with or after food can make it less effective at reducing stomach acid.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Lansoprazole is often prescribed for acid reflux. Caffeine can trigger or worsen reflux symptoms by relaxing the muscle at the base of the food pipe, which may make your medicine less effective at managing your symptoms.

Grapefruit juice

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit contains compounds that can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

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.