Can I take Citalopram and Ibuprofen together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 24 Jan 2026
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Taking citalopram and ibuprofen together can increase your risk of internal bleeding, particularly in the stomach or gut. You may notice signs like dark, tarry stools, or stomach pain. While many people take these together without issues, the combination makes your blood less likely to clot and can irritate the stomach lining.
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Why this happens
Citalopram (an SSRI) reduces the amount of serotonin in your blood platelets, which they need to help blood clot. Ibuprofen (an NSAID) also interferes with clotting and can damage the protective lining of the stomach. When used together, these two effects add up, significantly increasing the risk of a bleed.
What you should do
Speak to your doctor before taking these together. They may suggest a different painkiller, such as paracetamol, which does not have this interaction. If you must take both, your doctor might prescribe a medicine to protect your stomach. Seek medical help immediately if you vomit blood or notice black, tarry stools.
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Important precautions
Stomach ulcers and bleeding
Taking these medicines together significantly increases your risk of serious stomach bleeding. Seek urgent medical help if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools.
Asthma
Do not take ibuprofen if you have asthma and have ever experienced wheezing, shortness of breath, or a runny nose after taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Heart rhythm disorders (Long QT syndrome)
Citalopram can affect your heart rhythm. You must not take it if you have a known heart rhythm problem or are taking other medicines that affect the heart's electrical activity.
Food and drink warnings
Alcohol
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 depression or anxiety symptoms.
Food (General)
It is recommended to take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach upset.
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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.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
24 Jan 2026 | Originally published
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