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Are there any interactions with SSRIs?

SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medications. They include citalopram (brand name Celexa), paroxetine (>Paxil), fluoxetine (>Prozac and Sarafem), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and sertraline (>Zoloft). Doctors also prescribe SSRIs to treat people with anxiety disorders, eating disorders, certain types of nerve pain, and severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

SSRIs interact with several medications. Do not take SSRIs in combination with sibutramine (Meridia) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as tranylcypromine (Parnate), phenelzine (Nardil), or selegiline (Eldepryl). This can cause side effects such as mood swings, restlessness, sweating, chills, and tremor. It can also lead to more severe problems including high blood pressure, fever, and seizures.

SSRIs can interact with other medicines including haloperidol (Haldol), phenytoin (Dilantin), carbamazepine (Tegretol), and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline (Elavil) and imipramine (Tofranil). Be cautious when taking SSRIs with aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) due to a small increased risk of stomach bleeding. Always tell your doctor about any herbal products you are taking. There may be other drug interactions not listed, so always make sure your doctor and pharmacist are aware of all of your medicines so they can check for drug interactions.

Sources:
Hansten, P.D., and J.R. Horn. Drug Interactions Analysis and Management. Applied Therapeutics, 1999.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.
Nemeroff, C.B. "Newer Antidepressants and the Cytochrome P450 System," The American Journal of Psychiatry 153 (1996).
The American Psychiatric Press Textbook of Psychopharmacology. American Psychiatric Press Inc., 1998.
Sarafem Product Information. Warner Chilcott. Last accessed 11/2006.
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.

This answered prepared 8/23/2000.
This information updated 11/22/2006.