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Is There An Interaction Between Omeprazole And Citalopram?

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Posted on Mon, 5 May 2014
Question: I was on 60 mg Citalopram and my doctor reduced it to 40 mg/d because of concerns with possible heart dangers. This doctor has retired but I noticed my last prescriptions are for 20mg/d Citalopram. I have a hiatal hernia and GERD and was prescribed 20mg Omeprzole twice/d. I read on the internet that this can increase the effects of Citalopram. Maybe this is why my dose was lowered. Doctor is retired and I will get a new primary care doctor in a month. I am worried about being on such a low dose of citalopram. I noticed that the higher doses made me less anxious and stop repetitive obsessive thoughts. What to do when I visit new doctor? Thanks>
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Answered by Dr. Anjana Rao Kavoor (44 minutes later)
Brief Answer: There are alternatives. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for writing to us, Yes, you are right about the interaction between omeprazole and citalopram. These two drugs when used together can increase the blood levels of citalopram which in turn can cause serious side effects of the drug. It is not recommended that more than 20 mg/day is used when used in combination with omeprazole. Since you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and repetitive thoughts, the drug dosage is probably not sufficient for you. Other SSRIs/antidepressants that are useful in depression, anxiety and obsessive thoughts are sertraline and paroxetine that are relatively safe. You may discuss these options with your psychiatrist. Hope this helps, Dr A Rao
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Dr. Anjana Rao Kavoor

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Practicing since :2008

Answered : 1197 Questions

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Is There An Interaction Between Omeprazole And Citalopram?

Brief Answer: There are alternatives. Detailed Answer: Hi, Thanks for writing to us, Yes, you are right about the interaction between omeprazole and citalopram. These two drugs when used together can increase the blood levels of citalopram which in turn can cause serious side effects of the drug. It is not recommended that more than 20 mg/day is used when used in combination with omeprazole. Since you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety and repetitive thoughts, the drug dosage is probably not sufficient for you. Other SSRIs/antidepressants that are useful in depression, anxiety and obsessive thoughts are sertraline and paroxetine that are relatively safe. You may discuss these options with your psychiatrist. Hope this helps, Dr A Rao