Can Eletriptan be taken with Sertraline? (1+ interaction)

In this article, we will answer the question “Can Eletriptan be taken with Sertraline?”. We will discuss the possible drug interaction of both medications, factors affecting the possible interaction, and precautions you should take while taking Eletriptan with Sertraline.

Can Eletriptan be taken with Sertraline?

Yes, Eletriptan can be taken with Sertraline, but immense caution is required. Concurrent use of both medications should be made only in situations where there is no other option. Healthcare professionals are required to monitor the individual for any side effects.

Sertraline (also known as Zoloft) is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of depressive illnesses like major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder (PD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (1).

Eletriptan (also known as Relpax) belongs to the class of medications known as triptans. These medications are serotonin receptor agonists and are approved by the FDA for the treatment of migraine headaches, with or without aura (3).

When both medications are used in combination, they may cause the occurrence of serotonin syndrome. Keep in mind that not everyone taking the combination will experience this interaction. However, if you do experience such a side effect you should contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

How do Eletriptan and Sertraline interact?

Eletriptan and Sertraline both act on the serotonin receptors and increase the levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin within the brain. Excessive increase in serotonin may lead to the occurrence of serotonin syndrome.

Though this interaction may be rare, but not impossible. If you are taking both medications and experience any symptoms like tremors, hallucinations, muscle rigidity, dizziness diarrhoea, agitation or seizures, you should seek medical assistance.

Your healthcare provider will also monitor your symptoms for extra safety. Also, you will be given this combination, if the benefits outweigh any associated risks. You should always inform your healthcare provider about the medications you are taking, to avoid any potential interactions.

What does research suggest?

Very few studies have been conducted on the effects of taking triptans and SSRIs in combination. Extensive research is needed on the effect of Eletriptan with Sertraline to completely study this interaction.

.A study assessing the safety and efficacy of Sertraline in women taking eletriptan was published. The study concluded that sertraline was safe to use with eletriptan given that individuals be continuously monitored for the occurrence of interactions (5).

Another study analysing 29 case reports on the simultaneous use of SSRIs and triptans stated that triptans when coadministered with SSRIs or serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), may rarely cause serotonin syndrome (6).

Another research study assessed the co-prescription of triptans with medications that can potentially interact with this class of drugs. This study concluded that the frequency of SSRI prescriptions with triptans was almost 20%, rendering this combination rather safe to use (7).

What are the side effects of using Eletriptan with Sertraline?

The combination of both medications can cause the following side effects;

• Tremors
• Hallucinations
• Muscle rigidity or tension
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Changes in blood pressure
• Fever
• Sweating
• Vomiting
• Loss of coordination
• Tachycardia
• Blurred vision

Keep in mind that not all individuals taking both medications will experience these side effects. However, if you do experience any side effects and you are concerned that it may be due to the interaction between both medications, it is advised to consult your doctor for guidance.

What to do if you are prescribed Eletriptan with Sertraline?

Your healthcare provider has prescribed Eletriptan and Sertraline for your depressive illness, there is no need to worry. Your healthcare provider will only co-prescribe both of these medications if the benefits outweigh the risks. The following precautions should be taken if you are prescribed this combination:

Understanding the interaction between Eletriptan and Sertraline

In my opinion and according to my knowledge as a pharmacist, Eletriptan can be taken with Sertraline and is a relatively safe combination if the individual is under constant observation. Research also reports the usage of a combination of a triptan and SSRI to be safe with proper monitoring and dosage adjustment.

However, if you have been prescribed Eletriptan and Sertraline simultaneously, it is advised to monitor your symptoms, take the necessary precautions and consult your healthcare provider for medical assistance.

References