Does Citalopram Interact With Antihistamines? (3+ Tips)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 05/02/2024 | Next review date: 05/02/2026

Author bio

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159

Ivan Kahwa

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In this article, we will discuss whether citalopram and antihistamines interact with each other or not. We will also talk about the potential interactions between them, some common side effects or risks associated with taking both of them together and precautions while taking them together.

Does citalopram interact with antihistamines?

Yes, citalopram and antihistamines can interact with each other. When these two medications are combined they may enhance the risk of certain side effects like sedation, drowsiness and dizziness. (1,2)

Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety by balancing the levels of a neurotransmitter in the brain called serotonin. It helps improve a person’s mood and boost motivation. (1)

On the other hand, antihistamines are used for the treatment of allergic reactions like itching, sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose etc. They work by blocking the effects of a chemical in our body called histamine which is responsible for allergic reactions. (4)

Always consult with your healthcare provider before combining medications, as they can evaluate and weigh down the possible therapeutic and adverse effects profile and adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

How does citalopram interact with antihistamines?

There is no specific mechanism of interaction between citalopram and antihistamines. However, people are unique and they respond differently to the effects of medications, some people may be more sensitive to citalopram-antihistamine combination therapy than others. (3)

The primary mechanism of citalopram is to increase serotonin levels in the brain to diminish feelings of sadness, depression and anxiety in a person. Whereas, antihistamines primarily work by inhibiting the activity of a chemical called histamine which causes allergies in a person. (1,2,3)

Combining them could be safe for some individuals and not so beneficial for others. Some antihistamines like diphenhydramine can have sedative effects and combining them with citalopram which also causes drowsiness and dizziness, can exacerbate these effects in individuals, affecting their daily routine to function well. (3)

If you experience any unusual or bothersome side effects while taking these medications together, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider promptly.

What does research suggest?

According to a research study, a 42-year-old woman was found dead in her home. After investigating her blood samples they found two drugs cyproheptadine which is an over-the-counter antiallergic and citalopram which is an antidepressant in her system. (2)

The cause of death was identified to be the intoxication of cyproheptadine and citalopram. Even though cyproheptadine can be available to you without a prescription, taking too much of it, especially along with other medications like citalopram can be very dangerous and life-threatening. (2)

It’s very important to consult a professional healthcare provider before starting any combination drug therapy. Always follow the instructions of your doctor regarding dosage and communicate any concerns or experiencing side effects with them.

What are the potential side effects of taking citalopram with antihistamines?

Here are some considerations regarding side effects and potential risks when taking citalopram with antihistamines: (5)

Increased sedation: Both citalopram and some antihistamines can make you feel more sleepy individually, so combining them may enhance this effect to a greater extent. This can affect a person’s daily activities that require attention and alertness like driving.
Cognitive impairment: This combination may lead to focus and concentration difficulties. It can also affect your memory and make it harder for you to remember things.
Orthostatic hypotension: Both medications can lower your blood pressure. Combining them can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded especially when you’re standing up.
Serotonin syndrome: Although rare, using citalopram with certain other drugs like antihistamines could lead to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome in which the levels of this chemical are significantly high.
Other side effects: Both of the drugs may have side effects of their own, such as dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision etc. Combining them might increase the chances of exacerbating these effects more.

How to safely take citalopram and antihistamines together?

Taking citalopram and antihistamines together should be done cautiously and under the supervision of your doctor. Here are some precautionary measures you must take: (1,3)

Consult your healthcare provider:

Before combining citalopram and antihistamines, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They will assess your health status and other medications you may be taking. They will prepare a therapeutic plan based on your specific situation keeping the risks and benefits profile in mind.

Choose non-sedating antihistamines:

If you need an antihistamine, choose a nonsedative one like cetirizine, loratidine or fexofenadine. So that the combination with citalopram doesn’t make you feel sleepier. Ask your doctor which one is right for you.

Take medications at different times:

If possible, take citalopram and antihistamines at different times of the day. The gap between the doses of two medications can prevent potential interactions and the severity of side effects is likely to be reduced.

Stay hydrated:

Both medications can cause dry mouth. Drinking plenty of water and keeping your throat moist can alleviate this side effect.

Monitor your side effects:

You need to stay vigilant when taking such medications as your doctor can’t be monitoring you all the time. Pay attention to how your body is responding to this combination. Watch out for excessive drowsiness, dizziness or any unusual symptoms. If you notice anything concerning or bothersome, talk to your doctor.

As a pharmacist, I would advise you to consult a healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication. Stick to the recommended dosage and do not exceed the prescribed or over-the-counter doses without your doctor’s approval.

Make sure your healthcare provider is aware of all the medications you’re taking, be it prescribed ones or over-the-counter like paracetamol. Attend the scheduled checkups with your doctor to monitor your overall health and discuss any changes in your medications as needed.