Can I take Citalopram and Paracetamol together?

Why this happens

Citalopram (an antidepressant) and paracetamol (a painkiller) are processed by different pathways in the body and do not interfere with how the other works.

What you should do

You can take paracetamol while taking citalopram. Always follow the dosage instructions on the packet or as advised by your doctor. If you find you need to take paracetamol every day for more than a few days, speak to your GP.

Important precautions

Depression and anxiety disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting this medicine or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if this happens.

Heart rhythm disorders (Long QT syndrome)

Citalopram can affect your heart rhythm. You must not take it if you have a pre-existing heart rhythm problem or are taking other medicines that affect the heart's electrical activity.

Low sodium levels (Hyponatraemia)

Citalopram can cause a serious drop in blood sodium levels, especially in the elderly. Seek medical help if you experience extreme tiredness, confusion, or muscle twitching.

Liver disease or heavy alcohol use

Taking more than the recommended dose of paracetamol can cause fatal liver damage. Do not take it with any other products that also contain paracetamol. You should avoid drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking paracetamol. Chronic heavy drinking increases the risk of serious liver damage.

Bleeding disorders

Citalopram increases your risk of bleeding, especially if you are also taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood-thinning medications like warfarin.

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 underlying symptoms.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking paracetamol. Combining alcohol and paracetamol increases the risk of serious liver damage.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Citalopram can sometimes cause feelings of restlessness or jitteriness, especially when you first start taking it. Caffeine is a stimulant that can worsen these side effects and may increase feelings of anxiety. It is advisable to monitor your caffeine intake.

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.