Can I take Amlodipine and Sertraline together?

Why this happens

Both medications can have an effect on the cardiovascular system. Amlodipine works by relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure. Sertraline, while primarily an antidepressant, can occasionally influence heart rhythm or slightly enhance the blood-pressure-lowering effects of other drugs. Additionally, both drugs are processed by the liver, which can sometimes lead to slightly higher levels of the medication in your bloodstream.

What you should do

It is generally safe to take these together, but you should monitor your blood pressure regularly. To avoid dizziness, try to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position. If you feel very dizzy, experience a racing heartbeat, or faint, contact your GP. Do not stop taking either medication without consulting your doctor first.

Important precautions

Depression and anxiety disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting sertraline or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if you notice any changes in your mood or behaviour.

Bleeding risk

Sertraline increases your risk of bleeding. You must be extremely cautious if you take blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin) or regular anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen or aspirin).

Low sodium (Hyponatremia)

Sertraline can cause a serious drop in sodium levels, especially in the elderly. Seek medical help if you experience sudden confusion, severe headaches, or weakness.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking sertraline. Combining the two can make you feel very sleepy, dizzy, or unsteady, and may affect your coordination.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking amlodipine. Alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of the medicine, which may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when you stand up.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice

Grapefruit can increase the concentration of amlodipine in your blood, which may cause your blood pressure to drop too low and increase the risk of side effects like headaches or swollen ankles. It is best to avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

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.