Can I take Brintellix and Minoxidil together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 14 Mar 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
- Audio Version
Taking Brintellix (vortioxetine) and minoxidil together may increase the risk of feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or fainting, especially when standing up quickly.
In this article:
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Both medications can affect your blood pressure. Minoxidil is a potent vasodilator (it widens blood vessels to lower blood pressure or treat hair loss). Brintellix, like many antidepressants, can occasionally cause a drop in blood pressure when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension). Taking them together can have an additive effect, making this drop more pronounced.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou can usually take these together, but you should be cautious. When moving from a lying or sitting position to standing, do so slowly to allow your body to adjust. If you feel very dizzy, sit or lie down immediately. If you experience frequent dizziness or fainting, speak to your doctor, as they may need to adjust your dosage.
Continue reading below
Important precautions
Back to contentsSerotonin Syndrome
Seek immediate medical help if you experience high fever, agitation, or severe muscle stiffness. This risk is significantly increased if taken with other medicines that affect serotonin, such as triptans for migraines or certain strong painkillers.
Heart conditions
This medicine can cause a rapid heartbeat, chest pain, or sudden weight gain due to fluid retention. It may worsen existing heart failure or angina; contact your doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms.
Food and drink warnings
Back to contentsAlcohol
While there is no specific chemical reaction between Brintellix and alcohol, it is generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking antidepressants. Alcohol can worsen depression symptoms and increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or drowsiness.
Continue reading below
Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking 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.
Patient picks for Drug interactions
Treatment and medication
Can I take Folitrax and Hqtor together?
Taking Folitrax (methotrexate) and Hqtor (hydroxychloroquine) together can increase the risk of side effects, particularly those affecting the liver. However, these two medicines are very commonly prescribed together by specialists to treat conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. While they work well as a team to control inflammation, they require careful monitoring.
Treatment and medication
Can I take Allerwel am and Calpol together?
There are no known harmful interactions between Allerwel AM and Calpol. It is generally safe to take these two medicines together as long as you follow the recommended doses for each.
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.