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Can I take St john's wort and Fluoxetine together?

Drug interaction guide

Taking St John's Wort with fluoxetine can lead to a very serious and potentially life-threatening condition called 'serotonin syndrome'. This happens when there is too much of a chemical called serotonin in your brain. Symptoms can include feeling very agitated, confused, or shaky. You might also experience sweating, a fast heartbeat, muscle twitches, shivering, or diarrhoea. In severe cases, it can lead to fits (seizures) or loss of consciousness.

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Why this happens

Both fluoxetine and St John's Wort work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. When used together, they can raise these levels too high (a 'pharmacodynamic' interaction). Additionally, St John's Wort can change how the liver breaks down certain medicines, which can make the levels of fluoxetine in your blood unpredictable.

What you should do

Do NOT take St John's Wort if you are already taking fluoxetine (Prozac). If you are currently taking both, you should contact your GP or pharmacist immediately for advice before stopping either, as stopping antidepressants suddenly can also cause side effects. If you experience severe symptoms like confusion, high fever, or tremors, seek emergency medical help.

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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.

Clause de non-responsabilité

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.

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Historique de l'article

Les informations contenues dans cette page sont rédigées et évaluées par des cliniciens qualifiés.

  • 24 janvier 2026 | Publié à l'origine
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