Can I take Citalopram and Ibuprofen together?

Why this happens

Citalopram (an SSRI) reduces the amount of serotonin in your blood platelets, which they need to help blood clot. Ibuprofen (an NSAID) also interferes with clotting and can damage the protective lining of the stomach. When used together, these two effects add up, significantly increasing the risk of a bleed.

What you should do

Speak to your doctor before taking these together. They may suggest a different painkiller, such as paracetamol, which does not have this interaction. If you must take both, your doctor might prescribe a medicine to protect your stomach. Seek medical help immediately if you vomit blood or notice black, tarry stools.

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.

Stomach ulcers and bleeding

Taking these medicines together significantly increases your risk of serious stomach bleeding. Seek urgent medical help if you vomit blood or pass black, tarry stools.

Asthma

Do not take ibuprofen if you have asthma and have ever experienced wheezing, shortness of breath, or a runny nose after taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Heart rhythm disorders (Long QT syndrome)

Citalopram can affect your heart rhythm. You must not take it if you have a known 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.

Pregnancy (third trimester)

Do not take ibuprofen if you are more than 6 months pregnant, as it can cause serious heart and kidney problems in the unborn baby and complications during birth.

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 depression or anxiety symptoms.

Drinking alcohol while taking ibuprofen can increase the risk of stomach irritation and gastrointestinal bleeding. It is best to limit or avoid alcohol, especially if you are taking ibuprofen regularly or in high doses.

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.

Food (General)

It is recommended to take ibuprofen with food or a glass of milk. This helps to protect your stomach lining and reduces the risk of indigestion or stomach upset.

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.