Can I take Amitriptyline and Quinine together?

Varför detta händer

Both amitriptyline and quinine can affect the electrical activity of the heart (specifically by prolonging the 'QT interval'). When used together, this effect is added together, making it more likely that the heart's rhythm will become unstable. Additionally, quinine may slow down how quickly the liver breaks down amitriptyline, leading to higher levels of the medicine in your blood.

You should speak to your doctor before taking these two medicines together. They may want to check your heart rhythm with an ECG (heart trace) or consider an alternative treatment for leg cramps or depression. If you are already taking both and feel dizzy, faint, or notice your heart beating very fast or irregularly, seek medical help immediately.

Suicidal thoughts and mood changes

Amitriptyline can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or self-harm, particularly when first starting treatment or changing doses. Seek immediate medical help if your mood changes or you feel depressed.

Heart rhythm disorders (e.g., Long QT syndrome)

Quinine can cause serious, potentially fatal heart rhythm problems. You must not take it if you have a history of heart rhythm issues or are taking other medicines that affect your heart rate.

Graviditet

Do not take quinine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as high doses can cause birth defects or miscarriage. It should only be used in pregnancy if specifically prescribed by a specialist to treat malaria.

Glaucoma (specifically acute angle-closure)

Amitriptyline can significantly increase pressure inside the eye. If you have glaucoma, this medicine can trigger an emergency medical crisis (acute glaucoma attack).

Heart disease (recent heart attack or heart failure)

Both medicines can affect the electrical signals in your heart. Amitriptyline is particularly dangerous if taken shortly after a heart attack, as it increases the risk of sudden cardiac arrest.

Alkohol

Drinking alcohol while taking amitriptyline can make you feel very sleepy and unsteady on your feet. It is best to avoid alcohol, especially when you first start treatment or if your dose is increased.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of quinine in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects. It is best to avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Beverages containing quinine (e.g., Tonic Water)

Avoid consuming large amounts of tonic water or other beverages containing quinine, as this can increase the risk of side effects from your medication.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Interaktionskontroll för läkemedel 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.

Ansvarsfriskrivning

Denna information är endast avsedd för allmän utbildning och bör inte användas som en ersättning för professionell medicinsk rådgivning. Rådfråga alltid din läkare, apotekare eller annan kvalificerad vårdpersonal innan du fattar beslut om dina mediciner. Individuella omständigheter kan variera, och endast en vårdpersonal som känner till din medicinska historia kan ge personlig vägledning.