Lofexidine and Tofranil

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Using lofexidine together with imipramine may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating. Some people, especially the elderly, may also experience impairment in thinking, judgment, and motor coordination. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with these medications. Also avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you. Combining these medications may also increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening, although it is a relatively rare side effect. You may be more susceptible if you have a heart condition called congenital long QT syndrome, other cardiac diseases, conduction abnormalities, or electrolyte disturbances (for example, magnesium or potassium loss due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting). Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with these medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

MONITOR: The concomitant administration of tricyclic antidepressants may theoretically reduce the effects of lofexidine and increase central nervous system depressant effects. In addition, lofexidine has been associated with asymptomatic prolongation of the QT interval in some patients. Coadministration with other agents that could prolong the QT interval, such as tricyclic antidepressants, may theoretically result in an elevated risk of ventricular arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia and torsades de pointes, because of additive arrhythmogenic potential related to their effects on cardiac conduction.

MANAGEMENT: During concomitant use of these drugs, patients should be monitored for altered efficacy and excessive or prolonged CNS depression. Patients should be made aware of the possibility of additive effects (e.g., drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, confusion) and be cautioned about driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous tasks. The manufacturer recommends that the concurrent use of lofexidine with other medications that can prolong the QT interval be avoided. If no alternatives are available, patients should be advised to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsades de pointes such as dizziness, palpitations, or syncope.

Lofexidine

Generic Name: lofexidine

Brand name: Lucemyra

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Lofexidine?

Tofranil

Generic Name: imipramine

Brand name: Tofranil, Tofranil-PM

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Tofranil?