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Citalopram and QT prolongation — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsCitalopram and QT prolongationGPhC CRA

A 76-year-old woman takes citalopram 20mg daily and amiodarone 200mg daily. A GP asks whether increasing citalopram to 40mg is appropriate for low mood. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: D — The combination and dose increase may increase QT prolongation risk

Citalopram has dose-related QT prolongation risk, and amiodarone also prolongs QT. Older age adds further risk and citalopram dose limits apply. The prescriber should consider ECG, electrolytes and alternative treatment. Absorption failure is not the key issue.

Reference: BNF; MHRA