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Citalopram QT risk — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsCitalopram QT riskGPhC CRA

A 74-year-old woman is prescribed citalopram 40 mg daily after bereavement. Her record shows long-term omeprazole 20 mg daily and a previous ECG with QTc 465 ms. What monitoring is required?

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Correct answer: B — Contact the prescriber because the dose and QT risk factors require review

In older adults, citalopram dose limits and QT prolongation risk require careful review. Omeprazole can increase citalopram exposure and the previous prolonged QTc adds concern. Timing separation will not remove a metabolic interaction. The pharmacist should contact the prescriber rather than dispensing a potentially unsafe dose.

Reference: BNF; MHRA Drug Safety Update