Interaction Between Propranolol And Citalopram
In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist answers a drug interaction inquiry regarding citalopram.

Question
I have 100mg doxycycline. I was wondering if it's okay to take alongside my 40mg propranolol and 20mg citalopram.

Answered by Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Medical Content Reviewed By HelloPharmacist
Staff
Last updated Mar 27, 2025
Key points
- There is a minor interaction between propranolol and citalopram.
- Doxycycline isn't known to significantly interact with either propranolol or citalopram. If you are currently stable on propranolol and citalopram, there generally isn't an issue taking doxycycline with them.
Answer
Hello, thank you for reaching out, and great question!
There is an interaction between two of the drugs you listed in your question, propranolol and citalopram, but it's so minor that many drug references don't even list it.
What Is The Interaction?
Citalopram hydrobromide can increase the levels of propranolol hydrochloride in your blood. This occurs because citalopram is a weak inhibitor of an enzyme known as CYP2D6.
This can slow down the breakdown of propranolol in your liver.
As a result, the levels of propranolol in your body might become higher than expected, which could lead to changes in how effective propranolol is in treating your condition, as well as increase the risk of side effects (such as slower heart rate and dizziness).
Now, as mentioned, this is considered a minor interaction because citalopram is only a weak inhibitor of CYP2D6. It's very possible that the interaction has no clinically significant impact for many people, but it is something to know about.
Generally, no therapy modifications need to be made if you are taking both citalopram and propranolol, but if you are noticing more pronounced side effects occurring, it is important to talk to your doctor about your options.
Doxycycline, which you also mentioned in your question, isn't known to interact with citalopram or propranolol. If you were prescribed a short course of doxycycline, it is generally safe to take all of them together.
Final Words
Thanks again for contacting us! Feel free to do so again anytime.
-
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
- 788 views