Escitalopram and Hydroxychloroquine: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Escitalopram and Hydroxychloroquine unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Escitalopram interacts with Hydroxychloroquine
Both drugs inhibit cardiac repolarizing potassium currents and prolong the QT interval, producing an additive risk of torsades de pointes.
What you should do
Avoid the combination when possible. If no alternative exists, correct electrolytes, review other QT-prolonging drugs, and obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Both drugs inhibit cardiac repolarizing potassium currents and prolong the QT interval, producing an additive risk of to...
Action
Avoid the combination when possible. If no alternative exists, correct electrolytes, review other QT-prolonging drugs, a...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Escitalopram and Hydroxychloroquine together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Avoid the combination when possible. If no alternative exists, correct electrolytes, review other QT-prolonging drugs, and obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Escitalopram and Hydroxychloroquine is classified as Major — avoid combination. Both drugs inhibit cardiac repolarizing potassium currents and prolong the QT interval, producing an additive risk of torsades de pointes.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Avoid the combination when possible. If no alternative exists, correct electrolytes, review other QT-prolonging drugs, and obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.