What are the side effects of taking Coricidin while on Celexa & saphris?
Patient: I am currently prescribed Celexa (citalopram) 20 mg daily and Saphris (asenapine) 10 mg daily. Would it be safe to take Coricidin HBP Cough and Cold (dextromethorphan HBr and chlorpheniramine maleate) in conjuction with these two medications? Are there any possible drug interactions? Doctor: Hi,  If taken together these medications may cause the following harmful interactions:  1. Celexa with Dextrometharphan can increase the risk of a serious condition called the serotonin syndrome, which is characterized by confusion, hallucination, seizure, increased blood pressure and heart rate, fever, excessive sweating, shivering, blurred vision, muscle stiffness, tremor, stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In its severe form it may result in coma and even death.  2. Celexa with Saphris can increase the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious and potentially life-threatening.  3. Celexa with Chlorpheniramine maleate may increase the side effects such as drowsiness, blurred vision, dry mouth, decreased sweating, difficulty urinating, abdominal cramping, constipation, irregular heartbeat, confusion, and memory problems.  4. Saphris with Dextromethorphan may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty concentrating.  Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.  Take care  Regards, Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician