Can I take Adizem and Amitriptyline together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 12 May 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
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Taking Adizem (diltiazem) and amitriptyline together can lead to higher levels of amitriptyline in your blood. This increases the risk of side effects such as extreme sleepiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. More importantly, both medicines can affect your heart rhythm, and taking them together may increase the risk of an irregular heartbeat.
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Why this happens
Adizem (diltiazem) slows down the liver enzymes (specifically CYP3D6 and CYP3A4) that your body uses to break down amitriptyline. This causes the amitriptyline to build up in your system. Additionally, both drugs have a 'calming' effect on the heart's electrical system, which can have an additive effect on your heart rate and rhythm.
What you should do
Back to contentsYou should speak to your doctor before taking these two medicines together. If they are prescribed together, your doctor may want to start you on a lower dose of amitriptyline or monitor your heart with an ECG (heart trace). Seek medical help immediately if you feel dizzy, faint, or notice a very slow or fluttering heartbeat.
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Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
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Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
12 May 2026 | Originally published
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