A very common—and important—question patients ask is:
“Can I take my psychiatric medicines along with the other tablets I’m already on?”
The short answer is: Yes, but only under medical supervision.

Why It Matters:

Psychiatric medications can interact with other medicines in ways that may:

• Increase or decrease the effectiveness of one or both drugs

• Lead to side effects like drowsiness, dizziness, or agitation

• Affect your liver, kidneys, or heart rhythm if not properly monitored

Common Interaction Examples:

• Antidepressants (like escitalopram, fluoxetine) may interact with painkillers, blood thinners, and migraine medications

• Mood stabilizers like lithium can be affected by BP tablets (like diuretics), NSAIDs (like ibuprofen), and thyroid medications

• Antipsychotics can increase drowsiness when taken with sleeping pills or anxiety meds

• Valproate and carbamazepine may alter the levels of other antiepileptics or hormonal pills

What You Can Do:

• Inform your doctor about all the medicines you’re taking—including Ayurvedic, homeopathic, and supplements

• Avoid self-medicating or taking over-the-counter drugs without guidance

• Monitor for new side effects when starting or stopping any medicine

• Keep a written medication list and share it with all your healthcare providers

Your psychiatrist and physician can coordinate your treatment safely—just keep them informed!

Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T
Consultant Psychiatrist
Apollo Clinic, Velachery & Tambaram
85951 55808