Drug interactions
Bretylium + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Bretylium and Selegiline: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Bretylium releases norepinephrine from sympathetic nerve endings at first, and MAO inhibitors can potentiate this effect. This may cause hypertension, tachycardia and arrhythmias.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bretylium and Selegiline can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition reduces catecholamine breakdown, amplifying bretylium-induced norepinephrine release.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If used, monitor blood pressure and ECG continuously.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Selegiline
- Amitriptyline + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bretylium with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bretylium and Selegiline can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Bretylium releases norepinephrine from sympathetic nerve endings at first, and MAO inhibitors can potentiate this effect. This may cause hypertension, tachycardia and arrhythmias.
How serious is the interaction between Bretylium and Selegiline?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible. If used, monitor blood pressure and ECG continuously.
What other medicines interact with Selegiline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Selegiline with, for example, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Atomoxetine. The full list is on the Selegiline page.
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