Drug interactions
Buprenorphine buccal + Isocarboxazid
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine buccal and Isocarboxazid: 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
Buprenorphine with a nonselective MAOI may cause exaggerated opioid effects including respiratory depression and hypotension, and possibly serotonin toxicity. Labeling advises against use with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping them.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine buccal and Isocarboxazid 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 may potentiate opioid and serotonergic effects; the exact mechanism is not fully established.
What to do
Avoid the combination and allow 14 days after stopping isocarboxazid. If unavoidable, monitor respiration, blood pressure and signs of serotonin toxicity.
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 Isocarboxazid
- 5-HTP + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Apraclonidine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine buccal with Isocarboxazid?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine buccal and Isocarboxazid 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. Buprenorphine with a nonselective MAOI may cause exaggerated opioid effects including respiratory depression and hypotension, and possibly serotonin toxicity. Labeling advises against use with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping them.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine buccal and Isocarboxazid?
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 and allow 14 days after stopping isocarboxazid. If unavoidable, monitor respiration, blood pressure and signs of serotonin toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Isocarboxazid?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Isocarboxazid with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Isocarboxazid page.
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