Drug interactions
Buprenorphine buccal + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine buccal and Phenelzine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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 an MAOI may produce serotonin syndrome or enhanced opioid effects such as sedation and respiratory depression. Hypotension and hyperthermia have been described with opioid-MAOI combinations.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine buccal and Phenelzine 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
Possible additive serotonergic and CNS-depressant effects; mechanism not firmly established.
What to do
Avoid use during and within 14 days of MAOI treatment; consider alternative analgesia. If needed, monitor sedation, respiration, temperature and blood pressure closely.
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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References
Other interactions of Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine buccal with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine buccal and Phenelzine 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 an MAOI may produce serotonin syndrome or enhanced opioid effects such as sedation and respiratory depression. Hypotension and hyperthermia have been described with opioid-MAOI combinations.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine buccal and Phenelzine?
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 use during and within 14 days of MAOI treatment; consider alternative analgesia. If needed, monitor sedation, respiration, temperature and blood pressure closely.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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