Drug interactions
Buspirone + Rasagiline
Severity: Major
Buspirone and Rasagiline: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Buspirone has been associated with hypertensive reactions when given with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and serotonergic toxicity is also possible. Rasagiline is a selective MAO-B inhibitor at recommended doses, but selectivity is lost at higher doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buspirone and Rasagiline 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.
Buspirone belongs to Central Nervous System; Rasagiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Pharmacodynamic synergism between buspirone serotonergic activity and inhibition of monoamine metabolism by rasagiline.
What to do
Avoid the combination where an alternative anxiolytic exists. If it is needed, use the lowest doses and monitor blood pressure and for serotonin syndrome signs.
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 Buspirone
- Buspirone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Buspirone + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Buspirone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Buspirone + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Buspirone + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buspirone + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
Other interactions of Rasagiline
- Atomoxetine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buspirone with Rasagiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buspirone and Rasagiline 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. Buspirone has been associated with hypertensive reactions when given with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, and serotonergic toxicity is also possible. Rasagiline is a selective MAO-B inhibitor at recommended doses, but selectivity is lost at higher doses.
How serious is the interaction between Buspirone and Rasagiline?
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 an alternative anxiolytic exists. If it is needed, use the lowest doses and monitor blood pressure and for serotonin syndrome signs.
What other medicines interact with Buspirone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Buspirone with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Buspirone page.
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