Drug interactions
Cyclobenzaprine + Desvenlafaxine
Severity: Major
Cyclobenzaprine and Desvenlafaxine: 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
Both agents increase serotonergic activity, so the combination can lead to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include agitation, tremor, hyperthermia, clonus and autonomic instability.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cyclobenzaprine and Desvenlafaxine 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.
Cyclobenzaprine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Desvenlafaxine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic effects from serotonin reuptake inhibition by both drugs.
What to do
Prefer a non-serotonergic muscle relaxant. If combined, use the lowest doses and monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially after dose changes.
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 Cyclobenzaprine
- Cyclobenzaprine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Cyclobenzaprine + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
Other interactions of Desvenlafaxine
- Desvenlafaxine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cyclobenzaprine with Desvenlafaxine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cyclobenzaprine and Desvenlafaxine 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. Both agents increase serotonergic activity, so the combination can lead to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include agitation, tremor, hyperthermia, clonus and autonomic instability.
How serious is the interaction between Cyclobenzaprine and Desvenlafaxine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer a non-serotonergic muscle relaxant. If combined, use the lowest doses and monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially after dose changes.
What other medicines interact with Cyclobenzaprine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyclobenzaprine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Cyclobenzaprine page.
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