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Drug interactions

Dexfenfluramine + Ergotamine

Severity: Major

Dexfenfluramine and Ergotamine: 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

Dexfenfluramine increases serotonergic activity, and with ergotamine may add vasoconstrictive and serotonergic effects. This could cause hypertension, vasospasm or serotonin toxicity; dexfenfluramine is also withdrawn in most markets.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dexfenfluramine and Ergotamine 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.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive serotonergic and vasoconstrictive effects.

What to do

Avoid combining; monitor blood pressure and for serotonin toxicity signs if exposure occurs.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dexfenfluramine with Ergotamine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dexfenfluramine and Ergotamine 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. Dexfenfluramine increases serotonergic activity, and with ergotamine may add vasoconstrictive and serotonergic effects. This could cause hypertension, vasospasm or serotonin toxicity; dexfenfluramine is also withdrawn in most markets.

How serious is the interaction between Dexfenfluramine and Ergotamine?

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 combining; monitor blood pressure and for serotonin toxicity signs if exposure occurs.

What other medicines interact with Ergotamine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Ergotamine with, for example, Almotriptan, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin. The full list is on the Ergotamine page.

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