Drug interactions
Dexfenfluramine + Phenelzine
Severity: Contraindicated
Dexfenfluramine and Phenelzine: contraindicated 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
Dexfenfluramine releases serotonin, and with an MAO inhibitor it may cause serotonin syndrome and hypertensive reactions. The combination is contraindicated.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dexfenfluramine and Phenelzine are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.
Why it happens
Serotonin release plus impaired monoamine breakdown from MAO inhibition leads to excess serotonergic and adrenergic activity.
What to do
Do not combine, and keep at least 14 days between stopping phenelzine and starting dexfenfluramine.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
- If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
- Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?
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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 Dexfenfluramine with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Dexfenfluramine and Phenelzine are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. Dexfenfluramine releases serotonin, and with an MAO inhibitor it may cause serotonin syndrome and hypertensive reactions. The combination is contraindicated.
How serious is the interaction between Dexfenfluramine and Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not combine, and keep at least 14 days between stopping phenelzine and starting dexfenfluramine.
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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