Drug interactions
Dextromethorphan + Protriptyline
Severity: Moderate
Dextromethorphan and Protriptyline: moderate 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
Both agents have serotonergic effects, and the combination may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Protriptyline is metabolized by CYP2D6, so competition may also raise dextromethorphan levels.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dextromethorphan and Protriptyline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic effects, with possible competition for CYP2D6 metabolism.
What to do
Prefer a non-serotonergic antitussive. If both are used, keep dextromethorphan doses low and monitor for signs of serotonin toxicity.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Dextromethorphan
- Dextromethorphan + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dextromethorphan with Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Dextromethorphan and Protriptyline can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Both agents have serotonergic effects, and the combination may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Protriptyline is metabolized by CYP2D6, so competition may also raise dextromethorphan levels.
How serious is the interaction between Dextromethorphan and Protriptyline?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer a non-serotonergic antitussive. If both are used, keep dextromethorphan doses low and monitor for signs of serotonin toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Dextromethorphan?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dextromethorphan with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Dextromethorphan page.
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