Drug interactions
Dextromethorphan + Quinacrine
Severity: Moderate
Dextromethorphan and Quinacrine: 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
Quinacrine may inhibit CYP2D6, the main enzyme that metabolizes dextromethorphan. This could raise dextromethorphan exposure and increase dizziness, sedation or serotonergic effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dextromethorphan and Quinacrine 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
Inhibition of CYP2D6-mediated metabolism of dextromethorphan.
What to do
Monitor for dextromethorphan adverse effects such as dizziness and confusion and use lower doses if needed.
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 Quinacrine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Dextromethorphan and Quinacrine 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. Quinacrine may inhibit CYP2D6, the main enzyme that metabolizes dextromethorphan. This could raise dextromethorphan exposure and increase dizziness, sedation or serotonergic effects.
How serious is the interaction between Dextromethorphan and Quinacrine?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for dextromethorphan adverse effects such as dizziness and confusion and use lower doses if needed.
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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