Drug interactions
Dextromethorphan + Vilazodone
Severity: Major
Dextromethorphan and Vilazodone: 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
Vilazodone is an SSRI and 5-HT1A partial agonist, and combining it with dextromethorphan may result in serotonin syndrome.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dextromethorphan and Vilazodone 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.
Dextromethorphan belongs to Respiratory; Vilazodone belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic effects from vilazodone reuptake inhibition and 5-HT1A agonism with dextromethorphan.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a non-serotonergic antitussive. If serotonin syndrome signs appear, stop both drugs and give supportive care.
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 Dextromethorphan
- Dextromethorphan + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Safinamide Contraindicated
- Dextromethorphan + Selegiline Contraindicated
Other interactions of Vilazodone
- Isocarboxazid + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dextromethorphan with Vilazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dextromethorphan and Vilazodone 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. Vilazodone is an SSRI and 5-HT1A partial agonist, and combining it with dextromethorphan may result in serotonin syndrome.
How serious is the interaction between Dextromethorphan and Vilazodone?
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 the combination and use a non-serotonergic antitussive. If serotonin syndrome signs appear, stop both drugs and give supportive care.
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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