Drug interactions
Diethylpropion + Phenelzine
Severity: Contraindicated
Diethylpropion and Phenelzine: contraindicated interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Diethylpropion is a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant, and with MAO inhibitors it may precipitate hypertensive crisis. The combination is contraindicated.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diethylpropion 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
MAO inhibition increases stored and released catecholamines, producing an exaggerated pressor response.
What to do
Avoid together and for 14 days after stopping phenelzine. Use a non-sympathomimetic weight management approach.
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 Diethylpropion with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Diethylpropion 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. Diethylpropion is a sympathomimetic appetite suppressant, and with MAO inhibitors it may precipitate hypertensive crisis. The combination is contraindicated.
How serious is the interaction between Diethylpropion 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: Avoid together and for 14 days after stopping phenelzine. Use a non-sympathomimetic weight management approach.
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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