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Drug interactions

Dihydroergotamine + Epinephrine

Severity: Major

Dihydroergotamine and Epinephrine: 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

Both agents constrict blood vessels, and dihydroergotamine causes prolonged vasospasm. Together they may cause severe hypertension and ischemia.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dihydroergotamine and Epinephrine 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.

Dihydroergotamine belongs to Central Nervous System; Epinephrine belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive vasoconstriction through alpha-adrenergic stimulation and ergot-mediated vascular effects.

What to do

Avoid concurrent use where possible; monitor blood pressure and peripheral perfusion. Use epinephrine only when needed for emergencies.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dihydroergotamine with Epinephrine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dihydroergotamine and Epinephrine 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. Both agents constrict blood vessels, and dihydroergotamine causes prolonged vasospasm. Together they may cause severe hypertension and ischemia.

How serious is the interaction between Dihydroergotamine and Epinephrine?

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 concurrent use where possible; monitor blood pressure and peripheral perfusion. Use epinephrine only when needed for emergencies.

What other medicines interact with Epinephrine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Epinephrine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Epinephrine page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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