Drug interactions
Dihydroergotamine inhaled + Pseudoephedrine
Severity: Major
Dihydroergotamine inhaled and Pseudoephedrine: major 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
Pseudoephedrine raises blood pressure and constricts vessels, and dihydroergotamine adds further vasoconstriction. Together they can cause hypertension and ischemic complications.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dihydroergotamine inhaled and Pseudoephedrine 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.
Why it happens
Additive vasoconstriction from indirect sympathomimetic action and ergot-mediated vascular receptor agonism.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use and choose a non-vasoconstrictor decongestant alternative. Monitor blood pressure and perfusion symptoms if both are given.
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
- Boots Decongestant Tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: Ergot alkaloids; "Ergot alkaloids (ergotamine & methysergide): increased risk of ergotism.") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Pseudoephedrine
- Isocarboxazid + Pseudoephedrine Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Pseudoephedrine Contraindicated
- Pseudoephedrine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Pseudoephedrine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Pseudoephedrine + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
- Pseudoephedrine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dihydroergotamine inhaled with Pseudoephedrine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dihydroergotamine inhaled and Pseudoephedrine 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. Pseudoephedrine raises blood pressure and constricts vessels, and dihydroergotamine adds further vasoconstriction. Together they can cause hypertension and ischemic complications.
How serious is the interaction between Dihydroergotamine inhaled and Pseudoephedrine?
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 and choose a non-vasoconstrictor decongestant alternative. Monitor blood pressure and perfusion symptoms if both are given.
What other medicines interact with Pseudoephedrine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pseudoephedrine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Rasagiline. The full list is on the Pseudoephedrine page.
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