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Drug interactions

Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Propranolol

Severity: Moderate

Dihydroergotamine intranasal and Propranolol: 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

Intranasal dihydroergotamine is systemically absorbed and causes vasoconstriction, which nonselective beta-blockade can leave unopposed. This may worsen peripheral ischemia, particularly in vascular disease. Coadministration is common in migraine patients.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dihydroergotamine intranasal and Propranolol 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Beta-2 blockade removes vasodilation, adding to ergot alpha-mediated vasoconstriction.

What to do

Monitor for cold extremities, numbness, or color change and stop dihydroergotamine if these occur. Avoid in patients with peripheral vascular disease.

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?

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

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dihydroergotamine intranasal with Propranolol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Dihydroergotamine intranasal and Propranolol 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. Intranasal dihydroergotamine is systemically absorbed and causes vasoconstriction, which nonselective beta-blockade can leave unopposed. This may worsen peripheral ischemia, particularly in vascular disease. Coadministration is common in migraine patients.

How serious is the interaction between Dihydroergotamine intranasal and Propranolol?

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 cold extremities, numbness, or color change and stop dihydroergotamine if these occur. Avoid in patients with peripheral vascular disease.

What other medicines interact with Propranolol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Propranolol with, for example, Thioridazine, Acebutolol, Adrenaline-articaine. The full list is on the Propranolol page.

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