Drug interactions
Diphenoxylate + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Diphenoxylate and Selegiline: major 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
Diphenoxylate labeling warns that MAO inhibitors may precipitate hypertensive crisis. Sedation and other serious reactions are possible, particularly at higher selegiline doses where MAO inhibition is nonselective.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diphenoxylate and Selegiline 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.
Diphenoxylate belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Selegiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Mechanism is not well established; the effect is considered a pharmacodynamic interaction with MAO inhibition.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use an alternative antidiarrheal such as loperamide. Monitor blood pressure and mental status if exposure occurs.
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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Other interactions of Selegiline
- Amitriptyline + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Selegiline Contraindicated
Other interactions of Diphenoxylate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diphenoxylate with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diphenoxylate and Selegiline 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. Diphenoxylate labeling warns that MAO inhibitors may precipitate hypertensive crisis. Sedation and other serious reactions are possible, particularly at higher selegiline doses where MAO inhibition is nonselective.
How serious is the interaction between Diphenoxylate and Selegiline?
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 an alternative antidiarrheal such as loperamide. Monitor blood pressure and mental status if exposure occurs.
What other medicines interact with Selegiline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Selegiline with, for example, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Atomoxetine. The full list is on the Selegiline page.
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