Drug interactions
Duloxetine + Encainide
Severity: Major
Duloxetine and Encainide: 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
Encainide is activated and cleared by CYP2D6, and duloxetine is a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor. Levels of parent drug may rise and active metabolites fall, with possible proarrhythmic effects. Encainide is no longer marketed in most countries.
What this interaction means in plain words
Duloxetine and Encainide 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
Inhibition of CYP2D6 metabolism of encainide by duloxetine.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If used, monitor ECG and adjust the antiarrhythmic dose accordingly.
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 Duloxetine
- Duloxetine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Linezolid Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Duloxetine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Duloxetine with Encainide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Duloxetine and Encainide 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. Encainide is activated and cleared by CYP2D6, and duloxetine is a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor. Levels of parent drug may rise and active metabolites fall, with possible proarrhythmic effects. Encainide is no longer marketed in most countries.
How serious is the interaction between Duloxetine and Encainide?
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 where possible. If used, monitor ECG and adjust the antiarrhythmic dose accordingly.
What other medicines interact with Duloxetine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Duloxetine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Linezolid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Duloxetine page.
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