Drug interactions
Epinephrine + Pindolol
Severity: Major
Epinephrine and Pindolol: 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
Nonselective beta-blockers leave alpha-adrenergic effects of epinephrine unopposed, which can cause severe hypertension with reflex bradycardia. Beta-blockade can also reduce the response to epinephrine in anaphylaxis.
What this interaction means in plain words
Epinephrine and Pindolol 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
Pharmacodynamic antagonism of beta receptors, leading to unopposed alpha-mediated vasoconstriction.
What to do
Monitor blood pressure and heart rate closely when epinephrine is given; a cardioselective beta-blocker is preferable when beta-blockade is needed. In anaphylaxis on beta-blockers, give epinephrine and consider glucagon if response is poor.
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
Other interactions of Epinephrine
- Epinephrine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Epinephrine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Epinephrine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Epinephrine Major
- Amitriptyline + Epinephrine Major
- Amoxapine + Epinephrine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Epinephrine with Pindolol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Epinephrine and Pindolol 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. Nonselective beta-blockers leave alpha-adrenergic effects of epinephrine unopposed, which can cause severe hypertension with reflex bradycardia. Beta-blockade can also reduce the response to epinephrine in anaphylaxis.
How serious is the interaction between Epinephrine and Pindolol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor blood pressure and heart rate closely when epinephrine is given; a cardioselective beta-blocker is preferable when beta-blockade is needed. In anaphylaxis on beta-blockers, give epinephrine and consider glucagon if response is poor.
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.
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