Drug interactions
Ergotamine + Phenylephrine po
Severity: Major
Ergotamine and Phenylephrine po: 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
Oral phenylephrine, common in decongestants, is an alpha-agonist vasoconstrictor. Combined with ergotamine it may increase blood pressure and vasospasm.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ergotamine and Phenylephrine po 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 alpha-adrenergic vasoconstriction.
What to do
Avoid decongestants containing phenylephrine during ergotamine therapy; use saline or non-vasoconstrictor options. Monitor blood pressure if used.
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 Ergotamine
- Almotriptan + Ergotamine Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Ergotamine Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Ergotamine Contraindicated
- Cobicistat + Ergotamine Contraindicated
- Darunavir + Ergotamine Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Ergotamine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ergotamine with Phenylephrine po?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ergotamine and Phenylephrine po 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. Oral phenylephrine, common in decongestants, is an alpha-agonist vasoconstrictor. Combined with ergotamine it may increase blood pressure and vasospasm.
How serious is the interaction between Ergotamine and Phenylephrine po?
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 decongestants containing phenylephrine during ergotamine therapy; use saline or non-vasoconstrictor options. Monitor blood pressure if used.
What other medicines interact with Ergotamine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ergotamine with, for example, Almotriptan, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin. The full list is on the Ergotamine page.
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