Drug interactions
Frovatriptan + Selegiline transdermal
Severity: Major
Frovatriptan and Selegiline transdermal: 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
Selegiline is an MAO inhibitor, and at transdermal antidepressant doses it inhibits both MAO-A and MAO-B, so combination with a triptan may cause serotonin syndrome. Frovatriptan is not primarily metabolised by MAO-A, but the pharmacodynamic risk remains and labeling advises caution.
What this interaction means in plain words
Frovatriptan and Selegiline transdermal 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 serotonergic effects, with MAO inhibition raising serotonin levels alongside triptan receptor agonism.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and choose an alternative acute migraine therapy. If used together, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and stop therapy if it 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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References
Other interactions of Frovatriptan
- Almotriptan + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
- Ergoloid mesylates + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
- Ergotamine + Frovatriptan Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Frovatriptan with Selegiline transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Frovatriptan and Selegiline transdermal 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. Selegiline is an MAO inhibitor, and at transdermal antidepressant doses it inhibits both MAO-A and MAO-B, so combination with a triptan may cause serotonin syndrome. Frovatriptan is not primarily metabolised by MAO-A, but the pharmacodynamic risk remains and labeling advises caution.
How serious is the interaction between Frovatriptan and Selegiline transdermal?
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 and choose an alternative acute migraine therapy. If used together, monitor closely for serotonin syndrome and stop therapy if it occurs.
What other medicines interact with Frovatriptan?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Frovatriptan with, for example, Almotriptan, Dihydroergotamine intranasal, Dihydroergotamine. The full list is on the Frovatriptan page.
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