Drug interactions
Isocarboxazid + Pentobarbital
Severity: Major
Isocarboxazid and Pentobarbital: 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
MAO inhibitors can prolong and intensify barbiturate effects. This may lead to deep sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension.
What this interaction means in plain words
Isocarboxazid and Pentobarbital 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 CNS depression, with possible reduced barbiturate metabolism by MAO inhibitors.
What to do
Avoid if possible; if a barbiturate is essential, use a reduced dose and monitor sedation, respiration and blood pressure. Consider a non-barbiturate sedative.
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 Isocarboxazid
- 5-HTP + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Apraclonidine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Isocarboxazid with Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Isocarboxazid and Pentobarbital 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. MAO inhibitors can prolong and intensify barbiturate effects. This may lead to deep sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension.
How serious is the interaction between Isocarboxazid and Pentobarbital?
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 if possible; if a barbiturate is essential, use a reduced dose and monitor sedation, respiration and blood pressure. Consider a non-barbiturate sedative.
What other medicines interact with Isocarboxazid?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Isocarboxazid with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Isocarboxazid page.
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