Drug interactions
Ketamine + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Ketamine and Phenelzine: 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
Ketamine can raise heart rate and blood pressure through sympathetic stimulation, and in a patient on an MAO inhibitor this may be exaggerated, leading to hypertensive episodes. Unpredictable CNS effects have also been described.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ketamine and Phenelzine 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.
Ketamine belongs to Central Nervous System; Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Pharmacodynamic synergism of sympathomimetic effects with MAO inhibition, which increases catecholamine availability.
What to do
Inform the anesthesia team about phenelzine use and prefer an alternative agent when possible. If ketamine is required, use a reduced dose with continuous hemodynamic monitoring and have antihypertensive treatment available.
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 Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Ketamine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ketamine with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ketamine and Phenelzine 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. Ketamine can raise heart rate and blood pressure through sympathetic stimulation, and in a patient on an MAO inhibitor this may be exaggerated, leading to hypertensive episodes. Unpredictable CNS effects have also been described.
How serious is the interaction between Ketamine and Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Inform the anesthesia team about phenelzine use and prefer an alternative agent when possible. If ketamine is required, use a reduced dose with continuous hemodynamic monitoring and have antihypertensive treatment available.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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