Drug interactions
L-tryptophan + Vilazodone
Severity: Major
L-tryptophan and Vilazodone: 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
Tryptophan is a serotonin precursor, and combining it with vilazodone can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Cases are described with other serotonergic antidepressants.
What this interaction means in plain words
L-tryptophan and Vilazodone 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 effect from increased serotonin synthesis plus vilazodone's serotonin reuptake inhibition.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If used, monitor for agitation, tremor, clonus, sweating and fever, and stop tryptophan if serotonin syndrome is suspected.
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 Vilazodone
- Isocarboxazid + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Vilazodone Contraindicated
- Selegiline + Vilazodone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take L-tryptophan with Vilazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. L-tryptophan and Vilazodone 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. Tryptophan is a serotonin precursor, and combining it with vilazodone can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Cases are described with other serotonergic antidepressants.
How serious is the interaction between L-tryptophan and Vilazodone?
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. If used, monitor for agitation, tremor, clonus, sweating and fever, and stop tryptophan if serotonin syndrome is suspected.
What other medicines interact with Vilazodone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Vilazodone with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Vilazodone page.
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