Drug interactions
Lofepramine + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Lofepramine and Selegiline: 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
Combining an MAO inhibitor with a tricyclic antidepressant can cause serotonin syndrome, with agitation, tremor, hyperthermia, autonomic instability and possible hypertensive reactions. Transdermal or higher-dose selegiline carries particular risk, and the effect may persist after stopping either drug.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lofepramine and Selegiline 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
MAO inhibition combined with noradrenaline and serotonin reuptake inhibition raises synaptic monoamines.
What to do
Avoid the combination and observe the labeled washout interval when switching, typically 14 days after stopping selegiline. If used together, monitor closely for serotonin toxicity and blood pressure.
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 Selegiline
- Amitriptyline + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lofepramine with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lofepramine and Selegiline 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. Combining an MAO inhibitor with a tricyclic antidepressant can cause serotonin syndrome, with agitation, tremor, hyperthermia, autonomic instability and possible hypertensive reactions. Transdermal or higher-dose selegiline carries particular risk, and the effect may persist after stopping either drug.
How serious is the interaction between Lofepramine and Selegiline?
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 and observe the labeled washout interval when switching, typically 14 days after stopping selegiline. If used together, monitor closely for serotonin toxicity and blood pressure.
What other medicines interact with Selegiline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Selegiline with, for example, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine, Atomoxetine. The full list is on the Selegiline page.
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