Drug interactions
Lofepramine + Venlafaxine
Severity: Major
Lofepramine and Venlafaxine: 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
Lofepramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, and venlafaxine has the same activity. The combination increases the risk of serotonin syndrome and cardiovascular effects, and venlafaxine may raise tricyclic levels via CYP2D6.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lofepramine and Venlafaxine 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 serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition, with possible CYP2D6 inhibition.
What to do
Avoid combining the two antidepressants unless specialist supervision is available. If combined, use low doses and monitor for serotonin toxicity, blood pressure and ECG changes.
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 Venlafaxine
- Isocarboxazid + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Procarbazine + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Rasagiline + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
- Safinamide + Venlafaxine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lofepramine with Venlafaxine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lofepramine and Venlafaxine 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. Lofepramine is a tricyclic antidepressant that inhibits serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake, and venlafaxine has the same activity. The combination increases the risk of serotonin syndrome and cardiovascular effects, and venlafaxine may raise tricyclic levels via CYP2D6.
How serious is the interaction between Lofepramine and Venlafaxine?
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 combining the two antidepressants unless specialist supervision is available. If combined, use low doses and monitor for serotonin toxicity, blood pressure and ECG changes.
What other medicines interact with Venlafaxine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Venlafaxine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Venlafaxine page.
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