Drug interactions
Lorcaserin + Paroxetine
Severity: Major
Lorcaserin and Paroxetine: 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
Lorcaserin is a serotonin 5-HT2C agonist and combining it with an SSRI may raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Lorcaserin is also a CYP2D6 inhibitor, and paroxetine is a CYP2D6 substrate.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lorcaserin and Paroxetine 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 activity, with possible CYP2D6 interaction.
What to do
Avoid combining if possible, or monitor closely for serotonin syndrome. Note that lorcaserin has been withdrawn from many markets.
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 Paroxetine
- Isocarboxazid + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Paroxetine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Paroxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lorcaserin with Paroxetine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lorcaserin and Paroxetine 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. Lorcaserin is a serotonin 5-HT2C agonist and combining it with an SSRI may raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Lorcaserin is also a CYP2D6 inhibitor, and paroxetine is a CYP2D6 substrate.
How serious is the interaction between Lorcaserin and Paroxetine?
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 if possible, or monitor closely for serotonin syndrome. Note that lorcaserin has been withdrawn from many markets.
What other medicines interact with Paroxetine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Paroxetine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Paroxetine page.
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