Drug interactions
Metoclopramide + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Metoclopramide and Phenelzine: 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
Metoclopramide can release catecholamines and is labeled with a caution regarding hypertensive responses in patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors. With phenelzine, blood pressure surges and serotonergic toxicity or extrapyramidal reactions are possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metoclopramide 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.
Metoclopramide belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Metoclopramide-induced catecholamine release combined with MAO inhibition, plus additive serotonergic and dopamine-blocking effects.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and choose a different antiemetic such as ondansetron with caution. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure closely and watch for serotonin syndrome and extrapyramidal symptoms.
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 Metoclopramide
Other interactions of Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metoclopramide with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Metoclopramide 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. Metoclopramide can release catecholamines and is labeled with a caution regarding hypertensive responses in patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors. With phenelzine, blood pressure surges and serotonergic toxicity or extrapyramidal reactions are possible.
How serious is the interaction between Metoclopramide 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: Avoid the combination where possible and choose a different antiemetic such as ondansetron with caution. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure closely and watch for serotonin syndrome and extrapyramidal symptoms.
What other medicines interact with Metoclopramide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metoclopramide with, for example, Amantadine, Amoxapine, Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol). The full list is on the Metoclopramide page.
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