Drug interactions
Metoclopramide + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Metoclopramide and Selegiline: 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 may provoke catecholamine release and hypertensive responses in patients taking MAO inhibitors. Its central dopamine blockade also antagonizes selegiline's antiparkinsonian benefit and can worsen motor symptoms.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metoclopramide 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.
Metoclopramide belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Selegiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Catecholamine release with MAO inhibition, plus dopamine D2 receptor antagonism opposing dopaminergic therapy.
What to do
Avoid metoclopramide in patients with Parkinson's disease on selegiline and choose an antiemetic without central dopamine antagonism such as domperidone where available. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure and parkinsonian 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 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 Metoclopramide with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Metoclopramide 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. Metoclopramide may provoke catecholamine release and hypertensive responses in patients taking MAO inhibitors. Its central dopamine blockade also antagonizes selegiline's antiparkinsonian benefit and can worsen motor symptoms.
How serious is the interaction between Metoclopramide 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 metoclopramide in patients with Parkinson's disease on selegiline and choose an antiemetic without central dopamine antagonism such as domperidone where available. If unavoidable, monitor blood pressure and parkinsonian 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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