Drug interactions
Naratriptan + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Naratriptan and Phenelzine: 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
Naratriptan is not mainly cleared by MAO, so the pharmacokinetic effect is smaller than with other triptans. The combination still adds serotonergic activity and carries a risk of serotonin syndrome. It is best avoided, though the contraindication is less firm than for MAO-A substrate triptans.
What this interaction means in plain words
Naratriptan 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.
Naratriptan belongs to Central Nervous System; Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive serotonergic effects; naratriptan is metabolized by multiple CYP enzymes, so MAO-related accumulation is limited.
What to do
Avoid if possible and choose a non-serotonergic migraine therapy. If used, watch for agitation, tremor, hyperthermia and blood pressure 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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Other interactions of Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Naratriptan
- Almotriptan + Naratriptan Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Naratriptan Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Naratriptan Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Naratriptan Contraindicated
- Ergoloid mesylates + Naratriptan Contraindicated
- Ergotamine + Naratriptan Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Naratriptan with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Naratriptan 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. Naratriptan is not mainly cleared by MAO, so the pharmacokinetic effect is smaller than with other triptans. The combination still adds serotonergic activity and carries a risk of serotonin syndrome. It is best avoided, though the contraindication is less firm than for MAO-A substrate triptans.
How serious is the interaction between Naratriptan 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 if possible and choose a non-serotonergic migraine therapy. If used, watch for agitation, tremor, hyperthermia and blood pressure changes.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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