Drug interactions
Phenelzine + Pimozide
Severity: Major
Phenelzine and Pimozide: 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
Pimozide combined with phenelzine may cause additive hypotension and sedation, and may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome or serotonin toxicity. Pimozide also prolongs the QT interval, which adds concern in patients with other risk factors.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenelzine and Pimozide 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.
Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System; Pimozide belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic effects of MAO inhibition with strong D2 blockade, alpha-adrenergic effects and QT prolongation by pimozide.
What to do
Avoid the combination where an alternative exists. If it is used, obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes and monitor QTc, blood pressure and mental status.
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 Pimozide
- Adagrasib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Anagrelide + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenelzine with Pimozide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenelzine and Pimozide 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. Pimozide combined with phenelzine may cause additive hypotension and sedation, and may increase the risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome or serotonin toxicity. Pimozide also prolongs the QT interval, which adds concern in patients with other risk factors.
How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Pimozide?
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 an alternative exists. If it is used, obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes and monitor QTc, blood pressure and mental status.
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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