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Drug interactions

Phenelzine + Propylhexedrine

Severity: Contraindicated

Phenelzine and Propylhexedrine: contraindicated 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

Propylhexedrine is an inhaled sympathomimetic decongestant that can release norepinephrine, and MAO inhibition may exaggerate its pressor effect. Hypertensive crisis is possible, and product labeling warns against use with MAOIs.

What this interaction means in plain words

Phenelzine and Propylhexedrine are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.

Phenelzine belongs to Central Nervous System; Propylhexedrine belongs to Respiratory.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Indirect sympathomimetic action is potentiated by increased neuronal norepinephrine stores from MAO inhibition.

What to do

Avoid use during and for 14 days after phenelzine. Use saline or other non-sympathomimetic nasal measures.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
  • If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
  • Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Phenelzine with Propylhexedrine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Phenelzine and Propylhexedrine are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. Propylhexedrine is an inhaled sympathomimetic decongestant that can release norepinephrine, and MAO inhibition may exaggerate its pressor effect. Hypertensive crisis is possible, and product labeling warns against use with MAOIs.

How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Propylhexedrine?

MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid use during and for 14 days after phenelzine. Use saline or other non-sympathomimetic nasal measures.

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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