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Drug interactions

Phenelzine + Sufentanil sl

Severity: Major

Phenelzine and Sufentanil sl: 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

Sublingual sufentanil with an MAOI may lead to serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. Labeling advises against use during or within 14 days of MAOI therapy.

What this interaction means in plain words

Phenelzine and Sufentanil sl 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Serotonergic excess and potentiated opioid CNS depression with MAO inhibition.

What to do

Avoid unless no alternative exists. If urgent analgesia is needed, use small titrated doses and monitor blood pressure, respiration and mental status closely.

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?

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 Sufentanil sl?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenelzine and Sufentanil sl 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. Sublingual sufentanil with an MAOI may lead to serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. Labeling advises against use during or within 14 days of MAOI therapy.

How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Sufentanil sl?

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 unless no alternative exists. If urgent analgesia is needed, use small titrated doses and monitor blood pressure, respiration and mental status closely.

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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