Drug interactions
Phenelzine + Sufentanil
Severity: Major
Phenelzine and Sufentanil: 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
Opioids given to MAOI-treated patients can cause serotonin toxicity or opioid toxicity, including respiratory depression and hypotension or hypertension. Sufentanil is very potent, so reactions may be marked.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenelzine and Sufentanil 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; Sufentanil belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Probably serotonergic effects and potentiated CNS depression with MAO inhibition; not fully established.
What to do
Avoid within 14 days of phenelzine where possible. If needed, use small titrated doses with continuous monitoring of respiration and hemodynamics.
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 Sufentanil
- Alprazolam + Sufentanil Major
- Amitriptyline + Sufentanil Major
- Amobarbital + Sufentanil Major
- Aripiprazole + Sufentanil Major
- Asenapine + Sufentanil Major
- Baclofen + Sufentanil Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenelzine with Sufentanil?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenelzine and Sufentanil 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. Opioids given to MAOI-treated patients can cause serotonin toxicity or opioid toxicity, including respiratory depression and hypotension or hypertension. Sufentanil is very potent, so reactions may be marked.
How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Sufentanil?
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 within 14 days of phenelzine where possible. If needed, use small titrated doses with continuous monitoring of respiration and hemodynamics.
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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