Drug interactions
Phenelzine + Terbutaline
Severity: Major
Phenelzine and Terbutaline: 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
Phenelzine is an irreversible MAO inhibitor, and terbutaline labeling warns that its cardiovascular effects may be potentiated during and shortly after MAOI use. Tachycardia, palpitations and blood pressure changes may occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenelzine and Terbutaline 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; Terbutaline belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition may potentiate vascular and cardiac effects of beta-agonists.
What to do
Avoid terbutaline within 14 days of MAOI therapy where possible; otherwise monitor heart rate and blood pressure 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?
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Other interactions of Terbutaline
Other interactions of Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenelzine with Terbutaline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenelzine and Terbutaline 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 is an irreversible MAO inhibitor, and terbutaline labeling warns that its cardiovascular effects may be potentiated during and shortly after MAOI use. Tachycardia, palpitations and blood pressure changes may occur.
How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Terbutaline?
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 terbutaline within 14 days of MAOI therapy where possible; otherwise monitor heart rate and blood pressure closely.
What other medicines interact with Terbutaline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Terbutaline with, for example, Carvedilol, Droperidol, Fexinidazole. The full list is on the Terbutaline page.
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