Drug interactions
Phenelzine + Valerian
Severity: Minor
Phenelzine and Valerian: minor 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
Valerian has sedative properties that may add to the central nervous system effects of phenelzine. Increased drowsiness and impaired psychomotor performance are possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenelzine and Valerian have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Additive sedation, likely via GABAergic activity of valerian; evidence for a specific MAOI interaction is limited.
What to do
Counsel patients about additive drowsiness and caution with driving. Reduce or stop valerian if excessive sedation occurs.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenelzine with Valerian?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Phenelzine and Valerian have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Valerian has sedative properties that may add to the central nervous system effects of phenelzine. Increased drowsiness and impaired psychomotor performance are possible.
How serious is the interaction between Phenelzine and Valerian?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Counsel patients about additive drowsiness and caution with driving. Reduce or stop valerian if excessive sedation occurs.
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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