Drug interactions
Phenobarbital + Tranylcypromine
Severity: Moderate
Phenobarbital and Tranylcypromine: moderate 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
MAOIs may prolong and intensify the sedative effects of barbiturates. Additive CNS depression can occur, and phenobarbital may also lower seizure threshold changes related to antidepressant therapy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenobarbital and Tranylcypromine can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Possible inhibition of barbiturate metabolism plus additive CNS depression.
What to do
Monitor for excess sedation and consider phenobarbital serum levels if toxicity is suspected. Reduce the dose if sedation develops.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Tranylcypromine
- 5-HTP + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenobarbital with Tranylcypromine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Phenobarbital and Tranylcypromine can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. MAOIs may prolong and intensify the sedative effects of barbiturates. Additive CNS depression can occur, and phenobarbital may also lower seizure threshold changes related to antidepressant therapy.
How serious is the interaction between Phenobarbital and Tranylcypromine?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for excess sedation and consider phenobarbital serum levels if toxicity is suspected. Reduce the dose if sedation develops.
What other medicines interact with Tranylcypromine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tranylcypromine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Tranylcypromine page.
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