Drug interactions
Phenylephrine + Rasagiline
Severity: Major
Phenylephrine and Rasagiline: 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
MAO inhibition can potentiate sympathomimetic amines and cause hypertensive reactions. Although rasagiline is MAO-B selective at recommended doses, selectivity may be lost at higher doses and labeling advises caution with sympathomimetic decongestants.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenylephrine and Rasagiline 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.
Phenylephrine belongs to Respiratory; Rasagiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition reduces breakdown of catecholamines and potentiates the pressor effect of sympathomimetics.
What to do
Avoid systemic phenylephrine decongestants in patients on rasagiline where possible. If used, monitor 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 Phenylephrine
- Isocarboxazid + Phenylephrine Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Phenylephrine Contraindicated
- Phenylephrine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Bromocriptine + Phenylephrine Major
- Cocaine + Phenylephrine Major
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Phenylephrine Major
Other interactions of Rasagiline
- Atomoxetine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Bupropion + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Clomipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Desvenlafaxine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenylephrine with Rasagiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenylephrine and Rasagiline 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. MAO inhibition can potentiate sympathomimetic amines and cause hypertensive reactions. Although rasagiline is MAO-B selective at recommended doses, selectivity may be lost at higher doses and labeling advises caution with sympathomimetic decongestants.
How serious is the interaction between Phenylephrine and Rasagiline?
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 systemic phenylephrine decongestants in patients on rasagiline where possible. If used, monitor blood pressure closely.
What other medicines interact with Phenylephrine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenylephrine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Phenylephrine page.
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