Drug interactions
Phenylephrine + Selegiline transdermal
Severity: Major
Phenylephrine and Selegiline transdermal: 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 the pressor effect of sympathomimetic amines such as phenylephrine, risking severe hypertension. Risk is greatest with oral phenylephrine and less with ophthalmic or low-dose use.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenylephrine and Selegiline transdermal 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.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition increases catecholamine stores and potentiates the pressor effects of sympathomimetics.
What to do
Avoid systemic phenylephrine, including oral decongestants, in patients using selegiline. If a vasopressor is required, start at a low dose and 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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenylephrine with Selegiline transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenylephrine and Selegiline transdermal 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 the pressor effect of sympathomimetic amines such as phenylephrine, risking severe hypertension. Risk is greatest with oral phenylephrine and less with ophthalmic or low-dose use.
How serious is the interaction between Phenylephrine and Selegiline transdermal?
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, including oral decongestants, in patients using selegiline. If a vasopressor is required, start at a low dose and 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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