Drug interactions
Phenylephrine + Selegiline
Severity: Major
Phenylephrine and Selegiline: 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
Selegiline, especially transdermal, inhibits MAO and may potentiate the pressor effect of sympathomimetics. Systemic phenylephrine could cause hypertensive reactions.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenylephrine and Selegiline 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; Selegiline belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
MAO inhibition increases the pressor response to phenylephrine.
What to do
Avoid oral phenylephrine decongestants with selegiline. Monitor blood pressure if a pressor is needed.
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 Selegiline
- Amitriptyline + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Selegiline Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Selegiline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenylephrine with Selegiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenylephrine and Selegiline 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. Selegiline, especially transdermal, inhibits MAO and may potentiate the pressor effect of sympathomimetics. Systemic phenylephrine could cause hypertensive reactions.
How serious is the interaction between Phenylephrine and Selegiline?
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 oral phenylephrine decongestants with selegiline. Monitor blood pressure if a pressor is needed.
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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