Drug interactions
Phenylephrine po + Rasagiline
Severity: Major
Phenylephrine po 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
Oral phenylephrine absorption is boosted when intestinal MAO is inhibited, and systemic effects can include pressor responses. Hypertensive episodes are possible, particularly with non-selective MAO inhibition.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenylephrine po 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.
Why it happens
Phenylephrine is metabolised by MAO in the gut and liver, so MAO inhibition raises its systemic exposure and pressor effect.
What to do
Avoid oral phenylephrine decongestants in patients taking rasagiline and use non-sympathomimetic options. Monitor blood pressure if exposure occurs.
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 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 po with Rasagiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenylephrine po 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. Oral phenylephrine absorption is boosted when intestinal MAO is inhibited, and systemic effects can include pressor responses. Hypertensive episodes are possible, particularly with non-selective MAO inhibition.
How serious is the interaction between Phenylephrine po 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 oral phenylephrine decongestants in patients taking rasagiline and use non-sympathomimetic options. Monitor blood pressure if exposure occurs.
What other medicines interact with Rasagiline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Rasagiline with, for example, Atomoxetine, Brimonidine, Bupropion-naltrexone. The full list is on the Rasagiline page.
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