Does Amphetamine Extended Release Interact with Mao Inhibitors?
Amphetamine Extended Release and Mao Inhibitors have a contraindicated drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. MAOI antidepressants slow amphetamine metabolism, increasing norepinephrine release and risk of hypertensive crisis, toxic neurological effects, and potentially fatal malignant hyperpyrexia. The mechanism involves slowed amphetamine metabolism increasing monoamine release from adrenergic nerve endings. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Contraindicated
- Amphetamine Extended Release Class
- Central Nervous System Stimulant
- Management
- Do not take together
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Amphetamine Extended Release and Mao Inhibitors occurs because slowed amphetamine metabolism increasing monoamine release from adrenergic nerve endings. Clinically, this means maoi antidepressants slow amphetamine metabolism, increasing norepinephrine release and risk of hypertensive crisis, toxic neurological effects, and potentially fatal malignant hyperpyrexia. Because of the severity of this interaction, these medications are contraindicated — meaning they should not be taken together under any circumstances. If you are currently taking both, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss alternatives.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Amphetamine Extended Release and your doctor is considering prescribing Mao Inhibitors (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask about alternative medications that do not interact with your current regimen
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider