Inhibitors of serotonin (5-HT) uptake, such as paroxetine, can cause
clinically significant drug interactions with which of the following?
A. Diazepam
B. Digoxin
C. Halothane
D. Tranylcypromine
A. Diazepam
B. Digoxin
C. Halothane
D. Tranylcypromine
Ans. D.
Fatalities have
been reported when fluxetine and MAO inhibitors (MAOI’s) such as
tranylcypromine have been given simultaneously. The MAOIs should be stopped at
least 2weeks before the administration of fluoxetine or paroxetine. Note that a
similar severe interaction can occur between tricyclic antidepressants and
MAOIs; the same warning against “overlapping” the two classes of drugs, and
allowing one to “Clear” the system completely before starting the other,
applies.
