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Drug Interactions between dexamethasone and ephedrine

This report displays the potential drug interactions for the following 2 drugs:

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Interactions between your drugs

Minor

dexAMETHasone ePHEDrine

Applies to: dexamethasone and ephedrine

In one study, after treatment with ephedrine, a 36% decrease in mean dexamethasone half-life and a 42% increase in the clearance of plasma dexamethasone has been reported. The mechanism of this interaction has not been reported. The authors of the study recommend caution when prescribing ephedrine for asthmatics requiring long term therapy with dexamethasone. The authors of the study further suggest that since ephedrine accelerates labeled dexamethasone clearance while theophylline did not, theophylline may be a more appropriate bronchodilator to use in this patient population.

References (1)
  1. Brooks SM, Sholiton LJ, Werk EE, Jr Altenau P (1977) "The effects of ephedrine and theophylline on dexamethasone metabolism in bronchial asthma." J Clin Pharmacol, 17, p. 308-18

Drug and food interactions

Moderate

ePHEDrine food

Applies to: ephedrine

MONITOR: Coadministration of two or more sympathomimetic agents may increase the risk of adverse effects such as nervousness, irritability, and increased heart rate. Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, particularly amphetamines, can potentiate the adrenergic response to vasopressors and other sympathomimetic agents. Additive increases in blood pressure and heart rate may occur due to enhanced peripheral sympathetic activity.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if two or more sympathomimetic agents are coadministered. Pulse and blood pressure should be closely monitored.

References (7)
  1. Rosenblatt JE, Lake CR, van Kammen DP, Ziegler MG, Bunney WE Jr (1979) "Interactions of amphetamine, pimozide, and lithium on plasma norepineophrine and dopamine-beta-hydroxylase in schizophrenic patients." Psychiatry Res, 1, p. 45-52
  2. Cavanaugh JH, Griffith JD, Oates JA (1970) "Effect of amphetamine on the pressor response to tyramine: formation of p-hydroxynorephedrine from amphetamine in man." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 11, p. 656
  3. (2001) "Product Information. Adderall (amphetamine-dextroamphetamine)." Shire Richwood Pharmaceutical Company Inc
  4. (2001) "Product Information. Tenuate (diethylpropion)." Aventis Pharmaceuticals
  5. (2001) "Product Information. Sanorex (mazindol)." Novartis Pharmaceuticals
  6. (2001) "Product Information. Focalin (dexmethylphenidate)." Mikart Inc
  7. (2002) "Product Information. Strattera (atomoxetine)." Lilly, Eli and Company

Therapeutic duplication warnings

No warnings were found for your selected drugs.

Therapeutic duplication warnings are only returned when drugs within the same group exceed the recommended therapeutic duplication maximum.

See also

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

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