Drug Interactions between Dihistine and rasagiline

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of opioid analgesics. Concomitant use may result in additive CNS depression and impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills. In more severe cases, hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, or even death may occur. In addition, alcohol may affect opioid release from sustained-release formulations.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of opioid analgesics by inhibiting CYP450 3A4-mediated metabolism of these agents, although the interaction has not been studied. In general, the effect of grapefruit juice is concentration-, dose- and preparation-dependent, and can vary widely among brands. Certain preparations of grapefruit juice (e.g., high dose, double strength) have sometimes demonstrated potent inhibition of CYP450 3A4, while other preparations (e.g., low dose, single strength) have typically demonstrated moderate inhibition. Pharmacokinetic interactions involving grapefruit juice are also subject to a high degree of interpatient variability, thus the extent to which a given patient may be affected is difficult to predict.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should not consume alcoholic beverages or use drug products that contain alcohol during treatment with opioid analgesics. Any history of alcohol or illicit drug use should be considered when prescribing an opioid analgesic, and therapy initiated at a lower dosage if necessary. Patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of sedation, respiratory depression, and hypotension. Due to a high degree of interpatient variability with respect to grapefruit juice interactions, patients treated with opioid analgesics should preferably avoid the consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice.

Rasagiline may be taken with or without food. There is no need to avoid most foods and beverages during treatment with rasagiline, as long as you are not receiving more than 1 mg per day of the medication. However, certain foods such as some of the aged cheeses (for example, Boursault, Liederkrantz, Mycella, and Stilton) may contain very high amounts of tyramine and should generally be avoided if possible. Consumption of very high levels of tyramine (greater than 150 mg) while on rasagiline treatment may lead to dangerous increases in your blood pressure, a condition known as hypertensive crisis. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are uncertain about what foods, if any, to avoid. You should seek immediate medical attention if you experience sudden and severe headache, blurred vision, confusion, seizures, chest pain, nausea or vomiting, sudden numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body), speech difficulties, fever, sweating, lightheadedness, and/or fainting during treatment with rasagiline, as these may be signs and symptoms of a hypertensive crisis. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs, since some medications may increase the blood levels of rasagiline and possibly lead to interactions with tyramine-rich foods. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Both pseudoephedrine and caffeine can increase blood pressure and heart rate, and combining them may enhance these effects. Talk to your doctor before using these medications, especially if you have a history of high blood pressure or heart disease. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.