Drug Interactions between gepirone and hyoscyamine / methenamine / methylene blue / phenyl salicylate / sodium biphosphate

The following interaction applies only to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for bowel cleansing. It does not apply to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for other, non-laxative related purposes.

Bowel cleansing with sodium biphosphate can cause kidney failure, in some cases up to several months after the procedure. Although it rarely occurs, the risk is increased in individuals receiving treatment with phenyl salicylate, especially if they are also elderly or frail. You may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use both medications. Combining these medications may also increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities. In severe cases, dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities can lead to irregular heart rhythm, seizures, and kidney problems. You should use sodium biphosphate exactly as prescribed by your doctor, and drink plenty of clear fluids before, during, and after the cleansing process to keep yourself hydrated. Your doctor may also recommend an electrolyte rehydration solution that you can use. Talk to your doctor if you have any concerns. 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.

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Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

CONTRAINDICATED: Concomitant use of the selective 5-HT1A receptor agonist gepirone with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) may significantly increase the risk of a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is believed to result from the hyperstimulation of postsynaptic 5-HT receptors and while postsynaptic 5-HT1A and 5-HT2A are usually implicated, it is more likely that no single receptor is solely responsible. Symptoms include altered mental status, hypertension, restlessness, myoclonus, hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, diaphoresis, shivering, and tremor.

MANAGEMENT: The use of gepirone in combination with MAOIs or other agents that possess MAOI activity (e.g., furazolidone, linezolid, methylene blue, procarbazine) is considered contraindicated. At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of MAOIs or other agents that possess MAOI activity and initiation of treatment with gepirone or vice versa..

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

MONITOR: The following interaction applies only to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for bowel cleansing. It does not apply to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for other, non-laxative related purposes.

The use of bowel cleansing preparations may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia, particularly torsade de pointes, in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Severe and potentially fatal cases of electrolyte disorders and arrhythmias have been reported in elderly patients using bowel cleansing products. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia are known risk factors for torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised when bowel cleansing preparations are prescribed in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Monitoring of baseline and posttreatment serum electrolyte levels is recommended, particularly in the elderly. Patients should be instructed to drink plenty of clear liquids before, during, and after the bowel preparation process. Consideration should be given to consumption of 36 to 48 fluid ounces of a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution in the six hours before the first dose. Patients should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath, or syncope.