Drug Interaction Report

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.

According to the manufacturer, methylphenidate may inhibit the metabolism of anticonvulsants including phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone. There have been only isolated case reports of phenytoin intoxication during coadministration with methylphenidate and none for the other anticonvulsants. Moreover, two studies found little or no effect of methylphenidate on plasma phenytoin concentrations. Thus, available evidence does not seem to support a clinically significant drug interaction. Nevertheless, it may be appropriate to monitor the pharmacologic response to these anticonvulsants more closely whenever methylphenidate (racemic) or dexmethylphenidate (the more pharmacologically active d-enantiomer) is added to or withdrawn from therapy, and the anticonvulsant dosage adjusted as necessary.

According to the manufacturer, methylphenidate may inhibit the metabolism of anticonvulsants including phenobarbital, phenytoin, and primidone. There have been only isolated case reports of phenytoin intoxication during coadministration with methylphenidate and none for the other anticonvulsants. Moreover, two studies found little or no effect of methylphenidate on plasma phenytoin concentrations. Thus, available evidence does not seem to support a clinically significant drug interaction. Nevertheless, it may be appropriate to monitor the pharmacologic response to these anticonvulsants more closely whenever methylphenidate (racemic) or dexmethylphenidate (the more pharmacologically active d-enantiomer) is added to or withdrawn from therapy, and the anticonvulsant dosage adjusted as necessary.