| ID |
DDInter1851
and
DDInter1081
|
| Interaction |
Lithium may enhance the pharmacologic effects of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, nefazodone, trazodone) and potentiate the risk of serotonin syndrome, which is a rare but serious and potentially fatal condition thought to result from hyperstimulation of brainstem 5-HT1A and 2A receptors. The exact mechanism by which lithium increases serotonergic activity is unknown. The interaction has been reported with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors including fluoxetine and fluvoxamine and the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor venlafaxine.
|
| Management |
Caution is advised if lithium is prescribed in combination with serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Patients should be closely monitored for symptoms of the serotonin syndrome during treatment. Particular caution is advised when increasing the dosages of these agents. The potential risk for serotonin syndrome should be considered even when administering serotonergic agents sequentially, as some agents may demonstrate a prolonged elimination half-life. If serotonin syndrome develops or is suspected during the course of therapy, all serotonergic agents should be discontinued immediately and supportive care rendered as necessary. Moderately ill patients may also benefit from the administration of a serotonin antagonist (e.g., cyproheptadine, chlorpromazine). Severe cases should be managed under consultation with a toxicologist and may require sedation, neuromuscular paralysis, intubation, and mechanical ventilation in addition to the other measures.
|
| References |
|
| Alternative for Trazodone
|
N06A
|
| Alternative for Lithium carbonate
|
-
|