🛑

Rasagiline + Venlafaxine

STOP — Contraindicated

FDA contraindication. 14-day washout after stopping rasagiline. Also allow adequate venlafaxine washout before starting rasagiline.

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Effexor (venlafaxine) must not be used with rasagiline (Azilect). The combination can cause potentially fatal serotonin syndrome.

How it works (mechanism)

Rasagiline (MAO-B inhibitor) plus venlafaxine (SNRI). FDA rasagiline label contraindicates concurrent use. Serotonin syndrome risk.

Practical advice

Do not combine. 14-day washout required between medications. Ensure both prescribing doctors know about all your medications.

Timing

Take Venlafaxine at the same time each day — most people prefer morning with breakfast. Rasagiline follows its prescribed schedule. SNRIs can affect blood pressure (both up and down), so monitor BP if combining with cardiovascular medications.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: elderly, those on multiple serotonergic drugs, people with liver impairment, CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, recent dose changes, or concurrent use of MAOIs or triptans.

Symptoms to watch for

High fever, agitation, muscle rigidity, rapid heartbeat, blood pressure instability, confusion

What to tell your doctor

Coordinate care. 14-day washout. Discuss depression treatment options compatible with MAO-B inhibitor therapy.

Safer alternatives

Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Rasagiline and Venlafaxine together?

Effexor (venlafaxine) must not be used with rasagiline (Azilect). The combination can cause potentially fatal serotonin syndrome.

When should I take Rasagiline vs Venlafaxine?

Take Venlafaxine at the same time each day — most people prefer morning with breakfast. Rasagiline follows its prescribed schedule. SNRIs can affect blood pressure (both up and down), so monitor BP if combining with cardiovascular medications.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Rasagiline and Venlafaxine?

High fever, agitation, muscle rigidity, rapid heartbeat, blood pressure instability, confusion

Are there safer alternatives to combining Rasagiline with Venlafaxine?

Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Rasagiline and Venlafaxine?

Coordinate care. 14-day washout. Discuss depression treatment options compatible with MAO-B inhibitor therapy.

Explore more interactions

Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).