⚠️

Selegiline + Tianeptine

MAJOR — Use With Caution

Tianeptine and MAOIs — ABSOLUTELY CONTRAINDICATED (Serotonin Syndrome/Hypertensive Crisis)

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

LIFE-THREATENING COMBINATION. Tianeptine and MAO inhibitors can trigger serotonin syndrome — a potentially fatal condition causing dangerously high body temperature, seizures, and organ failure. This combination is absolutely contraindicated.

How it works (mechanism)

Tianeptine combined with MAO inhibitors risks severe serotonin syndrome and hypertensive crisis. Tianeptine modulates serotonin reuptake and has opioid activity; MAOIs prevent monoamine breakdown. The combination can produce dangerous accumulation of serotonin and norepinephrine. This is an absolute contraindication per tianeptine prescribing information in countries where it is approved.

Practical advice

NEVER take tianeptine with any MAOI. A minimum 14-day washout is required between stopping an MAOI and starting tianeptine (or vice versa). If you experience high fever, rigid muscles, rapid heartbeat, or agitation, seek emergency care immediately.

Timing

Take Selegiline as prescribed. Tianeptine can typically be taken with a meal, spaced 1-2 hours from the medication for clean absorption. Discuss this combination with your pharmacist for personalized guidance.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: elderly, those with liver or kidney impairment, polypharmacy (5+ medications), recent medication changes, or those with multiple chronic conditions. Consult your pharmacist for specific risk factors.

Symptoms to watch for

High fever (>104F), severe muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, blood pressure spikes, agitation, confusion, seizures, profuse sweating, diarrhea. This is a medical emergency — call 911.

What to tell your doctor

This combination is absolutely contraindicated. Discuss safe antidepressant alternatives. Ensure adequate washout period between agents. Monitor for serotonin syndrome symptoms during any transition.

Safer alternatives

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Selegiline and Tianeptine together?

LIFE-THREATENING COMBINATION. Tianeptine and MAO inhibitors can trigger serotonin syndrome — a potentially fatal condition causing dangerously high body temperature, seizures, and organ failure. This combination is absolutely contraindicated.

When should I take Selegiline vs Tianeptine?

Take Selegiline as prescribed. Tianeptine can typically be taken with a meal, spaced 1-2 hours from the medication for clean absorption. Discuss this combination with your pharmacist for personalized guidance.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Selegiline and Tianeptine?

High fever (>104F), severe muscle rigidity, rapid heart rate, blood pressure spikes, agitation, confusion, seizures, profuse sweating, diarrhea. This is a medical emergency — call 911.

Are there safer alternatives to combining Selegiline with Tianeptine?

Discuss safer alternatives with your healthcare provider. They can recommend substitutions based on your specific health goals while minimizing interaction risks. Always bring a complete list of everything you take to your appointments.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Selegiline and Tianeptine?

This combination is absolutely contraindicated. Discuss safe antidepressant alternatives. Ensure adequate washout period between agents. Monitor for serotonin syndrome symptoms during any transition.

Explore more interactions

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