Nortriptyline is contraindicated with which drug class?

Nortriptyline is contraindicated with which drug class?

• A. MAOI
• B. Beta-Blocker
• C. NSAID
• D. Antihistamine

Answer: (A)

Nortriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, increases levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) block the breakdown of these monoamines, so combining them can cause a dangerous surge that may lead to a hypertensive crisis and, in some cases, serotonin syndrome. Because of this high risk, the combination is contraindicated, and a washout period is required if switching between these therapies. Other drug classes listed may have cautions or interactions with nortriptyline, but they do not carry the same established contraindication as MAOIs.

Nortriptyline, a tricyclic antidepressant, increases levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) block the breakdown of these monoamines, so combining them can cause a dangerous surge that may lead to a hypertensive crisis and, in some cases, serotonin syndrome. Because of this high risk, the combination is contraindicated, and a washout period is required if switching between these therapies. Other drug classes listed may have cautions or interactions with nortriptyline, but they do not carry the same established contraindication as MAOIs.