Lomaira With Pristiq - Interaction Details

Answer

There is an interaction between Lomaira (phentermine) and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) in that the combination increases the risk of a rare, but serious condition, known as serotonin syndrome, which can occur when taking multiple serotonergic drugs (i.e., drugs that affect the neurotransmitter serotonin).

However, this risk appears to be low and studies have shown that individuals taking both to treat obesity and concurrent depression can do safely as long as they monitor for side effects.

Interactions Details

Both Lomaira, which contains the active ingredient phentermine, and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) can increase serotonin concentrations in the brain. Although rare, this increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a condition characterized by:

• Muscle tremors
• Sweating
• Increased body temperature
• Confusion
• Delirium
• Increased blood pressure
• Increased heart rate

It should be noted that this interaction is considered a relatively low risk of occurring, but it is nevertheless a possibility as phentermine is related to amphetamines, which have in rare cases, been determined to be contributing agents to individuals experiencing serotonin syndrome when used with other serotonergic drugs.

Having said this, phentermine's effect on serotonin is thought to be minimal at the usual recommended doses.

Additionally, there have been some large controlled clinical studies that have included individuals on both phentermine-based therapy for obesity along with their antidepressant (such as Pristiq), as long as the antidepressant dose had been stable for at least 3 months prior.

These studies have shown that such therapies were generally well-tolerated, especially at lower phentermine doses (which Lomaira would be at the recommended dosages).

What To Monitor For

Since studies have shown phentermine-based drugs (like Lomaira) have been used safely with drugs like Pristiq, they are sometimes prescribed together.

There are many drugs that increase serotonin concentrations in the brain and there will always be a theoretical interaction when 2 more of these drugs are used together (like Lomaira and Pristiq).

 It is just important to be aware of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome (as written above) and seek medical attention if they occur.

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