Dextromethorphan and quinidine and Paroxetine interaction
Dextromethorphan and quinidine and Paroxetine: both prescribing labels flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Dextromethorphan and quinidine (Nuedexta) label · effective 2026-01-22
The dose of paroxetine can then be adjusted based on clinical response; however, dosage above 35 mg/day is not recommended.
Serotonin syndrome: Use of NUEDEXTA with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants increases the risk.
Serotonin Syndrome When used with SSRIs (such as fluoxetine) or tricyclic antidepressants (such as clomipramine and imipramine), NUEDEXTA may cause "serotonin syndrome", with changes including altered mental status, hypertension, restlessness, myoclonus, hyperthermia, hyperreflexia, diaphoresis, shivering, and tremor [ see Drug Interactions ( 7.4 ), Overdosage…
SSRIs and Tricyclic Antidepressants Use of NUEDEXTA with SSRIs or tricyclic antidepressants increases the risk of 'serotonin syndrome' [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 ) ] .
Paroxetine: Exposure increases 2-fold.
From the Paroxetine (PAROXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE) label · effective 2026-09-16
Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone.
If concomitant use of Paroxetine HCL CR with other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome and monitor for symptoms.
The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, meperidine, methadone, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St.
Other Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact The concomitant use of serotonergic drugs with Paroxetine HCL CR increases the risk of serotonin syndrome.
Examples propafenone, flecainide, atomoxetine, desipramine, dextromethorphan, metoprolol, nebivolol, perphenazine, tolterodine, venlafaxine, risperidone.
Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.
Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.