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MAOI and decongestant — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCNS TherapeuticsMAOI and decongestantGPhC CRA

A patient taking phenelzine for resistant depression asks for advice about a cold remedy containing pseudoephedrine. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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Correct answer: B — Risk of hypertensive crisis with sympathomimetic decongestants

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors have serious interactions with sympathomimetics such as pseudoephedrine. The patient needs non-interacting symptomatic options and should be warned about OTC medicine risks. The other options either delay appropriate care, use an unsuitable medicine, or miss the main safety issue.

Reference: BNF