METYROSINE Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

Drug Interactions Caution should be observed in administering metyrosine to patients receiving phenothiazines or haloperidol because the extrapyramidal effects of these drugs can be expected to be potentiated by inhibition of catecholamine synthesis. Concurrent use of metyrosine with alcohol or other CNS depressants can increase their sedative effects. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS , Information for Patients .)

CONTRAINDICATIONS Metyrosine capsules are contraindicated in persons known to be hypersensitive to this compound.

WARNINGS Maintain Fluid Volume During and After Surgery When metyrosine is used preoperatively, alone or especially in combination with alphaadrenergic blocking drugs, adequate intravascular volume must be maintained intraoperatively (especially after tumor removal) and postoperatively to avoid hypotension and decreased perfusion of vital organs resulting from vasodilatation and expanded volume capacity. Following tumor removal, large volumes of plasma may be needed to maintain blood pressure and central venous pressure within the normal range. In addition, life-threatening arrhythmias may occur during anesthesia and surgery, and may require treatment with a beta-blocker or lidocaine. During surgery, patients should have continuous monitoring of blood pressure and electrocardiogram.

Intraoperative Effects

While the preoperative use of metyrosine capsules in patients with pheochromocytoma is thought to decrease intraoperative problems with blood pressure control, metyrosine does not eliminate the danger of hypertensive crises or arrhythmias during manipulation of the tumor, and the alpha-adrenergic blocking drug, phentolamine, may be needed. Interaction with Alcohol Metyrosine may add to the sedative effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants, e.g., hypnotics, sedatives, and tranquilizers. (See PRECAUTIONS, Information for Patients and Drug Interactions .)