Switching antidepressant (vortioxetine to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)) in adults

Vortioxetine to monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

• switching to an MAOI is always a complex switch and you should follow specialist advice.

Taper, washout and switch with specialist advice

• gradually reduce the dose of vortioxetine and stop; wait 14 to 21 days before starting the MAOI
  
  
• the specialist will advise the duration of the washout period on a case-by-case basis taking into consideration the MAOI being started
  
  
• cross-tapering is not recommended due to the high risk of serotonin syndrome (1)
  
  
• is limited experience with this switch so extra caution is required to avoid serotonin syndrome (1)

Reference:

• NHS Specialist Pharmacy Service (February 2023). Vortioxetine to other antidepressants: switching in adults