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Drug interactions

Aprepitant + Sufentanil sl

Severity: Major

Aprepitant and Sufentanil sl: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Sublingual sufentanil is metabolized by CYP3A4, and aprepitant may increase its concentrations. This can cause prolonged or enhanced opioid effects, including potentially fatal respiratory depression.

What this interaction means in plain words

Aprepitant and Sufentanil sl can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Aprepitant inhibits CYP3A4, reducing sufentanil clearance.

What to do

Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression, and consider an alternative antiemetic or analgesic if possible. Reassess opioid dosing if aprepitant is started or stopped.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Aprepitant with Sufentanil sl?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Aprepitant and Sufentanil sl can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Sublingual sufentanil is metabolized by CYP3A4, and aprepitant may increase its concentrations. This can cause prolonged or enhanced opioid effects, including potentially fatal respiratory depression.

How serious is the interaction between Aprepitant and Sufentanil sl?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression, and consider an alternative antiemetic or analgesic if possible. Reassess opioid dosing if aprepitant is started or stopped.

What other medicines interact with Aprepitant?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Aprepitant with, for example, Lomitapide, Pimozide, Avapritinib. The full list is on the Aprepitant page.

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