Drug interactions
Benperidol + Methadone
Severity: Major
Benperidol and Methadone: 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
Benperidol is a butyrophenone antipsychotic with sedating properties and a risk of QT prolongation, as is methadone. The combination increases sedation, hypotension and the risk of ventricular arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benperidol and Methadone 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.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression and additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolyte disturbances and monitor QTc and sedation. Consider an alternative antipsychotic if QTc lengthens.
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?
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Other interactions of Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benperidol with Methadone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benperidol and Methadone 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. Benperidol is a butyrophenone antipsychotic with sedating properties and a risk of QT prolongation, as is methadone. The combination increases sedation, hypotension and the risk of ventricular arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Benperidol and Methadone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolyte disturbances and monitor QTc and sedation. Consider an alternative antipsychotic if QTc lengthens.
What other medicines interact with Methadone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Methadone with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Droperidol. The full list is on the Methadone page.
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