Drug interactions
Brexanolone + Methadone
Severity: Major
Brexanolone and Methadone: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Brexanolone causes excessive sedation and sudden loss of consciousness, and opioids add to CNS depression. The combination raises the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Brexanolone 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 via GABA-A modulation (brexanolone) and mu-opioid agonism.
What to do
Monitor continuously for sedation and hypoxia during the infusion with pulse oximetry. Reduce or hold the opioid or interrupt the infusion if excessive sedation occurs.
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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References
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 Brexanolone with Methadone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Brexanolone 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. Brexanolone causes excessive sedation and sudden loss of consciousness, and opioids add to CNS depression. The combination raises the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Brexanolone 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: Monitor continuously for sedation and hypoxia during the infusion with pulse oximetry. Reduce or hold the opioid or interrupt the infusion if excessive sedation occurs.
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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