Drug interactions
Buprenorphine + Meprobamate
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine and Meprobamate: 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
Meprobamate is a sedative anxiolytic whose CNS depression adds to that of buprenorphine. The combination may cause marked drowsiness and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine and Meprobamate 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 and respiratory depression from two sedating agents.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible; if necessary use the lowest doses and monitor sedation and respiration. Warn the patient against alcohol and driving.
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 Buprenorphine
- Alvimopan + Buprenorphine Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine with Meprobamate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine and Meprobamate 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. Meprobamate is a sedative anxiolytic whose CNS depression adds to that of buprenorphine. The combination may cause marked drowsiness and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine and Meprobamate?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining where possible; if necessary use the lowest doses and monitor sedation and respiration. Warn the patient against alcohol and driving.
What other medicines interact with Buprenorphine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Buprenorphine with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Buprenorphine page.
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