Drug interactions
Buprenorphine + Propofol
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine and Propofol: 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
Propofol is a potent sedative-hypnotic that can cause respiratory depression and hypotension, and opioids intensify these effects. In procedural or anaesthetic settings the combination can lead to apnoea and airway compromise.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine and Propofol 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.
Buprenorphine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Propofol belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Give propofol in titrated reduced doses by personnel trained in airway management. Monitor oxygen saturation, ventilation and blood pressure continuously.
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
Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine and Propofol 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. Propofol is a potent sedative-hypnotic that can cause respiratory depression and hypotension, and opioids intensify these effects. In procedural or anaesthetic settings the combination can lead to apnoea and airway compromise.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine and Propofol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Give propofol in titrated reduced doses by personnel trained in airway management. Monitor oxygen saturation, ventilation and blood pressure continuously.
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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