Drug interactions
Buprenorphine buccal + Propofol
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine buccal and Propofol: 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
Buprenorphine combined with propofol increases sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Patients on buprenorphine may need less propofol and require careful airway monitoring.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine buccal 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.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression from partial mu-opioid agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Continue buprenorphine as advised by the treating team, and reduce and slowly titrate propofol. Monitor capnography, oxygen saturation 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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Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine buccal with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine buccal 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 combined with propofol increases sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Patients on buprenorphine may need less propofol and require careful airway monitoring.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine buccal 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: Continue buprenorphine as advised by the treating team, and reduce and slowly titrate propofol. Monitor capnography, oxygen saturation and blood pressure continuously.
What other medicines interact with Propofol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propofol with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Propofol page.
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