Drug interactions
Buprenorphine long-acting + Diltiazem
Severity: Moderate
Buprenorphine long-acting and Diltiazem: moderate 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
Diltiazem may increase buprenorphine exposure from the long-acting injection, raising the risk of sedation and respiratory depression. Because the depot cannot be quickly withdrawn, effects may persist.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine long-acting and Diltiazem can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Diltiazem inhibits CYP3A4-mediated buprenorphine metabolism.
What to do
Monitor for signs of buprenorphine toxicity, particularly in the first weeks. If toxicity occurs and diltiazem cannot be changed, return to an adjustable formulation.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Diltiazem
- Diltiazem + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Ivabradine Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Diltiazem Major
- Alfentanil + Diltiazem Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine long-acting with Diltiazem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Buprenorphine long-acting and Diltiazem can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Diltiazem may increase buprenorphine exposure from the long-acting injection, raising the risk of sedation and respiratory depression. Because the depot cannot be quickly withdrawn, effects may persist.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine long-acting and Diltiazem?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for signs of buprenorphine toxicity, particularly in the first weeks. If toxicity occurs and diltiazem cannot be changed, return to an adjustable formulation.
What other medicines interact with Diltiazem?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diltiazem with, for example, Flibanserin, Ivabradine, Lomitapide. The full list is on the Diltiazem page.
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