Drug interactions
Buprenorphine long-acting + Zolpidem
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine long-acting and Zolpidem: 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
Combining an opioid with a sedative-hypnotic such as zolpidem increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The long-acting injection cannot be quickly removed, so effects can last for a prolonged period.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine long-acting and Zolpidem 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 through opioid mu-receptor agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use where possible, and taper or stop zolpidem if feasible. If both are needed, use the lowest effective zolpidem dose and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
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 Zolpidem
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine long-acting with Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine long-acting and Zolpidem 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. Combining an opioid with a sedative-hypnotic such as zolpidem increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The long-acting injection cannot be quickly removed, so effects can last for a prolonged period.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine long-acting and Zolpidem?
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 concurrent use where possible, and taper or stop zolpidem if feasible. If both are needed, use the lowest effective zolpidem dose and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Zolpidem?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Zolpidem with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Zolpidem page.
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