Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Clozapine
Severity: Moderate
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Clozapine: 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
Clozapine and buprenorphine can both prolong the QT interval, so combined use may raise arrhythmia risk. Buprenorphine also adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of clozapine. QT effects of the implant are probably modest because of its low steady plasma levels.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Clozapine 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
Additive effects on cardiac repolarisation, plus additive CNS depression.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range. Reassess if other QT-prolonging drugs are added or if the patient has syncope or palpitations.
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 Clozapine
- Clozapine + Deferiprone Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Irinotecan Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acalabrutinib + Clozapine Major
- Adagrasib + Clozapine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Clozapine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Clozapine 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. Clozapine and buprenorphine can both prolong the QT interval, so combined use may raise arrhythmia risk. Buprenorphine also adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of clozapine. QT effects of the implant are probably modest because of its low steady plasma levels.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Clozapine?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range. Reassess if other QT-prolonging drugs are added or if the patient has syncope or palpitations.
What other medicines interact with Clozapine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clozapine with, for example, Deferiprone, Irinotecan, Pimozide. The full list is on the Clozapine page.
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