Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Cyproheptadine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Cyproheptadine: 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
Buprenorphine is an opioid, and a sedating antihistamine can amplify its CNS depressant effects. This may lead to marked drowsiness and, rarely, respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Cyproheptadine 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.
What to do
Monitor for oversedation and slowed breathing, and avoid adding other sedatives. Prefer a non-sedating antihistamine if one is needed.
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 Cyproheptadine
- Cyproheptadine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Cyproheptadine Major
- Belladonna and opium + Cyproheptadine Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Cyproheptadine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Cyproheptadine 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 is an opioid, and a sedating antihistamine can amplify its CNS depressant effects. This may lead to marked drowsiness and, rarely, respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for oversedation and slowed breathing, and avoid adding other sedatives. Prefer a non-sedating antihistamine if one is needed.
What other medicines interact with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyproheptadine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Cyproheptadine page.
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