Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Desipramine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Desipramine: 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
Desipramine and buprenorphine can each prolong the QTc interval and cause sedation. Combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia and excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Desipramine 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 QT prolongation and additive CNS and respiratory depressant effects.
What to do
Avoid the combination where an alternative antidepressant is suitable. Otherwise check the ECG at baseline, correct electrolytes, and monitor for sedation and QTc change.
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 Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Desipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Desipramine 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. Desipramine and buprenorphine can each prolong the QTc interval and cause sedation. Combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia and excessive drowsiness or respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Desipramine?
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 the combination where an alternative antidepressant is suitable. Otherwise check the ECG at baseline, correct electrolytes, and monitor for sedation and QTc change.
What other medicines interact with Desipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Desipramine with, for example, Disopyramide, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Desipramine page.
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