Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Imatinib
Severity: Moderate
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Imatinib: 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, the main enzyme that metabolizes buprenorphine, so buprenorphine exposure may rise. Because the implant delivers a fixed dose that cannot be titrated, this may cause sedation, respiratory depression or other opioid overdose symptoms.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Imatinib 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of buprenorphine, increasing its plasma concentrations.
What to do
Monitor for sedation, respiratory depression and signs of overmedication when imatinib is started. If the imatinib cannot be stopped or reduced, consider removing the implant and switching to an adjustable buprenorphine form.
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 Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Imatinib 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. Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, the main enzyme that metabolizes buprenorphine, so buprenorphine exposure may rise. Because the implant delivers a fixed dose that cannot be titrated, this may cause sedation, respiratory depression or other opioid overdose symptoms.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Imatinib?
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 sedation, respiratory depression and signs of overmedication when imatinib is started. If the imatinib cannot be stopped or reduced, consider removing the implant and switching to an adjustable buprenorphine form.
What other medicines interact with Imatinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.
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