Drug interactions
Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Metaxalone
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Metaxalone: 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
Metaxalone causes drowsiness and dizziness. With buprenorphine it can cause additive sedation, respiratory depression and psychomotor impairment.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Metaxalone 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 central nervous system depression through pharmacodynamic synergism between an opioid and a sedating muscle relaxant.
What to do
Use together only if alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. 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 Metaxalone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Metaxalone 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. Metaxalone causes drowsiness and dizziness. With buprenorphine it can cause additive sedation, respiratory depression and psychomotor impairment.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use together only if alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Metaxalone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metaxalone with, for example, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Metaxalone page.
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