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Drug interactions

Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Thioridazine

Severity: Major

Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Thioridazine: 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

Buprenorphine has a modest QT-prolonging effect and thioridazine a strong one. Together they may increase arrhythmia risk, and they also add to sedation.

What this interaction means in plain words

Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Thioridazine 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.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation and additive CNS depression.

What to do

Avoid if possible and prefer an antipsychotic with lower QT risk. If both are needed, obtain a baseline ECG and monitor the QTc and sedation.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Buprenorphine subdermal implant with Thioridazine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Thioridazine 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 has a modest QT-prolonging effect and thioridazine a strong one. Together they may increase arrhythmia risk, and they also add to sedation.

How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine subdermal implant and Thioridazine?

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 if possible and prefer an antipsychotic with lower QT risk. If both are needed, obtain a baseline ECG and monitor the QTc and sedation.

What other medicines interact with Thioridazine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Thioridazine with, for example, Abiraterone, Adagrasib, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Thioridazine page.

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