Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Chlorpromazine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal and Chlorpromazine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
The combination raises the risk of excess sedation and respiratory depression, and both agents can prolong the QT interval. Transdermal buprenorphine delivers steady exposure, so effects may persist after the patch is removed.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Chlorpromazine 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 and additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Reserve for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest effective doses. Monitor sedation, breathing and ECG, and correct electrolytes.
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 Chlorpromazine
- Chlorpromazine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Metrizamide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine transdermal with Chlorpromazine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal and Chlorpromazine 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. The combination raises the risk of excess sedation and respiratory depression, and both agents can prolong the QT interval. Transdermal buprenorphine delivers steady exposure, so effects may persist after the patch is removed.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Chlorpromazine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reserve for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest effective doses. Monitor sedation, breathing and ECG, and correct electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpromazine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpromazine with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Droperidol. The full list is on the Chlorpromazine page.
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