Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Fingolimod
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal and Fingolimod: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Fingolimod can cause bradycardia and has been linked to QT prolongation, and transdermal buprenorphine can prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related way. Together they may raise the risk of torsades de pointes, especially in patients with bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances or heart disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Fingolimod 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 QTc prolongation, with fingolimod-induced bradycardia increasing arrhythmia susceptibility.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG and correct potassium and magnesium before combining. Monitor ECG and heart rate, and use the lowest effective buprenorphine dose or an alternative if the QTc lengthens.
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 Fingolimod
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Fingolimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Ponesimod Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Quinidine Contraindicated
- Fingolimod + Siponimod Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine transdermal with Fingolimod?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal and Fingolimod 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. Fingolimod can cause bradycardia and has been linked to QT prolongation, and transdermal buprenorphine can prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related way. Together they may raise the risk of torsades de pointes, especially in patients with bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances or heart disease.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Fingolimod?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG and correct potassium and magnesium before combining. Monitor ECG and heart rate, and use the lowest effective buprenorphine dose or an alternative if the QTc lengthens.
What other medicines interact with Fingolimod?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fingolimod with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Pimozide. The full list is on the Fingolimod page.
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