Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Meperidine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal and Meperidine: 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
Buprenorphine is a partial mu-opioid agonist with high receptor affinity, so it may blunt meperidine analgesia or provoke withdrawal. Together they also add to sedation and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Meperidine 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
Competitive mu-receptor binding by buprenorphine with additive CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible; if needed, use the lowest doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation closely.
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 Meperidine
- Alvimopan + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine transdermal with Meperidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal and Meperidine 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 is a partial mu-opioid agonist with high receptor affinity, so it may blunt meperidine analgesia or provoke withdrawal. Together they also add to sedation and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Meperidine?
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 combining where possible; if needed, use the lowest doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation closely.
What other medicines interact with Meperidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Meperidine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Meperidine page.
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