Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Metaxalone
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal 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 adds sedation to transdermal buprenorphine, which maintains opioid effect for a prolonged period. Excess drowsiness, respiratory depression and impaired psychomotor performance may result.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal 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
Reserve for patients without adequate alternatives and keep metaxalone dose and duration minimal. 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 transdermal with Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal 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 adds sedation to transdermal buprenorphine, which maintains opioid effect for a prolonged period. Excess drowsiness, respiratory depression and impaired psychomotor performance may result.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal 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: Reserve for patients without adequate alternatives and keep metaxalone dose and duration minimal. 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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