Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Pregabalin
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal and Pregabalin: 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
Pregabalin and transdermal buprenorphine both depress the central nervous system, so together they can cause marked drowsiness, impaired psychomotor function and respiratory depression. The risk is greater in the elderly and those with respiratory disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Pregabalin 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 and respiratory depressant effects through different pharmacodynamic pathways.
What to do
Reserve the combination for patients without adequate alternatives and start pregabalin at a low dose. Monitor sedation and breathing, noting that buprenorphine patch effects persist after removal.
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 Pregabalin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine transdermal with Pregabalin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal and Pregabalin 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. Pregabalin and transdermal buprenorphine both depress the central nervous system, so together they can cause marked drowsiness, impaired psychomotor function and respiratory depression. The risk is greater in the elderly and those with respiratory disease.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Pregabalin?
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 the combination for patients without adequate alternatives and start pregabalin at a low dose. Monitor sedation and breathing, noting that buprenorphine patch effects persist after removal.
What other medicines interact with Pregabalin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pregabalin with, for example, Alprazolam, Amobarbital, Belladonna and opium. The full list is on the Pregabalin page.
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