Drug interactions
Buprenorphine transdermal + Thioridazine
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine transdermal and Thioridazine: 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
Transdermal buprenorphine can prolong the QT interval, and thioridazine does so strongly. The combination raises the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and also adds sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine transdermal and Thioridazine 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 QT prolongation and additive CNS depression.
What to do
Avoid if possible, and consider an alternative to thioridazine. If used together, monitor the ECG and sedation, and keep the buprenorphine dose as low as possible.
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 Thioridazine
- Abiraterone + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine transdermal with Thioridazine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine transdermal and Thioridazine 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. Transdermal buprenorphine can prolong the QT interval, and thioridazine does so strongly. The combination raises the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and also adds sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine transdermal and Thioridazine?
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 if possible, and consider an alternative to thioridazine. If used together, monitor the ECG and sedation, and keep the buprenorphine dose as low as possible.
What other medicines interact with Thioridazine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Thioridazine with, for example, Abiraterone, Adagrasib, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Thioridazine page.
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