Drug interactions
Carbidopa-levodopa + Droperidol
Severity: Major
Carbidopa-levodopa and Droperidol: 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
Droperidol is a dopamine D2 antagonist and opposes the effect of levodopa, which can worsen parkinsonian symptoms. It may also add to orthostatic hypotension.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carbidopa-levodopa and Droperidol 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
Pharmacodynamic antagonism through central dopamine D2 receptor blockade by droperidol.
What to do
Avoid droperidol in Parkinson's disease and use an antiemetic without central dopamine blockade such as ondansetron (monitoring QT) or domperidone where available.
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 Carbidopa-levodopa
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Selegiline transdermal Contraindicated
- Carbidopa-levodopa + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Carbidopa-levodopa Major
- Asenapine + Carbidopa-levodopa Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carbidopa-levodopa with Droperidol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carbidopa-levodopa and Droperidol 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. Droperidol is a dopamine D2 antagonist and opposes the effect of levodopa, which can worsen parkinsonian symptoms. It may also add to orthostatic hypotension.
How serious is the interaction between Carbidopa-levodopa and Droperidol?
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 droperidol in Parkinson's disease and use an antiemetic without central dopamine blockade such as ondansetron (monitoring QT) or domperidone where available.
What other medicines interact with Carbidopa-levodopa?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Carbidopa-levodopa with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline transdermal. The full list is on the Carbidopa-levodopa page.
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