Drug interactions
Ceritinib + Fentanyl
Severity: Major
Ceritinib and Fentanyl: 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
Ceritinib is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and can raise fentanyl concentrations since fentanyl is cleared mainly by CYP3A4. This increases the risk of respiratory depression and prolonged sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ceritinib and Fentanyl 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.
Ceritinib belongs to Oncology; Fentanyl belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated fentanyl metabolism by ceritinib.
What to do
Monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the fentanyl dose as needed. Re-evaluate the dose if ceritinib is stopped.
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 Fentanyl
- Alvimopan + Fentanyl Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Fentanyl Major
Other interactions of Ceritinib
- Ceritinib + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Eletriptan Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Tolvaptan Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ceritinib with Fentanyl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ceritinib and Fentanyl 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. Ceritinib is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and can raise fentanyl concentrations since fentanyl is cleared mainly by CYP3A4. This increases the risk of respiratory depression and prolonged sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Ceritinib and Fentanyl?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the fentanyl dose as needed. Re-evaluate the dose if ceritinib is stopped.
What other medicines interact with Fentanyl?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fentanyl with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Fentanyl page.
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