Drug interactions
Chlorpromazine + Fentanyl transdermal
Severity: Major
Chlorpromazine and Fentanyl transdermal: 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
Chlorpromazine adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of fentanyl. Together they can cause hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma or death. The risk is highest during dose initiation and titration.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpromazine and Fentanyl transdermal 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 pharmacodynamic CNS and respiratory depression from the phenothiazine and the opioid.
What to do
Use only when alternatives are inadequate, and reduce the dose of one or both drugs. Monitor respiratory rate, level of sedation and blood pressure, particularly when starting or changing doses.
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 Chlorpromazine
- Chlorpromazine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Metrizamide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpromazine with Fentanyl transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlorpromazine and Fentanyl transdermal 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. Chlorpromazine adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of fentanyl. Together they can cause hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma or death. The risk is highest during dose initiation and titration.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpromazine and Fentanyl transdermal?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use only when alternatives are inadequate, and reduce the dose of one or both drugs. Monitor respiratory rate, level of sedation and blood pressure, particularly when starting or changing doses.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpromazine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpromazine with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Droperidol. The full list is on the Chlorpromazine page.
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