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Drug interactions

Chlorpromazine + Levorphanol

Severity: Major

Chlorpromazine and Levorphanol: 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

Combining an opioid with a sedating phenothiazine can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension and coma. Chlorpromazine can also potentiate opioid analgesia and sedation.

What this interaction means in plain words

Chlorpromazine and Levorphanol 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.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Additive CNS and respiratory depression.

What to do

Start with reduced doses of both drugs and titrate carefully, monitoring respiratory rate, sedation and blood pressure. Avoid additional CNS depressants including alcohol.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Chlorpromazine with Levorphanol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlorpromazine and Levorphanol 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. Combining an opioid with a sedating phenothiazine can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension and coma. Chlorpromazine can also potentiate opioid analgesia and sedation.

How serious is the interaction between Chlorpromazine and Levorphanol?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Start with reduced doses of both drugs and titrate carefully, monitoring respiratory rate, sedation and blood pressure. Avoid additional CNS depressants including alcohol.

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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