Drug interactions
Clozapine + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Clozapine and Sufentanil sl: 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
Combining an opioid with clozapine may cause additive sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression, which can be fatal. Clozapine itself can cause orthostatic hypotension and respiratory or circulatory collapse, especially during initiation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clozapine and Sufentanil sl 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 CNS and respiratory depression and hypotensive effects.
What to do
Use only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor sedation, respiratory rate and blood pressure.
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 Clozapine
- Clozapine + Deferiprone Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Irinotecan Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Clozapine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Acalabrutinib + Clozapine Major
- Adagrasib + Clozapine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clozapine with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Clozapine and Sufentanil sl 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 clozapine may cause additive sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression, which can be fatal. Clozapine itself can cause orthostatic hypotension and respiratory or circulatory collapse, especially during initiation.
How serious is the interaction between Clozapine and Sufentanil sl?
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, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor sedation, respiratory rate and blood pressure.
What other medicines interact with Clozapine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clozapine with, for example, Deferiprone, Irinotecan, Pimozide. The full list is on the Clozapine page.
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