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Drug interactions

Crizotinib + Fentanyl intranasal

Severity: Major

Crizotinib and Fentanyl intranasal: 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

Crizotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase fentanyl concentrations. This may cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.

What this interaction means in plain words

Crizotinib and Fentanyl intranasal 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: Moderate

Why it happens

Crizotinib inhibition of CYP3A4 reduces fentanyl clearance.

What to do

Monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the fentanyl dose as needed; consider an opioid less dependent on CYP3A4.

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 Crizotinib with Fentanyl intranasal?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib and Fentanyl intranasal 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. Crizotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase fentanyl concentrations. This may cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.

How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib and Fentanyl intranasal?

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; consider an opioid less dependent on CYP3A4.

What other medicines interact with Crizotinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Crizotinib with, for example, Flibanserin, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib. The full list is on the Crizotinib page.

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