Drug interactions
Crizotinib + Fentanyl transdermal
Severity: Major
Crizotinib 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
Crizotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase fentanyl concentrations, an effect that may be prolonged with patches. This may cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Crizotinib 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
Crizotinib inhibition of CYP3A4 reduces fentanyl clearance.
What to do
Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation, including after crizotinib is started or stopped, and adjust the fentanyl dose; consider an alternative opioid.
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 Crizotinib
- Crizotinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Saquinavir Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Crizotinib with Fentanyl transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib 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. Crizotinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase fentanyl concentrations, an effect that may be prolonged with patches. This may cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib 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: Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation, including after crizotinib is started or stopped, and adjust the fentanyl dose; consider an alternative opioid.
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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