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Drug interactions

Dantrolene + Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system

Severity: Major

Dantrolene and Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system: major interaction.

Last updated

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

Dantrolene causes drowsiness and muscle weakness, and fentanyl adds opioid sedation and respiratory depression. The combination raises the risk of excessive sedation and hypoventilation, though the iontophoretic system is used in monitored hospital settings.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dantrolene and Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system 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

Additive central nervous system and respiratory depression from fentanyl with dantrolene's sedation and muscle weakness.

What to do

Use the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation level and respiratory rate. Reduce dantrolene dose if excessive drowsiness occurs.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dantrolene with Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dantrolene and Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system 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. Dantrolene causes drowsiness and muscle weakness, and fentanyl adds opioid sedation and respiratory depression. The combination raises the risk of excessive sedation and hypoventilation, though the iontophoretic system is used in monitored hospital settings.

How serious is the interaction between Dantrolene and Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system?

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 the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation level and respiratory rate. Reduce dantrolene dose if excessive drowsiness occurs.

What other medicines interact with Dantrolene?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Dantrolene with, for example, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen, Buprenorphine long-acting, Buprenorphine subdermal implant. The full list is on the Dantrolene page.

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