Drug interactions
Desipramine + Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system
Severity: Major
Desipramine and Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system: 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
Fentanyl and tricyclic antidepressants both cause CNS depression, so combined use can produce marked sedation and respiratory depression. Serotonergic effects are also possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desipramine 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.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression, with possible additive serotonergic effects.
What to do
Reserve for patients without suitable alternatives and monitor sedation and respiratory rate closely. Reduce doses 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?
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References
Other interactions of Desipramine
- Desipramine + Disopyramide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Desipramine + Pentamidine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desipramine with Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desipramine 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. Fentanyl and tricyclic antidepressants both cause CNS depression, so combined use can produce marked sedation and respiratory depression. Serotonergic effects are also possible.
How serious is the interaction between Desipramine 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: Reserve for patients without suitable alternatives and monitor sedation and respiratory rate closely. Reduce doses if excessive drowsiness occurs.
What other medicines interact with Desipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Desipramine with, for example, Disopyramide, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Desipramine page.
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