Drug interactions
Dexmedetomidine + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Dexmedetomidine and Sufentanil sl: 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
Opioids combined with dexmedetomidine produce additive sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Severe cases may progress to coma or death.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dexmedetomidine 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, with added hypotension and bradycardia from alpha-2 agonism.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor respiratory rate, oxygenation, blood pressure and sedation continuously. Reduce the opioid dose when dexmedetomidine is given.
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 Dexmedetomidine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dexmedetomidine with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dexmedetomidine 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. Opioids combined with dexmedetomidine produce additive sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Severe cases may progress to coma or death.
How serious is the interaction between Dexmedetomidine 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 the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor respiratory rate, oxygenation, blood pressure and sedation continuously. Reduce the opioid dose when dexmedetomidine is given.
What other medicines interact with Dexmedetomidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dexmedetomidine with, for example, Buprenorphine long-acting, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Dextromoramide. The full list is on the Dexmedetomidine page.
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