Drug interactions
Dextroamphetamine transdermal + Meperidine
Severity: Major
Dextroamphetamine transdermal and Meperidine: 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
Amphetamines increase synaptic serotonin and also inhibit MAO to a limited degree, and meperidine is a serotonergic opioid. The combination can precipitate serotonin syndrome, especially after starting or increasing a dose.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dextroamphetamine transdermal and Meperidine 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 serotonergic effects from amphetamine-induced monoamine release and meperidine serotonin reuptake inhibition.
What to do
Prefer a non-serotonergic opioid. If both are required, start with low doses and monitor for serotonin syndrome, discontinuing both agents if it 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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Other interactions of Meperidine
- Alvimopan + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dextroamphetamine transdermal with Meperidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dextroamphetamine transdermal and Meperidine 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. Amphetamines increase synaptic serotonin and also inhibit MAO to a limited degree, and meperidine is a serotonergic opioid. The combination can precipitate serotonin syndrome, especially after starting or increasing a dose.
How serious is the interaction between Dextroamphetamine transdermal and Meperidine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer a non-serotonergic opioid. If both are required, start with low doses and monitor for serotonin syndrome, discontinuing both agents if it occurs.
What other medicines interact with Meperidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Meperidine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Meperidine page.
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