Drug interactions
Dolasetron + Methadone
Severity: Major
Dolasetron and Methadone: 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
Methadone has a well-known dose-related risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and dolasetron adds further effect on cardiac conduction. The combination can increase arrhythmia risk, especially at higher methadone doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dolasetron and Methadone 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.
Dolasetron belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Methadone belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
Additive blockade of cardiac potassium channels prolonging the QT interval.
What to do
Obtain a baseline and follow-up ECG, and correct potassium and magnesium. Consider an alternative antiemetic such as a corticosteroid.
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 Dolasetron
- Apomorphine + Dolasetron Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Dolasetron Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Dolasetron + Vandetanib Contraindicated
Other interactions of Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dolasetron with Methadone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dolasetron and Methadone 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. Methadone has a well-known dose-related risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and dolasetron adds further effect on cardiac conduction. The combination can increase arrhythmia risk, especially at higher methadone doses.
How serious is the interaction between Dolasetron and Methadone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline and follow-up ECG, and correct potassium and magnesium. Consider an alternative antiemetic such as a corticosteroid.
What other medicines interact with Dolasetron?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dolasetron with, for example, Apomorphine, Dofetilide, Ibutilide. The full list is on the Dolasetron page.
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