Drug interactions
Doxapram + Sevoflurane
Severity: Major
Doxapram and Sevoflurane: 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
Doxapram increases catecholamine release, and volatile anesthetics sensitize the myocardium to catecholamines. This may cause ventricular arrhythmias.
What this interaction means in plain words
Doxapram and Sevoflurane 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.
Doxapram belongs to Central Nervous System; Sevoflurane belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Doxapram-induced catecholamine release combined with myocardial sensitization by the volatile anesthetic.
What to do
Delay doxapram until sevoflurane has been largely eliminated, and monitor ECG.
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 Sevoflurane
Other interactions of Doxapram
- Desflurane + Doxapram Major
- Dextroamphetamine + Doxapram Major
- Doxapram + Isocarboxazid Major
- Doxapram + Ketamine Major
- Doxapram + Linezolid Major
- Doxapram + Lisdexamfetamine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Doxapram with Sevoflurane?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Doxapram and Sevoflurane 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. Doxapram increases catecholamine release, and volatile anesthetics sensitize the myocardium to catecholamines. This may cause ventricular arrhythmias.
How serious is the interaction between Doxapram and Sevoflurane?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Delay doxapram until sevoflurane has been largely eliminated, and monitor ECG.
What other medicines interact with Sevoflurane?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sevoflurane with, for example, Amiodarone, Amisulpride, Arsenic trioxide. The full list is on the Sevoflurane page.
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