Drug interactions
Droperidol + Fentanyl
Severity: Major
Droperidol and Fentanyl: 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
Droperidol and fentanyl together enhance sedation and hypotension, and droperidol also prolongs the QT interval. Combined use is established in anesthesia but requires monitoring.
What this interaction means in plain words
Droperidol and Fentanyl 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 depression and alpha-adrenergic blockade; droperidol adds QT prolongation risk.
What to do
Use reduced doses with continuous ECG and respiratory monitoring, and correct potassium and magnesium abnormalities beforehand.
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 Fentanyl
- Alvimopan + Fentanyl Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Fentanyl Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Droperidol with Fentanyl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Droperidol and Fentanyl 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. Droperidol and fentanyl together enhance sedation and hypotension, and droperidol also prolongs the QT interval. Combined use is established in anesthesia but requires monitoring.
How serious is the interaction between Droperidol and Fentanyl?
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 reduced doses with continuous ECG and respiratory monitoring, and correct potassium and magnesium abnormalities beforehand.
What other medicines interact with Fentanyl?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fentanyl with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Fentanyl page.
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