Drug interactions
Droperidol + Olanzapine
Severity: Major
Droperidol and Olanzapine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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 carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Olanzapine may add to this effect and also adds sedation, so combined use increases cardiac and CNS risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Droperidol and Olanzapine 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 pharmacodynamic effect on cardiac repolarization and additive CNS depression.
What to do
Avoid the combination where alternatives exist, such as another antiemetic without QT effect. If used, obtain an ECG and continuous monitoring and correct electrolytes.
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
- Olanzapine 10 mg orodispersible tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: medicinal products known to increase QTc interval; "Caution should be used if olanzapine is being administered concomitantly with medicinal products known to increase QTc interval (see section 4.4).") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Olanzapine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Droperidol with Olanzapine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Droperidol and Olanzapine 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 carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Olanzapine may add to this effect and also adds sedation, so combined use increases cardiac and CNS risk.
How serious is the interaction between Droperidol and Olanzapine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where alternatives exist, such as another antiemetic without QT effect. If used, obtain an ECG and continuous monitoring and correct electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Olanzapine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Olanzapine with, for example, Amisulpride, Amoxapine, Apomorphine. The full list is on the Olanzapine page.
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