Drug interactions
Droperidol + Primaquine
Severity: Major
Droperidol and Primaquine: 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 has a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and primaquine may add to this effect. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Droperidol and Primaquine 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 prolongation of ventricular repolarization.
What to do
Avoid the combination; use an alternative antiemetic or sedative. If unavoidable, monitor ECG 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
Other interactions of Primaquine
- Pimozide + Primaquine Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Primaquine Major
- Amisulpride + Primaquine Major
- Anagrelide + Primaquine Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Primaquine Major
- Asenapine + Primaquine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Droperidol with Primaquine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Droperidol and Primaquine 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 has a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes, and primaquine may add to this effect. The combination increases the risk of serious arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Droperidol and Primaquine?
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; use an alternative antiemetic or sedative. If unavoidable, monitor ECG and correct electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Primaquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Primaquine with, for example, Pimozide, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Primaquine page.
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