Drug interactions
Droperidol + Propofol
Severity: Major
Droperidol and Propofol: 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 is a sedating antipsychotic antiemetic that adds to propofol sedation and hypotension. Both agents can prolong the QT interval, which raises the risk of arrhythmias in susceptible patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Droperidol and Propofol 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 hypotension; droperidol blocks hERG potassium channels and prolongs QT.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG in at-risk patients and correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. Titrate propofol cautiously with continuous ECG and blood pressure monitoring.
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 Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Droperidol with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Droperidol and Propofol 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 is a sedating antipsychotic antiemetic that adds to propofol sedation and hypotension. Both agents can prolong the QT interval, which raises the risk of arrhythmias in susceptible patients.
How serious is the interaction between Droperidol and Propofol?
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 ECG in at-risk patients and correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia. Titrate propofol cautiously with continuous ECG and blood pressure monitoring.
What other medicines interact with Propofol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propofol with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Propofol page.
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