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Drug interactions

Efavirenz + Sufentanil

Severity: Moderate

Efavirenz and Sufentanil: moderate 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

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and may reduce sufentanil concentrations, lessening analgesia. If efavirenz is stopped, sufentanil exposure may rise, with a risk of excess sedation or respiratory depression.

What this interaction means in plain words

Efavirenz and Sufentanil can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.

Efavirenz belongs to Anti Virals; Sufentanil belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4, accelerating sufentanil metabolism.

What to do

Titrate sufentanil to analgesic response and monitor for under-treatment. Watch for respiratory depression if efavirenz is withdrawn.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Should I take them at different times of day?
  • Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
  • Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Efavirenz with Sufentanil?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Efavirenz and Sufentanil can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and may reduce sufentanil concentrations, lessening analgesia. If efavirenz is stopped, sufentanil exposure may rise, with a risk of excess sedation or respiratory depression.

How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Sufentanil?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Titrate sufentanil to analgesic response and monitor for under-treatment. Watch for respiratory depression if efavirenz is withdrawn.

What other medicines interact with Efavirenz?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Efavirenz with, for example, Cobimetinib, Dienogest / estradiol valerate, Dihydroergotamine intranasal. The full list is on the Efavirenz page.

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