Drug interactions
Eszopiclone + Fentanyl transdermal
Severity: Major
Eszopiclone and Fentanyl transdermal: 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
Concurrent use of an opioid and a sedative-hypnotic raises the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma and death. The long-acting nature of the patch prolongs the exposure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Eszopiclone and Fentanyl transdermal 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 and respiratory depression from mu-opioid agonism and GABA-A modulation.
What to do
Use only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest eszopiclone dose and shortest duration. Monitor for respiratory depression and sedation, including after patch removal.
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 Eszopiclone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Eszopiclone with Fentanyl transdermal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Eszopiclone and Fentanyl transdermal 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. Concurrent use of an opioid and a sedative-hypnotic raises the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma and death. The long-acting nature of the patch prolongs the exposure.
How serious is the interaction between Eszopiclone and Fentanyl transdermal?
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 only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest eszopiclone dose and shortest duration. Monitor for respiratory depression and sedation, including after patch removal.
What other medicines interact with Eszopiclone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Eszopiclone with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Eszopiclone page.
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