Drug interactions
Fentanyl + Rocuronium
Severity: Minor
Fentanyl and Rocuronium: minor 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
Rocuronium and fentanyl are routinely used together in anesthesia. Fentanyl does not significantly alter rocuronium's neuromuscular blockade, but opioid-induced respiratory depression and chest wall rigidity are managed through the airway control that accompanies paralysis.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl and Rocuronium have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Fentanyl belongs to Musculoskeletal; Rocuronium belongs to Musculoskeletal.
Why it happens
No significant pharmacokinetic interaction; respiratory effects are additive in function only.
What to do
Use only where ventilation can be controlled and monitor neuromuscular function and hemodynamics. No dose adjustment is usually necessary.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Fentanyl
- Alvimopan + Fentanyl Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Fentanyl + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Fentanyl Major
Other interactions of Rocuronium
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl with Rocuronium?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Fentanyl and Rocuronium have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Rocuronium and fentanyl are routinely used together in anesthesia. Fentanyl does not significantly alter rocuronium's neuromuscular blockade, but opioid-induced respiratory depression and chest wall rigidity are managed through the airway control that accompanies paralysis.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl and Rocuronium?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use only where ventilation can be controlled and monitor neuromuscular function and hemodynamics. No dose adjustment is usually necessary.
What other medicines interact with Fentanyl?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fentanyl with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Fentanyl page.
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