Drug interactions
Fentanyl + Tipranavir
Severity: Major
Fentanyl and Tipranavir: major 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
Tipranavir is given with ritonavir, which strongly inhibits CYP3A4, so fentanyl exposure may rise considerably. This can lead to serious respiratory depression and prolonged sedation, although tipranavir itself can also induce some enzymes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl and Tipranavir 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.
Fentanyl belongs to Musculoskeletal; Tipranavir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Net CYP3A4 inhibition by ritonavir-boosted tipranavir reduces fentanyl clearance.
What to do
Avoid if possible; otherwise reduce the fentanyl dose and monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation. Consider an opioid less dependent on CYP3A4.
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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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 Tipranavir
- Alfuzosin + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Atorvastatin + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Tipranavir Contraindicated
- Colchicine + Tipranavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl with Tipranavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl and Tipranavir 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. Tipranavir is given with ritonavir, which strongly inhibits CYP3A4, so fentanyl exposure may rise considerably. This can lead to serious respiratory depression and prolonged sedation, although tipranavir itself can also induce some enzymes.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl and Tipranavir?
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 if possible; otherwise reduce the fentanyl dose and monitor frequently for respiratory depression and sedation. Consider an opioid less dependent on CYP3A4.
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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