Drug interactions
Fentanyl + Turmeric
Severity: Minor
Fentanyl and Turmeric: 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
Turmeric and its curcumin content show CYP3A4 inhibition in laboratory studies and may slightly raise fentanyl levels. Clinical evidence is lacking, so any effect is probably small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl and Turmeric have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Curcuminoids may inhibit CYP3A4, reducing fentanyl metabolism.
What to do
No routine change is needed. Watch for increased sedation if the patient takes high-dose turmeric supplements.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl with Turmeric?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Fentanyl and Turmeric have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Turmeric and its curcumin content show CYP3A4 inhibition in laboratory studies and may slightly raise fentanyl levels. Clinical evidence is lacking, so any effect is probably small.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl and Turmeric?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine change is needed. Watch for increased sedation if the patient takes high-dose turmeric supplements.
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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