Drug interactions
Fentanyl intranasal + Hydroxyzine
Severity: Major
Fentanyl intranasal and Hydroxyzine: 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
Hydroxyzine adds sedation to fentanyl, increasing the chance of profound sedation and respiratory depression. Fentanyl is highly potent, so the consequences may be severe.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl intranasal and Hydroxyzine 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 opioid agonism and H1-antihistamine sedation.
What to do
Use together only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor sedation and respiratory rate.
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 Hydroxyzine
- Droperidol + Hydroxyzine Contraindicated
- Hydroxyzine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Hydroxyzine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Hydroxyzine + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Hydroxyzine Major
- Amiodarone + Hydroxyzine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl intranasal with Hydroxyzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl intranasal and Hydroxyzine 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. Hydroxyzine adds sedation to fentanyl, increasing the chance of profound sedation and respiratory depression. Fentanyl is highly potent, so the consequences may be severe.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl intranasal and Hydroxyzine?
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 together only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor sedation and respiratory rate.
What other medicines interact with Hydroxyzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxyzine with, for example, Droperidol, Pimozide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Hydroxyzine page.
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