Drug interactions
Fentanyl intranasal + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Fentanyl intranasal and Imatinib: 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, the main enzyme metabolizing fentanyl, and may increase fentanyl exposure. This can cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl intranasal and Imatinib 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4-mediated fentanyl metabolism.
What to do
Monitor frequently for sedation and respiratory depression and reduce the fentanyl dose as needed; consider an opioid that is not CYP3A4-dependent.
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 Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl intranasal with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl intranasal and Imatinib 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. Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, the main enzyme metabolizing fentanyl, and may increase fentanyl exposure. This can cause excessive sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl intranasal and Imatinib?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor frequently for sedation and respiratory depression and reduce the fentanyl dose as needed; consider an opioid that is not CYP3A4-dependent.
What other medicines interact with Imatinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.
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