Drug interactions
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system + Isoflurane
Severity: Major
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Isoflurane: 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
Fentanyl and isoflurane both depress the central nervous system and respiration. Together they cause deeper sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression than either alone.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Isoflurane 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 central nervous system and respiratory depression through opioid receptor agonism and enhancement of GABA-mediated inhibition by the volatile anesthetic.
What to do
Remove the system before anesthesia when feasible, and monitor ventilation, oxygenation and blood pressure continuously. Reduce the anesthetic or other opioid doses as needed.
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 Isoflurane
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system with Isoflurane?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Isoflurane 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 and isoflurane both depress the central nervous system and respiration. Together they cause deeper sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression than either alone.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Isoflurane?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Remove the system before anesthesia when feasible, and monitor ventilation, oxygenation and blood pressure continuously. Reduce the anesthetic or other opioid doses as needed.
What other medicines interact with Isoflurane?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Isoflurane with, for example, Adrenaline-articaine, Amisulpride, Arsenic trioxide. The full list is on the Isoflurane page.
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