Drug interactions
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system + Trazodone
Severity: Major
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Trazodone: 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 combined with trazodone may produce additive sedation and respiratory depression. Trazodone also has serotonergic activity, so there is a potential for serotonin syndrome.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Trazodone 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, with additive serotonergic effects.
What to do
Use the lowest effective fentanyl dose and monitor for sedation, respiratory depression and signs of serotonin toxicity. Avoid other CNS depressants where possible.
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 Trazodone
- Arsenic trioxide + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Levoketoconazole + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Trazodone Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Trazodone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system with Trazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Trazodone 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 combined with trazodone may produce additive sedation and respiratory depression. Trazodone also has serotonergic activity, so there is a potential for serotonin syndrome.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl iontophoretic transdermal system and Trazodone?
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 the lowest effective fentanyl dose and monitor for sedation, respiratory depression and signs of serotonin toxicity. Avoid other CNS depressants where possible.
What other medicines interact with Trazodone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Trazodone with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Ibutilide, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Trazodone page.
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