Drug interactions
Fentanyl transdermal + Hydroxyzine
Severity: Major
Fentanyl transdermal 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 increases the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of fentanyl. The patch continues to release drug for many hours after removal, so effects may be prolonged.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl transdermal 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 needed, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially after dose changes.
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 transdermal with Hydroxyzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl transdermal 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 increases the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of fentanyl. The patch continues to release drug for many hours after removal, so effects may be prolonged.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl transdermal 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 needed, with the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially after dose changes.
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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