Drug interactions
Fentanyl transdermal + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Fentanyl transdermal 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 and may increase and prolong systemic fentanyl exposure from patches. This can lead to profound sedation and respiratory depression, and effects may persist after patch removal.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl transdermal 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 closely for respiratory depression and sedation, particularly after starting or stopping imatinib, and adjust the fentanyl dose or use a different opioid.
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 transdermal with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl transdermal 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 and may increase and prolong systemic fentanyl exposure from patches. This can lead to profound sedation and respiratory depression, and effects may persist after patch removal.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl transdermal 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 closely for respiratory depression and sedation, particularly after starting or stopping imatinib, and adjust the fentanyl dose or use a different opioid.
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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