Drug interactions
Fentanyl transdermal + Meperidine
Severity: Major
Fentanyl transdermal and Meperidine: 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
Concurrent opioids add to respiratory depression, sedation and hypotension. The prolonged release from the fentanyl patch means effects persist after removal.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl transdermal and Meperidine 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 mu-opioid receptor agonism causing CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Avoid duplicate opioid therapy when possible; if combined, reduce doses and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, including after patch removal.
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 Meperidine
- Alvimopan + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fentanyl transdermal with Meperidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl transdermal and Meperidine 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. Concurrent opioids add to respiratory depression, sedation and hypotension. The prolonged release from the fentanyl patch means effects persist after removal.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl transdermal and Meperidine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid duplicate opioid therapy when possible; if combined, reduce doses and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, including after patch removal.
What other medicines interact with Meperidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Meperidine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Meperidine page.
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