Drug interactions
Fentanyl transmucosal + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Fentanyl transmucosal 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 can raise fentanyl concentrations, including the swallowed portion of transmucosal doses. This increases the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fentanyl transmucosal 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 frequently for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the fentanyl dose where needed; consider a non-CYP3A4 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 transmucosal with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fentanyl transmucosal 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 can raise fentanyl concentrations, including the swallowed portion of transmucosal doses. This increases the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Fentanyl transmucosal 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 frequently for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the fentanyl dose where needed; consider a non-CYP3A4 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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