Drug interactions
Hydrocodone + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Hydrocodone 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 CYP2D6, which can raise hydrocodone concentrations. This may cause excess sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Hydrocodone 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.
Hydrocodone belongs to Musculoskeletal; Imatinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, reducing hydrocodone metabolism.
What to do
Monitor closely for respiratory depression and sedation and reduce the hydrocodone dose as needed. Reassess if imatinib is stopped.
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 Hydrocodone
- Alvimopan + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Hydrocodone Major
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 Hydrocodone with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Hydrocodone 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 CYP2D6, which can raise hydrocodone concentrations. This may cause excess sedation and potentially fatal respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Hydrocodone 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 and reduce the hydrocodone dose as needed. Reassess if imatinib is stopped.
What other medicines interact with Hydrocodone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydrocodone with, for example, Alvimopan, Bupropion-naltrexone, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Hydrocodone page.
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