Drug interactions
Imipramine + Levorphanol
Severity: Major
Imipramine and Levorphanol: 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
Opioids combined with sedating tricyclics can cause profound sedation and respiratory depression. Imipramine may also potentiate opioid effects, and there is a risk of serotonergic effects with some opioids.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imipramine and Levorphanol 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.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses, titrate carefully, and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Counsel patients to avoid alcohol and driving.
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 Imipramine
- Dronedarone + Imipramine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Imipramine with Levorphanol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imipramine and Levorphanol 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. Opioids combined with sedating tricyclics can cause profound sedation and respiratory depression. Imipramine may also potentiate opioid effects, and there is a risk of serotonergic effects with some opioids.
How serious is the interaction between Imipramine and Levorphanol?
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 the lowest effective doses, titrate carefully, and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Counsel patients to avoid alcohol and driving.
What other medicines interact with Imipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imipramine with, for example, Dronedarone, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Imipramine page.
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