Drug interactions
Meperidine + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Meperidine and Sufentanil sl: 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
Two opioids together increase the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension and death. Sublingual sufentanil is potent, so added meperidine can quickly produce opioid excess.
What this interaction means in plain words
Meperidine and Sufentanil sl 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 combining unless necessary; if both are used, limit doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and blood pressure.
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 Meperidine with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Meperidine and Sufentanil sl 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. Two opioids together increase the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension and death. Sublingual sufentanil is potent, so added meperidine can quickly produce opioid excess.
How serious is the interaction between Meperidine and Sufentanil sl?
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 combining unless necessary; if both are used, limit doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and blood pressure.
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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