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Drug interactions

Meperidine + Trimipramine

Severity: Major

Meperidine and Trimipramine: 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

Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant with some serotonergic effect, and meperidine adds serotonergic activity. Serotonin syndrome is possible, along with additive sedation and lowered seizure threshold.

What this interaction means in plain words

Meperidine and Trimipramine 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.

Meperidine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Trimipramine belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive serotonergic effects and CNS depression, with possible seizure threshold lowering.

What to do

Prefer an opioid without serotonergic action. If combined, monitor for serotonin toxicity, sedation and seizures.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Meperidine with Trimipramine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Meperidine and Trimipramine 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. Trimipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant with some serotonergic effect, and meperidine adds serotonergic activity. Serotonin syndrome is possible, along with additive sedation and lowered seizure threshold.

How serious is the interaction between Meperidine and Trimipramine?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an opioid without serotonergic action. If combined, monitor for serotonin toxicity, sedation and seizures.

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.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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