Drug interactions
Methadone + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Methadone and Sufentanil sl: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Combining two opioids increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma and death. Sublingual sufentanil is a potent opioid and the combination calls for caution in opioid-tolerant patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Methadone 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 opioid receptor-mediated CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Reserve the combination for patients with inadequate alternatives, using the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.
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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References
Other interactions of Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Methadone with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Methadone 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. Combining two opioids increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, hypotension, coma and death. Sublingual sufentanil is a potent opioid and the combination calls for caution in opioid-tolerant patients.
How serious is the interaction between Methadone 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: Reserve the combination for patients with inadequate alternatives, using the lowest effective doses and shortest duration. Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Methadone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Methadone with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Droperidol. The full list is on the Methadone page.
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