Drug interactions
Morphine + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Morphine 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
Concurrent opioids add to sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression, with risk of coma and death. Sublingual sufentanil is intended for opioid-tolerant patients in monitored settings.
What this interaction means in plain words
Morphine 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 or minimize overlapping opioid use and use the lowest doses for the shortest time. Monitor respiratory rate and sedation and have naloxone available.
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 Morphine
- Alvimopan + Morphine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Morphine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Morphine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Morphine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Morphine with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Morphine 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. Concurrent opioids add to sedation, hypotension and respiratory depression, with risk of coma and death. Sublingual sufentanil is intended for opioid-tolerant patients in monitored settings.
How serious is the interaction between Morphine 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 or minimize overlapping opioid use and use the lowest doses for the shortest time. Monitor respiratory rate and sedation and have naloxone available.
What other medicines interact with Morphine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Morphine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Morphine page.
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