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Drug interactions

Oxymorphone + Sufentanil sl

Severity: Major

Oxymorphone 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 opioid agonists given together add to each other's sedative, hypotensive and respiratory depressant effects. This can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death, particularly in opioid-naive patients.

What this interaction means in plain words

Oxymorphone 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.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Additive mu-opioid receptor agonist effects on CNS and respiratory depression.

What to do

Avoid concurrent use unless no alternative exists, and then use the lowest effective doses for the shortest duration. Monitor respiratory rate and level of sedation closely, with 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?

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 Oxymorphone with Sufentanil sl?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Oxymorphone 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 opioid agonists given together add to each other's sedative, hypotensive and respiratory depressant effects. This can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death, particularly in opioid-naive patients.

How serious is the interaction between Oxymorphone 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 concurrent use unless no alternative exists, and then use the lowest effective doses for the shortest duration. Monitor respiratory rate and level of sedation closely, with naloxone available.

What other medicines interact with Oxymorphone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Oxymorphone with, for example, Alvimopan, Ethanol, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Oxymorphone page.

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