Drug interactions
Sertraline + Sufentanil sl
Severity: Major
Sertraline 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
Opioids with serotonergic activity combined with an SSRI can cause serotonin syndrome. Sertraline may also modestly raise sufentanil levels through CYP3A4 inhibition, increasing the risk of respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Sertraline 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 serotonergic effects plus weak CYP3A4 inhibition by sertraline reducing sufentanil clearance.
What to do
Observe closely for serotonin toxicity and excessive sedation or respiratory depression, particularly at initiation and dose changes. Lower the opioid dose if needed.
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 Sertraline
- Isocarboxazid + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Methylene blue + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Phenelzine + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Selegiline transdermal + Sertraline Contraindicated
- Selegiline + Sertraline Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Sertraline with Sufentanil sl?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Sertraline 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. Opioids with serotonergic activity combined with an SSRI can cause serotonin syndrome. Sertraline may also modestly raise sufentanil levels through CYP3A4 inhibition, increasing the risk of respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Sertraline 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: Observe closely for serotonin toxicity and excessive sedation or respiratory depression, particularly at initiation and dose changes. Lower the opioid dose if needed.
What other medicines interact with Sertraline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sertraline with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Sertraline page.
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