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Buprenex Drug Interactions
Buprenex Drug Interactions Explained
The following sections explain in detail the potentially negative interactions that can occur when Buprenex is combined with any of the drugs listed above.Alcohol
Consuming alcohol while using Buprenex could potentially increase your risk for serious side effects, such as extreme drowsiness, confusion, memory loss, or difficulty breathing. Do not drink alcohol while using Buprenex.
Benzodiazepines
Combining Buprenex with a benzodiazepine may increase the risk for serious problems, including death, particularly in the case of abuse or overdose. Normally, there is a limit (known as a "ceiling") to how much Buprenex can negatively affect breathing. However, benzodiazepines may increase this limit, allowing for dangerously slow or irregular breathing. Do not combine Buprenex with a benzodiazepine without your healthcare provider's approval and supervision.
CYP 3A4 Inducer Medications
The body breaks down Buprenex using enzymes in the liver known as CYP 3A4 enzymes. Some other medications (known as CYP 3A4 inducers) can increase the activity of these enzymes. Combining Buprenex with one of these CYP 3A4 inducers may decrease the level of Buprenex in your body, making it less effective. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor you more closely to make sure your pain is adequately controlled if you combine Buprenex with a CYP 3A4 inducer.
CYP 3A4 Inhibitor Medications
The body breaks down Buprenex using enzymes in the liver known as CYP 3A4 enzymes. Some other medications (known as CYP 3A4 inhibitors) can decrease the activity of these enzymes. Combining Buprenex with one of these CYP 3A4 inhibitors may increase the level of Buprenex in your body, increasing your risk for serious side effects, including drowsiness, confusion, and difficulty breathing. Your healthcare provider may monitor you more closely for side effects if you combine Buprenex with a CYP 3A4 inhibitor.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD