Interactions between Alfuzosin and Talwin
1 drug interaction and 39 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:
- alfuzosin
- Talwin (pentazocine)
Drug interactions
Moderate drug interactions
Moderate:
pentazocine alfuzosin
Applies to: Talwin (pentazocine) and alfuzosin
Monitor
Certain psychotherapeutic and other CNS-active agents may have blood pressure-lowering effects and may cause dizziness, orthostatic hypotension, or syncope. These effects may be more likely during treatment initiation, dose escalation, or treatment restart. Coadministration with antihypertensives or other agents with blood pressure-lowering properties, particularly vasodilators and alpha-adrenergic blockers, may result in additive hypotensive or orthostatic effects.
Management
Monitor blood pressure and clinical response during concomitant use, especially when starting or increasing the dose of either agent. Patients should be advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position and to report dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, orthostasis, palpitations, or troublesome changes in pulse or heart rate. Patients should be cautioned that alcohol may enhance blood pressure-lowering effects during concomitant use with antihypertensives or other agents with hypotensive properties. Patients should avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medications affect them.
References (13)
- Sternbach H (1991) "Fluoxetine-associated potentiation of calcium-channel blockers." J Clin Psychopharmacol, 11, p. 390-1
- Shook TL, Kirshenbaum JM, Hundley RF, Shorey JM, Lamas GA (1984) "Ethanol intoxication complicating intravenous nitroglycerin therapy." Ann Intern Med, 101, p. 498-9
- Feder R (1991) "Bradycardia and syncope induced by fluoxetine." J Clin Psychiatry, 52, p. 139
- Ellison JM, Milofsky JE, Ely E (1990) "Fluoxetine-induced bradycardia and syncope in two patients." J Clin Psychiatry, 51, p. 385-6
- Rodriguez de la Torre B, Dreher J, Malevany I, et al. (2001) "Serum levels and cardiovascular effects of tricyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in depressed patients." Ther Drug Monit, 23, p. 435-40
- Pacher P, Kecskemeti V (2004) "Cardiovascular side effects of new antidepressants and antipsychotics: new drugs, old concerns?" Curr Pharm Des, 10, p. 2463-75
- Andrews C, Pinner G (1998) "Postural hypotension induced by paroxetine." BMJ, 316, p. 595
- (2023) "Product Information. Buprenorphine (buprenorphine)." G.L. Pharma UK Ltd
- (2023) "Product Information. Temgesic (buprenorphine)." Reckitt Benckiser Pty Ltd
- (2026) "Product Information. Urapidil (Carinopharm) (urapidil)." Imported (EU)
- (2020) "Product Information. URAPIDIL ACCORD (urapidil)." ACCORD HEALTHCARE LIMITED
- (2020) "Product Information. Ebrantil (urapidil)." CHEPLAPHARM ARZNEIMITTEL GMBH
- (2026) "Product Information. Urapidil (urapidil)." Imported (Switzerland)
Food/lifestyle interactions
Major food/lifestyle interactions
Major:
pentazocine Food/Lifestyle
Applies to: Talwin (pentazocine)
Generally avoid
Alcohol may potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of opioid analgesics including pentazocine. Concomitant use may result in additive CNS depression and impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills. In more severe cases, hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, or even death may occur.
Monitor closely
Smoking tobacco may decrease the plasma concentrations and effects of pentazocine by enhancing its metabolic clearance.
Management
Patients should not consume alcoholic beverages or use drug products that contain alcohol during treatment with pentazocine. Any history of alcohol or illicit drug use should be considered when prescribing pentazocine and therapy initiated at a lower dosage if necessary. Patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of sedation, respiratory depression, and hypotension. Additionally, the possibility of reduced therapeutic effects of pentazocine should be considered if smoking cannot be avoided.
References (4)
- Miller LG (1989) "Recent developments in the study of the effects of cigarette smoking on clinical pharmacokinetics and clinical pharmacodynamics." Clin Pharmacokinet, 17, p. 90-108
- D'Arcy PF (1984) "Tobacco smoking and drugs: a clinically important interaction?" Drug Intell Clin Pharm, 18, p. 302-7
- (2024) "Product Information. Naloxone HCl-Pentazocine HCl (naloxone-pentazocine)." Actavis U.S. (Amide Pharmaceutical Inc)
- Cherrier MM, Shen DD, Shireman L, et al. (2021) "Elevated customary alcohol consumption attenuates opioid effects." Pharmacol Biochem Behav, 4, p. 1-27
Major:
pentazocine Alcohol (Ethanol)
Applies to: Talwin (pentazocine)
Generally avoid
Ethanol may potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of opioid analgesics. Concomitant use may result in additive CNS depression and impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills. In more severe cases, hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, or even death may occur.
Management
Concomitant use of opioid analgesics with ethanol should be avoided.
References (47)
- Linnoila M, Hakkinen S (1974) "Effects of diazepam and codeine, alone and in combination with alcohol, on simulated driving." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 15, p. 368-73
- Sturner WQ, Garriott JC (1973) "Deaths involving propoxyphene: a study of 41 cases over a two-year period." JAMA, 223, p. 1125-30
- Girre C, Hirschhorn M, Bertaux L, et al. (1991) "Enhancement of propoxyphene bioavailability by ethanol: relation to psychomotor and cognitive function in healthy volunteers." Eur J Clin Pharmacol, 41, p. 147-52
- Reece PA, Cozamanis I, Zacest R (1980) "Kinetics of hydralazine and its main metabolites in slow and fast acetylators." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 28, p. 769-78
- Levine B, Saady J, Fierro M, Valentour J (1984) "A hydromorphone and ethanol fatality." J Forensic Sci, 29, p. 655-9
- Sellers EM, Hamilton CA, Kaplan HL, Degani NC, Foltz RL (1985) "Pharmacokinetic interaction of propoxyphene with ethanol." Br J Clin Pharmacol, 19, p. 398-401
- Carson DJ (1977) "Fatal dextropropoxyphene poisoning in Northern Ireland. Review of 30 cases." Lancet, 1, p. 894-7
- Rosser WW (1980) "The interaction of propoxyphene with other drugs." Can Med Assoc J, 122, p. 149-50
- Edwards C, Gard PR, Handley SL, Hunter M, Whittington RM (1982) "Distalgesic and ethanol-impaired function." Lancet, 2, p. 384
- Kiplinger GF, Sokol G, Rodda BE (1974) "Effect of combined alcohol and propoxyphene on human performance." Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther, 212, p. 175-80
- (2017) "Product Information. Alfentanil Hydrochloride (alfentanil)." Akorn Inc
- (2022) "Product Information. Palexia SR (tAPENTadol)." Seqirus Pty Ltd
- (2022) "Product Information. Tapimio (tapentadol)." Neuraxpharm UK Ltd
- (2023) "Product Information. Nucynta (tapentadol)." Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.
- (2024) "Product Information. TraMADol Hydrochloride (traMADol)." Advagen Pharma Ltd
- (2018) "Product Information. Opium Deodorized (opium)." ANIP Acquisition Company
- (2024) "Product Information. Jamp Tramadol (tramadol)." Jamp Pharma Corporation
- (2025) "Product Information. Tramadol (tramadol)." Sigma Pharmaceuticals Plc
- (2024) "Product Information. Morphine Sulfate ER (morphine)." Actavis (formerly Abrika Pharmaceuticals LLP)
- (2024) "Product Information. Oxymorphone Hydrochloride (oxyMORphone)." Aurolife Pharma LLC
- (2024) "Product Information. Levorphanol Tartrate (levorphanol)." Virtus Pharmaceuticals LLC
- (2025) "Product Information. Nalbuphine Hydrochloride (nalbuphine)." Hospira Inc
- (2022) "Product Information. Remifentanil (remifentanil)." Wockhardt UK Ltd
- (2024) "Product Information. Naloxone HCl-Pentazocine HCl (naloxone-pentazocine)." Actavis U.S. (Amide Pharmaceutical Inc)
- (2022) "Product Information. Alfentanil (alfentanil)." Hameln Pharma Ltd
- (2024) "Product Information. Butorphanol Tartrate (butorphanol)." Apotex Corporation
- (2024) "Product Information. Codeine Sulfate (codeine)." Lannett Company Inc
- (2024) "Product Information. Cyclizine-Dipipanone (cyclizine-dipipanone)." Advanz Pharma
- (2024) "Product Information. Meperidine Hydrochloride (meperidine)." Genus Lifesciences Inc.
- (2023) "Product Information. Dsuvia (SUFentanil)." AcelRx Pharmaceuticals
- (2024) "Product Information. Dzuveo (sufentanil)." Aguettant Ltd
- (2024) "Product Information. Buprenorphine Hydrochloride (buprenorphine)." Advagen Pharma Limited
- (2025) "Product Information. Pethidine (pethidine)." Martindale Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- (2023) "Product Information. Meperidine Hydrochloride (meperidine)." Sandoz Canada Incorporated
- (2025) "Product Information. Actimorph (morphine)." Ethypharm UK Ltd
- (2024) "Product Information. Doloral Sirop (morphine)." Laboratoire Atlas Inc
- (2024) "Product Information. Morphine Sulfate (Medsurge) (morphine)." Medicianz Healthcare Pty Ltd
- (2023) "Product Information. Diacetylmorphine Hydrochloride (diamorphine)." Pharmascience Inc
- (2024) "Product Information. Pethidine (Juno) (pethidine)." Juno Pharmaceuticals Pty Ltd
- Cherrier MM, Shen DD, Shireman L, et al. (2021) "Elevated customary alcohol consumption attenuates opioid effects." Pharmacol Biochem Behav, 4, p. 1-27
- Fuhr LM, Marok FZ, Fuhr U, Selzer D, Lehr T (2023) "Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modeling of bergamottin and 6,7-dihydroxybergamottin to describe CYP3A4 mediated grapefruit-drug interactions." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 114, p. 470-82
- (2021) "Product Information. Nucynta Extended-Release (tapentadol)." Endo Operations, LTD.
- (2024) "Product Information. Oxymorphone Hydrochloride ER (oxyMORphone)." Amneal Pharmaceuticals LLC
- (2025) "Product Information. Morphine Sulfate (morphine)." BGP Pharma ULC
- (2025) "Product Information. Hysingla ER (HYDROcodone)." Purdue Pharma LP
- (2021) "Product Information. Covonia Dry Cough (pholcodine)." Thornton & Ross Ltd
- (2018) "Product Information. TUSCALMAN NIÑOS (noscapina)." DESMA LABORATORIO FARMACEUTICO, S.L.
Moderate food/lifestyle interactions
Moderate:
alfuzosin Food/Lifestyle
Applies to: alfuzosin
Adjust dosing interval
Administration of alfuzosin with food enhances oral bioavailability. According to the manufacturer, extent of absorption is 50% higher when administered under fed conditions compared to fasting conditions.
Monitor
Grapefruit and/or grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of alfuzosin. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. Based on a clinical study, repeated oral administration of 400 mg/day of ketoconazole, a potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, increased alfuzosin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 2.3- and 3.2-fold, respectively, following a single 10 mg dose. Additionally, repeated oral administration of 240 mg/day of diltiazem, a moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, with 7.5 mg/day (2.5 mg three times daily) of alfuzosin increased alfuzosin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 50% and 30%, respectively, and increased diltiazem Cmax and AUC each by 40%. In general, the effect of grapefruit juice is concentration-, dose- and preparation-dependent, and can vary widely among brands. Certain preparations of grapefruit juice (e.g., high dose, double strength) have sometimes demonstrated potent inhibition of CYP450 3A4, while other preparations (e.g., low dose, single strength) have typically demonstrated moderate inhibition. Moreover, pharmacokinetic alterations associated with interactions involving grapefruit juice are often subject to a high degree of interpatient variability. Also, increased exposure to alfuzosin may increase the risk of QT interval prolongation, which has been associated with ventricular arrhythmias including torsade de pointes and sudden death.
Management
To ensure maximal oral absorption, alfuzosin should be administered with or immediately after a meal. Caution is recommended if alfuzosin is used in combination with grapefruit or grapefruit juice. If grapefruit and/or grapefruit juice are consumed during treatment with alfuzosin, patients should be monitored for increased adverse effects (e.g., QT prolongation, hypotension, dizziness, priapism).
References (4)
- (2022) "Product Information. Xatral SR (alfuzosin)." Sanofi-Aventis Australia Pty Ltd
- (2021) "Product Information. Alfuzosin (alfuzosin)." Sanis Health Inc
- (2025) "Product Information. Alfuzosin Hydrochloride (alfuzosin)." Apotex Corporation
- (2025) "Product Information. Besavar XL (alfuzosin)." Zentiva Pharma UK Ltd, 2
Disease interactions
36 potential interactions Applies to: 30 conditions, including Constipation, Seizures, Hypotension, Head Injury, and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Acute Alcohol Intoxication
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Acute Alcohol Intoxication.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Adrenal Insufficiency
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Adrenal Insufficiency.
Patients with Addison's disease may have increased risk of respiratory depression and prolonged CNS depression associated with the use of narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents. Conversely, these agents may cause or potentiate adrenal insufficiency. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with adrenocortical insufficiency. Subsequent doses should be titrated based on individual response rather than a fixed dosing schedule.
Alcoholism
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Alcoholism.
Opioid partial agonists have the potential to cause dependence and abuse, particularly in patients with a history of drug abuse. Tolerance as well as physical and psychological dependence can develop after prolonged use, and abrupt cessation or a significant reduction in dosage may precipitate withdrawal symptoms. Because of their opioid antagonistic effect, withdrawal symptoms may also occur if opioid partial agonists are administered to patients with an opioid dependence or in whom substantial amounts of narcotics have recently been administered. Therapy with opioid partial agonists is not recommended in patients who are physically dependent on narcotics. Addiction-prone individuals, such as those with a history of alcohol or substance abuse, should be under careful surveillance or medical supervision when treated with opioid partial agonists. It may be prudent to refrain from dispensing large quantities of medication to these patients. After prolonged use or if dependency is suspected, withdrawal of opioid therapy should be undertaken gradually using a dosage-tapering schedule.
Altered Consciousness
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Altered Consciousness.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Asphyxia
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Asphyxia.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Biliary Obstruction
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Biliary Obstruction.
Opioid agonists may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, which may increase biliary tract pressure. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions and transient elevations in serum amylase. Patients with biliary tract disease (including acute pancreatitis) should be regularly evaluated for worsening symptoms. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with biliary tract disease, gallbladder disease, or acute pancreatitis.
Brain Tumor
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Brain Tumor.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Brain Tumor.
The hypoventilation associated with administration of opioid partial agonists can induce cerebral hypoxia and vasodilatation with resultant increase in intracranial pressure. Unless mechanical ventilation is provided, extreme caution is advised when opioid partial agonists are given to patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or a preexisting elevated CSF pressure. Also, clinicians treating such patients should be aware that opioid partial agonists may interfere with the evaluation of CNS function, especially with respect to consciousness levels, respiratory status, and pupillary changes.
Cataract
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Cataract.
Intraoperative Floppy Iris Syndrome has been observed during cataract surgery in some patients on or previously treated with antiadrenergic agents. If a patient is undergoing cataract surgery, the ophthalmologist should be prepared for possible modifications of the surgical technique (iris hooks, iris dilator rings). There does not appear to be a benefit in stopping antiadrenergic agents therapy prior to the cataracts surgery.
Cerebral Vascular Disorder
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Cerebral Vascular Disorder.
The hypoventilation associated with administration of opioid partial agonists can induce cerebral hypoxia and vasodilatation with resultant increase in intracranial pressure. Unless mechanical ventilation is provided, extreme caution is advised when opioid partial agonists are given to patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or a preexisting elevated CSF pressure. Also, clinicians treating such patients should be aware that opioid partial agonists may interfere with the evaluation of CNS function, especially with respect to consciousness levels, respiratory status, and pupillary changes.
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Cerebral Vascular Disorder.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Constipation
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Constipation.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents increase smooth muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease peristalsis, which can lead to elevated intraluminal pressure, spasm, and constipation following prolonged use. In patients with severe or acute inflammatory bowel disease, the decrease in colonic motility may induce toxic megacolon. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, or recent gastrointestinal tract surgery. Gastrointestinal effects appear to be the most pronounced with morphine.
Dehydration
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Dehydration.
Peripheral alpha 1- adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka alpha 1- blockers) cause vasodilation and can produce marked hypotension, especially orthostatic hypotension with syncope or other postural symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and palpitations. Orthostatic effects are most common during initiation of therapy and often occur within 90 minutes after the first dose. However, they can also occur following a dosage increase or resumption of therapy after an interruption of more than a few days. Agents with alpha 1a specificity, such as tamsulosin, act primarily on the prostate but are not devoid of hypotensive effects. Therapy with peripheral alpha-1 blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to hypotensive or syncopal episodes. Caution is also advised in patients who are dehydrated (e.g., due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting), since they may be more sensitive to the hypotensive effect of the drugs. Therapy should be initiated with the lowest dosage possible and titrated gradually based on patient response and tolerance in accordance with the individual product package labeling. During initiation or reinstitution of therapy and following an increase in dosage, patients should be advised not to rise abruptly from a sitting or recumbent position and to avoid situations where injury could result if syncope occur. Concomitant use of alcohol, extensive periods of standing, prolonged or intense exercise, and exposure to heat can also precipitate orthostatic hypotension and should be minimized. If dizziness, lightheadedness or palpitations occur, the patient should sit or lie down, and seek medical attention if symptoms are recurrent or bothersome.
Drug Dependence
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Drug Dependence.
Opioid partial agonists have the potential to cause dependence and abuse, particularly in patients with a history of drug abuse. Tolerance as well as physical and psychological dependence can develop after prolonged use, and abrupt cessation or a significant reduction in dosage may precipitate withdrawal symptoms. Because of their opioid antagonistic effect, withdrawal symptoms may also occur if opioid partial agonists are administered to patients with an opioid dependence or in whom substantial amounts of narcotics have recently been administered. Therapy with opioid partial agonists is not recommended in patients who are physically dependent on narcotics. Addiction-prone individuals, such as those with a history of alcohol or substance abuse, should be under careful surveillance or medical supervision when treated with opioid partial agonists. It may be prudent to refrain from dispensing large quantities of medication to these patients. After prolonged use or if dependency is suspected, withdrawal of opioid therapy should be undertaken gradually using a dosage-tapering schedule.
Gallbladder Disease
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Gallbladder Disease.
Opioid agonists may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, which may increase biliary tract pressure. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions and transient elevations in serum amylase. Patients with biliary tract disease (including acute pancreatitis) should be regularly evaluated for worsening symptoms. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with biliary tract disease, gallbladder disease, or acute pancreatitis.
Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Obstruction.
Opioid analgesics are contraindicated in patients with known or suspected gastrointestinal obstruction, including paralytic ileus.
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Gastrointestinal Obstruction.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents increase smooth muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease peristalsis, which can lead to elevated intraluminal pressure, spasm, and constipation following prolonged use. In patients with severe or acute inflammatory bowel disease, the decrease in colonic motility may induce toxic megacolon. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, or recent gastrointestinal tract surgery. Gastrointestinal effects appear to be the most pronounced with morphine.
Head Injury
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Head Injury.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Head Injury.
The hypoventilation associated with administration of opioid partial agonists can induce cerebral hypoxia and vasodilatation with resultant increase in intracranial pressure. Unless mechanical ventilation is provided, extreme caution is advised when opioid partial agonists are given to patients with head injury, intracranial lesions, or a preexisting elevated CSF pressure. Also, clinicians treating such patients should be aware that opioid partial agonists may interfere with the evaluation of CNS function, especially with respect to consciousness levels, respiratory status, and pupillary changes.
Hypotension
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Hypotension.
Peripheral alpha 1- adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka alpha 1- blockers) cause vasodilation and can produce marked hypotension, especially orthostatic hypotension with syncope or other postural symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and palpitations. Orthostatic effects are most common during initiation of therapy and often occur within 90 minutes after the first dose. However, they can also occur following a dosage increase or resumption of therapy after an interruption of more than a few days. Agents with alpha 1a specificity, such as tamsulosin, act primarily on the prostate but are not devoid of hypotensive effects. Therapy with peripheral alpha-1 blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to hypotensive or syncopal episodes. Caution is also advised in patients who are dehydrated (e.g., due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting), since they may be more sensitive to the hypotensive effect of the drugs. Therapy should be initiated with the lowest dosage possible and titrated gradually based on patient response and tolerance in accordance with the individual product package labeling. During initiation or reinstitution of therapy and following an increase in dosage, patients should be advised not to rise abruptly from a sitting or recumbent position and to avoid situations where injury could result if syncope occur. Concomitant use of alcohol, extensive periods of standing, prolonged or intense exercise, and exposure to heat can also precipitate orthostatic hypotension and should be minimized. If dizziness, lightheadedness or palpitations occur, the patient should sit or lie down, and seek medical attention if symptoms are recurrent or bothersome.
Infectious Gastroenteritis
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Infectious Gastroenteritis.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents may prolong and/or worsen diarrhea associated with organisms that invade the intestinal mucosa, such as toxigenic Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Shigella, and pseudomembranous colitis due to broad-spectrum antibiotics. These agents decrease gastrointestinal motility, which may delay the excretion of infective gastroenteric organisms and/or their toxins. Other symptoms and complications such as fever, shedding of organisms, and extraintestinal illness may also be increased or prolonged. Therapy with opioids should be avoided or administered cautiously in patients with infectious diarrhea, particularly that due to pseudomembranous enterocolitis or enterotoxin-producing bacteria or if accompanied by high fever, pus, or blood in the stool.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents increase smooth muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease peristalsis, which can lead to elevated intraluminal pressure, spasm, and constipation following prolonged use. In patients with severe or acute inflammatory bowel disease, the decrease in colonic motility may induce toxic megacolon. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, or recent gastrointestinal tract surgery. Gastrointestinal effects appear to be the most pronounced with morphine.
Intestinal Anastomoses
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Intestinal Anastomoses.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents increase smooth muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and decrease peristalsis, which can lead to elevated intraluminal pressure, spasm, and constipation following prolonged use. In patients with severe or acute inflammatory bowel disease, the decrease in colonic motility may induce toxic megacolon. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with gastrointestinal obstruction, constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, or recent gastrointestinal tract surgery. Gastrointestinal effects appear to be the most pronounced with morphine.
Ischemic Heart Disease
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Ischemic Heart Disease.
Opioid partial agonists may increase systemic and pulmonary arterial pressure and systemic vascular resistance, particularly when given by IV administration. Data are available for pentazocine and butorphanol. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be administered cautiously and only if the benefit justifies the risk in patients with acute myocardial infarction (especially if accompanied by hypertension or left ventricular failure) or coronary insufficiency.
Liver Disease
Major:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.
Alfuzosin is contraindicated for use in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child Pugh B and C). The pharmacokinetics of alfuzosin have not been studied in patients with mild hepatic impairment and caution should be exercised if it is administered to such patients.
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Liver Disease.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents are extensively metabolized by the liver, and several of them (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone, meperidine, methadone, morphine, propoxyphene) have active metabolites that are further converted to inactive substances. The serum concentrations of these agents and their metabolites may be increased and the half-lives prolonged in patients with impaired hepatic function. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with liver disease. Subsequent doses should be titrated based on individual response rather than a fixed dosing schedule.
Long QT Syndrome
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Long QT Syndrome.
Alfuzosin should be used with caution in patients with acquired or congenital QT prolongation, or who are taking medications that prolong the QT interval.
Pancreatitis
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Pancreatitis.
Opioid agonists may cause spasm of the sphincter of Oddi, which may increase biliary tract pressure. Other opioid-induced effects may include a reduction in biliary and pancreatic secretions and transient elevations in serum amylase. Patients with biliary tract disease (including acute pancreatitis) should be regularly evaluated for worsening symptoms. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with biliary tract disease, gallbladder disease, or acute pancreatitis.
Prematurity/Underweight in Infancy
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Prematurity/Underweight in Infancy.
The use of narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents is contraindicated in premature infants. These agents may cross the immature blood-brain barrier to a greater extent than in adults, resulting in disproportionate respiratory depression.
Pulmonary Impairment
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Pulmonary Impairment.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Renal Dysfunction
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
Caution should be exercised when alfuzosin is administered in patients with severe renal impairment as safety data is limited on these patients (CrCl < 30 mL/min).
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.
Although narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents are generally metabolized by the liver, renal impairment can alter the elimination of these agents and their metabolites (some of which are pharmacologically active), resulting in drug accumulation and increased risk of toxicity. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with significantly impaired renal function. Subsequent doses should be titrated based on individual response rather than a fixed dosing schedule.
Respiratory Arrest
Major:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a major potential interaction with Respiratory Arrest.
Opioid partial agonists may produce respiratory depression by decreasing respiratory drive and increasing airway resistance. A "ceiling effect" has been noted for these agents and increasing doses do not produce proportional or further respiratory depression. However, the duration of effect is prolonged. At therapeutic analgesic dosages, the respiratory effects are usually not clinically important except in patients with preexisting pulmonary impairment. Therapy with opioid partial agonists should be avoided or administered with extreme caution and initiated at reduced dosages in patients with severe CNS or respiratory depression; acute alcohol intoxication; sleep apnea; hypoxia, anoxia, or hypercapnia; upper airway obstruction; chronic pulmonary insufficiency; a limited ventilatory reserve; or other respiratory disorders. In the presence of excessive respiratory secretions, the use of opioid partial agonists may also be problematic because they decrease ciliary activity and reduce the cough reflex. Caution is also advised in patients who may be at increased risk for respiratory depression, such as comatose patients or those with head injury, intracranial lesions, or intracranial hypertension. Clinical monitoring of pulmonary function is recommended, and equipment for resuscitation should be immediately available if parenteral routes are used. Naloxone may be administered to reverse clinically significant respiratory depression.
Seizures
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Seizures.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents may increase the frequency of seizures in patients with seizure disorders, may increase the risk of seizures occurring in other clinical settings associated with seizures, and, at higher dosages, have been reported to induce seizures in patients without history of seizures. Patients with history of seizure disorders should be regularly evaluated for worsened seizure control during therapy. Prolonged meperidine use may increase the risk of toxicity (e.g., seizures) from the accumulation of the active metabolite (normeperidine).
Syncope
Moderate:
alfuzosin
Alfuzosin has a moderate potential interaction with Syncope.
Peripheral alpha 1- adrenergic receptor blocking agents (aka alpha 1- blockers) cause vasodilation and can produce marked hypotension, especially orthostatic hypotension with syncope or other postural symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and palpitations. Orthostatic effects are most common during initiation of therapy and often occur within 90 minutes after the first dose. However, they can also occur following a dosage increase or resumption of therapy after an interruption of more than a few days. Agents with alpha 1a specificity, such as tamsulosin, act primarily on the prostate but are not devoid of hypotensive effects. Therapy with peripheral alpha-1 blockers should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to hypotensive or syncopal episodes. Caution is also advised in patients who are dehydrated (e.g., due to severe or prolonged diarrhea or vomiting), since they may be more sensitive to the hypotensive effect of the drugs. Therapy should be initiated with the lowest dosage possible and titrated gradually based on patient response and tolerance in accordance with the individual product package labeling. During initiation or reinstitution of therapy and following an increase in dosage, patients should be advised not to rise abruptly from a sitting or recumbent position and to avoid situations where injury could result if syncope occur. Concomitant use of alcohol, extensive periods of standing, prolonged or intense exercise, and exposure to heat can also precipitate orthostatic hypotension and should be minimized. If dizziness, lightheadedness or palpitations occur, the patient should sit or lie down, and seek medical attention if symptoms are recurrent or bothersome.
Urinary Retention
Moderate:
Talwin
The pentazocine in Talwin has a moderate potential interaction with Urinary Retention.
Narcotic (opioid) analgesic agents may inhibit the urinary voiding reflex and increase the tone of the vesical sphincter in the bladder. Acute urinary retention requiring catheterization may occur, particularly in patients with prostatic hypertrophy or urethral stricture and in older adult patients. These agents may also decrease urine production via direct effects on the kidney and central stimulation of the release of vasopressin. Therapy with opioids should be administered cautiously in patients with or predisposed to urinary retention and/or oliguria. The effects on smooth muscle tone appear to be the most pronounced with morphine.
More resources
alfuzosin
A total of 592 drugs are known to interact with alfuzosin.
- Alfuzosin is in the drug class alpha blockers.
- Alfuzosin is used to treat Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia.
Talwin
A total of 472 drugs are known to interact with Talwin.
- Talwin is in the drug class Opioids.
- Talwin is used to treat the following conditions:
Drug Interaction Classification
| Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit. | |
| Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances. | |
| Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan. | |
| No interaction information available. |
Further information
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