Drug Interactions between Ergomar and tapentadol

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of opioid analgesics including tapentadol. 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.

GENERALLY AVOID: Consumption of alcohol while taking extended-release formulations of tapentadol may cause rapid release of the drug, resulting in high systemic levels of tapentadol that may be potentially lethal even in opioid-tolerant patients. Alcohol appears to disrupt the extended-release mechanism, causing 'dose-dumping' into the bloodstream. A clinical study evaluated healthy volunteers administered a single dose of extended-release tapentadol (100 mg or 250 mg) with 240 mL of 40% alcohol. The mean peak tapentadol concentration (Cmax) was 48% higher when alcohol was combined with the 100 mg dose and 28% higher when alcohol was combined with the 250 mg dose, as compared to control. Additionally, the systemic exposure (AUC) of tapentadol increased by 16-17% when combined with alcohol.

MANAGEMENT: Patients taking extended-release formulations of tapentadol should not consume alcohol or use medications that contain alcohol. In general, narcotics such as tapentadol should not be combined with alcohol. Modified and/or extended-release tapentadol formulations must also be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed or divided.

Grapefruit juice may increase the blood levels of certain medications such as ergotamine. You may want to limit your consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment with ergotamine. However, if you have been regularly consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice with the medication, then it is advisable for you to talk with your doctor before changing the amounts of these products in your diet, as this may alter the effects of your medication. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects. Orange juice is not expected to interact.

Nicotine may increase the effects of ergotamine in narrowing the blood vessels and decreasing blood flow. A severe decrease in blood flow to the brain and other parts of the body can lead to dangerous side effects. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience coldness, paleness, discoloration, numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or feet; muscle pain or weakness; severe or worsening headache; blurred vision; severe abdominal pain; chest pain; or shortness of breath while using these medications. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.