Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Amide-type local anesthetics (e.g., lidocaine, bupivacaine, ropivacaine) may have additive cardiac effects when coadministered with class I antiarrhythmic agents. In general, the toxic effects of amide-type anesthetics when coadministered with structurally related antiarrhythmic agents are additive and potentially synergistic which may lead to bradycardia, chest pain, heart block, arrhythmias, ECG abnormalities, and cardiac arrest. The clinical significance of the interaction has not been established.

MANAGEMENT: If coadministration of amide-type local anesthetics with class I antiarrhythmic agents (e.g., procainamide, mexiletine, disopyramide) is required, caution and clinical monitoring are recommended for additive cardiac effects. Advise patients to contact their physician if they experience adverse effects such as chest pain, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, nervousness, dizziness, or tremors.

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.