Many medications can interact with methadone. Medications that may make methadone less effective include: abacavir, carbamazepine, efavirenz, HIV protease inhibitors, narcotic agonists/antagonists, nevirapine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin and St. John's Wort.
Methadone may decrease the effectiveness of nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs). Side effects may be increased if methadone is taken with barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cimetidine, zidovudine, narcotic analgesics, phenothiazines, azole antifungals or serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
The following drugs can cause increased risk of QT prolongation if taken with methadone: antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, calcium channel blockers, antiemetics, chloroquine, diuretics, H1 antagonists, kinase inhibitors, lithium, macrolide antibiotics, phenothiazines, quinolones, streptogramins, tacrolimus and tricyclic antidepressants.
In addition, alcohol can cause serious side effects when combined with methadone. You should avoid drinking alcohol and make sure that no foods you eat contain alcohol.
Continue Learning about Opiate Agonists
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.