Does Acyclovir Interact with Meperidine Hydrochloride?
Acyclovir and Meperidine Hydrochloride have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Acyclovir Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of acyclovir may increase the plasma concentrations of meperidine and its metabolite, normeperidine. Intervention: If concomitant use of acyclovir and Meperidine Hydrochloride Injection is necessary, monitor patients for respiratory depression and sedation at frequent intervals. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Acyclovir Class
- Herpes Simplex Virus Nucleoside Analog DNA Polymerase Inhibitor
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Acyclovir and your doctor is considering prescribing Meperidine Hydrochloride (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider