Buprenorphine and Rifampin interaction
Buprenorphine and Rifampin: both prescribing labels flag this combination with the strongest language, such as a contraindication, a boxed warning, or an instruction to avoid it.
Do not combine without a prescriber's guidance. The label language below is the strongest FDA uses.
What the FDA labels say
From the Buprenorphine (BELBUCA) label · effective 2026-01-02
Examples: Rifampin, carbamazepine, phenytoin Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of opioids with other drugs that affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter system has resulted in serotonin syndrome.
Evaluate patients starting CYP3A4 inhibitors or stopping CYP3A4 inducers at frequent intervals for respiratory depression.
Examples: Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), azole-antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole), protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir) CYP3A4 Inducers Clinical Impact: The concomitant use of BELBUCA and CYP3A4 inducers can decrease the plasma concentration of buprenorphine [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , potentially resulting in decreased efficacy or…
After stopping a CYP3A4 inducer, as the effects of the inducer decline, the buprenorphine plasma concentration will increase [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which could increase or prolong both therapeutic effects and adverse reactions and may cause serious respiratory depression.
If a CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, consider BELBUCA dosage reduction and evaluate patients at frequent intervals for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.
From the Rifampin (Rifadin IV) label · effective 2026-05-27
Decrease AUC by 56% Narcotic Analgesics Oxycodone Decrease AUC by 86% Morphine Decrease exposure Progestin Antagonist Mifepristone Prevention or Management: Refer to the posttreatment assessment in the mifepristone prescribing information to verify that treatment has been successful.
Taking more than these two? Interactions stack. Check your whole list at once; it stays in your browser.
Open in the checkerNot medical advice. Interaction Checker quotes FDA label text and NIH fact sheets. Whether an interaction matters for you depends on doses, timing, kidney and liver function, and other conditions. Confirm with a pharmacist or prescriber.