Drug interactions
Amitriptyline + Papaveretum
Severity: Major
Amitriptyline and Papaveretum: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, and combining it with a sedating tricyclic raises the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Hypotension and impaired psychomotor function may also occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Amitriptyline and Papaveretum can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Warn patients to avoid alcohol and driving.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Amitriptyline
- Amitriptyline + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Procarbazine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Amitriptyline with Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amitriptyline and Papaveretum can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, and combining it with a sedating tricyclic raises the risk of excessive sedation and respiratory depression. Hypotension and impaired psychomotor function may also occur.
How serious is the interaction between Amitriptyline and Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Warn patients to avoid alcohol and driving.
What other medicines interact with Amitriptyline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Amitriptyline with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Amitriptyline page.
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