Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Chlordiazepoxide
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Chlordiazepoxide: major interaction.
Last updated
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
The opium component adds opioid effects to the benzodiazepine, risking profound sedation, respiratory depression and coma. Belladonna anticholinergic effects may add confusion in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Chlordiazepoxide 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 from opioid receptor agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible; if used, give the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor respiratory rate and sedation.
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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Other interactions of Chlordiazepoxide
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Chlordiazepoxide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Chlordiazepoxide 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. The opium component adds opioid effects to the benzodiazepine, risking profound sedation, respiratory depression and coma. Belladonna anticholinergic effects may add confusion in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Chlordiazepoxide?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination where possible; if used, give the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor respiratory rate and sedation.
What other medicines interact with Chlordiazepoxide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlordiazepoxide with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Chlordiazepoxide page.
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