Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Codeine
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Codeine: 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
Belladonna and opium suppositories contain an opium alkaloid, mainly morphine, so combined use duplicates opioid effects. This raises the risk of sedation, respiratory depression and constipation, and anticholinergic effects add further burden.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Codeine 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 mu-opioid agonism with added anticholinergic effects.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use where possible; if needed, reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and bowel and bladder function.
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 Codeine
- Alvimopan + Codeine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Codeine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Codeine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Codeine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Codeine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Codeine 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. Belladonna and opium suppositories contain an opium alkaloid, mainly morphine, so combined use duplicates opioid effects. This raises the risk of sedation, respiratory depression and constipation, and anticholinergic effects add further burden.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Codeine?
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 concurrent use where possible; if needed, reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and bowel and bladder function.
What other medicines interact with Codeine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Codeine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Codeine page.
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