Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Doxylamine
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Doxylamine: 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
Opium is a opioid CNS depressant and belladonna adds anticholinergic effects, both overlapping with doxylamine. The combination can cause marked sedation, respiratory depression, urinary retention, constipation and confusion.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Doxylamine 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 the opioid component plus additive anticholinergic effects from belladonna alkaloids and doxylamine.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible; if needed use the lowest effective doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and anticholinergic effects. Avoid in elderly patients and those with respiratory disease.
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 Doxylamine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Doxylamine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Doxylamine 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. Opium is a opioid CNS depressant and belladonna adds anticholinergic effects, both overlapping with doxylamine. The combination can cause marked sedation, respiratory depression, urinary retention, constipation and confusion.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Doxylamine?
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 combining where possible; if needed use the lowest effective doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and anticholinergic effects. Avoid in elderly patients and those with respiratory disease.
What other medicines interact with Doxylamine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Doxylamine with, for example, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen, Brexanolone, Buprenorphine buccal. The full list is on the Doxylamine page.
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