Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Imipramine
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Imipramine: 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
This combination adds anticholinergic effects from belladonna to imipramine and also adds opioid-related CNS and respiratory depression. The result can be marked sedation, constipation, urinary retention, confusion and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Imipramine 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 antimuscarinic effects plus additive CNS and respiratory depression from the opioid and the tricyclic.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor sedation, respiratory rate and bowel and bladder function. Counsel against alcohol and other sedatives.
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 Imipramine
- Dronedarone + Imipramine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Rasagiline Contraindicated
- Imipramine + Safinamide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Imipramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Imipramine 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. This combination adds anticholinergic effects from belladonna to imipramine and also adds opioid-related CNS and respiratory depression. The result can be marked sedation, constipation, urinary retention, confusion and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Imipramine?
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 for the shortest time and monitor sedation, respiratory rate and bowel and bladder function. Counsel against alcohol and other sedatives.
What other medicines interact with Imipramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imipramine with, for example, Dronedarone, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine. The full list is on the Imipramine page.
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