Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Meperidine
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Meperidine: 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 an opioid, so adding it to meperidine increases opioid effects such as sedation and respiratory depression. The belladonna component adds anticholinergic effects including constipation and urinary retention.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Meperidine 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 opioid receptor mediated CNS and respiratory depression, with added anticholinergic effects.
What to do
Avoid duplicating opioid therapy where possible, otherwise use reduced 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 Meperidine
- Alvimopan + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Meperidine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Meperidine + Procarbazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Meperidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Meperidine 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 an opioid, so adding it to meperidine increases opioid effects such as sedation and respiratory depression. The belladonna component adds anticholinergic effects including constipation and urinary retention.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Meperidine?
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 duplicating opioid therapy where possible, otherwise use reduced doses and monitor respiratory rate, sedation and bowel and bladder function.
What other medicines interact with Meperidine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Meperidine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Methylene blue. The full list is on the Meperidine page.
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