Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Morphine
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Morphine: 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 combination with morphine causes additive sedation and respiratory depression, and belladonna adds anticholinergic effects such as constipation and urinary retention.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Morphine 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.
What to do
Avoid duplicate opioid therapy where possible; otherwise reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation. Keep naloxone available.
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 Morphine
- Alvimopan + Morphine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Morphine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Morphine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Morphine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Morphine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Morphine 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 combination with morphine causes additive sedation and respiratory depression, and belladonna adds anticholinergic effects such as constipation and urinary retention.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Morphine?
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 duplicate opioid therapy where possible; otherwise reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation. Keep naloxone available.
What other medicines interact with Morphine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Morphine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Morphine page.
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