Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Brivaracetam
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Brivaracetam: 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
Benzhydrocodone is a prodrug of the opioid hydrocodone, and opioids combined with other CNS depressants can produce profound sedation and respiratory depression. Brivaracetam adds somnolence and dizziness, so the risk of excess sedation is increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Brivaracetam 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 opioid and antiepileptic sedative effects.
What to do
Use the lowest effective opioid dose for the shortest duration and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially at initiation or dose increases. Counsel patients and caregivers on warning signs.
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 Brivaracetam
- Brivaracetam + Sodium oxybate Major
- Acetaminophen / phenyltoloxamine + Brivaracetam Moderate
- Alfentanil + Brivaracetam Moderate
- Alprazolam + Brivaracetam Moderate
- Amisulpride + Brivaracetam Moderate
- Amobarbital + Brivaracetam Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Brivaracetam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Brivaracetam 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. Benzhydrocodone is a prodrug of the opioid hydrocodone, and opioids combined with other CNS depressants can produce profound sedation and respiratory depression. Brivaracetam adds somnolence and dizziness, so the risk of excess sedation is increased.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Brivaracetam?
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 opioid dose for the shortest duration and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially at initiation or dose increases. Counsel patients and caregivers on warning signs.
What other medicines interact with Brivaracetam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Brivaracetam with, for example, Sodium oxybate, Acetaminophen / phenyltoloxamine, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Brivaracetam page.
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