Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Chlorpheniramine
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Chlorpheniramine: 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
Both drugs depress the central nervous system. Together they increase sedation, respiratory depression and impaired psychomotor performance, particularly in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Chlorpheniramine 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 depression between a sedating antihistamine and an opioid.
What to do
Use a non-sedating antihistamine if possible. If combined, use the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
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 Chlorpheniramine
- Belladonna and opium + Chlorpheniramine Major
- Brexanolone + Chlorpheniramine Major
- Buprenorphine long-acting + Chlorpheniramine Major
- Buprenorphine subdermal implant + Chlorpheniramine Major
- Buprenorphine transdermal + Chlorpheniramine Major
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Chlorpheniramine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Chlorpheniramine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Chlorpheniramine 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. Both drugs depress the central nervous system. Together they increase sedation, respiratory depression and impaired psychomotor performance, particularly in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Chlorpheniramine?
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 a non-sedating antihistamine if possible. If combined, use the lowest doses for the shortest time and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpheniramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpheniramine with, for example, Belladonna and opium, Brexanolone, Buprenorphine long-acting. The full list is on the Chlorpheniramine page.
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