Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Cyproheptadine
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Cyproheptadine: 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 hydrocodone, an opioid. Sedating antihistamines such as cyproheptadine can add to opioid-induced sedation, and profound sedation or respiratory depression may result.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Cyproheptadine 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.
What to do
Limit dose and duration of both drugs and monitor for sedation and slowed breathing. Consider a non-sedating antihistamine as an alternative.
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 Cyproheptadine
- Cyproheptadine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Cyproheptadine Major
- Belladonna and opium + Cyproheptadine Major
- Brexanolone + Cyproheptadine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Cyproheptadine 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 hydrocodone, an opioid. Sedating antihistamines such as cyproheptadine can add to opioid-induced sedation, and profound sedation or respiratory depression may result.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Limit dose and duration of both drugs and monitor for sedation and slowed breathing. Consider a non-sedating antihistamine as an alternative.
What other medicines interact with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyproheptadine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Cyproheptadine page.
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