Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Esketamine
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Esketamine: 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. With esketamine, risks of profound sedation and respiratory depression increase.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Esketamine 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 between an opioid and esketamine.
What to do
Avoid unnecessary co-use; if required, use the lowest effective opioid dose and monitor sedation and respiratory rate after esketamine administration.
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 Esketamine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Esketamine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Esketamine 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. With esketamine, risks of profound sedation and respiratory depression increase.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Esketamine?
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 unnecessary co-use; if required, use the lowest effective opioid dose and monitor sedation and respiratory rate after esketamine administration.
What other medicines interact with Esketamine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Esketamine with, for example, Alfentanil, Amobarbital, Belladonna and opium. The full list is on the Esketamine page.
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