Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Metaxalone
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Metaxalone: 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 an opioid prodrug of hydrocodone, and metaxalone causes drowsiness. Together they can produce profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Metaxalone 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 central nervous system and respiratory depression through pharmacodynamic synergism.
What to do
Reserve the combination for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest doses and shortest duration. 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 Metaxalone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Metaxalone 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 an opioid prodrug of hydrocodone, and metaxalone causes drowsiness. Together they can produce profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reserve the combination for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Metaxalone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metaxalone with, for example, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium, Buprenorphine buccal. The full list is on the Metaxalone page.
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