Drug interactions
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Phenelzine: 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, and opioids with MAOIs may produce serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. The product is not recommended during or within 14 days of MAOI use.
What this interaction means in plain words
Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Phenelzine 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 serotonergic and CNS-depressant effects; MAO inhibition may amplify opioid effects.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use and for 14 days after stopping phenelzine; use a non-opioid analgesic. If an opioid is urgently needed, give small test doses and monitor blood pressure and respiratory status closely.
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 Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Phenelzine 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, and opioids with MAOIs may produce serotonin syndrome or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. The product is not recommended during or within 14 days of MAOI use.
How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Phenelzine?
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 concurrent use and for 14 days after stopping phenelzine; use a non-opioid analgesic. If an opioid is urgently needed, give small test doses and monitor blood pressure and respiratory status closely.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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