Drug interactions
Brexanolone + Codeine
Severity: Major
Brexanolone and Codeine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Brexanolone causes excessive sedation and sudden loss of consciousness, and codeine adds opioid CNS depression. Together the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression rises.
What this interaction means in plain words
Brexanolone and Codeine 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 through GABA-A modulation and mu-opioid agonism.
What to do
Monitor continuously for sedation and oxygen saturation during infusion. Consider reducing or withholding codeine if excessive sedation develops.
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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References
Other interactions of Codeine
- Alvimopan + Codeine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Codeine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Codeine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Codeine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Brexanolone with Codeine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Brexanolone and Codeine 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. Brexanolone causes excessive sedation and sudden loss of consciousness, and codeine adds opioid CNS depression. Together the risk of profound sedation and respiratory depression rises.
How serious is the interaction between Brexanolone and Codeine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor continuously for sedation and oxygen saturation during infusion. Consider reducing or withholding codeine if excessive sedation develops.
What other medicines interact with Codeine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Codeine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Codeine page.
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