Drug interactions
Chlorpheniramine + Papaveretum
Severity: Major
Chlorpheniramine and Papaveretum: 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
Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, which cause sedation and respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine can add to these effects and increase the risk of oversedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpheniramine and Papaveretum 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 from opioid agonism and H1 antagonism.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation level and respiratory rate. Avoid concurrent alcohol and other depressants.
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 Chlorpheniramine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpheniramine with Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlorpheniramine and Papaveretum 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. Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, which cause sedation and respiratory depression. Chlorpheniramine can add to these effects and increase the risk of oversedation.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpheniramine and Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use the lowest effective doses and monitor sedation level and respiratory rate. Avoid concurrent alcohol and other depressants.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpheniramine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpheniramine with, for example, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen, Brexanolone. The full list is on the Chlorpheniramine page.
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