Drug interactions
Codeine + Flurazepam
Severity: Major
Codeine and Flurazepam: 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
Opioids with benzodiazepines can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites that prolong the risk, especially in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Codeine and Flurazepam 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 via opioid receptors and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Avoid combining when possible; otherwise limit doses and duration and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Consider a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic alternative.
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 Codeine with Flurazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Codeine and Flurazepam 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. Opioids with benzodiazepines can lead to profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites that prolong the risk, especially in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Codeine and Flurazepam?
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 combining when possible; otherwise limit doses and duration and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Consider a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic alternative.
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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