Drug interactions
Codeine + Imatinib
Severity: Minor
Codeine and Imatinib: minor 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP2D6 and may reduce conversion of codeine to its active metabolite morphine, potentially weakening analgesia. The clinical significance is uncertain and probably modest.
What this interaction means in plain words
Codeine and Imatinib have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Codeine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Imatinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
CYP2D6 inhibition by imatinib reduces codeine bioactivation to morphine.
What to do
Monitor analgesic response and switch to an alternative opioid not dependent on CYP2D6 if pain control is poor.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Codeine
- Alvimopan + Codeine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Codeine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Codeine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Codeine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Codeine Major
Other interactions of Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Codeine with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Codeine and Imatinib have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Imatinib inhibits CYP2D6 and may reduce conversion of codeine to its active metabolite morphine, potentially weakening analgesia. The clinical significance is uncertain and probably modest.
How serious is the interaction between Codeine and Imatinib?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor analgesic response and switch to an alternative opioid not dependent on CYP2D6 if pain control is poor.
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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