Drug interactions
Codeine + Propofol
Severity: Major
Codeine and Propofol: 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
Propofol and opioids such as codeine act together to deepen sedation and depress breathing and blood pressure. Opioid premedication generally reduces the propofol dose needed for anesthesia or sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Codeine and Propofol 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.
Codeine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Propofol belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression with synergistic anesthetic effects.
What to do
Use only where airway management and continuous monitoring (oxygen saturation, capnography, blood pressure) are available. Titrate propofol to effect and expect to reduce the dose.
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
Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Codeine with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Codeine and Propofol 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. Propofol and opioids such as codeine act together to deepen sedation and depress breathing and blood pressure. Opioid premedication generally reduces the propofol dose needed for anesthesia or sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Codeine and Propofol?
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 only where airway management and continuous monitoring (oxygen saturation, capnography, blood pressure) are available. Titrate propofol to effect and expect to reduce the dose.
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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