Drug interactions
Codeine + Scullcap
Severity: Minor
Codeine and Scullcap: 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
Scullcap has traditionally been used as a calming herbal remedy and may have mild sedative properties. Taken with codeine it could add to drowsiness, though clinical data are scarce.
What this interaction means in plain words
Codeine and Scullcap have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Possible additive central nervous system depression; mechanism is theoretical and not well established.
What to do
Advise the patient to report increased drowsiness and avoid driving until response is known. Consider stopping the herbal product if excess sedation occurs.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Codeine with Scullcap?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Codeine and Scullcap have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Scullcap has traditionally been used as a calming herbal remedy and may have mild sedative properties. Taken with codeine it could add to drowsiness, though clinical data are scarce.
How serious is the interaction between Codeine and Scullcap?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise the patient to report increased drowsiness and avoid driving until response is known. Consider stopping the herbal product if excess sedation occurs.
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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