Drug interactions
Cyproheptadine + Papaveretum
Severity: Major
Cyproheptadine and Papaveretum: 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
Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, and sedating antihistamines can intensify its central depressant effects. This may produce marked drowsiness and, at higher doses, respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cyproheptadine 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 central nervous system and respiratory depression from opioid and sedating antihistamine activity.
What to do
Use the lowest effective opioid dose and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Counsel patients to avoid driving and alcohol.
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 Cyproheptadine
- Cyproheptadine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Cyproheptadine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Cyproheptadine Major
- Belladonna and opium + Cyproheptadine Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Cyproheptadine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cyproheptadine with Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cyproheptadine 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, and sedating antihistamines can intensify its central depressant effects. This may produce marked drowsiness and, at higher doses, respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Cyproheptadine 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 opioid dose and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Counsel patients to avoid driving and alcohol.
What other medicines interact with Cyproheptadine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyproheptadine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Cyproheptadine page.
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