Drug interactions
Diphenoxylate-atropine + Scullcap
Severity: Moderate
Diphenoxylate-atropine and Scullcap: moderate 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
Skullcap herbal products are traditionally used as sedatives and may add to the drowsiness caused by diphenoxylate. Evidence is limited and product content varies.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diphenoxylate-atropine and Scullcap can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Presumed additive CNS depression; the herbal sedative mechanism is not well established.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid skullcap while taking diphenoxylate-atropine, or monitor for excess drowsiness. Caution against driving if sedated.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Diphenoxylate-atropine
- Diphenoxylate-atropine + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Diphenoxylate-atropine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Diphenoxylate-atropine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Diphenoxylate-atropine Major
- Alvimopan + Diphenoxylate-atropine Major
- Amitriptyline + Diphenoxylate-atropine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diphenoxylate-atropine with Scullcap?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Diphenoxylate-atropine and Scullcap can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Skullcap herbal products are traditionally used as sedatives and may add to the drowsiness caused by diphenoxylate. Evidence is limited and product content varies.
How serious is the interaction between Diphenoxylate-atropine and Scullcap?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid skullcap while taking diphenoxylate-atropine, or monitor for excess drowsiness. Caution against driving if sedated.
What other medicines interact with Diphenoxylate-atropine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diphenoxylate-atropine with, for example, Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine. The full list is on the Diphenoxylate-atropine page.
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