Drug interactions
Levorphanol + Metaxalone
Severity: Major
Levorphanol and Metaxalone: major 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
Levorphanol is a potent opioid analgesic, and combining it with metaxalone increases sedation, impaired coordination and the risk of respiratory depression. Older patients and those new to opioids are most vulnerable.
What this interaction means in plain words
Levorphanol and Metaxalone 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 CNS and respiratory depression from an opioid agonist and a sedating muscle relaxant.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Warn patients against driving and alcohol use.
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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Other interactions of Metaxalone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Levorphanol with Metaxalone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Levorphanol and Metaxalone 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. Levorphanol is a potent opioid analgesic, and combining it with metaxalone increases sedation, impaired coordination and the risk of respiratory depression. Older patients and those new to opioids are most vulnerable.
How serious is the interaction between Levorphanol and Metaxalone?
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 doses for the shortest time and monitor sedation and respiratory rate. Warn patients against driving and alcohol use.
What other medicines interact with Metaxalone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metaxalone with, for example, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Metaxalone page.
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