Drug interactions
Methadone + Papaveretum
Severity: Major
Methadone 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, so combining it with methadone duplicates opioid effects. The result may be excessive sedation, respiratory depression and overdose.
What this interaction means in plain words
Methadone 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 mu-opioid receptor agonism.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use unless intended and dose-adjusted; use the lowest effective doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation. Keep naloxone available.
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 Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Methadone with Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Methadone 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, so combining it with methadone duplicates opioid effects. The result may be excessive sedation, respiratory depression and overdose.
How serious is the interaction between Methadone 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: Avoid concurrent use unless intended and dose-adjusted; use the lowest effective doses and monitor respiratory rate and sedation. Keep naloxone available.
What other medicines interact with Methadone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Methadone with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Droperidol. The full list is on the Methadone page.
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