Drug interactions
Morphine + Propofol
Severity: Major
Morphine and Propofol: 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
Propofol and morphine both depress the central nervous system, and together they produce deeper sedation and more respiratory depression than either alone. Hypotension and apnea are more likely, particularly with bolus dosing or in frail patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Morphine and Propofol 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.
Morphine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Propofol belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive CNS and respiratory depression through opioid receptor agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Titrate both agents to effect, usually reducing the propofol dose when an opioid is on board. Monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure continuously, with airway support 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 Morphine
- Alvimopan + Morphine Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Morphine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Morphine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Morphine + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Morphine Major
Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Morphine with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Morphine and Propofol 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. Propofol and morphine both depress the central nervous system, and together they produce deeper sedation and more respiratory depression than either alone. Hypotension and apnea are more likely, particularly with bolus dosing or in frail patients.
How serious is the interaction between Morphine and Propofol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Titrate both agents to effect, usually reducing the propofol dose when an opioid is on board. Monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and blood pressure continuously, with airway support available.
What other medicines interact with Morphine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Morphine with, for example, Alvimopan, Isocarboxazid, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Morphine page.
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