Drug interactions
Opium tincture + Phenelzine
Severity: Major
Opium tincture and Phenelzine: 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
Opium tincture contains morphine, and opioids with MAOIs may cause serotonin toxicity or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. Blood pressure may swing unpredictably.
What this interaction means in plain words
Opium tincture and Phenelzine 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
Probably serotonergic effects and potentiated CNS depression in the presence of MAO inhibition; mechanism not fully defined.
What to do
Avoid within 14 days of phenelzine. If an opioid is unavoidable, start with small test doses and monitor respiration, blood pressure and mental status.
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 Phenelzine
- 5-HTP + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Atomoxetine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Benzphetamine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Brimonidine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Opium tincture with Phenelzine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Opium tincture and Phenelzine 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. Opium tincture contains morphine, and opioids with MAOIs may cause serotonin toxicity or opioid toxicity such as respiratory depression and coma. Blood pressure may swing unpredictably.
How serious is the interaction between Opium tincture and Phenelzine?
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 within 14 days of phenelzine. If an opioid is unavoidable, start with small test doses and monitor respiration, blood pressure and mental status.
What other medicines interact with Phenelzine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenelzine with, for example, 5-HTP, Amitriptyline, Amoxapine. The full list is on the Phenelzine page.
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