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9 Interactions found for:

Norco and Cymbalta
Interactions Summary
  • 5 Major
  • 2 Moderate
  • 2 Minor
  • Norco
  • Cymbalta

Drug Interactions

Moderate
Norco + Cymbalta

The following applies to the ingredients: Hydrocodone (found in Norco) and Duloxetine (found in Cymbalta)

MONITOR: Opioids may potentiate the effects of serotonergic agents and increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. The interaction has primarily been reported with the phenylpiperidine opioids (e.g., meperidine, fentanyl) and tramadol, which are known to possess some serotonergic activity, although a few cases have involved other opioids such as oxycodone, methadone, morphine, hydromorphone, codeine, and buprenorphine. Serotonin syndrome is a rare but serious and potentially fatal condition thought to result from hyperstimulation of brainstem 5-HT1A and 2A receptors. Symptoms of the serotonin syndrome may include mental status changes such as irritability, altered consciousness, confusion, hallucinations, and coma; autonomic dysfunction such as tachycardia, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, shivering, blood pressure lability, and mydriasis; neuromuscular abnormalities such as hyperreflexia, myoclonus, tremor, rigidity, and ataxia; and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Since many serotonergic agents can also cause central nervous system depression, concomitant use with opioids may result in increased sedation and impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised when opioids are used concomitantly with serotonergic agents such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), other antidepressants/psychotropic agents (e.g., amoxapine, buspirone, lithium, maprotiline, mirtazepine, nefazodone, trazodone, vilazodone), 5-HT1 receptor agonists (triptans), 5-HT3 receptor antagonists, cyclobenzaprine, dextromethorphan, 5-hydroxytryptophan, and St. John's wort. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of the serotonin syndrome during treatment. Particular caution is advised when increasing the dosages of these agents. If serotonin syndrome develops or is suspected during the course of therapy, all serotonergic agents should be discontinued immediately and supportive care rendered as necessary. Moderately ill patients may also benefit from the administration of a serotonin antagonist (e.g., cyproheptadine, chlorpromazine). Severe cases should be managed under consultation with a toxicologist and may require sedation, neuromuscular paralysis, intubation, and mechanical ventilation in addition to the other measures. Patients should also be advised of potentially additive central nervous system effects from these agents and to avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until they know how these agents affect them.

References

  1. Meyer D, Halfin V "Toxicity secondary to meperidine in patients on monoamine oxidase inhibitors: a case report and critical review." J Clin Psychopharmacol 1 (1981): 319-21
  2. Zornberg GL, Bodkin JA, Cohen BM "Severe adverse interaction between pethidine and selegiline." Lancet 337 (1991): 246
  3. Hansen TE, Dieter K, Keepers GA "Interaction of fluoxetine and pentazocine." Am J Psychiatry 147 (1990): 949-50
  4. Sternbach H "The serotonin syndrome." Am J Psychiatry 148 (1991): 705-13
  5. Noble WH, Baker A "MAO inhibitors and coronary artery surgery: a patient death." Can J Anaesth 39 (1992): 1061-6
  6. Insler SR, Kraenzler EJ, Licina MG, Savage RM, Starr NJ "Cardiac surgery in a patient taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors - an adverse fentanyl reaction." Anesth Analg 78 (1994): 593-7
  7. Mason BJ, Blackburn KH "Possible serotonin syndrome associated with tramadol and sertraline coadministration." Ann Pharmacother 31 (1997): 175-7
  8. Mills KC "Serotonin syndrome: A clinical update." Crit Care Clin 13 (1997): 763
  9. Chan BSH, Graudins A, Whyte IM, Dawson AH, Braitberg G, Duggin GG "Serotonin syndrome resulting from drug interactions." Med J Aust 169 (1998): 523-5
  10. Egberts AC, ter Borg J, Brodie-Meijer CC "Serotonin syndrome attributed to tramadol addition to paroxetine therapy." Int Clin Psychopharmacol 12 (1997): 181-2
  11. Rosebraugh CJ, floxkhart DA, Yasuda SU, Woosley RL "Visual hallucination and tremor induced by sertraline and oxycodone in a bone marrow transplant patient." J Clin Pharmacol 41 (2001): 224-7
  12. Lange-Asschenfeldt C, Weigmann H, Hiemke C, Mann K "Serotonin syndrome as a result of fluoxetine in a patient with tramadol abuse: plasma level-correlated symptomatology." J Clin Psychopharmacol 22 (2002): 440-1
  13. Kesavan S, Sobala GM "Serotonin syndrome with fluoxetine plus tramadol." J R Soc Med 92 (1999): 474-5
  14. Gonzalez-Pinto A, Imaz H, De Heredia JL, Gutierrez M, Mico JA "Mania and tramadol-fluoxetine combination." Am J Psychiatry 158 (2001): 964-5
  15. Dougherty JA, Young H, Shafi T "Serotonin syndrome induced by amitriptyline, meperidine, and venlafaxine." Ann Pharmacother 36 (2002): 1647-1648
  16. Martin TG "Serotonin syndrome." Ann Emerg Med 28 (1996): 520-6
  17. Tissot TA "Probable meperidine-induced serotonin syndrome in a patient with a history of fluoxetine use." Anesthesiology 98 (2003): 1511-1512
  18. Roy S, Fortier LP "Fentanyl-induced rigidity during emergence from general anesthesia potentiated by venlafexine." Can J Anaesth 50 (2003): 32-5
  19. Gillman PK "Possible serotonin syndrome with moclobemide and pethidine." Med J Aust 162 (1995): 554
  20. Houlihan DJ "Serotonin syndrome resulting from coadministration of tramadol, venlafaxine, and mirtazapine." Ann Pharmacother 38 (2004): 411-3
  21. "Venlafaxine + tramadol: serotonin syndrome." Prescrire Int 13 (2004): 57
  22. Mahlberg R, Kunz D, Sasse J, Kirchheiner J "Serotonin syndrome with tramadol and citalopram." Am J Psychiatry 161 (2004): 1129
  23. Mittino D, Mula M, Monaco F "Serotonin syndrome associated with tramadol-sertraline coadministration." Clin Neuropharmacol 27 (2004): 150-1
  24. Lantz MS, Buchalter EN, Giambanco V "Serotonin syndrome following the administration of tramadol with paroxetine." Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 13 (1998): 343-5
  25. Gillman PK "Monoamine oxidase inhibitors, opioid analgesics and serotonin toxicity." Br J Anaesth (2005):
  26. Kitson R, Carr B "Tramadol and severe serotonin syndrome." Anaesthesia 60 (2005): 934-5
  27. Gnanadesigan N, Espinoza RT, Smith R, Israel M, Reuben DB "Interaction of serotonergic antidepressants and opioid analgesics: Is serotonin syndrome going undetected?" J Am Med Dir Assoc 6 (2005): 265-9
  28. Hunter B, Kleinert MM, Osatnik J, Soria E "Serotonergic syndrome and abnormal ocular movements: worsening of rigidity by remifentanil?" Anesth Analg 102 (2006): 1589
  29. Ailawadhi S, Sung KW, Carlson LA, Baer MR "Serotonin syndrome caused by interaction between citalopram and fentanyl." J Clin Pharm Ther 32 (2007): 199-202
  30. Vizcaychipi MP, Walker S, Palazzo M "Serotonin syndrome triggered by tramadol." Br J Anaesth 99 (2007): 919
  31. Das PK, Warkentin DI, Hewko R, Forrest DL "Serotonin syndrome after concomitant treatment with linezolid and meperidine." Clin Infect Dis 46 (2008): 264-5
  32. Rang ST, Field J, Irving C "Serotonin toxicity caused by an interaction between fentanyl and paroxetine." Can J Anaesth 55 (2008): 521-5
  33. Guo SL, Wu TJ, Liu CC, Ng CC, Chien CC, Sun HL "Meperidine-induced serotonin syndrome in a susceptible patient." Br J Anaesth (2009):
  34. Davis JJ, Buck NS, Swenson JD, Johnson KB, Greis PE "Serotonin syndrome manifesting as patient movement during total intravenous anesthesia with propofol and remifentanil." J Clin Anesth 25 (2013): 52-4
  35. Hillman AD, Witenko CJ, Sultan SM, Gala G "Serotonin syndrome caused by fentanyl and methadone in a burn injury." Pharmacotherapy 35 (2015): 112-7
  36. Mateo-Carrasco H, Munoz-Aguilera EM, Garcia-Torrecillas JM, Abu Al-Robb H "Serotonin syndrome probably triggered by a morphine-phenelzine interaction." Pharmacotherapy 35 (2015): e102-5
  37. Abadie D, Rousseau V, Logerot S, Cottin J, Montastruc JL, Montastruc F "Serotonin Syndrome: Analysis of Cases Registered in the French Pharmacovigilance Database." J Clin Psychopharmacol (2015):
  38. Shakoor M, Ayub S, Ahad A, Ayub Z "Transient serotonin syndrome caused by concurrent use of tramadol and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor." Am J Case Rep 15 (2014): 562-4
  39. Larson KJ, Wittwer ED, Nicholson WT, Weingarten TN, Price DL, Sprung J "Myoclonus in patient on fluoxetine after receiving fentanyl and low-dose methylene blue during sentinel lymph node biopsy." J Clin Anesth 27 (2015): 247-51
  40. US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) "FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA warns about several safety issues with opioid pain medicines; requires label changes. https://www.fda.gov/downloads/Drugs/DrugSafety/UCM491302.pdf" (2018):

Drug and Food Interactions

Major
Norco + Food

The following applies to the ingredients: Hydrocodone (found in Norco)

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) depressant effects of opioid analgesics including hydrocodone. Concomitant use may result in additive CNS depression and impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills. In more severe cases, hypotension, respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, or even death may occur.

GENERALLY AVOID: Consumption of alcohol while taking some sustained-release formulations of hydrocodone may cause rapid release of the drug, resulting in high systemic levels of hydrocodone that may be potentially lethal. Alcohol apparently can disrupt the release mechanism of some sustained-release formulations. In study subjects, the rate of absorption of hydrocodone from an extended-release formulation was found to be affected by coadministration with 40% alcohol in the fasted state, as demonstrated by an average 2.4-fold (up to 3.9-fold in one subject) increase in hydrocodone peak plasma concentration and a decrease in the time to peak concentration. Alcohol also increased the extent of absorption by an average of 1.2-fold (up to 1.7-fold in one subject).

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of hydrocodone. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated metabolism of hydrocodone by certain compounds present in grapefruit. Increased hydrocodone concentrations could conceivably increase or prolong adverse drug effects and may cause potentially fatal respiratory depression.

MANAGEMENT: Patients taking sustained-release formulations of hydrocodone should not consume alcohol or use medications that contain alcohol. In general, potent narcotics such as hydrocodone should not be combined with alcohol. Patients should also avoid consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with hydrocodone.

References

  1. "Product Information. Zohydro ER (hydrocodone)." Zogenix, Inc (2013):

The following applies to the ingredients: Acetaminophen (found in Norco)

GENERALLY AVOID: Chronic, excessive consumption of alcohol may increase the risk of acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity, which has included rare cases of fatal hepatitis and frank hepatic failure requiring liver transplantation. The proposed mechanism is induction of hepatic microsomal enzymes during chronic alcohol use, which may result in accelerated metabolism of acetaminophen and increased production of potentially hepatotoxic metabolites.

MANAGEMENT: In general, chronic alcoholics should avoid regular or excessive use of acetaminophen. Alternative analgesic/antipyretic therapy may be appropriate in patients who consume three or more alcoholic drinks per day. However, if acetaminophen is used, these patients should be cautioned not to exceed the recommended dosage (maximum 4 g/day in adults and children 12 years of age or older).

References

  1. Kaysen GA, Pond SM, Roper MH, Menke DJ, Marrama MA "Combined hepatic and renal injury in alcoholics during therapeutic use of acetaminophen." Arch Intern Med 145 (1985): 2019-23
  2. O'Dell JR, Zetterman RK, Burnett DA "Centrilobular hepatic fibrosis following acetaminophen-induced hepatic necrosis in an alcoholic." JAMA 255 (1986): 2636-7
  3. Seeff LB, Cuccherini BA, Zimmerman HJ, Adler E, Benjamin SB "Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity in alcoholics." Ann Intern Med 104 (1986): 399-404
  4. Thummel KE, Slattery JT, Nelson SD "Mechanism by which ethanol diminishes the hepatotoxicity of acetaminophen." J Pharmacol Exp Ther 245 (1988): 129-36
  5. McClain CJ, Kromhout JP, Peterson FJ, Holtzman JL "Potentiation of acetaminophen hepatotoxicity by alcohol." JAMA 244 (1980): 251-3
  6. Kartsonis A, Reddy KR, Schiff ER "Alcohol, acetaminophen, and hepatic necrosis." Ann Intern Med 105 (1986): 138-9
  7. Prescott LF, Critchley JA "Drug interactions affecting analgesic toxicity." Am J Med 75 (1983): 113-6
  8. "Product Information. Tylenol (acetaminophen)." McNeil Pharmaceutical PROD (2002):
  9. Whitcomb DC, Block GD "Association of acetaminopphen hepatotoxicity with fasting and ethanol use." JAMA 272 (1994): 1845-50
  10. Bonkovsky HL "Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity, fasting, and ethanol." JAMA 274 (1995): 301
  11. Nelson EB, Temple AR "Acetaminophen hepatotoxicity, fasting, and ethanol." JAMA 274 (1995): 301
  12. Zimmerman HJ, Maddrey WC "Acetaminophen (paracetamol) hepatotoxicity with regular intake of alcohol: analysis of instances of therapeutic misadventure." Hepatology 22 (1995): 767-73

Moderate
Cymbalta + Food

The following applies to the ingredients: Duloxetine (found in Cymbalta)

GENERALLY AVOID: Use of duloxetine in conjunction with chronic alcohol consumption may potentiate the risk of liver injury. Duloxetine alone can increase serum transaminase levels. In clinical trials, 0.3% of patients discontinued duloxetine due to liver transaminase elevations. The median time to detection was about two months. Three duloxetine-treated patients had liver injury as manifested by transaminase and bilirubin elevations, with evidence of obstruction. Substantial intercurrent ethanol use was present in each of these cases, which may have contributed to the abnormalities observed. Duloxetine does not appear to enhance the central nervous system effects of alcohol. When duloxetine and ethanol were administered several hours apart so that peak concentrations of each would coincide, duloxetine did not increase the impairment of mental and motor skills caused by alcohol.

MANAGEMENT: Due to the risk of liver injury, patients prescribed duloxetine should be counseled to avoid excessive use of alcohol. Duloxetine should generally not be prescribed to patients with substantial alcohol use.

References

  1. "Product Information. Cymbalta (duloxetine)." Lilly, Eli and Company (2004):

Drug and Pregnancy Interactions

The following applies to the ingredients: Hydrocodone (found in Norco)

Benefit should outweigh risk

US FDA pregnancy category: Not assigned

Risk Summary: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm; prolonged maternal use of opioids during pregnancy may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome.

Comments:
-Women should be advised of the risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
-Long-acting opioids should not be used during and immediately prior to labor, when short acting analgesics or other analgesic techniques are more appropriate.

Rats administered this drug during gestation and lactation showed increases in stillborn pups and decreases in pup survival at doses equivalent to the human dose of 100 mg/day. Reduced nursing behavior and decreased body weights were observed at 2 times the human dose. Reduced fetal weights were observed in rabbits given this drug during the period of organogenesis at doses equivalent to 5 times the human dose of 100 mg/day. Additionally, increases in the number of umbilical hernias, irregularly shaped bones, and delays in fetal skeletal maturation were observed in the study at doses 15 times the human dose of 100 mg/day. No fetal malformations were observed in rats and rabbits at doses approximately 2 (rats) and 10 (rabbits) times a human dose of 100 mg/day. Prolonged use of opioid analgesics during pregnancy for medical or nonmedical purposes may cause neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Chronic opioid use may cause reduced fertility in males and females; it is unknown whether these effects on fertility are reversible.

US FDA pregnancy category Not Assigned: The US FDA has amended the pregnancy labeling rule for prescription drug products to require labeling that includes a summary of risk, a discussion of the data supporting that summary, and relevant information to help health care providers make prescribing decisions and counsel women about the use of drugs during pregnancy. Pregnancy categories A, B, C, D, and X are being phased out.

References

  1. "Product Information. Zohydro ER (hydrocodone)." Zogenix, Inc (2013):
  2. "Product Information. Hysingla ER (hydrocodone)." Purdue Pharma LP (2014):

The following applies to the ingredients: Acetaminophen-Hydrocodone (found in Norco)

Benefit should outweigh risk

US FDA pregnancy category: C

Comments:
-Prolonged use of opioids during pregnancy can result in physical dependence in the neonate; women should be advised of the risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome and ensure that appropriate treatment will be available.
-Monitor neonates exposed to opioid analgesics for signs of excess sedation and respiratory depression.

Opioid analgesics cross the placenta. Hydrocodone use during labor may cause respiratory depression in the newborn infant. Prolonged use of opioids during pregnancy can result in physical dependence in the neonate and neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome shortly after birth. The onset, duration, and severity of the condition will vary based on maternal use (duration of use, timing, and amount of last use) and rate of elimination in the newborn. Acetaminophen has not been associated with major congenital malformations, although animal studies have identified adverse effects at clinically relevant doses. Epidemiologic data do not clearly report an association with oral acetaminophen and major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes when this drug is used during pregnancy, but due to methodological limitations cannot definitively establish the absence of any risk. In pregnant rats receiving oral drug at doses up to 0.88 times maximum human daily dose (MHDD) during organogenesis, fetotoxicity (reduced fetal weight and length) and dose-related increases in bone variations (reduced ossification and rudimentary rib changes) were observed. Areas of necrosis in both the liver and kidney of pregnant rats and fetuses were observed when pregnant rats were given oral drug throughout gestation at doses 1.2 times the maximum human daily dose. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Chronic use of opioids may cause reduced fertility; it is unknown whether these effects are reversible.

FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

References

  1. "Product Information. Norco (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Allergan Inc (2017):
  2. "Product Information. Lortab (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Akorn Inc (2017):
  3. "Product Information. Acetaminophen-Hydrocodone Bitartrate (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Mikart Inc (2017):

The following applies to the ingredients: Duloxetine (found in Cymbalta)

This drug should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

AU TGA pregnancy category: B3
US FDA pregnancy category: Not assigned.

Risk summary: Observational study data have not produced clear drug-associated risks regarding adverse events or major birth defects.

Comments:
-A pregnancy exposure registry is available.
-Neonates exposed to this drug late in the third trimester may require respiratory support, tube feeding, and/or prolonged hospitalization.
-Exposed neonates should be monitored after delivery for direct toxic effects of this drug, drug discontinuation syndrome, and serotonin syndrome.
-Women who discontinued antidepressant use during pregnancy were more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continued antidepressant use.

Animal studies have revealed increased perinatal toxicity and fetotoxicity at doses potentially correlated with maternal toxicity. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Some neonates exposed to SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), or SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) late in the third trimester had clinical findings including respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycemia, hypotonia, hypertonia, hyperreflexia, tremor, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying. This clinical picture is consistent with either direct toxic effect of SSRIs and SNRIs, drug discontinuation syndrome, or serotonin syndrome.

A less than 2-fold increase in postpartum hemorrhage was determined by observational data in patients exposed to the drug within 1 month before birth.

A study of women with a history of major depression who were euthymic at the beginning of pregnancy, showed women who discontinued antidepressant medication during pregnancy were more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continued antidepressant medication.

To monitor maternal-fetal outcomes of pregnant women exposed to antidepressant therapy, a National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants has been established. Healthcare providers are encouraged to prospectively register patients. For additional information: https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants/

Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients receiving Cymbalta by calling the Cymbalta Pregnancy Registry at 1-866-814-6975 or by visiting www.cymbaltapregnancyregistry.com.

AU TGA pregnancy category B3: Drugs which have been taken by only a limited number of pregnant women and women of childbearing age, without an increase in the frequency of malformation or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the human fetus having been observed. Studies in animals have shown evidence of an increased occurrence of fetal damage, the significance of which is considered uncertain in humans.

US FDA pregnancy category Not Assigned: The US FDA has amended the pregnancy labeling rule for prescription drug products to require labeling that includes a summary of risk, a discussion of the data supporting that summary, and relevant information to help health care providers make prescribing decisions and counsel women about the use of drugs during pregnancy. Pregnancy categories A, B, C, D, and X are being phased out.

References

  1. "Product Information. Cymbalta (duloxetine)." Lilly, Eli and Company (2004):
  2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0
  3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0

The following applies to the ingredients: Acetaminophen (found in Norco)

Benefit should outweigh risk

AU TGA pregnancy category: A
US FDA pregnancy category: Not Assigned

Risk Summary: A clear association of drug use and birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes has not been shown with human use; animal studies have demonstrated adverse events at clinically relevant doses.

In pregnant rats receiving oral drug at doses up to 0.85 times maximum human daily dose (MHDD) during organogenesis, fetotoxicity and dose-related increases in bone variations (reduced ossification and rudimentary rib changes) were observed. Areas of necrosis in both the liver and kidney of pregnant rats and fetuses were observed when pregnant rats were given oral drug throughout gestation at doses 1.2 times the maximum human daily dose. Animal studies using the IV formulation have not been performed. In humans, this drug and its metabolites cross the placental barrier. Large cohort studies have not found an association between maternal use in the first trimester and either adverse pregnancy outcomes or congenital malformations. Some evidence of increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., attention deficit hyperactivity disorder [ADHD]), respiratory illness (e.g., asthma) and reproductive toxicity (e.g., androgen disruption) has been suggested in epidemiologic studies. However, extrapolating causation from pharmaco-epidemiological studies to humans is tricky considering various confounders and biases inherent in the study design. Associations seen in clinical cohort studies need clarification with randomized clinical trials (RCTs), which would be difficult to perform ethically in pregnant populations. The mechanism by which this drug or its metabolites affect neurological development, asthma, or endocrine/reproductive toxicity is poorly understood. It is important to factor in the risk of untreated febrile illness in mother and child when evaluating risks and benefits of using this drug. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.

Epidemiologic data, including a population based case-control study from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (n= 11,610) and data from 26,424 live singleton births have shown no increased risk of major birth defects in children with first trimester prenatal exposure. In 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration released results of their evaluation on published research studies looking at mothers who took this drug as either an over the counter or prescription product at any time during their pregnancy and the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity (ADHD) in their babies. They found all studies reviewed had potential limitations in their designs that prevented drawing reliable conclusions. In a prospective birth cohort study (Avon Longitudinal Study or Parents and Children [ALSPAC]) maternal drug exposure was assessed by questionnaire at 18 and 32 weeks, children were assessed at 61 months. Mothers were questioned about behavioral problems in their children at 7 years old; children's behavioral problems were assessed using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). A number of confounders were evaluated although a limitation of the study was lack of information for drug use. The authors suggest there may be an association between drug use during pregnancy and behavioral problems in childhood that may be due to an intrauterine mechanism. Further studies are needed to test alternatives to a causal explanation.

According to published animal studies, this drug may cause reduced fertility in both males and females described as decreased testicular weights, reduced spermatogenesis, reduced fertility; and reduced implantation sites, respectively.

AU TGA pregnancy category A: Drugs which have been taken by a large number of pregnant women and women of childbearing age without any proven increase in the frequency of malformations or other direct or indirect harmful effects on the fetus having been observed.

US FDA pregnancy category Not Assigned: The US FDA has amended the pregnancy labeling rule for prescription drug products to require labeling that includes a summary of risk, a discussion of the data supporting that summary, and relevant information to help health care providers make prescribing decisions and counsel women about the use of drugs during pregnancy. Pregnancy categories A, B, C, D, and X are being phased out.

References

  1. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0
  2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration U.S. Food and Drug Administration U.S. Food and Drug Administration U.S. Food and Drug Administration "FDA Drug Safety Communication: FDA has reviewed possible risks of pain medicine use during pregnancy http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/ucm429117.htm" (2015):
  3. "Product Information. Ofirmev (acetaminophen)." Cadence Pharmaceuticals Inc (2016):
  4. Stergaikoulie E, Thapar A, Davey Smith G "Association of acetaminophen use during pregnancy with behavioral problems in childhood: evidence against confounding." JAMA Pediatr 170 (2016): 964-70
  5. McCrae JC, Morrison EE, MacIntyre IM, Dear JW, Webb DJ "Long-term adverse effects of paracetamol - a review." Br J Clin Pharmacol 84 (2018): 2218-2230

Drug and Breastfeeding Interactions

The following applies to the ingredients: Hydrocodone (found in Norco)

Use is not recommended and a decision should be made to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Excreted into human milk: Yes

Comments: Infants exposed to this drug through breast milk should be closely monitored for excess sedation and respiratory depression; withdrawal symptoms can occur when maternal administration of hydrocodone is stopped or breastfeeding is stopped.

Maternal use of oral narcotics during breastfeeding can cause infant drowsiness, central nervous system depression, and even death. Newborns are particularly sensitive. Once a mother's milk comes in, it is best to provide pain control with a nonnarcotic analgesic. There are no studies describing drug levels of extended-release hydrocodone or its metabolites in breast milk. Hydrocodone is metabolized to 6 active metabolites including hydromorphone.

References

  1. United States National Library of Medicine "Toxnet. Toxicology Data Network. http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT" (2013):
  2. "Product Information. Zohydro ER (hydrocodone)." Zogenix, Inc (2013):
  3. "Product Information. Hysingla ER (hydrocodone)." Purdue Pharma LP (2014):

The following applies to the ingredients: Acetaminophen-Hydrocodone (found in Norco)

A decision should be made to discontinue breast-feeding or discontinue this drug, considering the importance of the drug to the mother

Excreted into human milk: Yes (acetaminophen) Yes (hydrocodone)

Comments:
-Breastfed infants should be monitored for excess sedation and respiratory depression; immediate medical attention should be sought if infant develops breathing difficulties or limpness.
-Withdrawal symptoms can occur in breastfed infants when maternal drug use or breastfeeding are stopped.

Breastfed infants of mothers who receive opioids, especially newborns, can experience drowsiness and CNS depression, even death. A study in 30 breastfeeding women found mean and median hydrocodone infant daily doses of 3.9 and 2.1 mcg/kg, respectively, which calculates to 2.4% and 1.6% of weight-adjusted maternal doses. Hydrocodone is metabolized to 6 active metabolites including hydromorphone. Mean and median hydromorphone daily doses of 2.1 and 0.3 mcg/kg, respectively, were found. Of interest was that 2 women excreted much more hydromorphone than others which might represent ultrarapid CYP450 2D6 metabolizers.

References

  1. United States National Library of Medicine "Toxnet. Toxicology Data Network. http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT" (2013):
  2. "Product Information. Norco (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Allergan Inc (2017):
  3. "Product Information. Lortab (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Akorn Inc (2017):
  4. "Product Information. Acetaminophen-Hydrocodone Bitartrate (acetaminophen-hydrocodone)." Mikart Inc (2017):

The following applies to the ingredients: Duloxetine (found in Cymbalta)

Use is not recommended and a decision should be made to discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Excreted into human milk: Yes

Comments:
-Some experts state that a more thoroughly studied alternative agent (e.g., nortriptyline, paroxetine, sertraline) may be preferred while breastfeeding premature or neonates.
-The American Academy of Pediatrics classifies other antidepressants as agents for which the effect on nursing infants is unknown but may be of concern.
-Exposed infants should be monitored for developmental milestones, feeding, sedation, weight gain, especially in younger infants who are exclusively breastfed and/or when breastfed infants are exposed to multiple antipsychotropic agents.

The estimated neonatal dose is approximately 0.1% to 0.3% of the maternal dose.

References

  1. "Product Information. Cymbalta (duloxetine)." Lilly, Eli and Company (2004):
  2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics." O 0
  3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0
  4. United States National Library of Medicine "Toxnet. Toxicology Data Network. http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT" (2013):
  5. Briggs GG, Freeman RK. "Drugs in Pregnancy and Lactation." Philadelphia, PA: Wolters Kluwer Health (2015):
  6. National Library of Medicine (US) "Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/" (2019):

The following applies to the ingredients: Acetaminophen (found in Norco)

Caution is recommended.

Excreted into human milk: Yes

Comments;
-This drug has been used without apparent harmful effects.
-This drug is considered compatible with breastfeeding by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

This drug is excreted into breast milk in very small amounts. Published reports reveal peak levels occur 1 to 2 hours after dosing and are undetectable after 12 hours. Reports have also shown infants ingesting 90 mL of breast milk every 3 hours would receive an average of 0.14% (range 0.04% to 0.23%) of the mother's dose; calculated to be a maximum maternal weight-adjusted dose of around 2%. Other studies have shown similar calculated maximal maternal weight adjusted doses (1.1% to 3.6%); these doses are about 0.5% of the lowest recommended infant dose of this drug. A single case of a maculopapular rash has been reported in a 2-month old nursing infant; the rash recurred on rechallenge.

References

  1. Committee on Drugs, 1992 to 1993 "The transfer of drugs and other chemicals into human milk." Pediatrics 93 (1994): 137-50
  2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information." O 0
  3. United States National Library of Medicine "Toxnet. Toxicology Data Network. http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT" (2013):
  4. "Product Information. Ofirmev (acetaminophen)." Cadence Pharmaceuticals Inc (2016):

Therapeutic Duplication Warnings

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Therapeutic duplication warnings are only returned when drugs within the same group exceed the recommended therapeutic duplication maximum.

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

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