Can I take Codeine and Omeprazole together?
Drug interaction guide
Originally published 12 May 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
- Audio Version
Omeprazole may slightly reduce the effectiveness of codeine for some people. You might find that your pain is not as well-controlled as usual.
In this article:
Video picks for Drug interactions
Continue reading below
Why this happens
Codeine needs to be converted into morphine by a specific enzyme in the liver (called CYP2D6) to provide pain relief. Omeprazole can slightly interfere with this process, meaning less codeine is turned into the active pain-killing form. Additionally, omeprazole reduces stomach acid, which can sometimes change how quickly codeine tablets dissolve and enter your system.
What you should do
Back to contentsIt is generally safe to take these two medicines together. However, if you feel that your pain relief is not working as well as it should, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. They may suggest a different type of painkiller or a different medicine for your stomach acid.
Continue reading below
Using other medicines
Back to contentsTaking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.
Disclaimer
This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.
Patient picks for Drug interactions
Drug interactions checker
Can I take Devil's claw and Ginger together?
Taking devil's claw and ginger together may increase your risk of bruising or bleeding. Both of these herbal supplements have natural blood-thinning properties. While the risk is generally low for healthy individuals, it becomes more significant if you are already taking blood-thinning medications or have an upcoming surgery.
Drug interactions checker
Can I take Sertraline and Fluoxetine together?
Taking sertraline and fluoxetine together significantly increases the risk of a rare but serious condition called serotonin syndrome. This happens because both medicines work by increasing the level of a chemical called serotonin in your brain. If levels get too high, it can cause symptoms like shivering, diarrhoea, confusion, severe muscle tightness, fever, and even seizures. Additionally, fluoxetine can slow down how your body breaks down sertraline, leading to a build-up of the drug in your system and increasing the risk of side effects.
Continue reading below
Article history
The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
12 May 2026 | Originally published
Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.
Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.