Posted by Cam W. on September 12, 2001, at 1:43:05
In reply to CAM: question about codeine and antidepressants, posted by shelliR on September 11, 2001, at 18:03:52
Shelli - I don't think that opiates interfere with the efficacy of antidepressants, but some antidepressants interfere with codeine (ie. stop the conversion of codeine to morphine, in the body). This may be a problem with the inhibition of certain cytochrome enzymes (2D6?).
Also, certain SSRIs need to be used with caution with Demerol™ (meperidine)(can't remember why, but I think that it has something to do with hypertensive crisis via serotonin syndrome).
The endorphin system and the HPA axis (the body's stress control system) are strongly linked, but I do not know enough about it to make a definitive statement about it. It would seem that certain subtypes of depression could result as a breakdown in the endorphin system. I did read this somewhere, but I can't find the reference paper in my files.
Perhaps Elizabeth may have a better understanding of this. Hopefully, she can help shed more a accurate light on your situation.
Sorry that I cannot be of more help. - Cam W (just a user name).
poster:Cam W.
thread:78595
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010907/msgs/78620.html