Apricot Kernel - Codeine Phosphate Interaction
Herbal: Apricot Kernel
Also Known As: Amygdalin, Amygdaloside, Apricot Almonds, Apricot Kernel Oil, Apricot Seed, Bitter Almonds, Bitter Apricot Kernel, Chinese Almond, Laetrile, Madelonitrile, Prunus Armeniaca Seed, Prunus Armeniaca Kernel, Prunus Kernel, Vitamin B17, Vitamine B17, Xing Ren
Drug: Codeine Phosphate
Brand names:
Codeine
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 04, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Codeine Phosphate and Apricot Kernel. This does not mean the potential for an interaction does not exist, however. There is often a lack of studies and data surrounding traditional medicine, especially concerning drug interactions, so it is important to always consult your provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.
Apricot Kernel Overview
Apricots are a type of fruit native to China and are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and dietary fiber. They are also a source of antioxidants, which may help to protect the body from damage by harmful molecules known as free radicals.
The pit of the apricot contains a seed, which is known as the apricot kernel.
Apricot kernel supplements are different from apricot supplements as they are made from apricot kernels while apricot supplements are made from the whole apricot. Apricot kernel supplements are high in a compound called amygdalin, which is sometimes referred to as vitamin B17 (although laetrile, a semi-synthetic form of amygdalin is also known as vitamin B17), which is purported to have numerous health benefits, including as an anti-cancer agent, but this has not been shown in studies. It is important to note that consumption of amygdalin and laetrile is associated with cyanide poisoning after they are metabolized by the body. Apricot kernel supplements therefore must be used cautiously. Apricot kernel also contains pangamic acid, which is sometimes referred to as vitamin B15.
Codeine Phosphate Overview
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Codeine is used to relieve mild to moderate pain. It is also used, usually in combination with other medications, to reduce coughing. Codeine will help relieve symptoms but will not treat the cause of symptoms or speed recovery. Codeine belongs to a class of medications called opiate (narcotic) analgesics and to a class of medications called antitussives. When codeine is used to treat pain, it works by changing the way the brain and nervous system respond to pain. When codeine is used to reduce coughing, it works by decreasing the activity in the part of the brain that causes coughing.
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Codeine is also available in combination with acetaminophen (Capital and Codeine, Tylenol with Codeine), aspirin, carisoprodol, and promethazine and as an ingredient in many cough and cold medications. This monograph only includes information about the use of codeine. If you are taking a codeine combination product, be sure to read information about all the ingredients in the product you are taking and ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Apricot Kernel - More Interactions
Apricot Kernel interacts with 0 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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