Peppermint - Codeine Phosphate Interaction
Herbal: Peppermint
Also Known As: Mentha x piperita, Black Peppermint, Brandy Mint, Extract of Peppermint, Field Mint, Herba Menthae, Huile de Menthe Poivrée, Lamb Mint, M. Balsamea Willd Extract, Menta Pepperita, Menta Piperita, Mentha Balsamea, Mentha Oil, Mentha Piperita Extract, Mentha Piperita Oil
Drug: Codeine Phosphate
Brand names:
Codeine
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 18, 2025
Interaction Details
There were no interactions found between Codeine Phosphate and Peppermint. 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.
Pharmacist Analysis
Peppermint and peppermint oil have a number of theoretical interactions due to several lab and animal studies suggesting it can inhibit a variety of CYP metabolizing enzymes in the liver, including:
- CYP2C9
- CYP3A4
- CYP2C19
- CYP1A2
However, many of these interactions have not been seen in humans, and the likelihood of them being clinically significant is low. They are nevertheless important to be aware of.
There is no known interaction between peppermint and the drug in question here. They are considered safe to combine.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDPeppermint Overview
Peppermint is a perennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant, minty aroma and distinctive, spear-shaped leaves.
Peppermint is commonly used in cooking and aromatherapy, as well as in a variety of personal care products. It has a refreshing, cool, and slightly sweet flavor.
In traditional medicine, peppermint is believed to have a number of health benefits. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and it is sometimes used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders.
Peppermint is also commonly used as a natural treatment for colds and flu due to its expectorant properties.
Some peppermint supplements are marketed specifically towards those suffering from IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) as evidence shows it can help reduce symptoms in some individuals.
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.
Peppermint - More Interactions
Peppermint interacts with 774 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.
Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!
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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