Drug interactions
Alprazolam + Flurazepam
Severity: Major
Alprazolam and Flurazepam: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Taking two benzodiazepines together causes additive sedation, impaired coordination and respiratory depression without added benefit. Flurazepam's long-acting active metabolite prolongs the risk, especially in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Alprazolam and Flurazepam can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive GABA-A receptor potentiation by two benzodiazepines.
What to do
Avoid combining the two and use a single benzodiazepine at the lowest effective dose. If switching, taper one agent and monitor for daytime sedation and falls.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Alprazolam
- Alprazolam + Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Levoketoconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Sodium oxybate Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Alprazolam Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Alprazolam with Flurazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Alprazolam and Flurazepam can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Taking two benzodiazepines together causes additive sedation, impaired coordination and respiratory depression without added benefit. Flurazepam's long-acting active metabolite prolongs the risk, especially in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Alprazolam and Flurazepam?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining the two and use a single benzodiazepine at the lowest effective dose. If switching, taper one agent and monitor for daytime sedation and falls.
What other medicines interact with Alprazolam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Alprazolam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole. The full list is on the Alprazolam page.
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