Drug interactions
Alprazolam + Grapefruit
Severity: Minor
Alprazolam and Grapefruit: minor 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
Grapefruit juice may increase alprazolam concentrations, though studies show only a small effect. Increased sedation is possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Alprazolam and Grapefruit have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Intestinal CYP3A4 inhibition by grapefruit furanocoumarins reduces first-pass metabolism of alprazolam.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice. Monitor for sedation if intake is regular.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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 Grapefruit?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Alprazolam and Grapefruit have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Grapefruit juice may increase alprazolam concentrations, though studies show only a small effect. Increased sedation is possible.
How serious is the interaction between Alprazolam and Grapefruit?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice. Monitor for sedation if intake is regular.
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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