Drug interactions
Belladonna and opium + Diazepam
Severity: Major
Belladonna and opium and Diazepam: 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
Belladonna and opium suppositories contain an opioid, so combination with diazepam increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Opioid labeling carries a boxed warning for concomitant benzodiazepine use.
What this interaction means in plain words
Belladonna and opium and Diazepam 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 CNS and respiratory depression via opioid and GABA-A receptor activity.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible, or use the lowest doses for the shortest time with close monitoring of sedation and breathing. Counsel patients and caregivers about warning signs.
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 Diazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Belladonna and opium with Diazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Belladonna and opium and Diazepam 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. Belladonna and opium suppositories contain an opioid, so combination with diazepam increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Opioid labeling carries a boxed warning for concomitant benzodiazepine use.
How serious is the interaction between Belladonna and opium and Diazepam?
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 where possible, or use the lowest doses for the shortest time with close monitoring of sedation and breathing. Counsel patients and caregivers about warning signs.
What other medicines interact with Diazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Alfentanil, Alprazolam. The full list is on the Diazepam page.
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