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Drug interactions

Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Clonazepam

Severity: Major

Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Clonazepam: 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

Combining a benzodiazepine with an opioid causes additive central nervous system and respiratory depression. This can result in profound sedation, respiratory failure, coma and death.

What this interaction means in plain words

Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Clonazepam 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.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Additive CNS and respiratory depression via GABA-A potentiation and opioid receptor agonism.

What to do

Reserve concurrent use for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression and counsel patients and caregivers.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen with Clonazepam?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Clonazepam 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. Combining a benzodiazepine with an opioid causes additive central nervous system and respiratory depression. This can result in profound sedation, respiratory failure, coma and death.

How serious is the interaction between Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen and Clonazepam?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reserve concurrent use for patients without adequate alternatives, using the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression and counsel patients and caregivers.

What other medicines interact with Clonazepam?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Clonazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Clonazepam page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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