Drug interactions
Buprenorphine + Triazolam
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine and Triazolam: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Concurrent buprenorphine and triazolam increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Triazolam is also a CYP3A4 substrate, which adds variability.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine and Triazolam 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 mechanisms.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible; if required, use the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor respiration and sedation closely.
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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References
Other interactions of Buprenorphine
- Alvimopan + Buprenorphine Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Buprenorphine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine with Triazolam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine and Triazolam 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. Concurrent buprenorphine and triazolam increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Triazolam is also a CYP3A4 substrate, which adds variability.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine and Triazolam?
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 the combination if possible; if required, use the lowest effective doses for the shortest time and monitor respiration and sedation closely.
What other medicines interact with Buprenorphine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Buprenorphine with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Olanzapine / samidorphan. The full list is on the Buprenorphine page.
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