Drug interactions
Buprenorphine long-acting + Lorazepam
Severity: Major
Buprenorphine long-acting and Lorazepam: 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
Combining lorazepam with long-acting injectable buprenorphine raises the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The depot gives prolonged opioid exposure that cannot be quickly withdrawn.
What this interaction means in plain words
Buprenorphine long-acting and Lorazepam 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 GABA-A potentiation and opioid receptor agonism.
What to do
Use together only if other options are inadequate, minimizing benzodiazepine dose and duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression and provide naloxone.
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 Lorazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Buprenorphine long-acting with Lorazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Buprenorphine long-acting and Lorazepam 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 lorazepam with long-acting injectable buprenorphine raises the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. The depot gives prolonged opioid exposure that cannot be quickly withdrawn.
How serious is the interaction between Buprenorphine long-acting and Lorazepam?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use together only if other options are inadequate, minimizing benzodiazepine dose and duration. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression and provide naloxone.
What other medicines interact with Lorazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lorazepam with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Lorazepam page.
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