Drug interactions
Chloral hydrate + Propofol
Severity: Major
Chloral hydrate and Propofol: 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
Both agents are sedative-hypnotics acting on GABA-A receptors, so together they deepen sedation and can lead to respiratory depression, airway loss and hypotension. This is particularly relevant in procedural sedation, for example in children given chloral hydrate beforehand.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloral hydrate and Propofol 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.
Chloral hydrate belongs to Central Nervous System; Propofol belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive GABA-A mediated CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Reduce the propofol dose and titrate slowly to effect, with continuous pulse oximetry, capnography and blood pressure monitoring. Ensure personnel skilled in airway management and resuscitation equipment are present.
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 Chloral hydrate
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Chloral hydrate Contraindicated
- Chloral hydrate + Sodium oxybate Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Chloral hydrate Major
- Alprazolam + Chloral hydrate Major
- Amobarbital + Chloral hydrate Major
- Belladonna and opium + Chloral hydrate Major
Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloral hydrate with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloral hydrate and Propofol 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. Both agents are sedative-hypnotics acting on GABA-A receptors, so together they deepen sedation and can lead to respiratory depression, airway loss and hypotension. This is particularly relevant in procedural sedation, for example in children given chloral hydrate beforehand.
How serious is the interaction between Chloral hydrate and Propofol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reduce the propofol dose and titrate slowly to effect, with continuous pulse oximetry, capnography and blood pressure monitoring. Ensure personnel skilled in airway management and resuscitation equipment are present.
What other medicines interact with Chloral hydrate?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloral hydrate with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Chloral hydrate page.
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