Drug interactions
Chloramphenicol + Triazolam
Severity: Major
Chloramphenicol and Triazolam: 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
Chloramphenicol may inhibit CYP3A4 and increase triazolam levels, causing excessive sedation, prolonged impairment and respiratory depression. Triazolam is highly dependent on CYP3A4 clearance.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloramphenicol 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
CYP3A4 inhibition reduces triazolam metabolism.
What to do
Avoid the combination or use a benzodiazepine not dependent on CYP3A4 such as lorazepam. If used, reduce the triazolam dose and monitor sedation.
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 Chloramphenicol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloramphenicol with Triazolam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloramphenicol 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. Chloramphenicol may inhibit CYP3A4 and increase triazolam levels, causing excessive sedation, prolonged impairment and respiratory depression. Triazolam is highly dependent on CYP3A4 clearance.
How serious is the interaction between Chloramphenicol 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 or use a benzodiazepine not dependent on CYP3A4 such as lorazepam. If used, reduce the triazolam dose and monitor sedation.
What other medicines interact with Chloramphenicol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloramphenicol with, for example, Adagrasib, Avapritinib, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Chloramphenicol page.
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