Drug interactions
Chlordiazepoxide + Flurazepam
Severity: Major
Chlordiazepoxide and Flurazepam: 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 are long-acting benzodiazepines, and taking them together produces additive sedation, psychomotor impairment and respiratory depression. Accumulation of active metabolites may prolong effects, particularly in older adults. The combination offers no therapeutic advantage.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlordiazepoxide and Flurazepam 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 enhancement of GABA-A receptor mediated CNS depression by two benzodiazepines.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use of two benzodiazepines; consolidate to a single agent at the lowest effective dose. If overlap is unavoidable, monitor for oversedation and respiratory depression.
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 Chlordiazepoxide
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlordiazepoxide with Flurazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlordiazepoxide and Flurazepam 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 are long-acting benzodiazepines, and taking them together produces additive sedation, psychomotor impairment and respiratory depression. Accumulation of active metabolites may prolong effects, particularly in older adults. The combination offers no therapeutic advantage.
How serious is the interaction between Chlordiazepoxide and Flurazepam?
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 concurrent use of two benzodiazepines; consolidate to a single agent at the lowest effective dose. If overlap is unavoidable, monitor for oversedation and respiratory depression.
What other medicines interact with Chlordiazepoxide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlordiazepoxide with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Chlordiazepoxide page.
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