Drug interactions
Clonazepam + Opium tincture
Severity: Major
Clonazepam and Opium tincture: 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 a benzodiazepine with an opioid such as opium tincture increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Regulators have issued boxed warnings for this class combination.
What this interaction means in plain words
Clonazepam and Opium tincture 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 central nervous system and respiratory depression through GABA-A potentiation and mu-opioid receptor agonism.
What to do
Avoid concurrent use when possible; if unavoidable, use the lowest doses for the shortest duration and monitor respiratory rate and level of consciousness. Counsel patient and caregivers about warning signs and consider naloxone availability.
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 Clonazepam
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Clonazepam Contraindicated
- Clonazepam + Sodium oxybate Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Clonazepam Major
- Alprazolam + Clonazepam Major
- Amobarbital + Clonazepam Major
- Belladonna and opium + Clonazepam Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Clonazepam with Opium tincture?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Clonazepam and Opium tincture 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 a benzodiazepine with an opioid such as opium tincture increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Regulators have issued boxed warnings for this class combination.
How serious is the interaction between Clonazepam and Opium tincture?
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 when possible; if unavoidable, use the lowest doses for the shortest duration and monitor respiratory rate and level of consciousness. Counsel patient and caregivers about warning signs and consider naloxone availability.
What other medicines interact with Clonazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Clonazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Clonazepam page.
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