Drug interactions
Desflurane + Midazolam intranasal
Severity: Major
Desflurane and Midazolam intranasal: 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
Midazolam and desflurane both depress the CNS and respiration, so together they can cause deeper sedation, hypoventilation and apnea. The anesthetic requirement is usually reduced.
What this interaction means in plain words
Desflurane and Midazolam intranasal 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 GABA-A mediated CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Reduce the anesthetic dose and titrate to effect. Monitor oxygen saturation and ventilation continuously, with airway support available.
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 Desflurane
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Desflurane with Midazolam intranasal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Desflurane and Midazolam intranasal 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. Midazolam and desflurane both depress the CNS and respiration, so together they can cause deeper sedation, hypoventilation and apnea. The anesthetic requirement is usually reduced.
How serious is the interaction between Desflurane and Midazolam intranasal?
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 anesthetic dose and titrate to effect. Monitor oxygen saturation and ventilation continuously, with airway support available.
What other medicines interact with Desflurane?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Desflurane with, for example, Amisulpride, Anagrelide, Arsenic trioxide. The full list is on the Desflurane page.
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