Drug interactions
Diazepam + Grapefruit
Severity: Minor
Diazepam and Grapefruit: minor 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
Grapefruit juice can inhibit intestinal CYP3A4 and modestly raise diazepam concentrations, with a delayed onset and prolonged effect. Clinical consequences are usually small but may increase sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diazepam and Grapefruit have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Inhibition of intestinal CYP3A4 by grapefruit components, reducing first-pass metabolism of diazepam.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid large quantities of grapefruit juice and to report increased drowsiness.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Diazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diazepam with Grapefruit?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Diazepam and Grapefruit have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Grapefruit juice can inhibit intestinal CYP3A4 and modestly raise diazepam concentrations, with a delayed onset and prolonged effect. Clinical consequences are usually small but may increase sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Diazepam and Grapefruit?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid large quantities of grapefruit juice and to report increased drowsiness.
What other medicines interact with Diazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Alfentanil, Alprazolam. The full list is on the Diazepam page.
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