Drug interactions
Diazepam + Levorphanol
Severity: Major
Diazepam and Levorphanol: 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
Opioids combined with benzodiazepines can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. This is a labeled boxed warning class interaction.
What this interaction means in plain words
Diazepam and Levorphanol 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 CNS and respiratory depression via opioid and GABA-A receptor effects.
What to do
Avoid combining when possible; otherwise use the lowest doses and shortest duration and monitor respiration and sedation closely. 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 Diazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Diazepam with Levorphanol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Diazepam and Levorphanol 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. Opioids combined with benzodiazepines can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. This is a labeled boxed warning class interaction.
How serious is the interaction between Diazepam and Levorphanol?
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 combining when possible; otherwise use the lowest doses and shortest duration and monitor respiration and sedation closely. Consider naloxone availability.
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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