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Drug interactions

Dichloralphenazone + Midazolam

Severity: Major

Dichloralphenazone and Midazolam: 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

Dichloralphenazone is metabolised to chloral hydrate, a sedative-hypnotic, so combining it with midazolam increases sedation and the risk of respiratory depression. Airway obstruction and hypoxia may occur, especially with higher doses or in vulnerable patients.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dichloralphenazone and Midazolam 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive CNS and respiratory depression from combined GABAergic sedative effects.

What to do

Avoid combining where possible. If necessary, reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dichloralphenazone with Midazolam?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dichloralphenazone and Midazolam 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. Dichloralphenazone is metabolised to chloral hydrate, a sedative-hypnotic, so combining it with midazolam increases sedation and the risk of respiratory depression. Airway obstruction and hypoxia may occur, especially with higher doses or in vulnerable patients.

How serious is the interaction between Dichloralphenazone and Midazolam?

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 where possible. If necessary, reduce doses and monitor respiratory rate and oxygen saturation.

What other medicines interact with Midazolam?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Midazolam with, for example, Atazanavir, Cobicistat, Darunavir. The full list is on the Midazolam page.

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