Drug interactions
Estazolam + Hydrocodone
Severity: Major
Estazolam and Hydrocodone: 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
Concurrent use of an opioid and a benzodiazepine can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. This is a labeled boxed warning for opioids.
What this interaction means in plain words
Estazolam and Hydrocodone 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 GABA-A modulation and mu-opioid receptor agonism.
What to do
Avoid if alternatives exist; otherwise limit doses and duration and monitor sedation and breathing closely.
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 Hydrocodone
- Alvimopan + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Hydrocodone Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Hydrocodone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Hydrocodone Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Estazolam with Hydrocodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Estazolam and Hydrocodone 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. Concurrent use of an opioid and a benzodiazepine can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. This is a labeled boxed warning for opioids.
How serious is the interaction between Estazolam and Hydrocodone?
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 if alternatives exist; otherwise limit doses and duration and monitor sedation and breathing closely.
What other medicines interact with Hydrocodone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydrocodone with, for example, Alvimopan, Bupropion-naltrexone, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Hydrocodone page.
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