Drug interactions
Flurazepam + Gabapentin
Severity: Major
Flurazepam and Gabapentin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph
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
Both drugs depress the central nervous system, and flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites that can cause next-day sedation. Together they can cause marked drowsiness, impaired coordination and respiratory depression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Flurazepam and Gabapentin 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 central nervous system and respiratory depression.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and monitor for sedation and breathing problems, especially in older adults. Consider a shorter-acting alternative hypnotic strategy if daytime impairment occurs.
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 Gabapentin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Flurazepam with Gabapentin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Flurazepam and Gabapentin 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. Both drugs depress the central nervous system, and flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites that can cause next-day sedation. Together they can cause marked drowsiness, impaired coordination and respiratory depression.
How serious is the interaction between Flurazepam and Gabapentin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use the lowest effective doses and monitor for sedation and breathing problems, especially in older adults. Consider a shorter-acting alternative hypnotic strategy if daytime impairment occurs.
What other medicines interact with Gabapentin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Gabapentin with, for example, Alprazolam, Amobarbital, Belladonna and opium. The full list is on the Gabapentin page.
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