Drug interactions
Flurazepam + Hydromorphone
Severity: Major
Flurazepam and Hydromorphone: 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 such as flurazepam can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites, extending the risk, particularly in older adults.
What this interaction means in plain words
Flurazepam and Hydromorphone 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 mu-opioid and GABA-A receptor modulation.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible; if necessary, use the lowest doses for the shortest duration and monitor respiratory rate and sedation.
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 Hydromorphone
- Alvimopan + Hydromorphone Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Hydromorphone Contraindicated
- Hydromorphone + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Hydromorphone + Olanzapine / samidorphan Contraindicated
- Hydromorphone + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Hydromorphone + Tranylcypromine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Flurazepam with Hydromorphone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Flurazepam and Hydromorphone 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 such as flurazepam can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. Flurazepam has long-acting active metabolites, extending the risk, particularly in older adults.
How serious is the interaction between Flurazepam and Hydromorphone?
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 the combination where possible; if necessary, use the lowest doses for the shortest duration and monitor respiratory rate and sedation.
What other medicines interact with Hydromorphone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydromorphone with, for example, Alvimopan, Bupropion-naltrexone, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Hydromorphone page.
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