Drug interactions
Gabapentin + Lorazepam
Severity: Major
Gabapentin and Lorazepam: major interaction.
Last updated
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
Gabapentin given with lorazepam produces additive sedation and psychomotor impairment. Respiratory depression can occur, particularly in the elderly, those with lung disease, or at higher doses.
What this interaction means in plain words
Gabapentin and Lorazepam 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.
Gabapentin belongs to Central Nervous System; Lorazepam belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Use the lowest effective doses and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, particularly at initiation or dose increases. Advise avoiding alcohol and driving.
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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Other interactions of Lorazepam
Other interactions of Gabapentin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Gabapentin with Lorazepam?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Gabapentin and Lorazepam 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. Gabapentin given with lorazepam produces additive sedation and psychomotor impairment. Respiratory depression can occur, particularly in the elderly, those with lung disease, or at higher doses.
How serious is the interaction between Gabapentin and Lorazepam?
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 respiratory depression, particularly at initiation or dose increases. Advise avoiding alcohol and driving.
What other medicines interact with Lorazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lorazepam with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Lorazepam page.
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