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Drug interactions

Hydroxyzine + Levorphanol

Severity: Major

Hydroxyzine and Levorphanol: 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

Combining an opioid with a sedating antihistamine may deepen sedation and increase the risk of respiratory depression. Impaired psychomotor performance and falls are also more likely.

What this interaction means in plain words

Hydroxyzine and Levorphanol 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 via opioid receptor agonism and H1 antagonism.

What to do

Use the lowest effective doses and monitor for sedation and respiratory depression, especially at initiation and dose increases. Avoid in patients with respiratory compromise or when other CNS depressants are present.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Hydroxyzine with Levorphanol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Hydroxyzine and Levorphanol 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. Combining an opioid with a sedating antihistamine may deepen sedation and increase the risk of respiratory depression. Impaired psychomotor performance and falls are also more likely.

How serious is the interaction between Hydroxyzine and Levorphanol?

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, especially at initiation and dose increases. Avoid in patients with respiratory compromise or when other CNS depressants are present.

What other medicines interact with Hydroxyzine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxyzine with, for example, Droperidol, Pimozide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Hydroxyzine page.

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