Drug interactions
Lorazepam + Papaveretum
Severity: Major
Lorazepam and Papaveretum: 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
Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, and combining it with lorazepam can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lorazepam and Papaveretum 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 opioid receptor agonism and GABA-A potentiation.
What to do
Use only when necessary at the lowest effective doses, and monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and sedation closely. Have naloxone and resuscitation equipment available.
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 Lorazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lorazepam with Papaveretum?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lorazepam and Papaveretum 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. Papaveretum contains opium alkaloids including morphine, and combining it with lorazepam can cause profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death.
How serious is the interaction between Lorazepam and Papaveretum?
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 only when necessary at the lowest effective doses, and monitor respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and sedation closely. Have naloxone and resuscitation equipment available.
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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