Drug interactions
Lorazepam + Pentobarbital
Severity: Major
Lorazepam and Pentobarbital: 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
Barbiturates and benzodiazepines both depress the CNS, and together they can cause deep sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Overdose risk is increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lorazepam and Pentobarbital 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 potentiation of GABA-A receptor mediated inhibition at different binding sites.
What to do
Reduce doses and monitor respiratory function, blood pressure and level of consciousness. Provide ventilatory support capability when used for procedural or critical care 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 Lorazepam
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lorazepam with Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lorazepam and Pentobarbital 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. Barbiturates and benzodiazepines both depress the CNS, and together they can cause deep sedation, respiratory depression and hypotension. Overdose risk is increased.
How serious is the interaction between Lorazepam and Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reduce doses and monitor respiratory function, blood pressure and level of consciousness. Provide ventilatory support capability when used for procedural or critical care sedation.
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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