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Drug interactions

Lorazepam + Sufentanil sl

Severity: Major

Lorazepam and Sufentanil sl: 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

Combining a benzodiazepine with sublingual sufentanil produces additive CNS and respiratory depression. This may cause hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory failure, coma and death.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lorazepam and Sufentanil sl 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: High

Why it happens

Additive CNS and respiratory depression through GABA-A potentiation and mu-opioid receptor agonism.

What to do

Use together only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lorazepam with Sufentanil sl?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lorazepam and Sufentanil sl 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 a benzodiazepine with sublingual sufentanil produces additive CNS and respiratory depression. This may cause hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory failure, coma and death.

How serious is the interaction between Lorazepam and Sufentanil sl?

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 together only when alternatives are inadequate, with the lowest doses and shortest duration. Monitor closely for sedation and respiratory depression.

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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