Drug interactions
Oxazepam + Propofol
Severity: Major
Oxazepam and Propofol: 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
Benzodiazepines potentiate the sedative and hypnotic effects of propofol, which can deepen sedation and cause respiratory depression and hypotension. Lower propofol doses are often adequate in patients taking benzodiazepines.
What this interaction means in plain words
Oxazepam and Propofol 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.
Oxazepam belongs to Central Nervous System; Propofol belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Synergistic GABA-A receptor potentiation producing additive CNS and respiratory depression.
What to do
Reduce and carefully titrate the propofol dose, with continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation, ventilation and blood pressure. Ensure airway management equipment and trained personnel are 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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Other interactions of Oxazepam
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Oxazepam Contraindicated
- Oxazepam + Sodium oxybate Contraindicated
- Alfentanil + Oxazepam Major
- Amobarbital + Oxazepam Major
- Baclofen + Oxazepam Major
- Belladonna and opium + Oxazepam Major
Other interactions of Propofol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Oxazepam with Propofol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Oxazepam and Propofol 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. Benzodiazepines potentiate the sedative and hypnotic effects of propofol, which can deepen sedation and cause respiratory depression and hypotension. Lower propofol doses are often adequate in patients taking benzodiazepines.
How serious is the interaction between Oxazepam and Propofol?
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 and carefully titrate the propofol dose, with continuous monitoring of oxygen saturation, ventilation and blood pressure. Ensure airway management equipment and trained personnel are available.
What other medicines interact with Oxazepam?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Oxazepam with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Alfentanil. The full list is on the Oxazepam page.
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