Drug interactions
Pregabalin + Zolpidem
Severity: Major
Pregabalin and Zolpidem: 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
Both drugs cause sedation and dizziness, and together they can produce marked CNS and respiratory depression. Risk is greater in the elderly, those with respiratory disease, and with other sedatives or opioids.
What this interaction means in plain words
Pregabalin and Zolpidem 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.
Pregabalin belongs to Central Nervous System; Zolpidem belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression via GABA-A potentiation (zolpidem) and alpha-2-delta calcium channel modulation (pregabalin).
What to do
Avoid combining where possible in patients with respiratory risk factors; otherwise use the lowest effective doses. Monitor sedation and breathing, especially during initiation and dose increases.
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 Zolpidem
Other interactions of Pregabalin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Pregabalin with Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Pregabalin and Zolpidem 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. Both drugs cause sedation and dizziness, and together they can produce marked CNS and respiratory depression. Risk is greater in the elderly, those with respiratory disease, and with other sedatives or opioids.
How serious is the interaction between Pregabalin and Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining where possible in patients with respiratory risk factors; otherwise use the lowest effective doses. Monitor sedation and breathing, especially during initiation and dose increases.
What other medicines interact with Zolpidem?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Zolpidem with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Zolpidem page.
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