Estazolam (estazolam)

Dosage of estazolam must be individualized, and the smallest effective dosage should be used (especially in geriatric or debilitated patients). Prolonged administration of estazolam should be avoided.

The usual initial adult dose of estazolam is 1 mg at bedtime, although some adults may require an initial 2-mg dose. In small, debilitated, and/or geriatric patients, an initial dose of 0.5 mg may be appropriate; however, limited evidence suggests that this dose may be only marginally effective in many geriatric patients, and the drug can be initiated in healthy geriatric patients at the 1-mg dose. After individual response has been determined, the dose may be increased gradually to 2 mg if needed. As with other benzodiazepines, abrupt withdrawal of estazolam therapy should be avoided since manifestations of withdrawal, including rebound insomnia, may be precipitated. If estazolam is to be discontinued after prolonged therapy (e.g., 6 weeks), the dosage should be tapered gradually.

Estazolam is administered orally at bedtime.

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

Alprazolam; Estazolam; Triazolam/Ribociclib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ribociclib may inhibit the metabolism of alprazolam, estazolam, and triazolam by CYP3A4.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibition of benzodiazepine metabolism may produce increased levels of these agents, as well as increased clinical effects, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of alprazolam,(1) estazolam,(2) or triazolam(3) with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concomitant administration of ribociclib (400 mg once daily for 8 days) with midazolam increased the midazolam maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the curve (AUC) by 2.1-fold and 3.8-fold, respectively. Administration of ribociclib 600 mg once daily is predicted to increase the midazolam Cmax and AUC by 2.4-fold and 5.2-fold, respectively.(4)

Sedative Hypnotics; Alcohol/Sodium Oxybate

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Oxybate may be associated with respiratory depression. As oxybate is taken at bedtime, concurrent use with alcohol or hypnotics may increase the risk for respiratory depression or loss of consciousness.(1-3) Primidone is metabolized to phenobarbital.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium oxybate and sedative hypnotics or alcohol may further increase the risk for respiratory depression and profound sedation or coma.(1,2) Fatalities have been reported.(3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Based upon FDA evaluation of deaths in patients taking sodium oxybate, risk factors may include: use of multiple drugs which depress the CNS, more rapid than recommended oxybate dose titration, exceeding the maximum recommended oxybate dose, and prescribing for unapproved uses such as fibromyalgia, insomnia or migraine. Note that in oxybate clinical trials for narcolepsy 78% - 85% of patients were also receiving concomitant CNS stimulants.(1-3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The FDA states that sodium oxybate is contraindicated in patients also taking hypnotics or alcohol.(1,2) Significant quantities of alcohol may be present in medicinal products. Alcohol is is used to improve docetaxel and paclitaxel solubility. - The quantity of alcohol in paclitaxel injection formulations (0.385-0.396 grams/mL) is similar across manufacturers. A paclitaxel 200 mg dose contains approximately 13 grams of alcohol. - The quantity of alcohol in docetaxel formulations varies approximately 3-fold depending upon the manufacturer. FDA data on alcohol content (4): Product Manufacturer Alcohol/200 mg dose Docetaxel Inj. Pfizer 6.4 grams Docetaxel Inj. Sandoz 5.5 grams Docetaxel Inj. Accord 4.0 grams Taxotere-one vial Sanofi 4.0 grams formulation Docetaxel Inj. Hospira 3.7 grams Docefrez Sun Pharma 2.9 grams Taxotere-two vial Sanofi 2.0 grams formulation

DISCUSSION: The FDA evaluated sodium oxybate postmarket fatal adverse event reports from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System(AERS)and from the manufacturer. Although report documentation was not always optimal or complete, useful information was obtained. Factors which may have contributed to fatal outcome: concomitant use of one or more drugs which depress the CNS, more rapid than recommended upward dose titration, exceeding the maximum recommended oxybate dose, and prescribing for unapproved uses such as fibromyalgia, insomnia or migraine. Many deaths occurred in patients with serious psychiatric disorders such as depression and substance abuse. Other concomitant diseases may have also contributed to respiratory and CNS depressant effects of oxybate.(3)

Slt Benzodiazepines/Itraconazol;Ketoconazol;Levoketoconaz

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Itraconazole, ketoconazole, and levoketoconazole may inhibit the metabolism of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam, and triazolam by CYP3A.(1-29)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibition of benzodiazepine metabolism may produce increased levels of these agents, as well as increased clinical effects. Toxic effects of increased benzodiazepine levels include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of alprazolam,(1) estazolam,(2) or triazolam(3-5) with itraconazole or ketoconazole or levoketoconazole is contraindicated. The concurrent use of oral midazolam with itraconazole(3) or ketoconazole(4) is contraindicated by the manufacturer of the azole antifungals. The manufacturer of oral midazolam states that the agents should only be used concurrently if absolutely necessary and if appropriate equipment and personnel are available to respond to respiratory insufficiency.(6) The concurrent use of injectable midazolam and itraconazole(3,7) or ketoconazole(4,7) should be approached with special precaution and patient monitoring. The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concomitant administration with triazolam or oral midazolam is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3) The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states concurrent use with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates is contraindicated.(29) The Australian manufacturer of alprazolam states coadministration with ketoconazole, itraconazole or other azole antifungals is not recommended.(30,31)

DISCUSSION: In a double-blind cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, itraconazole increased alprazolam area-under-curve (AUC) and half-life by 1.67-fold and by 1.56-fold, respectively. Alprazolam clearance was decreased by 60%.(8) In a double-blind cross-over study, concurrent ketoconazole decreased alprazolam clearance by 68.6% and increased alprazolam half-life by 2.9-fold.(9) Ketoconazole has also been shown to inhibit alprazolam metabolism in vitro.(10,11) In a double-blind, randomized cross-over study, itraconazole had no effects on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of estazolam.(12) However, itraconazole was shown to inhibit the metabolism of estazolam in vitro(13) and the manufacturer of estazolam states that concurrent use with either itraconazole or ketoconazole is expected to increase estazolam levels and thus concurrent use is contraindicated.(2) In a study in 9 healthy subjects, itraconazole increased the AUC of oral midazolam by 8-fold. Increased effects were also noted.(14) In a double-blind cross-over study in 12 subjects, itraconazole increased the AUC, maximum concentration (Cmax) and half-life of oral midazolam by 6-fold, 2.5-fold, and 2-fold, respectively. Increased effects were also noted.(15) In a cross-over study in 12 subjects, one dose of itraconazole increased the AUC and Cmax of oral midazolam by 3.5-fold and by 2-fold, respectively. Six doses of itraconazole increased the AUC of oral midazolam by almost 7-fold. Increased midazolam effects were seen.(16) In a double-blind, cross-over study, itraconazole increased midazolam AUC by 10-fold. Subjects also experienced significantly increased sedation and amnesiac effects.(17) Itraconazole has also been shown to inhibit midazolam metabolism in vitro.(18,19) In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole increased the AUC of oral midazolam by 771.9%.(20) In a double-blind, cross-over study, ketoconazole increased midazolam AUC by 15-fold. Subjects also experienced significantly increased sedation and amnesiac effects.(17) In a study in 11 healthy subjects, administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily) for 1 day, 2 days, and 5 days increased the AUC of a single dose of oral midazolam (2 mg) by 10.28-fold, 13.14-fold, and 13.96-fold, respectively, and the Cmax by 5.01-fold, 5.29-fold, and 5.42-fold, respectively.(21) In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) reduced the clearance of midazolam 6-fold.(22) Ketoconazole has also been shown to inhibit the metabolism of midazolam in vitro.(18,19,23-25) In a randomized, cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, itraconazole ingested simultaneously, or 3, 12, or 24 hours before triazolam increased triazolam AUC by 3.1-fold, 4.8-fold, 4.6-fold, and 3.8-fold, respectively. The increased in triazolam Cmax ranged from 1.4-fold to 1.8-fold. Subjects noted increased triazolam effects.(23) In a double-blind cross-over study in 9 subjects, itraconazole increased triazolam AUC by 27-fold.(24) In a double-blind cross-over study in 9 subjects, ketoconazole increased triazolam AUC by 22-fold.(24) In a double-blind cross-over study, concurrent ketoconazole decreased triazolam clearance by 91%. Triazolam half-life and Cmax increased 5.1-fold and 1.1-fold, respectively.(9) Ketoconazole has also been shown to inhibit triazolam metabolism in vitro.(23,25)

Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

Alprazolam; Estazolam; Midazolam; Triazolam/Nefazodone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nefazodone is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 and may decrease metabolism of benzodiazepines cleared by this pathway.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of nefazodone and benzodiazepines metabolized by CYP3A4 may result in increased clinical effects of benzodiazepines, including toxic effects profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death. CYP3A4 is the major or only hepatic metabolism pathway for the phase I elimination of alprazolam, estazolam, midazolam, and triazolam.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Benzodiazepines that do not undergo extensive CYP hepatic metabolism (e.g. lorazepam, oxazepam) may be an alternative in nefazodone patients. If nefazodone is administered in combination with triazolam, the manufacturer of nefazodone recommends that the initial dose triazolam be reduced by 75%. In interaction studies nefazodone 200 mg twice daily increased triazolam exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) 4-fold. However, because not all commercially available triazolam dosage forms permit a sufficient dosage adjustment, the manufacturer of nefazodone recommends that the combination of nefazodone and triazolam be avoided in most patients, especially the elderly. When nefazodone is coadministered with alprazolam, AUC and half-life increased approximately 2-fold. The US manufacturers of nefazodone recommend a 50% reduction in the initial dose of alprazolam. The US manufacturer of estazolam recommends caution and consideration of an appropriate dose reduction when concomitant therapy is considered. Two other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, itraconazole and oral ketoconazole, are contraindicated with estazolam use. It would be prudent to avoid the combination of nefazodone and estazolam. If nefazodone is started in a patient already receiving a benzodiazepine primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, then monitor closely and anticipate the need to reduce the benzodiazepine dose. Counsel patient to report excess drowsiness, confusion, memory problems including sleep-driving behaviors, loss of coordination, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, nefazodone 200 mg twice daily increased triazolam exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) 4-fold. When nefazodone is coadministered with alprazolam, AUC and half-life increased approximately 2-fold.

Benzodiazepines/Clozapine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. Some benzodiazepines may increase clozapine levels.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of clozapine with a benzodiazepine may result in orthostatic hypotension, delirium, collapse, profound sedation, respiratory arrest, and/or cardiac arrest.(2-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with preexisting cardiovascular, liver, organic brain disease(1) or sleep apnea may be predisposed to the interaction. The interaction may be more likely when initiating clozapine therapy, when restarting clozapine after a brief clozapine-free interval, or when adding clozapine to benzodiazepine therapy.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of clozapine with benzodiazepines should be approached with caution, especially in patients who have recently started or restarted clozapine therapy. Monitor patients for excessive sedation, decreased respiratory rate, and ataxia.(3)

DISCUSSION: Collapse has been reported in a patients in whom clozapine and clonazepam were initiated simultaneously.(4) Somnolence, confusion, ataxia, and disorientation were reported in a patient following the addition of clozapine to clonazepam therapy.(5) Collapse has been reported in three patients maintained on diazepam in whom clozapine was initiated.(6,7) Cardiac arrest and death during sleep were reported in a patient in whom clozapine and oxazepam were initiated simultaneously.(4) Delirium has been reported in four clozapine-treated patients in whom lorazepam was initiated.(5,8) Respiratory arrest and death were reported in one patient in whom clozapine was initiated who had been maintained on oral lorazepam. The patient received three supplemental doses of intravenous lorazepam for increased psychosis and was found dead 12 hours later.(9)

Benzodiazepines/Ethyl Alcohol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use may result in additive central nervous system depressant effects. Concurrent use may also result in altered absorption, altered distribution, or decreased elimination leading to higher concentrations of the benzodiazepine in the brain.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of benzodiazepines and alcohol-containing products may result in enhanced disruption of psychomotor performance and increased central nervous system depression. Increased CNS depression may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients should be informed that alcohol consumption may result in significant decreased psychomotor performance and its associated risks. Use of a short acting benzodiazepine may minimize the potential for extreme effects. If suicide or drug abuse is a concern, benzodiazepine use may be ill advised, since alcohol tends to greatly increase benzodiazepine-induced CNS depression in acute overdosage. Patients should be informed about unsuspected sources of alcohol such as medications. Alcohol is used to improve docetaxel and paclitaxel solubility. - The quantity of alcohol in paclitaxel injection formulations (0.385-0.396 grams/mL) is similar across manufacturers. A paclitaxel 200 mg dose contains approximately 13 grams of alcohol. - The quantity of alcohol in docetaxel formulations varies approximately 3-fold depending upon the manufacturer. FDA data on alcohol content (18): Product Manufacturer Alcohol/200 mg dose Docetaxel Inj. Pfizer 6.4 grams Docetaxel Inj. Sandoz 5.5 grams Docetaxel Inj. Accord 4.0 grams Taxotere-one vial Sanofi 4.0 grams formulation Docetaxel Inj. Hospira 3.7 grams Docefrez Sun Pharma 2.9 grams Taxotere-two vial Sanofi 2.0 grams formulation

DISCUSSION: Several articles have detailed enhanced disruption of psychomotor performance and increased CNS depression with concurrent use of diazepam and alcohol.(1-6) Evidence shows that temazepam and the other short-acting or intermediate-acting benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, halazepam, triazolam) tend to result in less profound alcohol interactions.(7) Although one study showed no effect on triazolam pharmacokinetics, a clinically significant pharmacodynamic interaction cannot be ruled out.(8) Other reports have shown clinically significant effects from concurrent triazolam and alcohol use.(9,10) In 8 healthy subjects, concurrent midazolam and alcohol resulted in impairment of immediate recall.(11) In a similar study, the hypnotic effect of midazolam was augmented by alcohol.(12) In a study involving 9 subjects, measurements of total reaction time were longer after concurrent alcohol and lorazepam as compared to the use of either agent alone.(13) Reports have been conflicting regarding the actions of chlordiazepoxide when combined with alcohol. Differences in time of exposure, dosage, and response parameters have been used to explain the inconsistent findings with chlordiazepoxide.(14)

Benzodiazepines/Opioids (Cough And Cold)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and benzodiazepines may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid prescribing opioid-including cough medications for patients taking CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(4) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(5) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(6) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(7) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(8) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(9) A study of 315,428 privately insured patients who filled at least one prescription for an opioid from 2001 to 2013 were enrolled in a retrospective study. Concurrent use of a benzodiazepine was recorded as having at least one day of overlap in a given calendar year. Baseline characteristics among opioid users with concurrent use of a benzodiazepine were older (44.5 v. 42.4, p<0.001), less likely to be men (35% v. 43%, p<0.001), and had a higher prevalence rate of every comorbidity examined (p<0.001). The proportion of opioid users with concurrent benzodiazepine use nearly doubled from 9% in 2001 to 17% in 2013. The primary outcome was an emergency room visit or inpatient admission for opioid overdose within a calendar year. Among all opioid users, the annual adjusted incidence for the primary outcome was 1.16% without concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to 2.42% with concurrent benzodiazepine use (OR 2.14; 95% CI 2.05-2.24; p<0.001). Intermittent opioid users (1.45% v. 1.02%; OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.33-1.51; p<0.001) and chronic opioid users (5.36% v. 3.13%; OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.67-1.96; p<0.001) also experienced a higher adjusted incidence of the primary outcome with concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to without concurrent benzodiazepine use, respectively.(10) In a nested case-control study of adults with a new opioid dispensing between 2010-2018, patients with concurrent use of an opioid with a benzodiazepine were significantly more likely to have opioid-related overdose compared to patients receiving opioids, benzodiazepines, or neither (OR 9.28; 95% CI 7.87, 10.93). Longer concurrent use of 1-7, 8-30, and 31-90 days was associated with 4.6, 12.1, and 26.7-fold higher likelihood of opioid-related overdose (p<0.01). Patients with overlapping prescriptions during previous 0-30, 31-60, and 61-90 days were 13.2, 6.0, and 3.2-times more likely to experience an overdose (p<0.01).(11)

Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

Benzodiazepines/Buprenorphine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Buprenorphine is a partial agonist at mu-opioid receptors leading to ceiling effects which limit agonist activity, including respiratory depression, at high doses. However, concomitant benzodiazepine use (e.g. taken shortly after buprenorphine dose) or high doses of benzodiazepines may lead to potentiation of respiratory depression, counteracting the ceiling effect.(1,2) Concurrent use of buprenorphine and benzodiazepines may result in additive CNS depression.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death. Fatal respiratory depression has occurred with the combination of buprenorphine and a benzodiazepine.(1-2,4-7) High benzodiazepine levels have been identified in 80% or more of buprenorphine fatalities.(6)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with a history of alcohol or benzodiazepine abuse may be at risk for relapse and overuse or abuse of prescribed benzodiazepines.(1,2,4,6) Individuals with significant obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, the elderly, and debilitated patients are at greater risk for respiratory depression from either agent.(1,2,8)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics with CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management.(3) Medication assisted therapy (MAT) with buprenorphine is not contraindicated in patients taking CNS depressants; however discontinuation of CNS depressants is preferred in most cases. In some cases, monitoring at a higher level of care for tapering may be appropriate. In others gradual tapering or decreasing to the lowest effective dose of the CNS depressant is appropriate. For buprenorphine patients newly starting a benzodiazepine, consider beginning the benzodiazepine at a lower than usual dose, especially if predisposing factors (e.g. COPD, sleep apnea, debilitation, elderly) are present. High doses of benzodiazepines are associated with a greater risk for respiratory depression. Use the lowest effective dose and monitor for excessive sedation or respiratory depression, particularly in patients with predisposing risk factors for respiratory compromise.(1,2) Buprenorphine-naloxone combination products are used for maintenance treatment of opioid dependence. Patients with comorbid benzodiazepine dependence, on high doses of benzodiazepines, or a history of benzodiazepine abuse may require benzodiazepine detoxification prior to initiation of office-based buprenorphine treatment.(3) For patients receiving opioid maintenance treatment, it would be prudent to assure all controlled substance prescriptions are approved or written by the buprenorphine-naloxone provider.(5) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(9) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(3) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone or nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(10)

DISCUSSION: Buprenorphine is a partial agonist at mu-opioid receptors leading to ceiling effects which limits agonist activity, including respiratory depression, at high doses. However, concomitant benzodiazepine use (e.g. taking shortly after buprenorphine dose) or high doses of benzodiazepines may counteract the ceiling effect leading to potentiation of respiratory depression or sedative effects. High benzodiazepine levels have identified in 80% or more of buprenorphine fatalities.(6) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(11) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(12) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(13) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(14) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(15) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(16) A study of 315,428 privately insured patients who filled at least one prescription for an opioid from 2001 to 2013 were enrolled in a retrospective study. Concurrent use of a benzodiazepine was recorded as having at least one day of overlap in a given calendar year. Baseline characteristics among opioid users with concurrent use of a benzodiazepine were older (44.5 v. 42.4, p<0.001), less likely to be men (35% v. 43%, p<0.001), and had a higher prevalence rate of every comorbidity examined (p<0.001). The proportion of opioid users with concurrent benzodiazepine use nearly doubled from 9% in 2001 to 17% in 2013. The primary outcome was an emergency room visit or inpatient admission for opioid overdose within a calendar year. Among all opioid users, the annual adjusted incidence for the primary outcome was 1.16% without concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to 2.42% with concurrent benzodiazepine use (OR 2.14; 95% CI 2.05-2.24; p<0.001). Intermittent opioid users (1.45% v. 1.02%; OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.33-1.51; p<0.001) and chronic opioid users (5.36% v. 3.13%; OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.67-1.96; p<0.001) also experienced a higher adjusted incidence of the primary outcome with concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to without concurrent benzodiazepine use, respectively.(17)

Benzodiazepines/Cimetidine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cimetidine may decrease the metabolism of Phase I hepatically metabolized benzodiazepines. At doses of 800-2400 mg daily, cimetidine is a weak inhibitor of CYP1A2, CYP2C19, CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in increased pharmacologic or toxic effects of certain benzodiazepines. Toxic effects include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Benzodiazepines that do not undergo extensive Phase I metabolism (lorazepam, oxazepam) may be an alternative to interacting benzodiazepines in patients receiving cimetidine or by administering another H-2 antagonist (e.g., ranitidine, famotidine, nizatidine). Cimetidine use at higher doses of 200-400 mg four times daily would have an increased risk of inhibiting the metabolism of benzodiazepines. Lower doses and over-the-counter doses of cimetidine would be expected to have a diminished effect. Consider using alternative H2 antagonists when long-term concurrent therapy with benzodiazepines is indicated. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: Cimetidine increases the half-life and serum concentration and decreases the clearance of benzodiazepines that undergo oxidative metabolism (e.g., alprazolam, bromazepam, diazepam, flurazepam, midazolam, triazolam). In a clinical study, cimetidine 1,200 mg daily decreased the clearance of bromazepam by 50% and increased its half-life from 23 hours to 29 hours.(22) The sedative effects of benzodiazepines have been reported to be increased during concurrent administration of cimetidine. This interaction does not appear to occur with benzodiazepines that undergo glucuronide conjugation.

Benzodiazepines/Gabapentinoids

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of benzodiazepines may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from gabapentin and pregabalin, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are elderly, are taking other CNS depressants, have decreased renal function, and/or have conditions that reduce lung function (e.g. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease [COPD]) may be at a higher risk of this interaction.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing benzodiazepines and gabapentinoids to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a gabapentinoid with an benzodiazepine, prescribe a lower initial dose of the gabapentinoid than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If a benzodiazepine is indicated (other than an indication of epilepsy) in a patient already taking a gabapentinoid, prescribe a lower dose of the benzodiazepine and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clinical trials have shown no pharmacokinetic interaction between pregabalin (300 mg BID) and lorazepam (1 mg single dose).(2) Among 49 case reports submitted to FDA over a 5 year period (2012-2017), 12 people died from respiratory depression with gabapentinoids. Two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in healthy people, three observational studies, and several studies in animals were reviewed. A trial showed that using pregabalin alone and using it with an opioid pain reliever can depress breathing function. Three observational studies showed a relationship between gabapentinoids given before surgery and respiratory depression occurring after surgery. Several animal studies also showed that pregabalin plus opioids can depress respiratory function. Benzodiazepines are expected to have a similar effect when used with gabapentinoids.(1)

Benzodiazepines/Opioids (Extended Release)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and benzodiazepines may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics with CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(4) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(5) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(6) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(7) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(8) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(9) A study of 315,428 privately insured patients who filled at least one prescription for an opioid from 2001 to 2013 were enrolled in a retrospective study. Concurrent use of a benzodiazepine was recorded as having at least one day of overlap in a given calendar year. Baseline characteristics among opioid users with concurrent use of a benzodiazepine were older (44.5 v. 42.4, p<0.001), less likely to be men (35% v. 43%, p<0.001), and had a higher prevalence rate of every comorbidity examined (p<0.001). The proportion of opioid users with concurrent benzodiazepine use nearly doubled from 9% in 2001 to 17% in 2013. The primary outcome was an emergency room visit or inpatient admission for opioid overdose within a calendar year. Among all opioid users, the annual adjusted incidence for the primary outcome was 1.16% without concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to 2.42% with concurrent benzodiazepine use (OR 2.14; 95% CI 2.05-2.24; p<0.001). Intermittent opioid users (1.45% v. 1.02%; OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.33-1.51; p<0.001) and chronic opioid users (5.36% v. 3.13%; OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.67-1.96; p<0.001) also experienced a higher adjusted incidence of the primary outcome with concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to without concurrent benzodiazepine use, respectively.(10) In a nested case-control study of adults with a new opioid dispensing between 2010-2018, patients with concurrent use of an opioid with a benzodiazepine were significantly more likely to have opioid-related overdose compared to patients receiving opioids, benzodiazepines, or neither (OR 9.28; 95% CI 7.87, 10.93). Longer concurrent use of 1-7, 8-30, and 31-90 days was associated with 4.6, 12.1, and 26.7-fold higher likelihood of opioid-related overdose (p<0.01). Patients with overlapping prescriptions during previous 0-30, 31-60, and 61-90 days were 13.2, 6.0, and 3.2-times more likely to experience an overdose (p<0.01).(11)

Benzodiazepines/Opioids (Immediate Release)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and benzodiazepines may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics with CNS depressants such as benzodiazepines to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(4) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(5) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(6) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(7) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(8) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(9) A study of 315,428 privately insured patients who filled at least one prescription for an opioid from 2001 to 2013 were enrolled in a retrospective study. Concurrent use of a benzodiazepine was recorded as having at least one day of overlap in a given calendar year. Baseline characteristics among opioid users with concurrent use of a benzodiazepine were older (44.5 v. 42.4, p<0.001), less likely to be men (35% v. 43%, p<0.001), and had a higher prevalence rate of every comorbidity examined (p<0.001). The proportion of opioid users with concurrent benzodiazepine use nearly doubled from 9% in 2001 to 17% in 2013. The primary outcome was an emergency room visit or inpatient admission for opioid overdose within a calendar year. Among all opioid users, the annual adjusted incidence for the primary outcome was 1.16% without concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to 2.42% with concurrent benzodiazepine use (OR 2.14; 95% CI 2.05-2.24; p<0.001). Intermittent opioid users (1.45% v. 1.02%; OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.33-1.51; p<0.001) and chronic opioid users (5.36% v. 3.13%; OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.67-1.96; p<0.001) also experienced a higher adjusted incidence of the primary outcome with concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to without concurrent benzodiazepine use, respectively.(10) In a nested case-control study of adults with a new opioid dispensing between 2010-2018, patients with concurrent use of an opioid with a benzodiazepine were significantly more likely to have opioid-related overdose compared to patients receiving opioids, benzodiazepines, or neither (OR 9.28; 95% CI 7.87, 10.93). Longer concurrent use of 1-7, 8-30, and 31-90 days was associated with 4.6, 12.1, and 26.7-fold higher likelihood of opioid-related overdose (p<0.01). Patients with overlapping prescriptions during previous 0-30, 31-60, and 61-90 days were 13.2, 6.0, and 3.2-times more likely to experience an overdose (p<0.01).(11)

Benzodiazepines/Selected Opioids For Mat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of diacetylmorphine or methadone and benzodiazepines may result in additive CNS depression.(1,2) Levomethadone is an enantiomer of methadone.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of diacetylmorphine or methadone and other CNS depressants, such as benzodiazepines, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Medication assisted treatment (MAT) with diacetylmorphine or methadone is not contraindicated in patients taking benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants; however, discontinuation of benzodiazepines and other CNS depressants is preferred in most cases. In some cases, monitoring at a higher level of care for tapering may be appropriate. In others, gradual tapering or decreasing to the lowest effective dose of the benzodiazapine or CNS depressant is appropriate. Consider other medications and nonpharmacologic treatments to address anxiety or insomnia. Ensure that other health care providers prescribing benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants are aware of the patient's methadone treatment.(4) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(5) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Educate patients about the risks of concurrent use and monitor for use of prescribed and illicit benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants.(4) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(6)

DISCUSSION: Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(7) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(8) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(9) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(10) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(11) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(12) A study of 315,428 privately insured patients who filled at least one prescription for an opioid from 2001 to 2013 were enrolled in a retrospective study. Concurrent use of a benzodiazepine was recorded as having at least one day of overlap in a given calendar year. Baseline characteristics among opioid users with concurrent use of a benzodiazepine were older (44.5 v. 42.4, p<0.001), less likely to be men (35% v. 43%, p<0.001), and had a higher prevalence rate of every comorbidity examined (p<0.001). The proportion of opioid users with concurrent benzodiazepine use nearly doubled from 9% in 2001 to 17% in 2013. The primary outcome was an emergency room visit or inpatient admission for opioid overdose within a calendar year. Among all opioid users, the annual adjusted incidence for the primary outcome was 1.16% without concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to 2.42% with concurrent benzodiazepine use (OR 2.14; 95% CI 2.05-2.24; p<0.001). Intermittent opioid users (1.45% v. 1.02%; OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.33-1.51; p<0.001) and chronic opioid users (5.36% v. 3.13%; OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.67-1.96; p<0.001) also experienced a higher adjusted incidence of the primary outcome with concurrent benzodiazepine use compared to without concurrent benzodiazepine use, respectively.(13) In a nested case-control study of adults with a new opioid dispensing between 2010-2018, patients with concurrent use of an opioid with a benzodiazepine were significantly more likely to have opioid-related overdose compared to patients receiving opioids, benzodiazepines, or neither (OR 9.28; 95% CI 7.87, 10.93). Longer concurrent use of 1-7, 8-30, and 31-90 days was associated with 4.6, 12.1, and 26.7-fold higher likelihood of opioid-related overdose (p<0.01). Patients with overlapping prescriptions during previous 0-30, 31-60, and 61-90 days were 13.2, 6.0, and 3.2-times more likely to experience an overdose (p<0.01).(14) While concomitant use of MAT with CNS depressants increases the risk of adverse reactions, barriers to MAT can pose a greater risk of morbidity and mortality due to opioid use disorder.(4)

Benzodiazepines/Selected Stimulants

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Benzodiazepines and stimulants exhibit opposing effects on the CNS.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of benzodiazepines and stimulants may reduce the clinical effectiveness of both the benzodiazepine and the stimulant. In addition, concurrent use may mask overdose symptoms of the benzodiazepine, such as drowsiness and inability to focus.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing benzodiazepines with CNS stimulants such as amphetamines to patients for whom alternatives are inadequate. If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of substance abuse.

DISCUSSION: Analysis of the 2015 and 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that misuse of benzodiazepines was strongly associated with misuse of or dependences on stimulants.(1) Benzodiazepines are used to reduce the adverse effects of stimulant use, such as insomnia.(2) Patients abusing benzodiazepines in combination with other drugs tend to consume higher dosages of benzodiazepines than patients abusing only benzodiazepines.(3)

Selected Benzodiazepines/Fluconazole; Voriconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fluconazole and voriconazole may inhibit the metabolism of benzodiazepines by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of fluconazole or voriconazole with benzodiazepines metabolized by CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and increased clinical effects from the benzodiazepines. Toxic effects of increased levels of benzodiazepines include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with fluconazole or voriconazole should be monitored for increased benzodiazepine effects. The dosage of the benzodiazepine may need to be decreased or the benzodiazepine may need to be discontinued. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, pretreatment with fluconazole (400 mg twice daily Day 1, 200 mg twice daily Day 2) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and half-life of a single dose of diazepam (5 mg) by 2.5-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively. Pharmacodynamic effects were increased slightly.(1) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, pretreatment with voriconazole (400 mg twice daily Day 1, 200 mg twice daily Day 2) increased the AUC and half-life of a single dose of diazepam (5 mg) by 2.2-fold and 100%, respectively. Pharmacodynamic effects were increased slightly.(1) A study in 10 patients showed that fluconazole (400 mg initially, then 200 mg intravenously) increased intravenous midazolam concentrations by 0-4-fold.(2) A study in nine subjects showed that fluconazole (400 mg) increased the midazolam AUC, maximum concentration (Cmax), and half-life by 2-3 fold, 2-2.5-fold, and 2.5-fold, respectively. The pharmacokinetic changes were larger when fluconazole was given orally when compared to intravenous fluconazole. Both oral and intravenous fluconazole increased the pharmacodynamic effects.(3) A study in 12 subjects showed that the AUC of oral midazolam increased 3.6-fold during fluconazole therapy.(4) One study found that a single, 150 mg dose of fluconazole did not significantly effect midazolam pharmacokinetics.(5) Fluconazole has also been shown to inhibit the metabolism of midazolam in vitro.(6) In a randomized, cross-over study in 10 healthy male volunteers, voriconazole (400 mg twice daily on the first day and 200 mg twice daily on the second day) reduced the clearance on intravenous midazolam (0.05 mg/kg) by 72% and increased its elimination half-life by 3-fold. Voriconazole increased the mean Cmax and the AUC of oral midazolam (7.5 mg) by 3.8 and 10.3-fold, respectively. Voriconazole also prolonged the half-life of oral midazolam by 3.5-fold, and increased the oral bioavailability of midazolam by 2.7-fold. Voriconazole profoundly increased the psychomotor effects of oral midazolam but only weakly increased the effects of intravenous midazolam.(7) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, fluconazole had no significant effects on the pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics of oral or rectal bromazepam.(8)

Selected Benzodiazepines/Idelalisib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Idelalisib may inhibit the metabolism of benzodiazepines that are metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibition of benzodiazepine CYP3A4 metabolism by idelalisib may produce increased levels of, as well as increased clinical effects, of benzodiazepines. Toxic effects of increased benzodiazepine levels include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of idelalisib says to avoid coadministration with sensitive CYP3A substrates.(1) The manufacturers of some benzodiazepines (i.e., clonazepam, diazepam, estazolam, midazolam) advise caution when they are coadministered with inhibitors of CYP3A4 and to consider dose reduction of the benzodiazepine.(2-6) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with idelalisib and benzodiazepines carefully for increased effects including unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: In a study of 12 healthy subjects, multiple doses of idelalisib (150 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of midazolam 5 mg by 437 % and 138 %, respectively.(6) In a case report, a 71-year-old female on diazepam as needed was started on idelalisib 150 mg twice daily. She presented in the emergency room ten days later with altered mental status and respiratory failure, which resolved after discontinuation of idelalisib and diazepam. Other causes of her symptoms were ruled out and although the patient's other medications may have been contributory, idelalisib potentiation of diazepam's effects was thought to be the primary cause.(7) Benzodiazepines linked to this monograph include: brotizolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepic acid, diazepam, estazolam, etizolam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam, halazepam, midazolam, prazepam, and quazepam.

Selected Benzodiazepines/Posaconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Posaconazole may inhibit the metabolism of benzodiazepines by CYP3A4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of posaconazole with benzodiazepines metabolized by CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and increased clinical effects from the benzodiazepines.(1,2) Toxic effects of increased levels of benzodiazepines include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with posaconazole should be monitored for increased benzodiazepine effects. The dosage of the benzodiazepine may need to be decreased or the benzodiazepine may need to be discontinued. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: Posaconazole (200 mg daily for 10 days) increased the AUC of a single dose of intravenous midazolam (30 minute infusion of 0.05 mg/kg) by 83%.(1) Posaconazole (200 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of intravenous midazolam (0.4 mg) by 30% and 362%, respectively. Posaconazole (200 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of oral midazolam (2 mg) by 169% and 470%, respectively. Posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of intravenous midazolam (0.4 mg) by 62% and 524%, respectively. Posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of oral midazolam (2 mg) by 138% and 397%, respectively.(2) In a study of 12 healthy volunteers (11 male and 1 female), posaconazole (200mg twice daily for 7 days and 400mg twice daily for 7 days) increased midazolam Cmax up to 1.3 and 2.4 fold, respectively, and midazolam AUC 4.6 and 6.2 fold, respectively. Midazolam half-life was also increased.(3)

Selected Benzodiazepines/Protease Inhibitors

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of benzodiazepines that are metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibition of benzodiazepine CYP3A4 metabolism by protease inhibitors may produce increased levels of, as well as increased clinical effects, of benzodiazepines. Toxic effects of increased benzodiazepine levels include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The NIH Guidelines for Use of Antiretroviral Agents advise considering use of alternative benzodiazepines that do not undergo CYP metabolism, like lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam.(1) The manufacturers of the protease inhibitors recommend close clinical monitoring for respiratory depression and/or prolonged sedation and consideration of dosage adjustment of the benzodiazepine.(2-5) The manufacturers of some benzodiazepines (i.e., diazepam, estazolam, midazolam) advise caution when they are coadministered with inhibitors of CYP3A4 and to consider dose reduction of the benzodiazepine.(6-8) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with protease inhibitors and benzodiazepines carefully for increased effects including unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: The interaction between most benzodiazepines and protease inhibitors has not been studied. Benzodiazepines are primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. Protease inhibitors are moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, and an elevation in benzodiazepine effects and concentrations with concomitant therapy can be expected. Benzodiazepines linked to this monograph include: brotizolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepic acid, diazepam, estazolam, etizolam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam, halazepam, non-oral midazolam, prazepam, and quazepam. Protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: ensitrelvir, ritonavir-boosted lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, saquinavir, tipranavir; cobicistat- or ritonavir-boosted darunavir; cobicistat-boosted, ritonavir-boosted or unboosted atazanavir; ritonavir-boosted or unboosted amprenavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir; and nelfinavir.

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

• Lactation

• Alcohol intoxication
• Drug abuse
• Pregnancy

• Depression
• Disease of liver
• Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)
• Myasthenia gravis
• Psychotic disorder
• Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Sleep apnea

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

More Frequent

• Muscle weakness

Less Frequent

• Acute cognitive impairment
• Behavioral disorders
• CNS depression

Rare or Very Rare

• Abnormal hepatic function tests
• Accidental fall
• Agranulocytosis
• Anaphylaxis
• Anemia
• Angioedema
• Aplastic anemia
• Apnea
• Coma
• Depression
• Drug dependence
• Drug-induced psychosis
• Dyspnea
• Eosinophilia
• Hallucinations
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hostility
• Hypotension
• Jaundice
• Leukocytosis
• Leukopenia
• Manic disorder
• Memory impairment
• Neutropenic disorder
• Respiratory depression
• Seizure disorder
• Skin rash
• Sleep walking disorder
• Suicidal ideation
• Thrombocytopenic disorder
• Urinary retention

More Frequent

• Ataxia
• Dizziness
• Drowsy
• Dyspepsia
• Sedation
• Slurred speech

Less Frequent

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• General weakness

Rare or Very Rare

• Aggressive behavior
• Agitation
• Alopecia
• Anorexia
• Anticholinergic toxicity
• Blurred vision
• Complex sleep behavior
• Concentration difficulty
• Conjunctivitis
• Constipation
• Cramps
• Delirium
• Depersonalization
• Diplopia
• Disturbance in thinking
• Dream disorder
• Dysarthria
• Dysuria
• Excitement
• Glossitis
• Headache disorder
• Hiccups
• Irritability
• Libido changes
• Menstrual disorder
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Nightmares
• Nystagmus
• Paranoid disorder
• Polydipsia
• Pruritus of skin
• Sialorrhea
• Sleep disorder
• Stomatitis
• Syncope
• Tachycardia
• Tremor
• Urinary incontinence
• Vertigo
• Visual changes
• Xerostomia
• Yawning

A boxed warning has been included in the prescribing information for all benzodiazepines describing the risks of abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and withdrawal reactions associated with all drugs in this class. Abuse and misuse can result in overdose or death, especially when benzodiazepines are combined with other medicines, such as opioid pain relievers, alcohol, or illicit drugs. Frequent follow-up with patients receiving benzodiazepines is important. Reassess patients regularly to manage their medical conditions and any withdrawal symptoms. Clinicians should assess a patient's risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. Standardized screening tools are available (https://nida.nih.gov/nidamed-medical-health-professionals/screening-tools- resources/chart-screening-tools). To reduce the risk of acute withdrawal reactions, use a gradual dose taper when reducing the dosage or discontinuing benzodiazepines. Take precautions when benzodiazepines are used in combination with opioid medications.

Estazolam shares the toxic potentials of the benzodiazepines, and the usual precautions of benzodiazepine administration should be observed. (See Cautions in the Benzodiazepines General Statement 28:24.08.)

Hydroxylation of estazolam to form 4-hydroxyestazolam is catalyzed by the hepatic cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 3A isoenzyme, and concomitant use of estazolam with drugs (e.g., some azole antifungals agents, nefazodone, erythromycin, fluvoxamine) that inhibit this isoenzyme system may result in decreased estazolam metabolism and clearance and increased plasma estazolam concentrations. Although specific drug interaction studies are not available, the manufacturer states that caution should be exercised and estazolam dosage adjustment considered during concomitant use of the drug with CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., nefazodone, fluvoxamine, cimetidine, diltiazem, isoniazid, some macrolide antibiotics). Because itraconazole and ketoconazole are very potent CYP3A isoenzyme inhibitors, the manufacturer states that concomitant use of these drugs with estazolam is contraindicated.

For further information about potential interactions between benzodiazepines and drugs and foods affecting hepatic microsomal enzymes, see Drug Interactions in the Benzodiazepines General Statement 28:24.08.

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Benzodiazepines can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women (see Cautions: Pregnancy and Lactation, in the Benzodiazepines General Statement 28:24.08), and those used solely as hypnotics, such as estazolam, are contraindicated during pregnancy. The safety of estazolam during labor or delivery has not been established.

It is not known whether estazolam is distributed into milk in humans; however, estazolam and/or its metabolites are distributed into milk in rats. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions to estazolam in nursing infants if it were distributed, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the woman.

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