Benzodiazepine
Lorazepam with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Lorazepam (Lorazepam). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Lorazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Benzodiazepine agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Lorazepam at 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Lorazepam, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Lorazepam is co-administered. Adjusted 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lorazepam during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Lorazepam is metabolised and may need a temporary 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Lorazepam regimen.
Will antibiotics make Lorazepam stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Lorazepam efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Lorazepam levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
Products containing Lorazepam
More on Lorazepam
- With alcoholLorazepam and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Lorazepam be taken with food?
- Side effectsLorazepam side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideLorazepam dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Lorazepam start working?
- DurationHow long does Lorazepam last?
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