Combining Fentanyl and Lorazepam is a major interaction and should generally be avoided without close medical supervision.
This combination significantly increases the risk of severe respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, and death. Patients may experience decreased level of consciousness, hypoventilation, hypoxia, and hypotension. These effects can be life-threatening if not promptly recognized and managed.
Mechanism: Fentanyl, an opioid agonist, primarily acts on mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) to produce analgesia and respiratory depression. Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, enhances the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors. The co-administration of these CNS depressants results in synergistic depression of respiratory drive and CNS activity.
Fentanyl vs. Lorazepam
Compare Fentanyl and Lorazepam: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Fentanyl | Lorazepam |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Opioid Analgesics | Benzodiazepines |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $150–$600/month | $10–$50/month |
Fentanyl Overview
FENTANYL (brand name: FENTANYL) is a Opioid Analgesics. 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Fentanyl transdermal system is indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain in opioid-tolerant patients, that requires an opioid analgesic and that cannot be adequately treated with alternative options, including immediate-release opioids. Patients considered…
Full Fentanyl guide →Lorazepam Overview
Lorazepam is a prescription medication used to help manage anxiety disorders and provide short-term relief from anxiety symptoms. It works by calming the brain and nerves, which can help reduce feelings of worry and tension.
Full Lorazepam guide →How Each Drug Works
Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an opioid agonist. Fentanyl interacts predominately with the opioid mu-receptor. These mu-binding sites are distributed in the human brain, spinal cord, and other tissues.
Approved Uses (Indications)
Fentanyl
Fentanyl transdermal system is indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain in opioid-tolerant patients, that requires an opioid analgesic and that cannot be adequately treated with alternative options, including immediate-release opioids. Patients considered opioid-tolerant are those who are taking, for one week or longer, at least 60 mg morphine per day, 25 mcg transdermal fentanyl per hour, 30 mg oral oxycodone per day, 8 mg oral hydromorphone per day, 25 mg oral oxymorphone per day, 60 mg oral hydrocodone per day, or an equianalgesic dose of another op…
Lorazepam
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Lorazepam tablets are indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety or anxiety associated with depressive symptoms. Anxiety or tension associated with the stress of everyday life usually does not require treatment with an anxiolytic. The effectiveness of lorazepam tablets in long-term use, that is, more than 4 months, has not been assessed by systematic clinical studies. The physician should periodically reassess the usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.
Side Effects
Fentanyl
Lorazepam
Cost Comparison
Fentanyl
$150–$600/month
As a brand-only medication, fentanyl can be expensive. Patients should check for manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs, and compare prices at different pharmacies using discount cards.
Lorazepam
$10–$50/month
Lorazepam is a widely available generic, making it relatively inexpensive. Patients can often find significant savings by using discount cards or comparing prices at different pharmacies.
Compare prices for Fentanyl and Lorazepam
Check real-time pharmacy prices before you fill — free, no account needed.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.