Combining Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Lorazepam is a major interaction and should generally be avoided without close medical supervision.
Concomitant use of hydrocodone (an opioid) and lorazepam (a benzodiazepine) can lead to profound sedation, severe respiratory depression, coma, and death. This combination significantly increases the risk of life-threatening central nervous system depression.
Mechanism: Both hydrocodone and lorazepam cause central nervous system (CNS) depression. Hydrocodone acts on opioid receptors, while lorazepam enhances GABAergic activity. Their combined effects are additive, leading to synergistic CNS and respiratory depression.
Hydrocodone Bitartrate vs. Lorazepam
Compare Hydrocodone Bitartrate and Lorazepam: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Hydrocodone Bitartrate
Zohydro ER
Opioid Analgesics
C-IIDrug B
Lorazepam
Lorazepam
Benzodiazepines
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Hydrocodone Bitartrate | Lorazepam |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Opioid Analgesics | Benzodiazepines |
| Rx Status | C-II | Rx |
| Generic Available | Yes | No |
| Typical Cost | $150-$400/month | $10–$50/month |
Hydrocodone Bitartrate Overview
Hydrocodone extended-release is a strong opioid pain medicine used to manage severe and long-lasting pain that requires around-the-clock treatment. It is prescribed when other pain medicines have not worked or cannot be tolerated. This medication helps reduce pain by changing how your brain and nervous system respond to pain.
Full Hydrocodone Bitartrate 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
Hydrocodone Bitartrate
Hydrocodone is a full opioid agonist with a high affinity for mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Its primary mechanism of action involves binding to these receptors, which leads to the inhibition of ascending pain pathways, altering the perception of and response to pain. This binding also produces generalized central nervous system depression, which contributes to its analgesic effects but also to its potential for respiratory depression and sedation.
Approved Uses (Indications)
Hydrocodone Bitartrate
Hydrocodone bitartrate extended-release is indicated for the management of severe and persistent pain that requires daily, around-the-clock, long-term opioid treatment and for which alternative treatment options are inadequate. This medication is not intended for as-needed pain relief or for mild to moderate pain. It should only be prescribed by healthcare professionals experienced in the use of potent opioids for chronic pain management, and only when the potential benefits outweigh the risks of opioid use.
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
Hydrocodone Bitartrate
Lorazepam
Cost Comparison
Hydrocodone Bitartrate
$150-$400/month
Generic available
Generic versions of extended-release hydrocodone are not widely available under this specific formulation (Zohydro ER was a brand name for a pure hydrocodone ER product). Costs can vary significantly based on insurance coverage and pharmacy. Manufacturer coupons or patient assistance programs may be available.
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.
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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.