Combining Hydromorphone Hydrochloride and Lorazepam is a major interaction and should generally be avoided without close medical supervision.
The concurrent use of hydromorphone and lorazepam significantly increases the risk of severe respiratory depression, profound sedation, hypotension, psychomotor impairment, coma, and death. Patients may exhibit decreased level of consciousness, bradycardia, pinpoint pupils, and hypoventilation. The FDA has issued a Black Box Warning highlighting these life-threatening risks.
Mechanism: Hydromorphone, an opioid agonist, primarily acts on mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS) to produce analgesia, sedation, and respiratory depression. Lorazepam, a benzodiazepine, enhances the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors, leading to CNS depression. The co-administration of these two CNS depressants results in an additive and synergistic depressant effect on the brainstem respiratory centers and overall CNS activity.
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride vs. Lorazepam
Compare Hydromorphone Hydrochloride and Lorazepam: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Opioid Analgesics
RxDrug B
Lorazepam
Lorazepam
Benzodiazepines
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Hydromorphone Hydrochloride | Lorazepam |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Opioid Analgesics | Benzodiazepines |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $200–$500/month | $10–$50/month |
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Overview
HYDROMORPHONE HYDROCHLORIDE (brand name: Hydromorphone Hydrochloride) is a Opioid Analgesics. INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is indicated for the relief of moderate to severe pain such as that due to: surgery, cancer, trauma (soft tissue and bone), biliary colic, myocardial infarction, burns, renal colic.
Full Hydromorphone Hydrochloride 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 →Approved Uses (Indications)
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Hydromorphone Hydrochloride Injection is indicated for the relief of moderate to severe pain such as that due to: surgery, cancer, trauma (soft tissue and bone), biliary colic, myocardial infarction, burns, renal colic.
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
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Lorazepam
Cost Comparison
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
$200–$500/month
As a brand-only medication, costs without insurance can be high. Discuss patient assistance programs with your doctor or pharmacist for potential savings.
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.