Combining Hydromorphone Hydrochloride and Midazolam is a major interaction and should generally be avoided without close medical supervision.
The combination significantly increases the risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Patients may exhibit somnolence, decreased level of consciousness, hypoventilation, hypoxia, and hypotension. This interaction can lead to life-threatening respiratory arrest.
Mechanism: Hydromorphone, an opioid agonist, binds to mu-opioid receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), leading to CNS depression and respiratory depression. Midazolam, a benzodiazepine, enhances the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABA-A receptors, also causing CNS and respiratory depression. The concomitant use of these agents results in an additive and synergistic depressant effect on the CNS and respiratory drive.
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride vs. Midazolam
Compare Hydromorphone Hydrochloride and Midazolam: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Opioid Analgesics
RxDrug B
Midazolam
Midazolam
Benzodiazepines
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Hydromorphone Hydrochloride | Midazolam |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | Opioid Analgesics | Benzodiazepines |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $200–$500/month | $500–$1,500/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 →Midazolam Overview
Midazolam is a type of medicine called a benzodiazepine that helps calm the body and mind. It is primarily used to make you feel relaxed and drowsy before medical procedures, surgeries, or to help you fall asleep for general anesthesia. It works by slowing down brain activity to reduce anxiety and create a state of peacefulness or forgetfulness.
Full Midazolam 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.
Midazolam
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Midazolam Injection is indicated: intramuscularly or intravenously for preoperative sedation/anxiolysis/amnesia; intravenously as an agent for sedation/anxiolysis/amnesia prior to or during diagnostic, therapeutic or endoscopic procedures, such as bronchoscopy, gastroscopy, cystoscopy, coronary angiography, cardiac catheterization, oncology procedures, radiologic procedures, suture of lacerations and other procedures either alone or in combination with other CNS depressants; intravenously for induction of general anesthesia, before administration of other anesthetic agent…
Side Effects
Hydromorphone Hydrochloride
Midazolam
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.
Midazolam
$500–$1,500/month
As Midazolam is a brand-only medication, explore manufacturer patient assistance programs or discount cards like GoodRx to help reduce the high cost. Your insurance plan's coverage will also significantly impact your out-of-pocket expenses.
Compare prices for Hydromorphone Hydrochloride and Midazolam
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.