When taking benzodiazepines, any other type of medication that causes drowsiness or impaired alertness and reaction time can be potentially dangerous, especially if one has to drive an automobile. Alcohol should not be consumed when taking benzodiazepines.
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If you are taking benzodiazepines, you should avoid taking other drugs that can make you sedated or sleepy—especially alcohol. Watch as neurologist Gayatri Devi, MD, discusses the substances and activities you should avoid while taking benzos.
If you are using azelastine nasal spray, conivaptan, doxylamine, fusidic acid, idelalisib, methadone, olanzapine, orphenadrine, paraldehyde, pimozide, sodium oxybate, or thalidomide, benzodiazepines can lead to side effects and should be avoided.
If you are taking itraconazole or ketoconazole, you should not take estazolam or triazolam.
If you are taking cobicistat, triazolam can lead to side effects and should be avoided.
If you are taking a central nervous system depressant, clozapine, phenytoin, or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, benzodiazepines may not be a good option for you.
If you are taking a CYP3A4 inhibitor, you should not take a benzodiazepine.
If you are taking loxapine, lorazepam may not be a good option for you.
If you are taking a protease inhibitor, you should not take triazolam.
This answer was adapted from Sharecare's award-winning AskMD app. Start a consultation now to find out what's causing your symptoms, learn how to manage a condition, or find a doctor.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.