How Long To Wait After Hydrocodone To Take Clonazepam

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses how long to wait after taking hydrocodone to take clonazepam to avoid additive effects.

How Long To Wait After Hydrocodone To Take Clonazepam
Jun 07, 2018

Chris asked

How long after taking 2 Norco 5/325 can I take 3 mg of clonazepam?

Answer

Hydrocodone tabletsFor most individuals, clonazepam and hydrocodone should not be taken together. The combined use of both together can cause:

  • Respiratory depression
  • Hypotension (low blood pressure)
  • Sedation
  • Coma

If they must be used together and they represent the best treatment for an individual, the lowest effective doses and minimum treatment duration should be used.

When Is It Safe To Take Clonazepam After Hydrocodone

The analgesic effects of hydrocodone generally lasts between 4 and 6 hours for most individuals. However, to completely avoid the interaction between clonazepam and hydrocodone, you should wait until hydrocodone is entirely cleared from your system.

Most studies report that the half-life (time it takes for 50% of a drug to be metabolized) of hydrocodone is around 4 hours. For most drugs, it takes around 5 to 6 half-lives to be completely cleared from the body. Therefore, for hydrocodone, it will take around 20 to 24 hours for it to be eliminated.

If you are looking to take clonazepam after hydrocodone, wait at least 24 hours to avoid having both drugs in your system at the same time.

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