New research data shows that taking a benzodiazepine like Valium with an opiate like morphine can be a potential deadly combination. The combination of the two result in more potential respiratory depression. New data also shows patients on this combination were ten times more likely to overdose & die.

Therefore, for the safety of our patients, this combination of a benzo & an opiate will no longer be allowed. This includes if our clinic is writing a prescription opiate for your pain relief & another doctor like your primary care doctor is writing a benzo. Patients will now have to choose one or the other, but can no longer be on both.

Alternatives to benzodiazepines are meds like Cymbalta, Buspar, or Effexor.