Increasing bioavailability of benzo's

[Rafterman]

RM - Thought you might find this interesting:

Abstract

Cimetidine has been shown to inhibit the liver microsomal metabolism of the benzodiazepines diazepam and chlordiazepoxide, resulting in an increase in half-life and decrease in the clearance of these two drugs. Patients receiving the combination of diazepam and cimetidine have been noted to be more sedated than when given an equal dose of diazepam alone. Many benzodiazepines undergo N-dealkylation and hydroxylation via the cytochrome P450 oxidase system. Cimetidine is thought to bind to cytochrome P450 oxidase and to interfere with many drugs using this path way. Oxazepam and lorazepam are two benzodiazepines not oxidatively metabolized by cytochrome P450, but are glucuronidated by glucuronyl transferase and are, therefore, not subject to metabolic inhibition by cimetidine. Thus, when clinically indicated, oxazepam and lorazepam may be the benzodiazepines of choice to use in combination with cimetidine to eliminate the clinically significant drug interaction seen with diazepam and chlordiazepoxide.

Link: xxxxx://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6116285 (replace xxxxx with https, of course.

Thanks for this, O. I have seen studies like these. In fact, about 10 years ago I was really psyched by the idea that Tagamet might indeed revolutionize my experience with benzo's (and opioids). I have been in the market for a true potentiator of both for decades. I know that grapefruit juice is a legit potentiator, but I cannot have that because I take the medication Digoxin. So I began trying Tagamet. I must say that I did not notice a different but that's just me. Everyone else seems to note a difference. I have a weird make up. For instance, I noticed that 400mg's of magnesium, taken an hour before a dose of oxy or hydro, definitely improves the experience somewhat. No one else seems to think that. Are you going to try the Tagamet? You are making me feel like giving it another run. Walgreen's used to have a trial size. Not sure if they still do. Otherwise, Amazon is probably your best bet. Let me know. I'll probably do it with you.  RM