ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) Lorazepam 5 mg/mL · Diphenhydramine 125 mg/mL · Haloperidol 5 mg/mL — Compounded Transdermal Gel Patient Monograph

Patient education monograph for ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) (Lorazepam 5 mg/mL · Diphenhydramine 125 mg/mL · Haloperidol 5 mg/mL), a compounded transdermal gel. Learn how it works, how to use it, possible side effects, and find a licensed compounding pharmacy near you.

What is ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?

This compounded preparation contains lorazepam (Ativan), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and haloperidol (Haldol) in a Pluronic Lecithin Organogel (PLO) transdermal base, prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy pursuant to a valid prescription. It is used in hospice and palliative care settings for nausea or agitation when oral or other routes are not feasible. Important: published clinical evidence for transdermal absorption of this combination is limited, and effectiveness may vary. Your hospice team has determined this preparation is appropriate for your goals of care.

How does ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) work?

This preparation combines three medications with different mechanisms: Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that calms anxiety and reduces agitation. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with antiemetic and sedative properties. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic that blocks dopamine receptors, helping to reduce nausea and agitation. All three are delivered through the skin in a PLO base, though transdermal absorption for this combination is variable.

How to use ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)

Apply the prescribed amount (typically 0.5 mL) to the inner wrist as directed by the hospice team — usually every 4–6 hours as needed. Caregivers should wear disposable gloves when applying and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Do not apply to broken, irritated, or damaged skin.

ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) side effects

This preparation may cause significant sedation, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Haloperidol may cause muscle stiffness or unusual movements. Lorazepam can contribute to respiratory depression when combined with opioids. Communicate all changes in the patient's condition to the hospice nurse.

Drug interactions with ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)

All three components have sedating properties and can significantly increase the effect of opioids, sleep aids, and other sedating medications. Haloperidol may prolong the heart's QT interval — report any irregular heartbeat or cardiac changes to the hospice team immediately. Lorazepam is a controlled substance; use exactly as prescribed.

How to store ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)

Store at room temperature, 59°F–77°F (15°C–25°C). Keep in a secure, locked location in accordance with controlled substance requirements for lorazepam. Protect from heat, sunlight, and freezing. Dispose of any unused medication per your hospice provider or pharmacy take-back instructions — do not di

Precautions for ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)

Contains lorazepam, a Schedule IV controlled substance. Use only as directed and store securely. Haloperidol carries a risk of QT prolongation — notify the hospice team of any cardiac symptoms. May cause heavy sedation — do not leave patient unattended in unsafe conditions. Keep out of reach of children and other individuals not named on the prescription.

Frequently Asked Questions — ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)

What is ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
This compounded preparation contains lorazepam (Ativan), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and haloperidol (Haldol) in a Pluronic Lecithin Organogel (PLO) transdermal base, prepared by a licensed compounding pharmacy pursuant to a valid prescription. It is used in hospice and palliative care settings for nausea or agitation when oral or other routes are not feasible. Important: published clinical evidence for transdermal absorption of this combination is limited, and effectiveness may vary. Your hospi
How does ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) work?
This preparation combines three medications with different mechanisms: Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine that calms anxiety and reduces agitation. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine with antiemetic and sedative properties. Haloperidol is an antipsychotic that blocks dopamine receptors, helping to reduce nausea and agitation. All three are delivered through the skin in a PLO base, though transdermal absorption for this combination is variable.
How do I use ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
Apply the prescribed amount (typically 0.5 mL) to the inner wrist as directed by the hospice team — usually every 4–6 hours as needed. Caregivers should wear disposable gloves when applying and wash hands thoroughly afterward. Do not apply to broken, irritated, or damaged skin.
What are the side effects of ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
This preparation may cause significant sedation, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. Haloperidol may cause muscle stiffness or unusual movements. Lorazepam can contribute to respiratory depression when combined with opioids. Communicate all changes in the patient's condition to the hospice nurse.
Are there drug interactions with ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
All three components have sedating properties and can significantly increase the effect of opioids, sleep aids, and other sedating medications. Haloperidol may prolong the heart's QT interval — report any irregular heartbeat or cardiac changes to the hospice team immediately. Lorazepam is a controlled substance; use exactly as prescribed.
How should I store ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
Store at room temperature, 59°F–77°F (15°C–25°C). Keep in a secure, locked location in accordance with controlled substance requirements for lorazepam. Protect from heat, sunlight, and freezing. Dispose of any unused medication per your hospice provider or pharmacy take-back instructions — do not di
What precautions should I know about ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
Contains lorazepam, a Schedule IV controlled substance. Use only as directed and store securely. Haloperidol carries a risk of QT prolongation — notify the hospice team of any cardiac symptoms. May cause heavy sedation — do not leave patient unattended in unsafe conditions. Keep out of reach of children and other individuals not named on the prescription.
Where can I get compounded ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol)?
ABH Gel (Ativan + Benadryl + Haldol) is available through licensed compounding pharmacies on the SlimionRX network. Visit slimionrx.com to find a pharmacy near you.
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