Drug interactions
Aripiprazole + Pentobarbital
Severity: Major
Aripiprazole and Pentobarbital: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Pentobarbital induces CYP3A4 and can lower aripiprazole exposure, while both drugs add to CNS depression. The result may be reduced antipsychotic effect along with greater sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Aripiprazole and Pentobarbital can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 induction by the barbiturate and additive CNS depression.
What to do
Aripiprazole labeling advises doubling the dose with strong CYP3A4 inducers; titrate by response. Monitor sedation and respiratory status.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
- Abilify 1 mg/mL Oral Solution - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: other CNS medicinal products with overlapping adverse reactions such as sedation; "caution should be used when aripiprazole is administered in combination with alcohol or other CNS medicinal products with overlapping adverse re… — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Aripiprazole
- Aripiprazole + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Aripiprazole + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Aripiprazole Major
- Aripiprazole + Arsenic trioxide Major
- Aripiprazole + Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates Major
- Aripiprazole + Carbamazepine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Aripiprazole with Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Aripiprazole and Pentobarbital can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Pentobarbital induces CYP3A4 and can lower aripiprazole exposure, while both drugs add to CNS depression. The result may be reduced antipsychotic effect along with greater sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Aripiprazole and Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Aripiprazole labeling advises doubling the dose with strong CYP3A4 inducers; titrate by response. Monitor sedation and respiratory status.
What other medicines interact with Aripiprazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Aripiprazole with, for example, Pimozide, Thioridazine, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Aripiprazole page.
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