Drug interactions
Bisoprolol + Phenobarbital
Severity: Minor
Bisoprolol and Phenobarbital: minor interaction.
Last updated
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
Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes and may lower bisoprolol concentrations, reducing its effect. Because bisoprolol is eliminated partly unchanged by the kidney, the effect is usually modest.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bisoprolol and Phenobarbital have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Induction of hepatic CYP3A4 and other enzymes increases the metabolism of bisoprolol.
What to do
Monitor heart rate and blood pressure when phenobarbital is started, changed or stopped. Adjust the bisoprolol dose if control is lost.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Bisoprolol
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bisoprolol with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Bisoprolol and Phenobarbital have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes and may lower bisoprolol concentrations, reducing its effect. Because bisoprolol is eliminated partly unchanged by the kidney, the effect is usually modest.
How serious is the interaction between Bisoprolol and Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor heart rate and blood pressure when phenobarbital is started, changed or stopped. Adjust the bisoprolol dose if control is lost.
What other medicines interact with Bisoprolol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Bisoprolol with, for example, Aldesleukin, Amifostine, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Bisoprolol page.
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