Drug interactions
Bromocriptine + Phenobarbital
Severity: Moderate
Bromocriptine and Phenobarbital: moderate 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 CYP3A4 and may lower bromocriptine levels, potentially reducing its therapeutic effect. Phenobarbital also adds sedation.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bromocriptine and Phenobarbital can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Enzyme induction of CYP3A4 by phenobarbital increases bromocriptine metabolism.
What to do
Monitor prolactin or symptom control and increase the bromocriptine dose if needed. Reduce it again if phenobarbital is withdrawn.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Bromocriptine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bromocriptine with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Bromocriptine and Phenobarbital can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4 and may lower bromocriptine levels, potentially reducing its therapeutic effect. Phenobarbital also adds sedation.
How serious is the interaction between Bromocriptine and Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor prolactin or symptom control and increase the bromocriptine dose if needed. Reduce it again if phenobarbital is withdrawn.
What other medicines interact with Bromocriptine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Bromocriptine with, for example, Amisulpride, Atazanavir, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Bromocriptine page.
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