Drug interactions
Cenobamate + Escitalopram
Severity: Moderate
Cenobamate and Escitalopram: 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
Cenobamate inhibits CYP2C19 and induces CYP3A4, both involved in escitalopram metabolism, so exposure may change in either direction. Additive sedation and dizziness can also occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cenobamate and Escitalopram 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.
Cenobamate belongs to Central Nervous System; Escitalopram belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Opposing CYP2C19 inhibition and CYP3A4 induction by cenobamate alter escitalopram clearance, plus additive CNS depression.
What to do
Monitor clinical response and adverse effects such as QT symptoms or sedation, adjusting escitalopram dose as needed. Consider ECG monitoring if the dose is raised.
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 Escitalopram
- Cisapride + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Citalopram + Escitalopram Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Isocarboxazid Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Methylene blue Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Phenelzine Contraindicated
- Escitalopram + Pimozide Contraindicated
Other interactions of Cenobamate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cenobamate with Escitalopram?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Cenobamate and Escitalopram 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. Cenobamate inhibits CYP2C19 and induces CYP3A4, both involved in escitalopram metabolism, so exposure may change in either direction. Additive sedation and dizziness can also occur.
How serious is the interaction between Cenobamate and Escitalopram?
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 clinical response and adverse effects such as QT symptoms or sedation, adjusting escitalopram dose as needed. Consider ECG monitoring if the dose is raised.
What other medicines interact with Escitalopram?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Escitalopram with, for example, Cisapride, Citalopram, Isocarboxazid. The full list is on the Escitalopram page.
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