Drug interactions
Cenobamate + Ketamine
Severity: Moderate
Cenobamate and Ketamine: 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 induces CYP3A4 and CYP2B6, the main enzymes that metabolize ketamine. Ketamine exposure may be reduced, and cenobamate also causes sedation that may add to ketamine's CNS effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cenobamate and Ketamine 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; Ketamine belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Enzyme induction of CYP2B6 and CYP3A4 by cenobamate increases ketamine clearance.
What to do
Monitor ketamine efficacy and be prepared to raise the dose if the response is inadequate. Watch for additive sedation.
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 Ketamine
Other interactions of Cenobamate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cenobamate with Ketamine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Cenobamate and Ketamine 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 induces CYP3A4 and CYP2B6, the main enzymes that metabolize ketamine. Ketamine exposure may be reduced, and cenobamate also causes sedation that may add to ketamine's CNS effects.
How serious is the interaction between Cenobamate and Ketamine?
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 ketamine efficacy and be prepared to raise the dose if the response is inadequate. Watch for additive sedation.
What other medicines interact with Ketamine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ketamine with, for example, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen, Brexanolone, Buprenorphine buccal. The full list is on the Ketamine page.
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