Drug interactions
Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium + Phenobarbital
Severity: Major
Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium and Phenobarbital: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of chlordiazepoxide. As a strong enzyme inducer it can also lower chlordiazepoxide exposure and weaken its effect over time.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium and Phenobarbital 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
Additive GABA-A mediated CNS depression plus CYP3A4 induction by phenobarbital.
What to do
Monitor sedation and respiratory status, avoid other CNS depressants, and adjust benzodiazepine dose to response. Be aware of changing requirements when phenobarbital is started or stopped.
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
Other interactions of Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium
- Alfentanil + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
- Alprazolam + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
- Amobarbital + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
- Belladonna and opium + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
- Brexanolone + Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium and Phenobarbital 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. Phenobarbital adds to the sedative and respiratory depressant effects of chlordiazepoxide. As a strong enzyme inducer it can also lower chlordiazepoxide exposure and weaken its effect over time.
How serious is the interaction between Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium and Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor sedation and respiratory status, avoid other CNS depressants, and adjust benzodiazepine dose to response. Be aware of changing requirements when phenobarbital is started or stopped.
What other medicines interact with Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium with, for example, Alfentanil, Alprazolam, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Chlordiazepoxide-clidinium page.
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