Drug interactions
Crizotinib + Phenobarbital
Severity: Major
Crizotinib 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 is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and can markedly lower crizotinib concentrations. This may lead to loss of antitumor efficacy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Crizotinib 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
Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4, increasing crizotinib metabolism.
What to do
Avoid concomitant use and select a non-inducing anticonvulsant or sedative if possible; monitor tumor response if the combination cannot be avoided.
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 Crizotinib
- Crizotinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Saquinavir Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Crizotinib with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib 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 is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and can markedly lower crizotinib concentrations. This may lead to loss of antitumor efficacy.
How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib 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: Avoid concomitant use and select a non-inducing anticonvulsant or sedative if possible; monitor tumor response if the combination cannot be avoided.
What other medicines interact with Crizotinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Crizotinib with, for example, Flibanserin, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib. The full list is on the Crizotinib page.
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