Drug interactions
Dabigatran etexilate + Fosphenytoin
Severity: Major
Dabigatran etexilate and Fosphenytoin: major 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
Phenytoin, the active form of fosphenytoin, induces P-gp and may lower dabigatran exposure. Reduced anticoagulant effect increases the risk of thromboembolism or stroke.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dabigatran etexilate and Fosphenytoin 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.
Dabigatran etexilate belongs to Cardiovascular; Fosphenytoin belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Induction of intestinal P-glycoprotein by phenytoin increases dabigatran efflux and lowers its absorption.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use an alternative anticonvulsant or anticoagulant, such as warfarin with INR monitoring. If it cannot be avoided, monitor closely for thromboembolic events.
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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Other interactions of Dabigatran etexilate
- Dabigatran etexilate + Defibrotide Contraindicated
- Dabigatran etexilate + Ketorolac Contraindicated
- Dabigatran etexilate + Mifepristone Contraindicated
- Abciximab + Dabigatran etexilate Major
- Alteplase + Dabigatran etexilate Major
- Amiodarone + Dabigatran etexilate Major
Other interactions of Fosphenytoin
- Dronedarone + Fosphenytoin Contraindicated
- Fosphenytoin + Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir Contraindicated
- Fosphenytoin + Lorlatinib Contraindicated
- Fosphenytoin + Lurasidone Contraindicated
- Fosphenytoin + Ranolazine Contraindicated
- Fosphenytoin + Sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dabigatran etexilate with Fosphenytoin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dabigatran etexilate and Fosphenytoin 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. Phenytoin, the active form of fosphenytoin, induces P-gp and may lower dabigatran exposure. Reduced anticoagulant effect increases the risk of thromboembolism or stroke.
How serious is the interaction between Dabigatran etexilate and Fosphenytoin?
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 the combination and use an alternative anticonvulsant or anticoagulant, such as warfarin with INR monitoring. If it cannot be avoided, monitor closely for thromboembolic events.
What other medicines interact with Dabigatran etexilate?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dabigatran etexilate with, for example, Defibrotide, Ketorolac, Mifepristone. The full list is on the Dabigatran etexilate page.
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