Drug interactions
Dronedarone + Phenobarbital
Severity: Major
Dronedarone 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 induces CYP3A4 and can markedly reduce dronedarone exposure, risking loss of efficacy in rhythm or rate control.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dronedarone 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, accelerating dronedarone metabolism.
What to do
Avoid combination; use an alternative antiarrhythmic or anticonvulsant without strong enzyme induction.
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 Dronedarone
- Adagrasib + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Artemether / lumefantrine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Azithromycin + Dronedarone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dronedarone with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dronedarone 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 induces CYP3A4 and can markedly reduce dronedarone exposure, risking loss of efficacy in rhythm or rate control.
How serious is the interaction between Dronedarone 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 combination; use an alternative antiarrhythmic or anticonvulsant without strong enzyme induction.
What other medicines interact with Dronedarone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dronedarone with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Arsenic trioxide. The full list is on the Dronedarone page.
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