Drug interactions
Esomeprazole + Phenobarbital
Severity: Moderate
Esomeprazole and Phenobarbital: 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
Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes and may lower esomeprazole levels, potentially reducing its acid suppression. The clinical effect is variable.
What this interaction means in plain words
Esomeprazole and Phenobarbital 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.
Why it happens
Phenobarbital induces CYP2C19 and CYP3A4, which increases the metabolism of esomeprazole.
What to do
Monitor for reduced symptom control and increase the esomeprazole dose if needed. Consider an alternative acid suppressant if control is inadequate.
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 Esomeprazole
- Esomeprazole + Mavacamten Contraindicated
- Esomeprazole + Rilpivirine Contraindicated
- Acalabrutinib + Esomeprazole Major
- Atazanavir + Esomeprazole Major
- Citalopram + Esomeprazole Major
- Clopidogrel + Esomeprazole Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Esomeprazole with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Esomeprazole and Phenobarbital 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. Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzymes and may lower esomeprazole levels, potentially reducing its acid suppression. The clinical effect is variable.
How serious is the interaction between Esomeprazole and Phenobarbital?
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 for reduced symptom control and increase the esomeprazole dose if needed. Consider an alternative acid suppressant if control is inadequate.
What other medicines interact with Esomeprazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Esomeprazole with, for example, Mavacamten, Rilpivirine, Acalabrutinib. The full list is on the Esomeprazole page.
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