Drug interactions
Fosphenytoin + Pimavanserin
Severity: Major
Fosphenytoin and Pimavanserin: 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
Fosphenytoin is converted to phenytoin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer that can substantially reduce pimavanserin concentrations. This may lead to loss of antipsychotic effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fosphenytoin and Pimavanserin 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.
Fosphenytoin belongs to Central Nervous System; Pimavanserin belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Phenytoin induces CYP3A4, increasing pimavanserin metabolism.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible. If used, monitor for loss of pimavanserin efficacy and increase the dose as needed.
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 Pimavanserin
- Lefamulin + Pimavanserin Contraindicated
- Pimavanserin + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Pimavanserin + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Pimavanserin Major
- Amiodarone + Pimavanserin Major
- Amisulpride + Pimavanserin 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 Fosphenytoin with Pimavanserin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fosphenytoin and Pimavanserin 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. Fosphenytoin is converted to phenytoin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer that can substantially reduce pimavanserin concentrations. This may lead to loss of antipsychotic effect.
How serious is the interaction between Fosphenytoin and Pimavanserin?
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 if possible. If used, monitor for loss of pimavanserin efficacy and increase the dose as needed.
What other medicines interact with Pimavanserin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pimavanserin with, for example, Lefamulin, Pimozide, Vandetanib. The full list is on the Pimavanserin page.
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