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Drug interactions

Fosphenytoin + Upadacitinib

Severity: Major

Fosphenytoin and Upadacitinib: 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, which induces CYP3A4 and may reduce upadacitinib exposure. Efficacy may be lost.

What this interaction means in plain words

Fosphenytoin and Upadacitinib 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; Upadacitinib belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Phenytoin induces CYP3A4 and increases upadacitinib clearance.

What to do

Avoid the combination if possible. If both are necessary, monitor disease activity closely.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Fosphenytoin with Upadacitinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fosphenytoin and Upadacitinib 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, which induces CYP3A4 and may reduce upadacitinib exposure. Efficacy may be lost.

How serious is the interaction between Fosphenytoin and Upadacitinib?

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 both are necessary, monitor disease activity closely.

What other medicines interact with Upadacitinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Upadacitinib with, for example, Abrocitinib, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Baricitinib. The full list is on the Upadacitinib page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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