Drug interactions
Gabapentin + Orlistat
Severity: Minor
Gabapentin and Orlistat: minor 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
Orlistat has been linked to loss of seizure control in patients on antiepileptic drugs. Gabapentin is absorbed by a saturable amino acid transporter and does not depend on fat absorption, so a true interaction is uncertain. Seizure breakthrough would be clinically important.
What this interaction means in plain words
Gabapentin and Orlistat have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Gabapentin belongs to Central Nervous System; Orlistat belongs to Miscellaneous.
Why it happens
Reduced antiepileptic absorption has been proposed but is not established, and is unlikely for gabapentin.
What to do
Monitor seizure frequency when orlistat is started or stopped. Adjust antiepileptic therapy if control worsens.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Gabapentin
Other interactions of Orlistat
- Cyclosporine + Orlistat Major
- Cyclosporin + Orlistat Major
- Orlistat + Triheptanoin Major
- Amiodarone + Orlistat Moderate
- Beta carotene + Orlistat Moderate
- Carbamazepine + Orlistat Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Gabapentin with Orlistat?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Gabapentin and Orlistat have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Orlistat has been linked to loss of seizure control in patients on antiepileptic drugs. Gabapentin is absorbed by a saturable amino acid transporter and does not depend on fat absorption, so a true interaction is uncertain. Seizure breakthrough would be clinically important.
How serious is the interaction between Gabapentin and Orlistat?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor seizure frequency when orlistat is started or stopped. Adjust antiepileptic therapy if control worsens.
What other medicines interact with Gabapentin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Gabapentin with, for example, Alprazolam, Amobarbital, Belladonna and opium. The full list is on the Gabapentin page.
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