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Drug interactions

Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam + Valacyclovir

Severity: Moderate

Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam and Valacyclovir: 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

Imipenem-containing therapy can lower the seizure threshold, and valacyclovir neurotoxicity occurs especially in renal impairment. Combined use may add to seizure risk, though evidence is limited.

What this interaction means in plain words

Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam and Valacyclovir 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.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Possible additive neurotoxicity; no established mechanism for the combination.

What to do

Dose both drugs according to renal function and monitor for neurological symptoms. Consider alternatives in patients with seizure history.

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?

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 Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam with Valacyclovir?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam and Valacyclovir 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. Imipenem-containing therapy can lower the seizure threshold, and valacyclovir neurotoxicity occurs especially in renal impairment. Combined use may add to seizure risk, though evidence is limited.

How serious is the interaction between Imipenem / cilastatin / relebactam and Valacyclovir?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Dose both drugs according to renal function and monitor for neurological symptoms. Consider alternatives in patients with seizure history.

What other medicines interact with Valacyclovir?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Valacyclovir with, for example, Talimogene laherparepvec, Bacitracin, Cilastatin-imipenem. The full list is on the Valacyclovir page.

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