Drug interactions
Itraconazole + Pentobarbital
Severity: Major
Itraconazole and Pentobarbital: 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
Barbiturates are enzyme inducers and are expected to lower itraconazole concentrations. Subtherapeutic levels may result in antifungal failure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Itraconazole and Pentobarbital 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.
Why it happens
Induction of CYP3A4 by pentobarbital increases itraconazole metabolism, with possible reduced absorption.
What to do
Avoid combined long-term use where possible. If used together, check itraconazole trough levels and consider a different antifungal.
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 Itraconazole
- Alfuzosin + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Itraconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Itraconazole Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Itraconazole with Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Itraconazole and Pentobarbital 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. Barbiturates are enzyme inducers and are expected to lower itraconazole concentrations. Subtherapeutic levels may result in antifungal failure.
How serious is the interaction between Itraconazole and Pentobarbital?
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 combined long-term use where possible. If used together, check itraconazole trough levels and consider a different antifungal.
What other medicines interact with Itraconazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Itraconazole with, for example, Alfuzosin, Alprazolam, Avanafil. The full list is on the Itraconazole page.
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