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Drug interactions

Lonafarnib + Zolpidem

Severity: Major

Lonafarnib and Zolpidem: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: US FDA label

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

Lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and may substantially increase zolpidem exposure, increasing sedation and complex sleep behaviours.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lonafarnib and Zolpidem 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.

Lonafarnib belongs to Miscellaneous; Zolpidem belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Strong inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated zolpidem metabolism.

What to do

Avoid if possible; if needed, reduce the zolpidem dose and monitor for excessive sedation and next-day impairment.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lonafarnib with Zolpidem?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lonafarnib and Zolpidem 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. Lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and may substantially increase zolpidem exposure, increasing sedation and complex sleep behaviours.

How serious is the interaction between Lonafarnib and Zolpidem?

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 if possible; if needed, reduce the zolpidem dose and monitor for excessive sedation and next-day impairment.

What other medicines interact with Zolpidem?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Zolpidem with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Zolpidem page.

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