Drug interactions
Metaxalone + Pentobarbital
Severity: Major
Metaxalone 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 potent central nervous system depressants, and combining pentobarbital with metaxalone can cause deep sedation and slowed breathing. Pentobarbital also induces liver enzymes, which could lower metaxalone levels over time.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metaxalone 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
Additive CNS depression through GABA-A potentiation, plus possible enzyme induction by the barbiturate.
What to do
Monitor the level of consciousness and respiratory status and use the lowest effective doses. Avoid alcohol and other depressants.
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 Metaxalone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metaxalone with Pentobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Metaxalone 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 potent central nervous system depressants, and combining pentobarbital with metaxalone can cause deep sedation and slowed breathing. Pentobarbital also induces liver enzymes, which could lower metaxalone levels over time.
How serious is the interaction between Metaxalone 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: Monitor the level of consciousness and respiratory status and use the lowest effective doses. Avoid alcohol and other depressants.
What other medicines interact with Metaxalone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metaxalone with, for example, Alfentanil, Belladonna and opium, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Metaxalone page.
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