Drug interactions
Metoclopramide + Phenobarbital
Severity: Moderate
Metoclopramide and Phenobarbital: 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
Both drugs cause sedation, so combined use may increase drowsiness and psychomotor impairment. Phenobarbital also induces hepatic enzymes, although the effect on metoclopramide exposure is not well characterized.
What this interaction means in plain words
Metoclopramide and Phenobarbital 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.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression, with possible enzyme induction by phenobarbital.
What to do
Monitor sedation and efficacy of metoclopramide. Counsel patients to avoid driving if drowsy.
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?
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Other interactions of Metoclopramide
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Metoclopramide with Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Metoclopramide and Phenobarbital 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. Both drugs cause sedation, so combined use may increase drowsiness and psychomotor impairment. Phenobarbital also induces hepatic enzymes, although the effect on metoclopramide exposure is not well characterized.
How serious is the interaction between Metoclopramide and Phenobarbital?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor sedation and efficacy of metoclopramide. Counsel patients to avoid driving if drowsy.
What other medicines interact with Metoclopramide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metoclopramide with, for example, Amantadine, Amoxapine, Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol). The full list is on the Metoclopramide page.
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