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Drug interactions

Naldemedine + Phenytoin

Severity: Major

Naldemedine and Phenytoin: 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

Phenytoin may substantially reduce naldemedine exposure, leading to loss of its effect on opioid-induced constipation.

What this interaction means in plain words

Naldemedine and Phenytoin 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.

Naldemedine belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Phenytoin belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Phenytoin induces CYP3A4, which metabolizes naldemedine, and may also induce P-glycoprotein.

What to do

Avoid the combination per labeling. Use an alternative laxative approach if phenytoin is required.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Naldemedine with Phenytoin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Naldemedine and Phenytoin 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. Phenytoin may substantially reduce naldemedine exposure, leading to loss of its effect on opioid-induced constipation.

How serious is the interaction between Naldemedine and Phenytoin?

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 the combination per labeling. Use an alternative laxative approach if phenytoin is required.

What other medicines interact with Phenytoin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Phenytoin with, for example, Artemether / lumefantrine, Bictegravir, Cabotegravir. The full list is on the Phenytoin page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.

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