Drug interactions
Phenobarbital + Praziquantel
Severity: Major
Phenobarbital and Praziquantel: 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
Phenobarbital can substantially lower praziquantel levels and compromise antiparasitic efficacy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenobarbital and Praziquantel 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
Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4 and other hepatic enzymes, increasing praziquantel clearance.
What to do
Use a non-inducing anticonvulsant if feasible during praziquantel therapy; otherwise monitor treatment response and consider retreatment.
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 Praziquantel
- Enzalutamide + Praziquantel Contraindicated
- Praziquantel + Rifampin Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Praziquantel Major
- Apalutamide + Praziquantel Major
- Butabarbital + Praziquantel Major
- Butalbital + Praziquantel Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenobarbital with Praziquantel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Phenobarbital and Praziquantel 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. Phenobarbital can substantially lower praziquantel levels and compromise antiparasitic efficacy.
How serious is the interaction between Phenobarbital and Praziquantel?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use a non-inducing anticonvulsant if feasible during praziquantel therapy; otherwise monitor treatment response and consider retreatment.
What other medicines interact with Praziquantel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Praziquantel with, for example, Enzalutamide, Rifampin, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Praziquantel page.
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