Drug interactions
Phenobarbital + Saxagliptin-metformin
Severity: Moderate
Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin-metformin: 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
Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4 and may reduce saxagliptin and active metabolite exposure, potentially weakening glycemic control. The effect is likely modest, though saxagliptin labeling advises considering strong inducers.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin-metformin 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
Induction of CYP3A4/5 increases saxagliptin metabolism and lowers plasma levels.
What to do
Monitor glycemic control (glucose, HbA1c) when phenobarbital is started or stopped. Consider a different antidiabetic if control is lost.
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 Saxagliptin-metformin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenobarbital with Saxagliptin-metformin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin-metformin 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. Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4 and may reduce saxagliptin and active metabolite exposure, potentially weakening glycemic control. The effect is likely modest, though saxagliptin labeling advises considering strong inducers.
How serious is the interaction between Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin-metformin?
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 glycemic control (glucose, HbA1c) when phenobarbital is started or stopped. Consider a different antidiabetic if control is lost.
What other medicines interact with Saxagliptin-metformin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Saxagliptin-metformin with, for example, Atazanavir, Clozapine, Contrast media. The full list is on the Saxagliptin-metformin page.
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