Drug interactions
Phenobarbital + Saxagliptin
Severity: Minor
Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin: minor 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 CYP3A4/5, the main route of saxagliptin conversion to its active metabolite. Exposure to saxagliptin may fall modestly, although the active metabolite is partly preserved, so the effect on glycemic control is usually small.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Induction of CYP3A4/5 by phenobarbital increases saxagliptin metabolism.
What to do
No dose change is normally needed; check glycemic control (HbA1c, glucose) if phenobarbital is started or stopped and adjust diabetes therapy if control worsens.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Saxagliptin
- Albiglutide + Saxagliptin Moderate
- Amlodipine-benazepril + Saxagliptin Moderate
- Aripiprazole + Saxagliptin Moderate
- Asenapine + Saxagliptin Moderate
- Atazanavir + Saxagliptin Moderate
- Benazepril + Saxagliptin Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenobarbital with Saxagliptin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4/5, the main route of saxagliptin conversion to its active metabolite. Exposure to saxagliptin may fall modestly, although the active metabolite is partly preserved, so the effect on glycemic control is usually small.
How serious is the interaction between Phenobarbital and Saxagliptin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No dose change is normally needed; check glycemic control (HbA1c, glucose) if phenobarbital is started or stopped and adjust diabetes therapy if control worsens.
What other medicines interact with Saxagliptin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Saxagliptin with, for example, Albiglutide, Amlodipine-benazepril, Aripiprazole. The full list is on the Saxagliptin page.
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