Drug interactions
Phenobarbital + Zolpidem
Severity: Moderate
Phenobarbital and Zolpidem: 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 is a strong enzyme inducer and may reduce zolpidem concentrations and effect. Both drugs also depress the CNS, so sedation and impaired psychomotor function can be additive.
What this interaction means in plain words
Phenobarbital and Zolpidem 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
Phenobarbital induces CYP3A4 and speeds zolpidem metabolism, and both agents add pharmacodynamic CNS depression.
What to do
Monitor for reduced hypnotic response and for additive sedation; adjust the zolpidem dose within labeled limits or choose another agent if needed.
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 Zolpidem
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Phenobarbital with Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Phenobarbital and Zolpidem 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 is a strong enzyme inducer and may reduce zolpidem concentrations and effect. Both drugs also depress the CNS, so sedation and impaired psychomotor function can be additive.
How serious is the interaction between Phenobarbital and Zolpidem?
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 for reduced hypnotic response and for additive sedation; adjust the zolpidem dose within labeled limits or choose another agent if needed.
What other medicines interact with Zolpidem?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Zolpidem with, for example, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Sodium oxybate, Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen. The full list is on the Zolpidem page.
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