Drug interactions
Rifabutin + Zolpidem
Severity: Moderate
Rifabutin 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
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and may reduce zolpidem exposure, weakening its hypnotic effect. The induction is weaker than that of rifampin, but a reduced response is possible.
What this interaction means in plain words
Rifabutin 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.
Rifabutin belongs to Anti Bacterial; Zolpidem belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4, increasing the first-pass and hepatic metabolism of zolpidem.
What to do
Monitor for loss of efficacy and consider an alternative hypnotic if sleep is not controlled. Avoid exceeding the maximum recommended zolpidem dose.
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
Other interactions of Rifabutin
- Cabotegravir + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Lorlatinib + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Rifabutin + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Apixaban + Rifabutin Major
- Axitinib + Rifabutin Major
- Brexpiprazole + Rifabutin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Rifabutin with Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Rifabutin 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. Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and may reduce zolpidem exposure, weakening its hypnotic effect. The induction is weaker than that of rifampin, but a reduced response is possible.
How serious is the interaction between Rifabutin 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 loss of efficacy and consider an alternative hypnotic if sleep is not controlled. Avoid exceeding the maximum recommended zolpidem dose.
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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