Drug interactions
Sage + Zonisamide
Severity: Minor
Sage and Zonisamide: 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
Some sage species contain thujone, a constituent with convulsant potential, which could theoretically oppose the effect of antiepileptic drugs. This is based on theory rather than documented cases with zonisamide.
What this interaction means in plain words
Sage and Zonisamide 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
Thujone in certain sage species is proconvulsant, theoretically antagonizing anticonvulsant effect.
What to do
Advise patients with epilepsy to avoid medicinal doses or essential oil of sage. Culinary use is generally not a concern.
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 Zonisamide
- Zonisamide + Zuranolone Major
- Acetazolamide + Zonisamide Moderate
- Amisulpride + Zonisamide Moderate
- Amobarbital + Zonisamide Moderate
- Apalutamide + Zonisamide Moderate
- Asenapine transdermal + Zonisamide Moderate
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Sage with Zonisamide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Sage and Zonisamide have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Some sage species contain thujone, a constituent with convulsant potential, which could theoretically oppose the effect of antiepileptic drugs. This is based on theory rather than documented cases with zonisamide.
How serious is the interaction between Sage and Zonisamide?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients with epilepsy to avoid medicinal doses or essential oil of sage. Culinary use is generally not a concern.
What other medicines interact with Zonisamide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Zonisamide with, for example, Zuranolone, Acetazolamide, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Zonisamide page.
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