Drug interactions
Saquinavir + Zolpidem
Severity: Moderate
Saquinavir 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
Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise zolpidem levels. This may cause prolonged sedation and impaired next-day function. The risk is higher in the elderly and those with hepatic impairment.
What this interaction means in plain words
Saquinavir 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
Saquinavir/ritonavir inhibits CYP3A4 metabolism of zolpidem.
What to do
Use the lowest zolpidem dose and monitor for oversedation. Consider an alternative hypnotic if sedation is excessive.
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 Saquinavir with Zolpidem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Saquinavir 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. Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise zolpidem levels. This may cause prolonged sedation and impaired next-day function. The risk is higher in the elderly and those with hepatic impairment.
How serious is the interaction between Saquinavir 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: Use the lowest zolpidem dose and monitor for oversedation. Consider an alternative hypnotic if sedation is excessive.
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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