Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Mysoline: 50 mg, 250 mg [scored]
Generic: 50 mg, 250 mg
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Decreases neuron excitability, raises seizure threshold similar to phenobarbital; primidone has two active metabolites, phenobarbital and phenylethylmalonamide (PEMA); PEMA may enhance the activity of phenobarbital
Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics
Absorption
Well absorbed (Neels 2004)
Distribution
Vd: 0.6 to 0.75 L/kg (Bourgeois 2000; Neels 2004)
Metabolism
Hepatic to phenobarbital (active) by oxidation and to phenylethylmalonamide (PEMA; active) by ring cleavage at the second carbon position (El-Masri 1998)
Excretion
Urine (15% to 65% as unchanged drug; the remainder is unconjugated PEMA, phenobarbital and its metabolites) (Neels 2004)
Time to Peak
Serum: 0.5 to 9 hours (variable) (Neels 2004)
Half-Life Elimination
Primidone: 5 to16 hours (variable); PEMA: 16 to 50 hours (variable); Phenobarbital: 50 to 150 hours (Bourgeois 2000, Neels 2004)
Protein Binding
<20% (Bourgeois 2000; Neels 2004)
Use: Labeled Indications
Management of grand mal, psychomotor, and focal seizures
Use: Off Label
Essential tremorbyes
Data from a systematic review including 14 studies (3 randomized controlled trials, 9 crossover studies, and 2 case series) support the use of primidone for the treatment of essential tremor in some populations. Additional data may be necessary to further define the role of primidone in this condition. Based on the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) practice parameter for the treatment of essential tremor, primidone is effective for the treatment of limb tremor in essential tremor and is recommended in the management of this condition.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to phenobarbital; porphyria
Dosage and Administration
Dosing: Adult
Seizure disorders (grand mal, psychomotor, and focal): Oral: Days 1 to 3: 100 to 125 mg/day at bedtime; days 4 to 6: 100 to 125 twice daily; days 7 to 9: 100 to 125 mg 3 times daily; usual dose: 750 to 1,500 mg/day in divided doses 3 to 4 times/day with maximum dosage of 2 g/day
Patients already receiving other anticonvulsants: Initial: 100 to 125 mg at bedtime; gradually increase to maintenance dose as other drug is gradually decreased, continue until desired level obtained or other drug completely withdrawn. If goal is monotherapy, conversion should be completed over ≥2 weeks.
Essential tremor (off-label use): Initial: 50 to 62.5 mg once daily; increase dose gradually based on response and tolerability in increments of 62.5 to 125 mg every 1 to 3 days or by 250 mg every week and administer in 2 to 3 divided doses (Findley 1985; Gorman 1986; Koller 1986; Sasso 1988). Usual dosage: 250 to 750 mg/day (Zappia 2013); maximum: 750 mg/day (AAN [Zesiewicz 2005]).
Note: Lower maintenance doses (250 mg daily) have been found to be equally or more effective than higher doses (750 mg daily) with fewer adverse effects (Koller 1986; Serrano-Duenas 2003). However, lower initial doses (as low as 7.5 mg/day) and more gradual titration schedules have not been found to improve tolerability (O'Suilleabhain 2002).
Dosing: Geriatric
Use with extreme caution due to CNS effects and increased risk for falls (Bourdet 2001). In addition, there is potential for acute toxicity in certain patients upon initiation of relatively low doses; monitor older adults closely during initiation for toxicity and intolerance (Findley 1985; O'Brien 1981).
Dosing: Pediatric
Seizure disorder (generalized tonic-clonic, psychomotor, and focal):
Weight-directed: Infants and Children <8 years: Oral: Usual maintenance range: 10 to 25 mg/kg/day in 2 to 3 divided doses; start with lower dosage and titrate upward; usual maximum dose: 500 mg/dose (Kliegman 2016)
Fixed dosing:
Children <8 years: Oral:
Initial: Days 1 to 3: 50 mg at bedtime; Days 4 to 6: 50 mg twice daily; Days 7 to 9: 100 mg twice daily
Maintenance (starting Day 10 of therapy): 125 to 250 mg three times daily
Patients already receiving other anticonvulsants: Specific recommendations in this age group are not available. However, in older pediatric patients (≥8 years of age), the usual initial starting dose is recommended, and then gradually increase primidone to maintenance dose as other drug is gradually decreased, continue until desired level obtained or other drug completely withdrawn. If goal is monotherapy, conversion should be completed over ≥2 weeks.
Children ≥8 years and Adolescents: Oral:
Initial: Days 1 to 3: 100 to 125 mg at bedtime; Days 4 to 6: 100 to 125 twice daily; Days 7 to 9: 100 to 125 mg 3 times daily
Maintenance (starting Day 10 of therapy): 250 mg 3 times daily; adjust dose to usual maintenance range: 750 to 1,000 mg/day in divided doses 3 to 4 times daily; some patients may require 1,500 mg/day in divided doses 4 times daily; maximum daily dose: 2,000 mg/day
Patients already receiving other anticonvulsants: Initial: 100 to 125 mg at bedtime; gradually increase to maintenance dose as other drug is gradually decreased, continue until desired level obtained or other drug completely withdrawn. If goal is monotherapy, conversion should be completed over ≥2 weeks.
Dietary Considerations
Folic acid: Low erythrocyte and CSF folate concentrations. Megaloblastic anemia has been reported. To avoid folic acid deficiency and megaloblastic anemia, some clinicians recommend giving patients on anticonvulsants prophylactic doses of folic acid and cyanocobalamin.
Vitamin B: Primidone use has been associated with low serum concentrations of vitamin B2 (riboflavin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cyanocobalamin), which may contribute to hyperhomocysteinemia. Hyperhomocysteinemia may contribute to cardiovascular disease, venous thromboembolic disease, dementia, neuropsychiatric symptoms, and poor seizure control. Some clinicians recommend administering riboflavin, pyridoxine, and cyanocobalamin supplements in patients taking primidone (Apeland 2003; Apeland 2008; Belcastro 2010; Bochyńska 2012).
Storage
Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Primidone Images
Drug Interactions
Abemaciclib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Abemaciclib. Avoid combination
Abiraterone Acetate: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Abiraterone Acetate. Management: Avoid whenever possible. If such a combination cannot be avoided, increase abiraterone acetate dosing frequency from once daily to twice daily during concomitant use. Consider therapy modification
Acalabrutinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Acalabrutinib. Management: Avoid co-administration of strong CYP3A inducers in patients taking acalabrutinib. If strong CYP3A inducers cannot be avoided, increase the dose of acalabrutinib to 200 mg twice daily. Consider therapy modification
Acetaminophen: Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Acetaminophen. This may 1) diminish the effect of acetaminophen; and 2) increase the risk of liver damage. Monitor therapy
Afatinib: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Afatinib. Management: Per US labeling: if requiring chronic use of primidone, increase afatinib dose by 10 mg as tolerated; reduce to original afatinib dose 2-3 days after stopping primidonel. Per Canadian labeling: avoid combination if possible. Consider therapy modification
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Alcohol (Ethyl). Monitor therapy
Alizapride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Alpelisib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Alpelisib. Avoid combination
Antihepaciviral Combination Products: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Antihepaciviral Combination Products. Avoid combination
Apalutamide: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Apalutamide. Monitor therapy
Apixaban: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Apixaban. Management: Avoid concurrent use of apixaban with strong CYP3A4 inducers whenever possible. Use of a strong CYP3A4 inducer with apixaban should be strictly avoided in any patient who is using an agent (either the CYP3A4 inducer or a third drug) that induces P-gp. Consider therapy modification
Apremilast: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Apremilast. Avoid combination
Aprepitant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Aprepitant. Avoid combination
ARIPiprazole: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of ARIPiprazole. Management: Double the oral aripiprazole dose and closely monitor. Reduce oral aripiprazole dose to 10-15 mg/day (for adults) if the inducer is discontinued. Avoid use of strong CYP3A4 inducers for more than 14 days with extended-release injectable aripiprazole. Consider therapy modification
ARIPiprazole Lauroxil: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of ARIPiprazole Lauroxil. Management: Patients taking the 441 mg dose of aripiprazole lauroxil increase their dose to 662 mg if used with a strong CYP3A4 inducer for more than 14 days. No dose adjustment is necessary for patients using the higher doses of aripiprazole lauroxil. Consider therapy modification
Artemether: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Artemether. Specifically, dihydroartemisinin concentrations may be reduced. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Artemether. Avoid combination
Asunaprevir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Asunaprevir. Avoid combination
Avapritinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Avapritinib. Avoid combination
Axitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Axitinib. Avoid combination
Azelastine (Nasal): CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Azelastine (Nasal). Avoid combination
Barbiturates: Primidone may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Barbiturates. Primidone is converted to phenobarbital, and thus becomes additive with existing barbiturate therapy. Monitor therapy
Bazedoxifene: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Bazedoxifene. This may lead to loss of efficacy or, if bazedoxifene is combined with estrogen therapy, an increased risk of endometrial hyperplasia. Monitor therapy
Bedaquiline: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Bedaquiline. Avoid combination
Benperidol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Benperidol. Monitor therapy
Benzhydrocodone: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Benzhydrocodone. Primidone may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Benzhydrocodone. Specifically, serum concentrations of hydrocodone may be decreased. Management: Avoid use of benzhydrocodone and primidonel when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased benzhydrocodone efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Beta-Blockers: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Beta-Blockers. Exceptions: Atenolol; Levobunolol; Metipranolol; Nadolol. Monitor therapy
Bictegravir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Bictegravir. Management: Rifampin is specifically contraindicated, and the use of carbamazepine, phenytoin, or phenobarbital is not recommended when alternatives are acceptable Monitor therapy
Blonanserin: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Blonanserin. Consider therapy modification
Blood Pressure Lowering Agents: Barbiturates may enhance the hypotensive effect of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Monitor therapy
Bortezomib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Bortezomib. Avoid combination
Bosutinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Bosutinib. Avoid combination
Brentuximab Vedotin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Brentuximab Vedotin. Specifically, concentrations of the active monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) component may be decreased. Monitor therapy
Brexanolone: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Brexanolone. Monitor therapy
Brexpiprazole: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Brexpiprazole. Management: If brexpiprazole is used together with a strong CYP3A4 inducer, the brexpiprazole dose should gradually be doubled over the course of 1 to 2 weeks. Consider therapy modification
Brigatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Brigatinib. Avoid combination
Brimonidine (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Bromopride: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Bromperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Avoid combination
Buprenorphine: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Buprenorphine. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Buprenorphine. Management: Avoid use of buprenorphine and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased buprenorphine efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
BusPIRone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of BusPIRone. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination. If coadministration of these agents is deemed necessary, monitor patients for reduced buspirone effects and increase buspirone doses as needed. Consider therapy modification
Cabozantinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Cabozantinib. Management: Avoid use of strong CYP3A4 inducers with cabozantinib if possible. If combined, cabozantinib dose adjustments are recommended and vary based on the cabozantinib product used and the indication for use. See monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Calcifediol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Calcifediol. Monitor therapy
Calcium Channel Blockers: Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Calcium Channel Blockers. Management: Monitor for decreased therapeutic effects of calcium channel blockers with concomitant barbiturate therapy. Calcium channel blocker dose adjustments may be necessary. Nimodipine Canadian labeling contraindicates concomitant use with phenobarbital. Exceptions: Clevidipine. Monitor therapy
Canagliflozin: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Canagliflozin. Management: Consider increasing canagliflozin dose to 200 mg/day in patients tolerating 100 mg/day. A further increase to 300 mg/day can be considered in patients with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or greater. Consider therapy modification
Cannabidiol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Cannabidiol. Monitor therapy
Cannabidiol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Cannabis: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Cannabis. More specifically, tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol serum concentrations may be decreased. Monitor therapy
Cannabis: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
CarBAMazepine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of CarBAMazepine. Monitor therapy
Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Primidone. Specifically, osteomalacia and rickets. Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibitors may decrease the serum concentration of Primidone. Exceptions: Brinzolamide; Dorzolamide. Monitor therapy
Cariprazine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Cariprazine. Avoid combination
Ceritinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ceritinib. Avoid combination
Chloramphenicol (Systemic): May decrease the metabolism of Barbiturates. Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Chloramphenicol (Systemic). Consider therapy modification
Chlormethiazole: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Monitor closely for evidence of excessive CNS depression. The chlormethiazole labeling states that an appropriately reduced dose should be used if such a combination must be used. Consider therapy modification
Chlorphenesin Carbamate: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
ChlorproPAMIDE: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of ChlorproPAMIDE. Monitor therapy
Clarithromycin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Clarithromycin. Clarithromycin may increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong). CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Clarithromycin. Management: Consider alternative antimicrobial therapy for patients receiving a CYP3A inducer. Drugs that enhance the metabolism of clarithromycin into 14-hydroxyclarithromycin may alter the clinical activity of clarithromycin and may impair clarithromycin efficacy. Consider therapy modification
Clindamycin (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Clindamycin (Systemic). Refer to the specific clindamycin (systemic) - rifampin drug interaction monograph for information concerning that combination. Monitor therapy
CloZAPine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of CloZAPine. Avoid combination
CNS Depressants: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of other CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Cobicistat: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Cobicistat. Avoid combination
Cobimetinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Cobimetinib. Avoid combination
Codeine: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Codeine. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Codeine. Management: Avoid use of codeine and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased codeine efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Copanlisib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Copanlisib. Avoid combination
Corticosteroids (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Exceptions: Hydrocortisone (Systemic); PrednisoLONE (Systemic); PredniSONE. Monitor therapy
Cosyntropin: May enhance the hepatotoxic effect of Primidone. Monitor therapy
Crizotinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Crizotinib. Avoid combination
CycloSPORINE (Systemic): Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of CycloSPORINE (Systemic). Consider therapy modification
CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may increase the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers). Management: Consider an alternative for one of the interacting drugs. Some combinations may be specifically contraindicated. Consult appropriate manufacturer labeling. Exceptions: Benzhydrocodone; Buprenorphine; CarBAMazepine; Etizolam; HYDROcodone; Mirtazapine; TraMADol; Zolpidem. Consider therapy modification
Dabigatran Etexilate: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Dabigatran Etexilate. Monitor therapy
Dabrafenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dabrafenib. Monitor therapy
Daclatasvir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Daclatasvir. Avoid combination
Dasabuvir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dasabuvir. Avoid combination
Dasatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dasatinib. Management: Avoid when possible. If such a combination cannot be avoided, consider increasing dasatinib dose and monitor clinical response and toxicity closely. Consider therapy modification
Deflazacort: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Deflazacort. Avoid combination
Delamanid: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Delamanid. Avoid combination
DexAMETHasone (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of DexAMETHasone (Systemic). Management: Consider dexamethasone dose increases in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers and monitor closely for reduced dexamethasone efficacy. Consider avoiding this combination when treating life threatening conditions (ie, multiple myeloma). Consider therapy modification
Dexmethylphenidate: May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Primidone. Specifically, phenobarbital concentrations could become elevated. Dexmethylphenidate may increase the serum concentration of Primidone. Monitor therapy
Dienogest: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dienogest. Management: Avoid use of dienogest for contraception when using medications that induce CYP3A4 and for at least 28 days after discontinuation of a CYP3A4 inducer. An alternative form of contraception should be used during this time. Avoid combination
Diethylstilbestrol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Diethylstilbestrol. Monitor therapy
Dimethindene (Topical): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Dolutegravir: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Dolutegravir. Specifically, the Primidone metabolite phenobarbital may decrease Dolutegravir serum concentrations. Avoid combination
Doravirine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Doravirine. Avoid combination
Doxercalciferol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Doxercalciferol. Monitor therapy
DOXOrubicin (Conventional): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of DOXOrubicin (Conventional). Management: Seek alternatives to strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients treated with doxorubicin. One U.S. manufacturer (Pfizer Inc.) recommends that these combinations be avoided. Consider therapy modification
Doxycycline: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Doxycycline. Consider therapy modification
Doxylamine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: The manufacturer of Diclegis (doxylamine/pyridoxine), intended for use in pregnancy, specifically states that use with other CNS depressants is not recommended. Monitor therapy
Dronabinol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dronabinol. Monitor therapy
Dronabinol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Dronedarone. Avoid combination
Droperidol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider dose reductions of droperidol or of other CNS agents (eg, opioids, barbiturates) with concomitant use. Exceptions to this monograph are discussed in further detail in separate drug interaction monographs. Consider therapy modification
Duvelisib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Duvelisib. Avoid combination
Elagolix: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Elagolix. Monitor therapy
Elbasvir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Elbasvir. Avoid combination
Elexacaftor, Tezacaftor, and Ivacaftor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Elexacaftor, Tezacaftor, and Ivacaftor. Avoid combination
Eliglustat: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Eliglustat. Avoid combination
Encorafenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Encorafenib. Avoid combination
Enfortumab Vedotin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Enfortumab Vedotin. Specifically, concentrations of the active monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) component may be decreased. Monitor therapy
Entrectinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Entrectinib. Avoid combination
Enzalutamide: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Enzalutamide. Management: Consider using an alternative agent that has no or minimal CYP3A4 induction potential when possible. If this combination cannot be avoided, increase the dose of enzalutamide from 160 mg daily to 240 mg daily. Consider therapy modification
Eravacycline: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Eravacycline. Management: Increase the eravacycline dose to 1.5 mg/kg every 12 hours when combined with strong CYP3A4 inducers. Consider therapy modification
Erdafitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Erdafitinib. Avoid combination
Erlotinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Erlotinib. Management: Avoid combination if possible. If combination must be used, increase erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments every 2 weeks as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg/day. Consider therapy modification
Esketamine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Eslicarbazepine: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Eslicarbazepine. (based on studies with phenobarbital) Monitor therapy
Estriol (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Estriol (Systemic). Monitor therapy
Estriol (Topical): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Estriol (Topical). Monitor therapy
Estrogen Derivatives (Contraceptive): Barbiturates may diminish the therapeutic effect of Estrogen Derivatives (Contraceptive). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Use of a non-hormonal contraceptive is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Etizolam: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Etizolam. Monitor therapy
Etoposide: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Etoposide. Management: When possible, seek alternatives to strong CYP3A4-inducing medications in patients receiving etoposide. If combined, monitor patients closely for diminished etoposide response and need for etoposide dose increases. Consider therapy modification
Etoposide Phosphate: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Etoposide Phosphate. Management: When possible, seek alternatives to strong CYP3A4-inducing medications in patients receiving etoposide phosphate. If these combinations cannot be avoided, monitor patients closely for diminished etoposide phosphate response. Consider therapy modification
Etravirine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Etravirine. Avoid combination
Everolimus: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Everolimus. Management: Avoid concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers if possible. If coadministration cannot be avoided, double the daily dose of everolimus using increments of 5 mg or less. Monitor everolimus serum concentrations closely when indicated. Consider therapy modification
Evogliptin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Evogliptin. Monitor therapy
Exemestane: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Exemestane. Management: Exemestane U.S. product labeling recommends using an increased dose (50 mg/day) in patients receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inducers. The Canadian product labeling does not recommend a dose adjustment with concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers. Consider therapy modification
Fedratinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Fedratinib. Avoid combination
Felbamate: May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Primidone. Specifically, phenobarbital concentrations may increase. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Felbamate. Management: In patients receiving primidone, initiate felbamate at 1200 mg/day in divided doses 3-4 times daily and reduce primidone dose by 20%. Monitor for increased phenobarbital concentrations/effects and decreased felbamate concentrations/effects. Consider therapy modification
FentaNYL: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of FentaNYL. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of FentaNYL. Management: Avoid use of fentanyl and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased fentanyl efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Flibanserin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Flibanserin. Avoid combination
Flunitrazepam: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Flunitrazepam. Consider therapy modification
Folic Acid: May decrease the serum concentration of Primidone. Additionally, folic acid may decrease concentrations of active metabolites of primidone (e.g., phenobarbital). Monitor therapy
Fosaprepitant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Fosaprepitant. Specifically, CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite aprepitant. Avoid combination
Fosnetupitant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Fosnetupitant. Avoid combination
Fosphenytoin: May increase the metabolism of Primidone. The ratio of primidone:phenobarbital is thus changed. Monitor therapy
Fostamatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Fostamatinib. Avoid combination
Gefitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Gefitinib. Management: In the absence of severe adverse reactions, increase gefitinib dose to 500 mg daily in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers; resume 250 mg dose 7 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer. Carefully monitor clinical response. Consider therapy modification
Gemigliptin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Gemigliptin. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Gemigliptin. Avoid combination
Gestrinone: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Gestrinone. Monitor therapy
Glasdegib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Glasdegib. Avoid combination
Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Glecaprevir and Pibrentasvir. Monitor therapy
Grazoprevir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Grazoprevir. Avoid combination
Griseofulvin: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Griseofulvin. Monitor therapy
GuanFACINE: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of GuanFACINE. Management: Increase the guanfacine dose by up to double when initiating guanfacine in a patient taking a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Increase guanfacine dose gradually over 1 to 2 weeks if initiating strong CYP3A4 inducer therapy in a patient already taking guanfacine. Consider therapy modification
Hemin: Barbiturates may diminish the therapeutic effect of Hemin. Avoid combination
HYDROcodone: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of HYDROcodone. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of HYDROcodone. Management: Avoid use of hydrocodone and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased hydrocodone efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Hydrocortisone (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Hydrocortisone (Systemic). Monitor therapy
HydrOXYzine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Barbiturates. Management: Consider a decrease in the barbiturate dose, as appropriate, when used together with hydroxyzine. With concurrent use, monitor patients closely for excessive response to the combination. Consider therapy modification
Ibrutinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ibrutinib. Avoid combination
Idelalisib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Idelalisib. Avoid combination
Ifosfamide: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ifosfamide. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ifosfamide. Monitor therapy
Imatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Imatinib. Management: Avoid concurrent use of imatinib with strong CYP3A4 inducers when possible. If such a combination must be used, increase imatinib dose by at least 50% and monitor the patient's clinical response closely. Consider therapy modification
Irinotecan Products: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Irinotecan Products. Specifically, serum concentrations of SN-38 may be reduced. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Irinotecan Products. Avoid combination
Isavuconazonium Sulfate: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Isavuconazonium Sulfate. Specifically, CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease isavuconazole serum concentrations. Avoid combination
Istradefylline: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Istradefylline. Avoid combination
Itraconazole: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Itraconazole. Avoid combination
Ivabradine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ivabradine. Avoid combination
Ivacaftor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ivacaftor. Avoid combination
Ivosidenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ivosidenib. Avoid combination
Ixabepilone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ixabepilone. Management: Avoid this combination whenever possible. If this combination must be used, a gradual increase in ixabepilone dose from 40 mg/m2 to 60 mg/m2 (given as a 4-hour infusion), as tolerated, should be considered. Consider therapy modification
Ixazomib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ixazomib. Avoid combination
Kava Kava: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
LamoTRIgine: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of LamoTRIgine. Management: Adjust dose per lamotrigine prescribing information guidelines during primidone treatment. Monitor for decreased concentration/effect if primidone is initiated/dose increased or increased concentration/effect if primidone is discontinued/dose decreased. Consider therapy modification
Lapatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lapatinib. Management: If therapy overlap cannot be avoided, consider titrating lapatinib gradually from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer) or 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor/HER2 positive breast cancer) as tolerated. Avoid combination
Larotrectinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Larotrectinib. Management: Avoid use of strong CYP3A4 inducers with larotrectinib. If this combination cannot be avoided, double the larotrectinib dose. Reduced to previous dose after stopping the inducer after a period of 3 to 5 times the inducer half-life. Consider therapy modification
Ledipasvir: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Ledipasvir. Avoid combination
Lefamulin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lefamulin. Management: Avoid concomitant use of lefamulin with strong CYP3A4 inducers unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Consider therapy modification
Lefamulin (Intravenous): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lefamulin (Intravenous). Management: Avoid concomitant use of lefamulin intravenous infusion with strong CYP3A4 inducers unless the benefits outweigh the risks. Consider therapy modification
Lemborexant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lemborexant. Avoid combination
Letermovir: May increase the serum concentration of UGT1A1 Inducers. Avoid combination
Leucovorin Calcium-Levoleucovorin: May decrease the serum concentration of Primidone. Additionally, leucovorin/levoleucovorin may decrease concentrations of active metabolites of primidone (e.g., phenobarbital). Monitor therapy
LevETIRAcetam: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of LevETIRAcetam. Monitor therapy
Levomefolate: May decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Primidone. Levomefolate may decrease the serum concentration of Primidone. Monitor therapy
Levomethadone: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Levomethadone. Monitor therapy
LinaGLIPtin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of LinaGLIPtin. Management: Strongly consider using an alternative to any strong CYP3A4 inducer in patients who are being treated with linagliptin. If this combination is used, monitor patients closely for evidence of reduced linagliptin effectiveness. Consider therapy modification
Lofexidine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Drugs listed as exceptions to this monograph are discussed in further detail in separate drug interaction monographs. Monitor therapy
Lorlatinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lorlatinib. Avoid combination
Lumacaftor and Ivacaftor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lumacaftor and Ivacaftor. Specifically, the serum concentration of ivacaftor may be decreased. Avoid combination
Lumateperone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lumateperone. Avoid combination
Lumefantrine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lumefantrine. Avoid combination
Lurasidone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Lurasidone. Avoid combination
Macimorelin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Macimorelin. Avoid combination
Macitentan: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Macitentan. Avoid combination
Magnesium Sulfate: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Manidipine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Manidipine. Management: Consider avoiding concomitant use of manidipine and strong CYP3A4 inducers. If combined, monitor closely for decreased manidipine effects and loss of efficacy. Increased manidipine doses may be required. Consider therapy modification
Maraviroc: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Maraviroc. Management: Increase maraviroc adult dose to 600 mg twice daily when used with strong CYP3A4 inducers. This does not apply to patients also receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Do not use maraviroc with strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients with CrCl less than 30 mL/min. Consider therapy modification
Mefloquine: May diminish the therapeutic effect of Anticonvulsants. Mefloquine may decrease the serum concentration of Anticonvulsants. Management: Mefloquine is contraindicated for malaria prophylaxis in persons with a history of convulsions. Monitor anticonvulsant concentrations and treatment response closely with concurrent use. Consider therapy modification
Methadone: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Methadone. Monitor therapy
Methotrimeprazine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Methotrimeprazine. Methotrimeprazine may enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Reduce adult dose of CNS depressant agents by 50% with initiation of concomitant methotrimeprazine therapy. Further CNS depressant dosage adjustments should be initiated only after clinically effective methotrimeprazine dose is established. Consider therapy modification
Methoxyflurane: Barbiturates may enhance the nephrotoxic effect of Methoxyflurane. Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Methoxyflurane. Avoid combination
Methylfolate: May decrease the serum concentration of Primidone. Monitor therapy
Methylphenidate: May increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Primidone. Specifically, phenobarbital concentrations could become elevated. Methylphenidate may increase the serum concentration of Primidone. Monitor therapy
MethylPREDNISolone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of MethylPREDNISolone. Management: Consider methylprednisolone dose increases in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers and monitor closely for reduced steroid efficacy. Consider therapy modification
MetroNIDAZOLE (Systemic): Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of MetroNIDAZOLE (Systemic). Monitor therapy
MetyroSINE: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of MetyroSINE. Monitor therapy
Mianserin: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of Barbiturates. Mianserin may diminish the therapeutic effect of Barbiturates. Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Mianserin. Avoid combination
Midostaurin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Midostaurin. Avoid combination
MiFEPRIStone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of MiFEPRIStone. Avoid combination
Minocycline (Systemic): May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Mirodenafil: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Mirodenafil. Management: Consider avoiding the concomitant use of mirodenafil and strong CYP3A4 inducers. If combined, monitor for decreased mirodenafil effects. Mirodenafil dose increases may be required to achieve desired effects. Consider therapy modification
Mirtazapine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Mirtazapine. Monitor therapy
Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron): May decrease the serum concentration of Barbiturates. Monitor therapy
Nabilone: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Naldemedine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Naldemedine. Avoid combination
Nalmefene: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Nalmefene. Monitor therapy
Naloxegol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Naloxegol. Avoid combination
Neratinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Neratinib. Avoid combination
Netupitant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Netupitant. Avoid combination
NIFEdipine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of NIFEdipine. Avoid combination
Nilotinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Nilotinib. Avoid combination
NiMODipine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of NiMODipine. Avoid combination
Nisoldipine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Nisoldipine. Avoid combination
OLANZapine: CYP1A2 Inducers (Weak) may decrease the serum concentration of OLANZapine. Monitor therapy
Olaparib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Olaparib. Avoid combination
Opioid Agonists: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Consider therapy modification
Orlistat: May decrease the serum concentration of Anticonvulsants. Monitor therapy
Orphenadrine: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Orphenadrine. Avoid combination
Osimertinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Osimertinib. Consider therapy modification
OXcarbazepine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of OXcarbazepine. Specifically, the concentrations of the 10-monohydroxy active metabolite of oxcarbazepine may be decreased. Monitor therapy
Oxomemazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Avoid combination
OxyCODONE: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of OxyCODONE. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of OxyCODONE. Management: Avoid use of oxycodone and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased oxycodone efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Palbociclib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Palbociclib. Avoid combination
Panobinostat: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Panobinostat. Avoid combination
Paraldehyde: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Paraldehyde. Avoid combination
PAZOPanib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of PAZOPanib. Avoid combination
Perampanel: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Perampanel. Management: Increase the perampanel starting dose to 4 mg/day when perampanel is used concurrently with moderate and strong CYP3A4 inducers. Consider therapy modification
Perampanel: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Patients taking perampanel with any other drug that has CNS depressant activities should avoid complex and high-risk activities, particularly those such as driving that require alertness and coordination, until they have experience using the combination. Consider therapy modification
Pexidartinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Pexidartinib. Avoid combination
Phenytoin: May increase the metabolism of Primidone. The ratio of primidone:phenobarbital is thus changed. Monitor therapy
Pimavanserin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Pimavanserin. Avoid combination
Piperaquine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Piperaquine. Avoid combination
Piribedil: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Piribedil. Monitor therapy
Pitolisant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Pitolisant. Management: For patients who are stable on pitolisant doses of 8.9 mg or 17.8 mg/day and who are also taking a strong CYP3A4 inducer, increase the pitolisant dose over 7 days to double the original dose (ie, to either 17.8 mg/day or 35.6 mg/day, respectively). Consider therapy modification
Polatuzumab Vedotin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Polatuzumab Vedotin. Exposure to unconjugated MMAE, the cytotoxic small molecule component of polatuzumab vedotin, may be decreased. Monitor therapy
PONATinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of PONATinib. Avoid combination
Pramipexole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Pramipexole. Monitor therapy
Praziquantel: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Praziquantel. Management: Use of praziquantel with strong CYP3A4 inducers is contraindicated. Discontinue rifampin 4 weeks prior to initiation of praziquantel therapy. Rifampin may be resumed the day following praziquantel completion. Avoid combination
PrednisoLONE (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of PrednisoLONE (Systemic). Monitor therapy
PredniSONE: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of PredniSONE. Monitor therapy
Pretomanid: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Pretomanid. Avoid combination
Progestins (Contraceptive): Primidone may diminish the therapeutic effect of Progestins (Contraceptive). Contraceptive failure is possible. Management: Use of alternative, nonhormonal contraceptives is recommended. Consider therapy modification
Propacetamol: Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Propacetamol. This may 1) diminish the desired effects of propacetamol; and 2) increase the risk of liver damage. Monitor therapy
Propafenone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Propafenone. Monitor therapy
Pyridoxine: May increase the metabolism of Barbiturates. Apparent in high pyridoxine doses (eg, 200 mg/day) Monitor therapy
QUEtiapine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of QUEtiapine. Management: An increase in quetiapine dose (as much as 5 times the regular dose) may be required to maintain therapeutic benefit. Reduce the quetiapine dose back to the previous/regular dose within 7-14 days of discontinuing the inducer. Consider therapy modification
QuiNIDine: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of QuiNIDine. Monitor therapy
Radotinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Radotinib. Management: Consider alternatives to this combination when possible as the risk of radotinib treatment failure may be increased. Consider therapy modification
Ramelteon: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ramelteon. Monitor therapy
Ranolazine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ranolazine. Avoid combination
Reboxetine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Reboxetine. Monitor therapy
Regorafenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Regorafenib. Avoid combination
Ribociclib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ribociclib. Avoid combination
Rifamycin Derivatives: May increase the metabolism of Barbiturates. Monitor therapy
Rilpivirine: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Rilpivirine. Avoid combination
RisperiDONE: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of RisperiDONE. Management: Consider increasing the dose of oral risperidone (to no more than double the original dose) if a strong CYP3A4 inducer is initiated. For patients on IM risperidone, consider an increased IM dose or supplemental doses of oral risperidone. Consider therapy modification
Rivaroxaban: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Rivaroxaban. Avoid combination
Roflumilast: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Roflumilast. Management: Roflumilast U.S. prescribing information recommends against combining strong CYP3A4 inducers with roflumilast. The Canadian product monograph makes no such recommendation but notes that such agents may reduce roflumilast therapeutic effects. Avoid combination
Rolapitant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Rolapitant. Management: Avoid rolapitant use in patients requiring chronic administration of strong CYP3A4 inducers. Monitor for reduced rolapitant response and the need for alternative or additional antiemetic therapy even with shorter-term use of such inducers. Consider therapy modification
RomiDEPsin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of RomiDEPsin. Avoid combination
ROPINIRole: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of ROPINIRole. Monitor therapy
Rotigotine: CNS Depressants may enhance the sedative effect of Rotigotine. Monitor therapy
Rufinamide: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Rufinamide. Monitor therapy
Ruxolitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ruxolitinib. Monitor therapy
SAXagliptin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of SAXagliptin. Monitor therapy
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors: CNS Depressants may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. Specifically, the risk of psychomotor impairment may be enhanced. Monitor therapy
Sertraline: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Sertraline. Monitor therapy
Simeprevir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Simeprevir. Avoid combination
Sirolimus: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Sirolimus. Management: Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inducers and sirolimus if possible. If combined, monitor for reduced serum sirolimus concentrations. Sirolimus dose increases will likely be necessary to prevent subtherapeutic sirolimus levels. Consider therapy modification
Sodium Oxybate: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider alternatives to combined use. When combined use is needed, consider minimizing doses of one or more drugs. Use of sodium oxybate with alcohol or sedative hypnotics is contraindicated. Consider therapy modification
Sofosbuvir: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Sofosbuvir. Avoid combination
Somatostatin Acetate: May enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Barbiturates. Specifically, Somatostatin Acetate may enhance or prolong Barbiturate effects, including sedative effects. Avoid combination
Sonidegib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Sonidegib. Avoid combination
SORAfenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of SORAfenib. Avoid combination
SUFentanil: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of SUFentanil. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of SUFentanil. Management: Avoid use of sufentanil and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased sufentanil efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Sulthiame: Primidone may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Sulthiame. Monitor therapy
SUNItinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of SUNItinib. Management: Avoid when possible. If such a combination cannot be avoided, sunitinib dose increases are recommended, and vary by indication. See full monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Suvorexant: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Suvorexant. Management: Dose reduction of suvorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of suvorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of suvorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Consider therapy modification
Tadalafil: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tadalafil. Management: Erectile dysfunction: monitor for decreased effectiveness - no standard dose adjustments recommended. Avoid use of tadalafil for pulmonary arterial hypertension in patients receiving a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Consider therapy modification
Tamoxifen: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Tamoxifen. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tamoxifen. Management: Consider alternatives to concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inducers and tamoxifen. If the combination cannot be avoided, monitor for reduced therapeutic effects of tamoxifen. Consider therapy modification
Tapentadol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Management: Avoid concomitant use of tapentadol and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Consider therapy modification
Tasimelteon: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tasimelteon. Avoid combination
Tazemetostat: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tazemetostat. Avoid combination
Telithromycin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Telithromycin. Avoid combination
Temsirolimus: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Temsirolimus. Management: Consider increasing the dose of temsirolimus to 50 mg IV/week (from 25 mg IV/week) if a concomitant CYP3A4 strong inducer is necessary. Consider therapy modification
Teniposide: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Teniposide. Management: Consider alternatives to combined treatment with barbiturates and teniposide due to the potential for decreased teniposide concentrations. If the combination cannot be avoided, monitor teniposide response closely. Consider therapy modification
Tenofovir Alafenamide: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Tenofovir Alafenamide. Avoid combination
Tetrahydrocannabinol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tetrahydrocannabinol. Monitor therapy
Tetrahydrocannabinol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tetrahydrocannabinol and Cannabidiol. Monitor therapy
Tezacaftor and Ivacaftor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tezacaftor and Ivacaftor. Avoid combination
Thalidomide: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Thalidomide. Avoid combination
Theophylline Derivatives: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Theophylline Derivatives. Exceptions: Dyphylline. Monitor therapy
Thiotepa: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Thiotepa. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Thiotepa. Management: Thiotepa prescribing information recommends avoiding concomitant use of thiotepa and strong CYP3A4 inducers. If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor for adverse effects. Consider therapy modification
Thiothixene: Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of Thiothixene. Monitor therapy
TiaGABine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of TiaGABine. Management: Approximately 2-fold higher tiagabine doses and a more rapid dose titration will likely be required in patients concomitantly taking a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Consider therapy modification
Ticagrelor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Avoid combination
Tofacitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tofacitinib. Avoid combination
Tolvaptan: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tolvaptan. Management: If concurrent use is necessary, increased doses of tolvaptan (with close monitoring for toxicity and clinical response) may be needed. Avoid combination
Toremifene: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Toremifene. Avoid combination
Trabectedin: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Trabectedin. Avoid combination
TraMADol: Primidone may enhance the CNS depressant effect of TraMADol. Primidone may decrease the serum concentration of TraMADol. Management: Avoid use of tramadol and primidone when possible. Monitor for respiratory depression/sedation. Because primidone is also a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased tramadol efficacy and withdrawal if combined. Consider therapy modification
Tricyclic Antidepressants: Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Tricyclic Antidepressants. Consider therapy modification
Trimeprazine: May enhance the CNS depressant effect of CNS Depressants. Monitor therapy
Tropisetron: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Tropisetron. Monitor therapy
Ubrogepant: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ubrogepant. Avoid combination
Udenafil: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Udenafil. Monitor therapy
Ulipristal: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Ulipristal. Avoid combination
Ulipristal: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Ulipristal. Avoid combination
Upadacitinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Upadacitinib. Avoid combination
Valbenazine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Valbenazine. Avoid combination
Valproate Products: May decrease the metabolism of Primidone. More specifically, the metabolism of phenobarbital, primidone's primary active metabolite, may be decreased. Primidone may increase the serum concentration of Valproate Products. Monitor therapy
Vandetanib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vandetanib. Avoid combination
Velpatasvir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Velpatasvir. Avoid combination
Vemurafenib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vemurafenib. Management: Avoid concurrent use of vemurafenib with a strong CYP3A4 inducer and replace with another agent when possible. If a strong CYP3A4 inducer is indicated and unavoidable, the dose of vemurafenib may be increased by 240 mg (1 tablet) as tolerated. Consider therapy modification
Venetoclax: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Venetoclax. Avoid combination
Vilazodone: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vilazodone. Management: Consider increasing vilazodone dose by as much as 2-fold (do not exceed 80 mg/day), based on response, in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers for > 14 days. Reduce to the original vilazodone dose over 1-2 weeks after inducer discontinuation. Consider therapy modification
VinCRIStine (Liposomal): CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of VinCRIStine (Liposomal). Avoid combination
Vinflunine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vinflunine. Avoid combination
Vitamin K Antagonists (eg, warfarin): Barbiturates may increase the metabolism of Vitamin K Antagonists. Management: Monitor INR more closely. An anticoagulant dose increase may be needed after a barbiturate is initiated or given at an increased dose. Anticoagulant dose decreases may be needed following barbiturate discontinuation or dose reduction. Consider therapy modification
Vorapaxar: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vorapaxar. Avoid combination
Voriconazole: Barbiturates may decrease the serum concentration of Voriconazole. Avoid combination
Vortioxetine: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Vortioxetine. Management: Consider increasing the vortioxetine dose to no more than 3 times the original dose when used with a strong drug metabolism inducer for more than 14 days. The vortioxetine dose should be returned to normal within 14 days of stopping the strong inducer. Consider therapy modification
Voxelotor: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Voxelotor. Management: Avoid concomitant use of voxelotor and strong CYP3A4 inducers. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the voxelotor dose to 2,500 mg once daily. Consider therapy modification
Voxilaprevir: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Voxilaprevir. Avoid combination
Zaleplon: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Zaleplon. Management: Consider the use of an alternative hypnotic that is not metabolized by CYP3A4 in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers. If zalephon is combined with a strong CYP3A4 inducer, monitor for decreased effectiveness of zaleplon. Consider therapy modification
Zanubrutinib: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Zanubrutinib. Avoid combination
Zolpidem: CNS Depressants may enhance the CNS depressant effect of Zolpidem. Management: Reduce the Intermezzo brand sublingual zolpidem adult dose to 1.75 mg for men who are also receiving other CNS depressants. No such dose change is recommended for women. Avoid use with other CNS depressants at bedtime; avoid use with alcohol. Consider therapy modification
Zuclopenthixol: CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong) may decrease the serum concentration of Zuclopenthixol. Monitor therapy
Adverse Reactions
Frequency not defined.
Central nervous system: Ataxia, drowsiness, emotional disturbance, fatigue, hyperirritability, suicidal ideation, vertigo
Dermatologic: Morbilliform rash
Gastrointestinal: Anorexia, nausea, vomiting
Genitourinary: Impotence
Hematologic & oncologic: Agranulocytosis, granulocytopenia, megaloblastic anemia (idiosyncratic), pure red cell aplasia, red cell hypoplasia
Ophthalmic: Diplopia, nystagmus
Warnings/Precautions
Concerns related to adverse effects:
- CNS depression: May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks that require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery, driving).
- Suicidal ideation: Pooled analysis of trials involving various antiepileptics (regardless of indication) showed an increased risk of suicidal thoughts/behavior (incidence rate: 0.43% treated patients compared to 0.24% of patients receiving placebo); risk observed as early as 1 week after initiation and continued through duration of trials (most trials ≤24 weeks). Monitor all patients for notable changes in behavior that might indicate suicidal thoughts or depression; notify health care provider immediately if symptoms occur.
Disease-related concerns:
- Depression: Use with caution in patients with depression or suicidal tendencies.
- Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Hypoadrenalism: Use with caution in patients with hypoadrenalism.
- Renal impairment: Use with caution in patients with renal impairment.
- Respiratory disease: Use with caution in patients with respiratory disease.
- Substance abuse: Use with caution in patients with a history of drug abuse; potential for drug dependency exists. Tolerance or psychological and physical dependence may occur with prolonged use.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
- Sedatives: Effects with other sedative drugs or ethanol may be potentiated.
Special populations:
- Debilitated patients: Use with caution in patients who are debilitated; may cause paradoxical responses.
- Elderly: Use with caution in elderly patients due to sedating side effects and cognitive function declines. Primidone may cause paradoxical responses.
- Pediatric: Primidone's active metabolite, phenobarbital, has been associated with cognitive deficits in children receiving chronic therapy for febrile seizures.
Dosage form specific issues:
- Benzyl alcohol and derivatives: Some dosage forms may contain sodium benzoate/benzoic acid; benzoic acid (benzoate) is a metabolite of benzyl alcohol; large amounts of benzyl alcohol (≥99 mg/kg/day) have been associated with a potentially fatal toxicity ("gasping syndrome") in neonates; the "gasping syndrome" consists of metabolic acidosis, respiratory distress, gasping respirations, CNS dysfunction (including convulsions, intracranial hemorrhage), hypotension, and cardiovascular collapse (AAP ["Inactive" 1997]; CDC 1982); some data suggest that benzoate displaces bilirubin from protein binding sites (Ahlfors 2001); avoid or use dosage forms containing benzyl alcohol derivative with caution in neonates. See manufacturer's labeling.
Other warnings/precautions:
- Acute pain: Do not administer to patients in acute pain.
- Withdrawal: Anticonvulsants should not be discontinued abruptly because of the possibility of increasing seizure frequency; therapy should be withdrawn gradually to minimize the potential of increased seizure frequency, unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal.
Monitoring Parameters
Serum primidone and phenobarbital concentration, neurological status. Monitor CBC and comprehensive metabolic panel at 6-month intervals to compare with baseline obtained at start of therapy. Monitor for suicidality and depression.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Considerations
Primidone and its metabolites (PEMA, phenobarbital, and p-hydroxyphenobarbital) cross the placenta; neonatal serum concentrations at birth are similar to those in the mother. Withdrawal symptoms may occur in the neonate and may be delayed due to the long half-life of primidone and its metabolites. Use may be associated with birth defects and adverse events; the use of folic acid throughout pregnancy and vitamin K during the last month of pregnancy is recommended. Epilepsy itself, number of medications, genetic factors, or a combination of these probably influence the teratogenicity of anticonvulsant therapy.
Patients exposed to primidone during pregnancy are encouraged to enroll themselves into the NAAED Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. Additional information is available at www.aedpregnancyregistry.org.
Patient Education
What is this drug used for?
- It is used to help control certain kinds of seizures.
- It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Frequently reported side effects of this drug
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
Other side effects of this drug: Talk with your doctor right away if you have any of these signs of:
- Infection
- Depression like thoughts of suicide, anxiety, emotional instability, or confusion.
- Sexual dysfunction
- Vision changes
- Involuntary eye movements
- Severe loss of strength and energy
- Seizures
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Shortness of breath
- Change in balance
- Difficulty moving
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Panic attacks
- Mood changes
- Signs of a significant reaction like wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Talk to your doctor if you have questions.
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer: This information should not be used to decide whether or not to take this medicine or any other medicine. Only the healthcare provider has the knowledge and training to decide which medicines are right for a specific patient. This information does not endorse any medicine as safe, effective, or approved for treating any patient or health condition. This is only a brief summary of general information about this medicine. It does NOT include all information about the possible uses, directions, warnings, precautions, interactions, adverse effects, or risks that may apply to this medicine. This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from the healthcare provider. You must talk with the healthcare provider for complete information about the risks and benefits of using this medicine.
