Does Felbamate Interact with Valproate Sodium?
Felbamate and Valproate Sodium have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Felbamate is an enzyme inhibitor that can decrease valproate clearance. Monitoring of valproate and felbamate concentrations and dosage adjustment are indicated. The mechanism involves hepatic enzyme inhibition. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Felbamate Class
- Anti-epileptic Agent
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Felbamate and Valproate Sodium occurs because hepatic enzyme inhibition. Clinically, this means felbamate is an enzyme inhibitor that can decrease valproate clearance. monitoring of valproate and felbamate concentrations and dosage adjustment are indicated. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Felbamate and your doctor is considering prescribing Valproate Sodium (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider