Drug Interactions between lindane topical and Synalgos-DC

MONITOR: Lindane penetrates human skin and has the potential to cause central nervous system toxicity. Seizures have been reported after excessive use or oral ingestion of lindane. There may be a theoretical risk of increased seizure potential when lindane is used with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI antidepressants or anorectics), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, neuroleptic agents, central nervous system stimulants, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, other tricyclic compounds (e.g., cyclobenzaprine, phenothiazines), and/or any substance that can reduce the seizure threshold (e.g., carbapenems, cholinergic agents, fluoroquinolones, interferons, chloroquine, mefloquine, theophylline). These agents are often individually epileptogenic and may have additive effects when combined.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if lindane is used with any substance that can reduce the seizure threshold, particularly in the very young or the elderly and in patients with epilepsy, a history of seizures, or other risk factors for seizures (e.g., head trauma, brain tumor, metabolic disorders, alcohol and drug withdrawal, CNS infections). Lindane should be used according to recommended dosage and directions for application.

One study has reported that coadministration of caffeine and aspirin lead to a 25% increase in the rate of appearance and 17% increase in maximum concentration of salicylate in the plasma. A significantly higher area under the plasma concentration time curve of salicylate was also reported when both drugs were administered together. The exact mechanism of this interaction has not been specified. Physicians and patients should be aware that coadministration of aspirin and caffeine may lead to higher salicylate levels faster.