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Interactions between Simvastatin and Trileptal

1 drug interaction and 31 additional warnings found for the following 2 drugs:

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Drug interactions

Moderate drug interactions

Moderate:

simvastatin OXcarbazepine

Applies to: simvastatin and Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Monitor

Coadministration with oxcarbazepine may decrease the plasma concentrations of drugs that are substrates of the CYP450 3A4 isoenzyme. The mechanism is accelerated clearance due to induction of CYP450 3A4 activity by oxcarbazepine. In one study, administration of a single 600 mg dose of oxcarbazepine to eight healthy male volunteers had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of the CYP450 3A4 substrate felodipine (10 mg once daily), while repeated doses (450 mg twice a day) reduced the felodipine peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 34% and 28%, respectively. Likewise, in a case study of a kidney transplant patient receiving cyclosporine 270 mg/day, investigators reported that cyclosporine trough concentrations declined to subtherapeutic levels approximately two weeks after the addition of oxcarbazepine. Trough concentrations returned to therapeutic range following an increase of the cyclosporine dosage to 290 mg/day and a reduction of the oxcarbazepine dosage from 750 mg/day to 600 mg/day. These results indicate that enzymatic induction occurs after multiple doses of oxcarbazepine.

Management

Caution is advised if oxcarbazepine must be used concurrently with medications that undergo metabolism by CYP450 3A4, particularly those with a narrow therapeutic range. Dosage adjustments as well as clinical and laboratory monitoring may be appropriate for some drugs whenever oxcarbazepine is added to or withdrawn from therapy. When initiating treatment or changing the dosage, it may take 2 to 3 weeks to reach the corresponding level of induction. Similarly, the induction is expected to gradually decrease over 2 to 3 weeks following discontinuation of oxcarbazepine.

References (3)
  1. Zaccara G, Gangemi PF, Bendoni L, Menge GP, Schwabe S, Monza GC (1993) "Influence of single and repeated doses of oxcarbazepine on the pharmacokinetic profile of felodipine." Ther Drug Monit, 15, p. 39-42
  2. (2001) "Product Information. Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)." Novartis Pharmaceuticals
  3. Rosche J, Froscher W, Abendroth D, Liebel J (2001) "Possible oxcarbazepine interaction with cyclosporine serum levels: A single case study." Clin Neuropharmacol, 24, p. 113-6

Food/lifestyle interactions

Major food/lifestyle interactions

Major:

simvastatin Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: simvastatin
Generally avoid

Coadministration with grapefruit juice may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of lovastatin and simvastatin and their active acid metabolites. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruit. When a single 60 mg dose of simvastatin was coadministered with 200 mL of double-strength grapefruit juice three times a day, simvastatin systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 16-fold and simvastatin acid AUC increased by 7-fold. Administration of a single 20 mg dose of simvastatin with 8 ounces of single-strength grapefruit juice increased the AUC of simvastatin and simvastatin acid by 1.9-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively. The interaction has also been reported with lovastatin, which has a similar metabolic profile to simvastatin. Clinically, high levels of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity in plasma is associated with an increased risk of musculoskeletal toxicity. Myopathy manifested as muscle pain and/or weakness associated with grossly elevated creatine kinase exceeding ten times the upper limit of normal has been reported occasionally. Rhabdomyolysis has also occurred rarely, which may be accompanied by acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and may result in death.

Adjust dosing interval

Fibres such as oat bran and pectin may diminish the pharmacologic effects of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors by interfering with their absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. Coadministration with green tea may increase the plasma concentrations of simvastatin. The mechanism of interaction has not been established, but may involve inhibition of organic anion transporting polypeptide (OATP) 1B1- and/or 2B1-mediated hepatic uptake of simvastatin by catechins in green tea. The interaction was suspected in a 61-year-old man who experienced muscle intolerance during treatment with simvastatin while drinking an average of 3 cups of green tea daily. He also experienced similar muscle intolerance (leg cramps without creatine phosphokinase elevation) during treatments with atorvastatin and rosuvastatin while drinking green tea. Pharmacokinetic studies performed during his usual green tea intake demonstrated an approximately two-fold higher exposure to simvastatin lactone (the administered form of simvastatin) than that observed after stopping green tea intake for a month. He was also able to tolerate simvastatin after discontinuing green tea consumption. The authors of the report subsequently conducted two independent studies to assess the effect of different green tea preparations on simvastatin pharmacokinetics. One study was conducted in 12 Italian subjects and the other in 12 Japanese subjects. In the Italian study, administration of a single 20 mg dose of simvastatin following pretreatment with 200 mL of a hot green tea standardized infusion 3 times daily for 14 days (estimated daily intake of 335 mg total catechins and 173 mg epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant and biologically active catechin in green tea) was found to have no significant effect on mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) or systemic exposure (AUC) of simvastatin lactone and simvastatin acid relative to administration with water. However, green tea increased simvastatin lactone AUC (0-6h) by about two-fold in 3 of the study subjects. In the Japanese study, administration of a single 10 mg dose of simvastatin following pretreatment with 350 mL of a commercial green tea beverage twice daily for 14 days (estimated daily intake of 638 mg total catechins and 322 mg EGCG) did not affect mean simvastatin lactone Cmax or AUC to a statistically significant extent compared to administration with water, but increased mean simvastatin acid Cmax and AUC by 42% and 22%, respectively. Similar to the first study, green tea increased simvastatin lactone AUC (0-6h) by two- to three-fold in 4 of the study subjects. Although not studied, the interaction may also occur with lovastatin due to its similar metabolic profile to simvastatin.

Management

Patients receiving therapy with lovastatin, simvastatin, or red yeast rice (which contains lovastatin) should be advised to avoid the consumption of grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Fluvastatin, pravastatin, pitavastatin, and rosuvastatin are metabolized by other enzymes and may be preferable alternatives in some individuals. All patients receiving statin therapy should be advised to promptly report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, particularly if accompanied by fever, malaise and/or dark colored urine. Therapy should be discontinued if creatine kinase is markedly elevated in the absence of strenuous exercise or if myopathy is otherwise suspected or diagnosed. Also, patients should either refrain from the use of oat bran and pectin, or separate the administration times by at least 2 to 4 hours if concurrent use cannot be avoided. Caution may be advisable when coadministered with green tea or green tea extracts. Dosing reduction of the statin and/or limiting consumption of green tea and green tea products may be required if an interaction is suspected.

References (12)
  1. Richter WO, Jacob BG, Schwandt P (1991) "Interaction between fibre and lovastatin." Lancet, 338, p. 706
  2. (2002) "Product Information. Mevacor (lovastatin)." Merck & Co., Inc
  3. (2001) "Product Information. Zocor (simvastatin)." Merck & Co., Inc
  4. Kantola T, Kivisto KT, Neuvonen PJ (1998) "Grapefruit juice greatly increases serum concentrations of lovastatin and lovastatin acid." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 63, p. 397-402
  5. Bailey DG, Malcolm J, Arnold O, Spence JD (1998) "Grapefruit juice-drug interactions." Br J Clin Pharmacol, 46, p. 101-10
  6. Lilja JJ, Kivisto KT, Neuvonen PJ (1998) "Grapefruit juice-simvastatin interaction: Effect on serum concentrations of simvastatin, simvastatin acid, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors." Clin Pharmacol Ther, 64, p. 477-83
  7. Thompson PD, Clarkson P, Karas RH (2003) "Statin-associated myopathy." JAMA, 289, p. 1681-90
  8. Neuvonen PJ, Backman JT, Niemi M (2008) "Pharmacokinetic comparison of the potential over-the-counter statins simvastatin, lovastatin, fluvastatin and pravastatin." Clin Pharmacokinet, 47, p. 463-74
  9. Werba JP, Giroli M, Cavalca V, Nava MC, Tremoli E, Dal Bo L (2008) "The effect of green tea on simvastatin tolerability." Ann Intern Med, 149, p. 286-7
  10. Werba JP, Misaka S, Giroli MG, et al. (2014) "Overview of Green Tea Interaction with Cardiovascular Drugs." Curr Pharm Des
  11. Roth M, Timmermann BN, Hagenbuch B (2011) "Interactions of green tea catechins with organic anion-transporting polypeptides." Drug Metab Dispos, 39, p. 920-6
  12. Knop J, Misaka S, Singer K, et al. (2015) "Inhibitory effects of green tea and (-)-epigallocatechin gallate on transport by OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OCT1, OCT2, MATE1, MATE2-K and P-glycoprotein." PLoS One, 10, e0139370

Moderate food/lifestyle interactions

Moderate:

OXcarbazepine Food/Lifestyle

Applies to: Trileptal (oxcarbazepine)
Generally avoid

Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of CNS-active agents. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

Management

Patients receiving CNS-active agents should be warned of this interaction and advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Ambulatory patients should be counseled to avoid hazardous activities requiring complete mental alertness and motor coordination until they know how these agents affect them, and to notify their physician if they experience excessive or prolonged CNS effects that interfere with their normal activities.

References (4)
  1. Warrington SJ, Ankier SI, Turner P (1986) "Evaluation of possible interactions between ethanol and trazodone or amitriptyline." Neuropsychobiology, 15, p. 31-7
  2. Gilman AG, eds., Nies AS, Rall TW, Taylor P (1990) "Goodman and Gilman's the Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics." New York, NY: Pergamon Press Inc.
  3. (2012) "Product Information. Fycompa (perampanel)." Eisai Inc
  4. (2015) "Product Information. Rexulti (brexpiprazole)." Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Moderate:

simvastatin Alcohol (Ethanol)

Applies to: simvastatin
Monitor

Concomitant use of statin medication with substantial quantities of alcohol may increase the risk of hepatic injury. Transient increases in serum transaminases have been reported with statin use and while these increases generally resolve or improve with continued therapy or a brief interruption in therapy, there have been rare postmarketing reports of fatal and non-fatal hepatic failure in patients taking statins. Patients who consume substantial quantities of alcohol and/or have a history of liver disease may be at increased risk for hepatic injury. Active liver disease or unexplained transaminase elevations are contraindications to statin use.

Management

Patients should be counseled to avoid substantial quantities of alcohol in combination with statin medications and clinicians should be aware of the increased risk for hepatotoxicity in these patients.

References (9)
  1. (2001) "Product Information. Pravachol (pravastatin)." Bristol-Myers Squibb
  2. (2001) "Product Information. Zocor (simvastatin)." Merck & Co., Inc
  3. (2001) "Product Information. Lescol (fluvastatin)." Novartis Pharmaceuticals
  4. (2001) "Product Information. Lipitor (atorvastatin)." Parke-Davis
  5. (2002) "Product Information. Altocor (lovastatin)." Andrx Pharmaceuticals
  6. (2003) "Product Information. Crestor (rosuvastatin)." AstraZeneca Pharma Inc
  7. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."
  8. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."
  9. (2010) "Product Information. Livalo (pitavastatin)." Kowa Pharmaceuticals America (formerly ProEthic)

Disease interactions

28 potential interactions Applies to: 21 conditions, including Depression, Underactive Thyroid, Heart Failure, Arrhythmia, and Psychosis.

Adrenal Insufficiency

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Adrenal Insufficiency.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Alcoholism

Major:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a major potential interaction with Alcoholism.

The use of most HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, decompensated cirrhosis, or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are extensively metabolized by the liver. Decreased drug metabolism may lead to accumulation and increased risk of toxicity, including biochemical abnormalities of liver function and, rarely, jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty change in the liver, and fulminant hepatic necrosis. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of liver disease and/or heavy alcohol use. A lower initial dosage may be appropriate, and clinical monitoring of liver transaminase levels according to the individual manufacturer product information is recommended. Patients who develop elevated ALT or AST levels during therapy should be monitored until abnormalities resolve. If an increase above 3 times the upper limit of normal persists, consideration should be given to a reduction in dosage or withdrawal of therapy.

Arrhythmia

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Arrhythmia.

Aromatic antiepileptic drugs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and oxcarbazepine, inhibit voltage- gated sodium channels and reduce membrane excitability in neurons and muscle and can be associated with cardiovascular effects. Individual agents have demonstrated AV heart block, including second and third-degree block following treatment. This occurred generally, but not solely in patients with underlying EKG abnormalities or risk factors for conduction abnormalities. Therapy with these agents should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease and conduction abnormalities.

Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Bone Marrow Depression/Low Blood Counts.

Rare events of pancytopenia, leukopenia, and agranulocytosis have been reported in patients treated with oxcarbazepine during postmarketing observations. Discontinuation of the drug should be considered if any evidence of these hematologic events develop. Therapy with oxcarbazepine should be administered with caution in patients with preexisting blood dyscrasias and/or bone marrow depression. Complete blood counts, including platelets and possibly reticulocytes and serum iron, should be performed prior to initiating therapy and regularly during therapy.

Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Cardiovascular Conditions and Disorders.

Aromatic antiepileptic drugs such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, and oxcarbazepine, inhibit voltage- gated sodium channels and reduce membrane excitability in neurons and muscle and can be associated with cardiovascular effects. Individual agents have demonstrated AV heart block, including second and third-degree block following treatment. This occurred generally, but not solely in patients with underlying EKG abnormalities or risk factors for conduction abnormalities. Therapy with these agents should be considered and administered cautiously in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease and conduction abnormalities.

Central Nervous System Disorders

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Central Nervous System Disorders.

Cognitive impairment (e.g., memory loss, forgetfulness, amnesia, memory impairment, confusion) have been observed in patients receiving statins. The reports are usually not serious, and reversible upon statin discontinuation. Caution is recommended when using these agents in patients with cognitive impairment.

Cirrhosis

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Cirrhosis.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Depression

Major:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a major potential interaction with Depression.

Antiepileptic drugs can increase depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors in patients receiving these drugs for any indication. Patients should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts and unusual changes in mood or behavior. Caregivers and family should be alert for the emergence or worsening of symptoms. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to the healthcare providers.

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Depression.

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical studies involving the use of 11 different AEDs showed that patients receiving AEDs had approximately twice the risk of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients receiving placebo. AEDs should be administered cautiously in patients with depression or other psychiatric disorders; phentermine-topiramate should be avoided in patients with history of suicidal attempts or active suicidal ideation. The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior should be carefully assessed against the risk of untreated illness, bearing in mind that epilepsy and many other conditions for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients, caregivers, and families should be alert to the emergence or worsening of signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If patients have symptoms of suicidal ideation or behavior, a dosage reduction or treatment discontinuation should be considered.

Diabetes Mellitus

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Diabetes Mellitus.

Increases in hemoglobin A1c and fasting serum glucose levels have been reported with the use of certain HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors. Caution should be exercised when using these agents in diabetic patients and close monitoring is recommended.

Fluid Retention

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Fluid Retention.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Heart Failure

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Heart Failure.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Hyponatremia

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Hyponatremia.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Liver Disease

Major:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.

The use of most HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors is contraindicated in patients with active liver disease, decompensated cirrhosis, or unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors are extensively metabolized by the liver. Decreased drug metabolism may lead to accumulation and increased risk of toxicity, including biochemical abnormalities of liver function and, rarely, jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty change in the liver, and fulminant hepatic necrosis. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with a history of liver disease and/or heavy alcohol use. A lower initial dosage may be appropriate, and clinical monitoring of liver transaminase levels according to the individual manufacturer product information is recommended. Patients who develop elevated ALT or AST levels during therapy should be monitored until abnormalities resolve. If an increase above 3 times the upper limit of normal persists, consideration should be given to a reduction in dosage or withdrawal of therapy.

Major:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a major potential interaction with Liver Disease.

Most anticonvulsants are primarily metabolized by the liver. Metabolic activity may be decreased in patients with liver disease, resulting in elevated drug levels and increased risk of toxicity. Therapy with anticonvulsants should be administered cautiously in patients with mild and moderate liver impairment. Therapy with these drugs is mostly not recommended in patients with severe liver impairment. Caution is also advised when treating patients with a history of liver disease, since the use of some anticonvulsants has been associated with hepatotoxicity. Baseline and periodic evaluation of liver function is recommended. Therapy should be discontinued and not readministered if evidence of liver damage is observed and felt to be drug-related.

Myoneural Disorder

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Myoneural Disorder.

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may cause myopathy and rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and rare fatalities have occurred due to rhabdomyolysis in patients treated with statins. The myopathy may be dose-related and is characterized by unexplained muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness accompanied by increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values exceeding 10 times the upper limit of normal. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy, in those with predisposing factors for myopathy, or with a history of myoneural disorder, since it may delay the recognition or confound the diagnosis of a drug-induced musculoskeletal effect. Patients should be advised to report promptly any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. Periodic CPK determinations may be considered in some patients, although the value of such monitoring is uncertain. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor therapy should be withdrawn if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or if drug-related myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

Myopathy

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Myopathy.

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may cause myopathy and rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and rare fatalities have occurred due to rhabdomyolysis in patients treated with statins. The myopathy may be dose-related and is characterized by unexplained muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness accompanied by increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values exceeding 10 times the upper limit of normal. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy, in those with predisposing factors for myopathy, or with a history of myoneural disorder, since it may delay the recognition or confound the diagnosis of a drug-induced musculoskeletal effect. Patients should be advised to report promptly any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. Periodic CPK determinations may be considered in some patients, although the value of such monitoring is uncertain. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor therapy should be withdrawn if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or if drug-related myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

Polydipsia

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Polydipsia.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Psychosis

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Psychosis.

Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have been associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical studies involving the use of 11 different AEDs showed that patients receiving AEDs had approximately twice the risk of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients receiving placebo. AEDs should be administered cautiously in patients with depression or other psychiatric disorders; phentermine-topiramate should be avoided in patients with history of suicidal attempts or active suicidal ideation. The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior should be carefully assessed against the risk of untreated illness, bearing in mind that epilepsy and many other conditions for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Patients, caregivers, and families should be alert to the emergence or worsening of signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts or behavior. If patients have symptoms of suicidal ideation or behavior, a dosage reduction or treatment discontinuation should be considered.

Renal Dysfunction

Major:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Although simvastatin itself is not eliminated by the kidney, the plasma concentrations of total HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors after a single dose of simvastatin may be increased in patients with significant renal impairment, presumably due to the accumulation of active metabolites. Increased HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity may be associated with a greater risk of adverse effects, including hepatic and musculoskeletal toxicities. Therapy with simvastatin should be administered cautiously at a reduced dosage in patients with severe renal impairment. Close clinical monitoring is recommended.

Major:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a major potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Most anticonvulsants are primarily excreted by the kidney. The plasma clearance may be decreased and the half-life prolonged in patients with impaired renal function. Therapy with anticonvulsants should be administered cautiously in patients with significant renal dysfunction. In most cases it is recommended to adjust the dosage in patients with CrCl <50 mL/min to half the usual starting dose and then increase slowly to achieve the desired clinical response. The renal function should be monitored regularly in patients receiving therapy.

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may cause myopathy and rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and rare fatalities have occurred due to rhabdomyolysis in patients treated with statins. The myopathy may be dose-related and is characterized by unexplained muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness accompanied by increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values exceeding 10 times the upper limit of normal. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy, in those with predisposing factors for myopathy, or with a history of myoneural disorder, since it may delay the recognition or confound the diagnosis of a drug-induced musculoskeletal effect. Patients should be advised to report promptly any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. Periodic CPK determinations may be considered in some patients, although the value of such monitoring is uncertain. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor therapy should be withdrawn if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or if drug-related myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Some HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (e.g., fluvastatin) have not been studied in patients with severe renal dysfunction or end-stage renal disease. Some others (e.g., pitavastatin, simvastatin) require a dose reduction when used in this group of patients. Caution and close monitoring are advised when using these drugs in patients with renal dysfunction.

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Renal Dysfunction.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

SIADH

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with SIADH.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

Thyroid Disease

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Thyroid Disease.

Decreased values for thyroid function tests, especially T4 have been observed with the administration of oxcarbazepine. This should be taken into account in patients with thyroid disorders.

Underactive Thyroid

Moderate:

simvastatin

Simvastatin has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may cause myopathy and rhabdomyolysis; acute renal failure secondary to myoglobinuria and rare fatalities have occurred due to rhabdomyolysis in patients treated with statins. The myopathy may be dose-related and is characterized by unexplained muscle weakness, pain, or tenderness accompanied by increases in creatine phosphokinase (CPK) values exceeding 10 times the upper limit of normal. Therapy with HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors should be administered cautiously in patients with preexisting myopathy, in those with predisposing factors for myopathy, or with a history of myoneural disorder, since it may delay the recognition or confound the diagnosis of a drug-induced musculoskeletal effect. Patients should be advised to report promptly any unusual muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness, particularly if accompanied by malaise or fever. Periodic CPK determinations may be considered in some patients, although the value of such monitoring is uncertain. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor therapy should be withdrawn if markedly elevated CPK levels occur or if drug-related myopathy is diagnosed or suspected.

Moderate:

Trileptal

The OXcarbazepine in Trileptal has a moderate potential interaction with Underactive Thyroid.

Some anticonvulsants can cause clinically significant hyponatremia (Na < 125 mmol/L). Therapy with these drugs should be administered cautiously in patients with conditions predisposing to hyponatremia, such as SIADH, use of diuretics or drugs associated with inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, primary polydipsia, and edema (e.g., due to liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, or nephrotic syndrome). Serum sodium levels should be monitored during maintenance therapy, and patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms possibly indicating hyponatremia such as nausea, malaise, headache, lethargy, confusion, obtundation, and increase in seizure frequency or severity. If hyponatremia occurs, conservative measures such as fluid restriction, a reduction in dosage, or discontinuation of therapy will usually suffice.

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simvastatin

A total of 361 drugs are known to interact with simvastatin.

Trileptal

A total of 586 drugs are known to interact with Trileptal.

Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.