Drug Interaction Report

Using stiripentol together with carBAMazepine may alter the blood levels of both medications. Specifically, the blood levels of stiripentol may decrease, which may make the medication less effective in treating seizures and epilepsy. At the same time, stiripentol may cause the blood levels of carBAMazepine to increase. You may be more likely to experience side effects of carBAMazepine, including central nervous system effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and motor impairment. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact, or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring to safely use both medications. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol during treatment with these medications. Do not engage in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medications affect you. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

You should preferably avoid the regular consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice while taking carBAMazepine. This can cause carBAMazepine levels to increase. You should report signs of carBAMazepine side effects such as nausea, visual disturbances, dizziness, or muscle weakness to your doctor. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with carBAMazepine. Alcohol can increase the nervous system side effects of carBAMazepine such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns.

Stiripentol should be taken during a meal to help with its absorption; however, it should not be taken with milk, dairy products (e.G., yogurt, soft cream cheese), fruit juice, or carbonated (fizzy) beverages. Also avoid or limit the use of alcohol because it can increase side effects of stiripentol such as dizziness and drowsiness. Patients should not engage in activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Food and beverages that may contain caffeine or theophylline such as colas, chocolate, coffee, tea, or energy drinks should also be avoided, since stiripentol may affect the clearance of these substances from the body. Some medications may also contain caffeine, so check product labels to verify the ingredients before taking, or ask a pharmacist or other healthcare provider for assistance. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.