Equetro and Quetiapine

In the database of official manuals used in the service creation an interaction registered by statistical results of studies was found, which can either lead to negative consequences for the patient health or strengthen a mutual positive effect. A doctor should be consulted to address the issue of joint drug administration.

Using QUEtiapine together with carBAMazepine may alter the blood levels and effects of both drugs. Combining these medications may reduce the blood levels and effects of QUEtiapine and increase the blood levels and effects of carBAMazepine. Contact your doctor if your condition changes or you experience increased side effects such as headache, nausea, dizziness, slurred speech, uncontrolled eye movements, visual disturbances, tremors, and/or problems with balance or coordination. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact or you may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. 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.

ADJUST DOSE: Coadministration with potent inducers of CYP450 3A4 such as carbamazepine may significantly decrease the plasma concentrations of quetiapine, which is primarily metabolized by the isoenzyme. In addition, quetiapine may increase the plasma levels and the risk of adverse effects of carbamazepine and its active epoxide metabolite. In 18 psychiatric patients receiving quetiapine 300 mg twice daily, addition of the potent CYP450 3A4 inducer carbamazepine (200 mg three times daily) decreased mean quetiapine peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 80% and 87%, respectively, and increased oral clearance (Cl/F) by 7.5-fold compared to quetiapine administered alone.

MANAGEMENT: Increased dosages of quetiapine may be required during chronic treatment (greater than 7 to 14 days) with potent CYP450 3A4 inducers such as carbamazepine. The U.S. labeling recommends an increase of up to 5-fold of the original dosage. Further adjustments should be made based on clinical response and tolerance. The safety of dosages above 800 mg/day has not been established in clinical trials. Continued treatment at higher dosages should only be considered following careful consideration of risks and benefits. When carbamazepine is discontinued, the dosage of quetiapine should be reduced to the original level within 7 to 14 days. In addition, patients should be monitored for adverse effects associated with carbamazepine (e.g., dizziness, drowsiness, ataxia, diplopia). Some authorities suggest monitoring carbamazepine levels and adjusting the dosage accordingly when coadministered with quetiapine.

Equetro

Generic Name: carbamazepine

Brand name: Carbatrol, Epitol, Equetro, Tegretol, Tegretol XR, Tegretol, Tegretol XR

Synonyms: n.a.

What is Equetro?

Quetiapine

Generic Name: quetiapine

Brand name: Seroquel, Seroquel XR

Synonyms: QUEtiapine

What is Quetiapine?