Drug-Drug Interaction


CARBAMAZEPINE/CYCLOSPORINE

MECHANISM OF ACTION
Carbamazepine may induce the metabolism of cyclosporine.

DISCUSSION
Patients receiving concurrent carbamazepine and cyclosporine therapy may need higher dosages of cyclosporine as a result of enzyme induction by carbamazepine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS
Decreased levels of cyclosporine, which may result in a decrease in the immunosuppressive effects of cyclosporine.

SEVERITY LEVEL
3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT
Monitor cyclosporine levels in patients receiving carbamazepine and in patients in whom carbamazepine is discontinued. The dosage of cyclosporine may need to be adjusted.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS
None determined.

REFERENCES

  1. Schofield OM, Camp RD, Levene GM. Cyclosporin A in psoriasis: interaction .Schofield OM, Camp RD, Levene GM. Cyclosporin A in psoriasis: interaction with carbamazepine. Br J Dermatol 1990 Mar;122(3):425-6.
  2. Lele P, Peterson P, Yang S, Jarrell B, Burke JF Jr. Cyclosporine and .Lele P, Peterson P, Yang S, Jarrell B, Burke JF Jr. Cyclosporine and tegretrol -- another drug interaction. Kidney Int 1985;27(1):344.
  3. Soto Alvarez J, Sacristan Del Castillo JA, Alsar Ortiz MJ. Effect of .Soto Alvarez J, Sacristan Del Castillo JA, Alsar Ortiz MJ. Effect of carbamazepine on cyclosporin blood level. Nephron 1991;58(2):235-6.
  4. Cooney GF, Mochon M, Kaiser B, Dunn SP, Goldsmith B. Effects of .Cooney GF, Mochon M, Kaiser B, Dunn SP, Goldsmith B. Effects of carbamazepine on cyclosporine metabolism in pediatric renal transplant recipients. Pharmacotherapy 1995 May-Jun;15(3):353-6.