From the Guidelines
Nexstellis can potentially decrease the effectiveness of lamotrigine by increasing its clearance from the body, and patients taking both medications may require a higher lamotrigine dose to maintain therapeutic effects. When taken together, Nexstellis may increase the clearance of lamotrigine from the body, potentially reducing lamotrigine blood levels by approximately 20-40% 1. This interaction occurs because the estrogen component in Nexstellis induces the glucuronidation of lamotrigine, accelerating its metabolism and elimination. Some key points to consider include:
- The interaction between Nexstellis and lamotrigine is similar to that seen with other combined hormonal contraceptives containing estrogen 1.
- Patients taking both medications may require a higher lamotrigine dose to maintain therapeutic effects, particularly for seizure control or mood stabilization.
- If you're currently taking lamotrigine and plan to start or stop Nexstellis, consult your healthcare provider about potential dose adjustments.
- They may recommend monitoring lamotrigine blood levels and watching for breakthrough seizures or mood symptoms.
- During the hormone-free week of Nexstellis, lamotrigine levels may temporarily increase, potentially causing side effects.
From the Research
Nexstellis and Lamotrigine Interaction
- There are no research papers to assist in answering this question as none of the provided studies mention Nexstellis.
- The studies provided focus on lamotrigine interactions with other drugs such as valproic acid, carbamazepine, and phenytoin 2, 3, 4.
- Lamotrigine has been shown to have pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions with various drugs, which can affect its efficacy and safety 2, 3, 5.
- However, without specific information on Nexstellis, it is not possible to determine its potential interaction with lamotrigine.
- Drug-drug interactions can have significant consequences, including adverse drug events and increased healthcare costs 5.