Possible interaction between acyclovir and antiepileptic treatment

Ther Drug Monit. 1995 Jun;17(3):312-5.

Abstract

We report a clinically relevant suspected interaction between acyclovir and the antiepileptic drugs phenytoin (PHT) and valproic acid (VPA). In a child receiving PHT and VPA therapy, a 6-day acyclovir treatment reduced PHT and VPA plasma concentrations to subtherapeutic values. This probably worsened both clinical status and electroencephalographic recordings observed in this patient. We suggest that the interaction occurs at gastrointestinal level with a reduction of PHT and VPA oral bioavailability during antiviral treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Acyclovir / pharmacology*
  • Biological Availability
  • Child
  • Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Phenytoin / pharmacokinetics*
  • Valproic Acid / blood*

Substances

  • Valproic Acid
  • Phenytoin
  • Acyclovir