Can I take Amlodipine and Butalbital together?

Why this happens

Butalbital is a 'liver enzyme inducer'. This means it speeds up the liver's ability to break down other medicines. Because amlodipine is processed by these same liver enzymes, butalbital causes the body to clear amlodipine out of your system much faster than normal, lowering the amount of medicine in your blood.

You should speak to your doctor before taking these two medicines together. Your doctor may need to monitor your blood pressure more closely or adjust your dose of amlodipine. If you notice your blood pressure readings increasing or feel symptoms of high blood pressure (like headaches or blurred vision), contact your GP.

Alcohol consumption and sedative use

Butalbital is a barbiturate that causes severe drowsiness. Combining it with alcohol or other sedatives can lead to fatal respiratory depression (dangerously slow breathing).

Dependency and withdrawal

This medicine is highly addictive. Stopping it suddenly after regular use can cause life-threatening seizures and severe withdrawal symptoms.

Severe liver disease

Amlodipine is processed slowly by the liver; if you have liver problems, the drug can build up to toxic levels, causing dangerously low blood pressure.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of amlodipine in your blood. While the effect is usually small, it can lead to a further lowering of blood pressure and an increase in side effects like swelling or headaches. It is best to avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Alcohol

You must avoid drinking alcohol while taking butalbital. Alcohol significantly increases the sedative effects of this medicine, which can lead to dangerous levels of drowsiness, slowed breathing, and impaired coordination.

Caffeine

Butalbital is often prescribed in combination products that already contain caffeine. Consuming additional caffeine from coffee, tea, or energy drinks may increase side effects such as jitteriness, a racing heart, or difficulty sleeping.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.