There are multiple interactions reported between these two agents.

Interaction Details

Ethosuximide is classified as belonging to the following category: Cns Depressants

Theoretically, concomitant use of 1,4-butanediol with CNS depressants may potentiate respiratory and CNS depression.
1,4-Butanediol is metabolized to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Concomitant use of CNS depressants with GHB may cause serious CNS and respiratory depression.

Interaction Rating

Major

Likelihood of Occurrence

Probable

Interaction has not been documented in well-controlled studies, however, the interaction has been demonstrated in some small human studies or in controlled animal studies in conjunction with multiple case reports.

References

  • Anon. Multistate outbreak of poisonings associated with illicit use of gamma hydroxy butyrate. JAMA 1991;265:447-8.
  • Product information for Xyrem. Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Palo Alto, CA. March 2022.

Interaction Details

Ethosuximide is classified as belonging to the following category: Anticonvulsants

Theoretically, concomitant use of 1,4-butanediol with certain anticonvulsants may potentiate respiratory and central nervous system (CNS) depression or increase the risk of seizures.
1,4-Butanediol is metabolized to gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). Concomitant use of anticonvulsants that have sedative effects with GHB may cause serious CNS and respiratory depression. GHB might also reduce the effectiveness of anticonvulsants since it also can cause seizures.

Interaction Rating

Moderate

Likelihood of Occurrence

Possible

Interaction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists

References

  • Anon. Multistate outbreak of poisonings associated with illicit use of gamma hydroxy butyrate. JAMA 1991;265:447-8.
  • Carotenuto A, De Feo V, Fattorusso E, et al. The flavonoids of Allium ursinum. Phytochem 1996;41:531-6.
  • Product information for Xyrem. Jazz Pharmaceuticals, Inc. Palo Alto, CA. March 2022.

1,4-butanediol Overview

1,4-butanediol (BDO) is a chemical compound used as a solvent, a reactant, and a building block for the synthesis of other chemicals. It is used as a recreational drug as a source of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). 1,4-butanediol use has been linked to severe illness and is not recommended.
See More Information Regarding 1,4-butanediol

Ethosuximide Overview

  • Ethosuximide is used to control absence seizures (petit mal) (a type of seizure in which there is a very short loss of awareness during which the person may stare straight ahead or blink his eyes and does not respond to others). Ethosuximide is in a class of medications called anticonvulsants. It works by reducing abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

See More Information Regarding Ethosuximide

1,4-butanediol - More Interactions

1,4-butanediol interacts with 268 drugs

Interaction Rating Key

These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.

Major The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur.
Moderate Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur.
Minor Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction.
Unknown No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available.

Return to the main herbal interaction checker page

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.

Ask A Pharmacist About Your Herbal Questions!

Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD

In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!

Ask A Pharmacist