Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital & Nutrient Depletion
Also searched as Tribarb. What the clinical evidence reports, what it may mean, and what to discuss with your pharmacist.
Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital has been associated with depletion of ACETYL-L-CARNITINE, L-CARNITINE, PROPIONYL-L-CARNITINE and VITAMIN K and 4 more. This does not mean a deficiency will occur — it means these are worth knowing about and, if you take Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital long-term, worth raising with your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
Take more than one medication? Open the checker with Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital pre-loaded and add the rest to see overlapping nutrient signals.
Reported nutrient depletions with Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital
Each record below is shown as published in our licensed clinical database, with its evidence rating and citations. Expand a section for food sources and talking points.
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ACETYL-L-CARNITINE
Insignificant DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Data on the effect of phenobarbital on blood levels of carnitines are conflicting. Some studies have found reduced L-carnitine levels in some patients taking phenobarbital. However, other studies have found no significant effect. Routine L-carnitine or acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation does not seem to be necessary.
Acetyl-L-carnitine is a compound your body uses to help convert fat into energy and support nerve cell function. Some research has looked at whether phenobarbital (one of the barbiturates in this group) might interfere with how the body handles carnitine, possibly by increasing how quickly it is used up or cleared, but the studies so far have pointed in different directions with no clear agreement. Given the conflicting data and the insignificant rating here, this is not something most people taking these medications need to worry about. If you have concerns, a quick conversation with your pharmacist or doctor is always a reasonable step.
Learn more about this nutrient: Acetyl-l-carnitine — uses, safety & interactions
References (5)
- Hug G, McGraw CA, Bates SR, et al. Reduction of serum carnitine concentrations during anticonvulsant therapy with phenobarbital, valproic acid, phenytoin, and carbamazepine in children. J Pediatr 1991;119:799-802. PubMed
- Castro-Gago M, Eiris-Punal J, Novo-Rodriguez MI, et al. Serum carnitine levels in epileptic children before and during treatment with valproic acid, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital. J Child Neurol 1998;13:546-9. PubMed
- Thom H, Carter PE, Cole GF, et al. Ammonia and carnitine concentrations in children treated with sodium valproate compared with other anticonvulsant drugs. Dev Med Child Neurol 1991;33:795-802. PubMed
- Zelnik N, Fridkis I, Gruener N. Reduced carnitine and antiepileptic drugs: cause relationship or co-existence? Acta Paediatr 1995;84:93-5. PubMed
- Opala G, Winter S, Vance C, et al. The effect of valproic acid on plasma carnitine levels. Am J Dis Child 1991;145:999-1001. PubMed
L-CARNITINE
Insignificant DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Some studies have found reduced levels of L-carnitine in some patients taking phenobarbital. However, other studies have found no significant effect. Routine L-carnitine supplementation does not seem to be necessary.
L-carnitine is a compound your body uses to turn fat into usable energy, particularly in muscle cells. Some research has found that phenobarbital may lower L-carnitine levels in certain patients, possibly because it affects how the body processes and transports this compound, though the exact reason is not fully understood. Importantly, other studies found no meaningful change at all, which is why this is rated as an insignificant depletion. Most people taking these barbiturate medications do not need to take L-carnitine supplements, but if you have concerns, your pharmacist or doctor is the right person to ask.
What Carnitine does & food sources
Carnitine shuttles fatty acids into cells' mitochondria so they can be burned for energy.
Common food sources:
- Red meat (the richest source)
- Poultry and fish
- Dairy products
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Carnitine questions come up with specific medications (for example, valproic acid) and specific situations — this is a conversation for your prescriber, who can weigh testing or supplementation.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Carnitine supplements are usually reserved for clinician-identified situations rather than general use.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Learn more about this nutrient: L-carnitine — uses, safety & interactions
References (5)
- Hug G, McGraw CA, Bates SR, et al. Reduction of serum carnitine concentrations during anticonvulsant therapy with phenobarbital, valproic acid, phenytoin, and carbamazepine in children. J Pediatr 1991;119:799-802. PubMed
- Castro-Gago M, Eiris-Punal J, Novo-Rodriguez MI, et al. Serum carnitine levels in epileptic children before and during treatment with valproic acid, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital. J Child Neurol 1998;13:546-9. PubMed
- Thom H, Carter PE, Cole GF, et al. Ammonia and carnitine concentrations in children treated with sodium valproate compared with other anticonvulsant drugs. Dev Med Child Neurol 1991;33:795-802. PubMed
- Zelnik N, Fridkis I, Gruener N. Reduced carnitine and antiepileptic drugs: cause relationship or co-existence? Acta Paediatr 1995;84:93-5. PubMed
- Opala G, Winter S, Vance C, et al. The effect of valproic acid on plasma carnitine levels. Am J Dis Child 1991;145:999-1001. PubMed
PROPIONYL-L-CARNITINE
Insignificant DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Data on the effect of phenobarbital on blood levels of carnitines are conflicting. Some studies have found reduced levels in some patients taking phenobarbital. However, other studies have found no significant effect. Routine L-carnitine or propionyl-L-carnitine supplementation does not seem to be necessary.
Propionyl-L-carnitine is a compound your body uses to help turn fat into usable energy, especially in muscle tissue. Some research has looked at whether phenobarbital (one of the barbiturates in this group) might nudge carnitine levels downward, possibly by affecting how the body processes or holds onto it, but study results have gone back and forth with no clear answer. Given the insignificant rating, most people taking these medications are unlikely to have a meaningful concern here. If you are curious or have symptoms like unusual fatigue, it is worth a quick conversation with your pharmacist or doctor.
Learn more about this nutrient: Propionyl-l-carnitine — uses, safety & interactions
References (5)
- Hug G, McGraw CA, Bates SR, et al. Reduction of serum carnitine concentrations during anticonvulsant therapy with phenobarbital, valproic acid, phenytoin, and carbamazepine in children. J Pediatr 1991;119:799-802. PubMed
- Castro-Gago M, Eiris-Punal J, Novo-Rodriguez MI, et al. Serum carnitine levels in epileptic children before and during treatment with valproic acid, carbamazepine, and phenobarbital. J Child Neurol 1998;13:546-9. PubMed
- Thom H, Carter PE, Cole GF, et al. Ammonia and carnitine concentrations in children treated with sodium valproate compared with other anticonvulsant drugs. Dev Med Child Neurol 1991;33:795-802. PubMed
- Zelnik N, Fridkis I, Gruener N. Reduced carnitine and antiepileptic drugs: cause relationship or co-existence? Acta Paediatr 1995;84:93-5. PubMed
- Opala G, Winter S, Vance C, et al. The effect of valproic acid on plasma carnitine levels. Am J Dis Child 1991;145:999-1001. PubMed
VITAMIN K
Insignificant DepletionANTICONVULSANTS
When taken during pregnancy, anticonvulsants that induce hepatic enzymes (e.g., phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine) can reduce vitamin K levels in the fetus and increase the risk of intracranial hemorrhage soon after birth. It's thought that liver enzyme induction by these drugs increases vitamin K metabolism. This has a significant effect on vitamin K levels in infants, who haven't built up stores of the vitamin. When anticonvulsants are needed during pregnancy, vitamin K 10-20 mg daily should be taken orally for the last month of pregnancy, and the baby should receive vitamin K immediately after delivery. There is also limited evidence that chronic carbamazepine or phenytoin therapy can cause subclinical reductions in vitamin K activity in adults. There are rare reports of prolonged clotting times and bleeding in people with additional risk factors for vitamin K deficiency, such as poor nutritional intake. These anticonvulsants don't significantly affect vitamin K and clotting parameters in most children and adults. For information on foods that are rich in vitamin K, see our chart.
Vitamin K is something your body needs to help blood clot properly and keep bones healthy. Barbiturates like phenobarbital can prompt the liver to break down vitamin K faster than usual, which may nudge levels slightly lower over time. For most adults taking these medications, this is considered an insignificant concern and no extra vitamin K is typically needed. That said, if you are pregnant or have other risk factors for low vitamin K, it is worth bringing up with your doctor or pharmacist.
What Vitamin K does & food sources
Vitamin K is required for normal blood clotting and contributes to bone health.
Common food sources:
- Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale, broccoli)
- Vegetable oils
- Fermented foods like natto
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
If you take warfarin, vitamin K intake is a central part of your therapy — consistency matters more than avoidance. Discuss any planned change in vitamin K intake (diet or supplements) with the clinic that manages your INR.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Never start or stop a vitamin K supplement on your own if you take warfarin — it directly changes how the medication works.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Vitamin K interacts with warfarin: keep intake consistent and involve your anticoagulation clinic in any change.
Learn more about this nutrient: Vitamin K — uses, safety & interactions
References (8)
- Cornelissen M, Steegers-Theunissen R, Kollee L, et al. Increased incidence of neonatal vitamin K deficiency resulting from maternal anticonvulsant therapy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1993;168:923-8. PubMed
- Cornelissen M, Steegers-Theunissen R, Kollee L, et al. Supplementation of vitamin K in pregnant women receiving anticonvulsant therapy prevents neonatal vitamin K deficiency. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1993;168:884-8. PubMed
- Renzulli P, Tuchschmid P, Eich G, et al. Early vitamin K deficiency bleeding after maternal phenobarbital intake: management of massive intracranial haemorrhage by minimal surgical intervention. Eur J Pediatr 1998;157:663-5. PubMed
- Bleyer WA, Skinner AL. Fatal neonatal hemorrhage after maternal anticonvulsant therapy. JAMA 1976;235:626-7. DOI
- Thorp JA, Gaston L, Caspers DR, Pal ML. Current concepts and controversies in the use of vitamin K. Drugs 1995;49:376-87. PubMed
- Davies VA, Rothberg AD, Argent AC, Atkinson PM, Staub H, Pienaar NL. Precursor prothrombin status in patients receiving anticonvulsant drugs. Lancet 1985;1:126-8. PubMed
- Keith DA, Gundberg CM, Japour A, et al. Vitamin K-dependent proteins and anticonvulsant medication. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1983;34:529-32. PubMed
- Tam DA Jr, Myer EC. Vitamin K-dependent coagulopathy in a child receiving anticonvulsant therapy. J Child Neurol 1996;11:244-6. PubMed
BIOTIN
Moderate DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Reduced plasma biotin levels can occur in people taking phenobarbital. In one study, plasma levels were 50% lower in people taking phenobarbital or various other anticonvulsants than in controls. There may also be increased urinary excretion of organic acids, an indicator of reduced biotin-dependent enzyme activity. Suggested mechanisms include competitive inhibition of biotin transport in the intestine, increased catabolism of biotin, and decreased renal tubular reabsorption of biotin. Phenobarbital contains a carbamide group, which is also present in biotin, and may lead to competition for intestinal and renal tubular absorption sites. The clinical significance of these effects on biotin isn't clear.
Biotin is a B vitamin your body uses to convert food into energy and keep your skin, hair, and nerves healthy. Barbiturates like phenobarbital appear to interfere with biotin from a few directions at once: the drug seems to compete with biotin for absorption in the gut, nudge the kidneys to hold onto less of it, and possibly speed up how fast the body breaks it down. Research has found that blood levels of biotin can be meaningfully lower in people on these medications, so this is rated a moderate concern worth paying attention to, especially with long-term use. If you have been on one of these medications for a while, it is worth asking your doctor or pharmacist whether your biotin levels should be checked or whether a supplement makes sense for you.
Learn more about this nutrient: Biotin — uses, safety & interactions
References (7)
- Krause KH, Bonjour JP, Berlit P, Kochen W. Biotin status of epileptics. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1985;447:297-313.
- Krause KH, Kochen W, Berlit P, Bonjour JP. Excretion of organic acids associated with biotin deficiency in chronic anticonvulsant therapy. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 1984;54:217-22.
- Krause KH, Berlit P, Bonjour JP. Vitamin status in patients on chronic anticonvulsant therapy. Int J Vitam Nutr Res 1982;52:375-85.
- Mock DM, Dyken ME. Biotin deficiency results from long-term therapy with anticonvulsants (abstract). Gastroenterology 1995;108:A740. DOI
- Mock DM, Mock NI, Nelson RP, Lombard KA. Disturbances in biotin metabolism in children undergoing long-term anticonvulsant therapy. J Pediatr Gastroentereol Nutr 1998;26:245-50.
- Mock DM, Dyken ME. Biotin catabolism is accelerated in adults receiving long-term therapy with anticonvulsants. Neurology 1997;49:1444-7. PubMed
- Rathman SC, Eisenschenk S, McMahon RJ. The abundance and function of biotin-dependent enzymes are reduced in rats chronically administered carbamazepine. J Nutr 2002;132:3405-10. PubMed
CALCIUM
Moderate DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Phenobarbital decreases calcium absorption by increasing metabolism of vitamin D, which is needed for calcium absorption. Hypocalcemia and osteomalacia have occurred, especially with prolonged therapy or when used in combination with carbamazepine and/or phenytoin. Advise patients taking phenytoin for six months or more that they may also need vitamin D and calcium supplements. For information on foods that are rich in calcium, see our chart.
Barbiturates like phenobarbital speed up the liver's breakdown of vitamin D, and without enough vitamin D your gut simply cannot pull calcium into the bloodstream properly. Calcium is the mineral your bones and teeth are built from, and it also keeps your heart rhythm and muscles working. Over time, especially with long-term use, this chain reaction can leave bones weaker than they should be. If you have been taking one of these medications for six months or more, it is worth asking your pharmacist or doctor whether your calcium and vitamin D levels should be checked.
What Calcium does & food sources
Calcium builds and maintains bone and is essential for muscle contraction and nerve signaling.
Common food sources:
- Dairy products (milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Fortified plant milks and juices
- Canned fish with bones (sardines, salmon)
- Leafy greens like kale
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Ask your provider whether bone health monitoring (and vitamin D testing) makes sense with long-term use of an associated medication — a blood calcium level alone does not capture bone calcium status.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Calcium can interfere with the absorption of several medications (some antibiotics, thyroid medication, iron) — separate the doses and confirm timing with your pharmacist. Total intake from food plus supplements matters more than supplements alone.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: Very high calcium intake has its own risks (kidney stones in susceptible people) — more is not better.
Learn more about this nutrient: Calcium — uses, safety & interactions
References (5)
- Gough H, Goggin T, Bissessar A, et al. A comparative study of the relative influence of different anticonvulsant drugs, UV exposure and diet on vitamin D and calcium metabolism in out-patients with epilepsy. Quart J Med 1986;59:569-77. DOI
- Hoikka V, Alhava EM, Karjalainen P, et al. Carbamazepine and bone mineral metabolism. Acta Neurol Scand 1984;70:77-80. PubMed
- Rajantie J, Lamberg-Allardt C, Wilska M. Does carbamazepine treatment lead to a need of extra vitamin D in some mentally retarded children? Acta Paediatr Scand 1984;73:325-8. PubMed
- Bell RD, Pak CY, Zerwekh J, et al. Effect of phenytoin on bone and mineral density in ambulatory epileptic children. Brain Dev 1994;16:382-5.
- Collins N, Maher J, Cole M, et al. A prospective study to evaluate the dose of vitamin D required to correct low 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels, calcium, and alkaline phosphatase in patients at risk of developing antiepileptic drug-induced osteomalacia. Q J M
FOLIC ACID
Moderate DepletionPHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
In people with low dietary folate intake, phenobarbital might reduce serum folate levels leading to megaloblastic anemia, and possibly contributing to neurological side effects, mental changes, and cerebral atrophy. Possible mechanisms include reduced folic acid absorption, increased metabolism, increased demand for folic acid as a coenzyme for induced hepatic enzymes, or competitive interaction between folate coenzymes and phenobarbital. Pregnant patients taking phenobarbital may be especially at risk for reduced folate levels, as low folate levels during pregnancy may contribute to birth defects and pregnancy loss. Folic acid therapy seems to reverse these neurological effects. However, folic acid can worsen seizure control. Advise patients taking phenobarbital to consult their physician before taking folic acid supplements. For information on foods that are rich in folate, see our chart.
Folate is a B vitamin your body uses to build healthy red blood cells, support nerve function, and help cells divide properly. Barbiturates like phenobarbital appear to lower folate levels through several routes: the drug may reduce how well folate is absorbed in the gut, speed up how the liver breaks it down, and may even compete with folate at the enzyme level. This is rated moderate, meaning it is a real concern worth watching, especially with long-term use, pregnancy, or a diet low in folate-rich foods. Because folic acid supplements can actually affect seizure control in some people, please talk with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any folate supplement.
What Folic acid (folate) does & food sources
Folate is needed for cell division, red blood cell formation, and healthy fetal development.
Common food sources:
- Leafy green vegetables
- Beans, lentils, and peas
- Fortified grains and cereals
- Citrus fruits
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Ask your provider whether folate monitoring or supplementation is appropriate for you — this matters most before and during pregnancy, and with long-term use of certain seizure or arthritis medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Folate needs are individual. With some medications (for example, methotrexate), folic acid is often prescribed deliberately on a specific schedule — follow your prescriber's instructions rather than adding your own.
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Caution: High-dose folic acid can mask vitamin B12 deficiency, so the two are often evaluated together.
Learn more about this nutrient: Folic Acid — uses, safety & interactions
References (10)
- Froscher W, Maier V, Laage M, et al. Folate deficiency, anticonvulsant drugs, and psychiatric morbidity. Clin Neuropharmacol 1995;18:165-82. PubMed
- Taliani U, Camellini A, Bernardi P, et al. A clinical case of severe megaloblastic anemia during treatment with primidone. Acta Biomed Ateneo Parmense 1989;60:245-8.
- Lambie DG, Johnson RH. Drugs and folate metabolism. Drugs 1985;30:145-55. PubMed
- Botez MI, Peyronnard J, Berube L, Labrecque R. Relapsing neuropathy, cerebral atrophy and folate deficiency. Appl Neurophysiol 1979;42:171-83.. DOI
- Reynolds EH. Neurological aspects of folate and vitamin B12 metabolism. Clin Haematol 1976;5:661-96. DOI
- Reynolds EH. Folate metabolism and anticonvulsant therapy. Proc R Soc Med 1974;67:68.
- Reynolds EH, Trimble MR. Adverse neuropsychiatric effects of anticonvulsant drugs. Drugs 1985;29:570-81. PubMed
- Hiilesmaa VK, Teramo K, Granstrom ML, Bardy AH. Serum folate concentrations during pregnancy in women with epilepsy: relation to antiepileptic drug concentrations, number of seizures, and fetal outcome. Br Med J 1983;287:577-9. DOI
- Dansky LV, Rosenblatt DS, Andermann E. Mechanisms of teratogenesis: folic acid and antiepileptic therapy. Neurology 1992;42:32-42.
- Lewis DP, Van Dyke DC, Stumbo PJ, Berg MJ. Drug and environmental factors associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Part I: antiepileptic drugs, contraceptives, smoking, and folate. Ann Pharmacother 1998;32:802-17. PubMed
RIBOFLAVIN
Insufficient EvidencePHENOBARBITAL (Luminal)
Some evidence in animals suggests that phenobarbital induces metabolism of riboflavin in the liver. Levels of the active form of riboflavin, flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), are increased in the liver and levels of a hydroxylated metabolite are increased in the urine. Also, some animal research suggests that phenobarbital does not significantly affect the content of flavin in the liver.
Riboflavin is a B vitamin your body uses to convert food into energy and keep cells working properly. Animal studies hint that phenobarbital may cause the liver to break down riboflavin faster than normal, potentially nudging active levels a bit lower, but this has not been clearly proven in people. Given the insufficient evidence rating, this is more of an open question than a known concern, so most people taking these barbiturates do not need to act on this right now. If you are a long-term user and curious, it is worth bringing up with your pharmacist or doctor.
What Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) does & food sources
Riboflavin helps the body produce energy and process other B vitamins.
Common food sources:
- Dairy products and eggs
- Lean meats
- Fortified grains
- Green vegetables
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
What to discuss with your clinician
Deficiency is uncommon with a varied diet; ask your provider if you have persistent mouth-corner cracking, sore tongue, or unexplained fatigue on a long-term associated medication.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Supplement considerations
Riboflavin is water-soluble and excess is excreted (it turns urine bright yellow — harmless).
Do not start or stop medications or supplements without professional guidance — supplements can interact with prescription medications.
HelloPharmacist pharmacist-reviewed education — separate from the licensed record above.
Learn more about this nutrient: Riboflavin — uses, safety & interactions
References (3)
- Ohkawa H, Ohishi N, Yagi K. Hydroxylation of the 7- and 8-methyl groups of riboflavin by the microsomal electron transfer system of rat liver. J Biol Chem 1983;258:5629-33.. DOI
- Hamajima S, Ono S, Hirano H, Obara K. Induction of the FAD synthetase system in rat liver by phenobarbital administration. Int J Vit Nutr Res 1979;49:59-63..
- Shargel L, Mazel P. Effect of riboflavin deficiency on phenobarbital and 3-methylcholanthrene induction of microsomal drug-metabolizing enzymes of the rat. Biochem Pharmacol. 1973;22(19):2365-73. PubMed
This tool is educational and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. An association is not a diagnosis and does not mean a deficiency will occur. Always talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication or supplement.
Disclaimer: This checker finds which nutrients might be depleted by prescription or over-the-counter medications. Each nutrient depletion issue is rated based on clinical significance. Use your own professional judgment prior to making clinical decisions.© 2026 Therapeutic Research Center Licensed records refresh weekly · last updated July 3, 2026.
More about Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital
What drug-induced nutrient depletion means
Some medications can, over time, lower the levels of certain vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients — through reduced absorption, increased loss, or changes in how the body uses them.
Association is not deficiency
An entry here means a depletion has been reported or studied — not that it happens to everyone, or that you are deficient. Dose, duration, diet, and your own health all matter.
Evidence varies by pair
Some drug–nutrient links (like metformin and vitamin B12) are well studied; others rest on limited or preliminary research. Each entry shows the evidence rating from our licensed clinical database.
When to ask about labs
If you take an associated medication long-term, ask your healthcare provider whether monitoring is appropriate for you. Not everyone needs testing — your provider can weigh your dose, duration, and symptoms.
Don't self-supplement blindly
Supplements are not risk-free: some can interact with medications, and some (like potassium or magnesium) can be risky with kidney disease. Talk to your pharmacist before adding anything.
Never stop a medication over this
These medications are prescribed for good reasons, and the benefit usually far outweighs a manageable nutrient consideration. Any change belongs in a conversation with your prescriber.
Food first, usually
For many nutrients, a varied diet covers the gap. Each entry lists common food sources; a supplement is a decision to make with your pharmacist or provider, not a default.
Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital & nutrients: FAQs
Does Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital deplete ACETYL-L-CARNITINE?
Should I take a supplement because I take Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital?
Should I stop taking Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital?
Where does this information come from?
Questions about Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital and your nutrition?
Ask a licensed pharmacist — free, no appointment needed.
Sources & How We Checked
Nutrient depletion records for Butalbital, Phenobarbital, Secobarbital are evidence-graded and sourced from the Natural Medicines database, and are displayed as published with their citations.
- Natural Medicines (Therapeutic Research Center) — Evidence-graded clinical reference for drug-induced nutrient depletions, supplements, and interactions — the basis for this page.
- MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine — NIH consumer drug information, used for medication overviews across the site.
Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.