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Updated: Aug 3, 2026

High-throughput Identification of Synergistic Drug Combinations by the Overlap2 Method
Published on: May 21, 2018
A significant interaction between metronidazole and warfarin
Abstract:
Interaction between metronidazole (Flagyl) and warfarin had been suggested based on the disulfiram-like effect of metronidazole and the known interaction of warfarin and disulfiram. This case report confirms that this interaction is clinically significant in man.
Insights
Metronidazole (Flagyl) can significantly increase warfarin
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Toxicology
Background:
- Metronidazole, an antibiotic, exhibits a disulfiram-like effect.
- Warfarin, an anticoagulant, is known to interact with disulfiram.
Observation:
- A patient taking both metronidazole and warfarin experienced a clinically significant interaction.
Findings:
- This case report confirms a significant drug interaction between metronidazole and warfarin in humans.
- The interaction likely potentiates warfarin's anticoagulant effect.
Implications:
- Clinicians should monitor patients closely when prescribing metronidazole to those on warfarin.
- Dosage adjustments of warfarin may be necessary during metronidazole therapy.
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