skip to main content

Carbamazepine and DOAC — GPhC CRA MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardDrug InteractionsCarbamazepine and DOACGPhC CRA

A 55-year-old man takes carbamazepine for epilepsy and is newly prescribed apixaban for atrial fibrillation. The prescriber asks pharmacy to check interactions. What is the most important interaction to flag?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Carbamazepine may reduce apixaban exposure and anticoagulant effect

Carbamazepine is a strong enzyme inducer and can reduce exposure to some direct oral anticoagulants. Reduced anticoagulant effect may increase thromboembolic risk. The combination often requires specialist or prescriber review and alternative anticoagulation. INR is not used to monitor apixaban efficacy.

Reference: BNF