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Drug interactions

Amiodarone + Lapatinib

Severity: Major

Amiodarone and Lapatinib: major interaction.

Last updated

For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.

Summary

Lapatinib can prolong the QT interval and amiodarone strongly does so as well, increasing the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone may also modestly raise lapatinib exposure through CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein effects.

What this interaction means in plain words

Amiodarone and Lapatinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.

Amiodarone belongs to Cardiovascular; Lapatinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation, plus possible inhibition of lapatinib metabolism and efflux by amiodarone.

What to do

Avoid combining where possible. If necessary, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for lapatinib toxicity such as diarrhea or hepatotoxicity.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
  • Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
  • What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Amiodarone with Lapatinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Amiodarone and Lapatinib can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Lapatinib can prolong the QT interval and amiodarone strongly does so as well, increasing the risk of torsades de pointes. Amiodarone may also modestly raise lapatinib exposure through CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein effects.

How serious is the interaction between Amiodarone and Lapatinib?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid combining where possible. If necessary, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for lapatinib toxicity such as diarrhea or hepatotoxicity.

What other medicines interact with Amiodarone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Amiodarone with, for example, Amisulpride, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Amiodarone page.

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