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Drug interactions

Arsenic trioxide + Ipratropium-salbutamol

Severity: Major

Arsenic trioxide and Ipratropium-salbutamol: 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

Arsenic trioxide markedly prolongs the QT interval and can cause torsades de pointes. Salbutamol can add to this risk through tachycardia and lowering of potassium.

What this interaction means in plain words

Arsenic trioxide and Ipratropium-salbutamol 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.

Arsenic trioxide belongs to Oncology; Ipratropium-salbutamol belongs to Respiratory.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation, with beta-2-agonist-induced hypokalemia worsening the arrhythmic risk.

What to do

Avoid regular salbutamol use where possible and correct potassium and magnesium before and during arsenic trioxide treatment. Monitor ECG closely.

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 Arsenic trioxide with Ipratropium-salbutamol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Arsenic trioxide and Ipratropium-salbutamol 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. Arsenic trioxide markedly prolongs the QT interval and can cause torsades de pointes. Salbutamol can add to this risk through tachycardia and lowering of potassium.

How serious is the interaction between Arsenic trioxide and Ipratropium-salbutamol?

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 regular salbutamol use where possible and correct potassium and magnesium before and during arsenic trioxide treatment. Monitor ECG closely.

What other medicines interact with Ipratropium-salbutamol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Ipratropium-salbutamol with, for example, Amisulpride, Carvedilol, Droperidol. The full list is on the Ipratropium-salbutamol page.

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