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Drug interactions

Arsenic trioxide + Itraconazole

Severity: Major

Arsenic trioxide and Itraconazole: 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

Both agents can prolong the QT interval, and arsenic trioxide carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Combined use substantially increases arrhythmia risk.

What this interaction means in plain words

Arsenic trioxide and Itraconazole 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; Itraconazole belongs to Anti Fungals.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT interval prolongation.

What to do

Avoid if possible; otherwise obtain ECG and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range with frequent ECG monitoring.

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 Itraconazole?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Arsenic trioxide and Itraconazole 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. Both agents can prolong the QT interval, and arsenic trioxide carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Combined use substantially increases arrhythmia risk.

How serious is the interaction between Arsenic trioxide and Itraconazole?

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 if possible; otherwise obtain ECG and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range with frequent ECG monitoring.

What other medicines interact with Itraconazole?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Itraconazole with, for example, Alfuzosin, Alprazolam, Avanafil. The full list is on the Itraconazole page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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