Drug interactions
Arsenic trioxide + Sunitinib
Severity: Major
Arsenic trioxide and Sunitinib: 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 carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades, and sunitinib also prolongs QT. Combined use heightens arrhythmia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Arsenic trioxide and Sunitinib 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; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive QT interval prolongation.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If necessary, monitor ECG frequently and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range.
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?
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Other interactions of Sunitinib
Other interactions of Arsenic trioxide
- Amiodarone + Arsenic trioxide Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Arsenic trioxide Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Clomipramine Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Fluphenazine Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Gemifloxacin Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Arsenic trioxide with Sunitinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Arsenic trioxide and Sunitinib 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 carries a boxed warning for QT prolongation and torsades, and sunitinib also prolongs QT. Combined use heightens arrhythmia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Arsenic trioxide and Sunitinib?
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. If necessary, monitor ECG frequently and keep potassium and magnesium within normal range.
What other medicines interact with Sunitinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sunitinib with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Sunitinib page.
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