Drug interactions
Artemether + Methadone
Severity: Major
Artemether and Methadone: 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
Artemether (with lumefantrine) can prolong the QT interval, as can methadone. Combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether and Methadone 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.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation; artemether is also a CYP3A4 substrate with possible modest metabolic effects.
What to do
Avoid if alternative antimalarials are available; otherwise obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes before and during treatment. Monitor for palpitations or syncope.
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 Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether with Methadone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether and Methadone 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. Artemether (with lumefantrine) can prolong the QT interval, as can methadone. Combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether and Methadone?
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 alternative antimalarials are available; otherwise obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes before and during treatment. Monitor for palpitations or syncope.
What other medicines interact with Methadone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Methadone with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Droperidol. The full list is on the Methadone page.
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