Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Diltiazem
Severity: Moderate
Artemether / lumefantrine and Diltiazem: moderate 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
Diltiazem may increase artemether and lumefantrine concentrations, and lumefantrine prolongs the QT interval. Diltiazem concentrations may also fall slightly, though this is of less concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Diltiazem can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Diltiazem inhibits CYP3A4 metabolism of artemether and lumefantrine, while the antimalarial may induce CYP3A4.
What to do
Monitor ECG for QT prolongation and correct electrolytes, and watch diltiazem response for loss of effect or bradycardia.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Diltiazem
- Diltiazem + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Ivabradine Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Diltiazem + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Diltiazem Major
- Alfentanil + Diltiazem Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Diltiazem?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Artemether / lumefantrine and Diltiazem can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Diltiazem may increase artemether and lumefantrine concentrations, and lumefantrine prolongs the QT interval. Diltiazem concentrations may also fall slightly, though this is of less concern.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Diltiazem?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor ECG for QT prolongation and correct electrolytes, and watch diltiazem response for loss of effect or bradycardia.
What other medicines interact with Diltiazem?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Diltiazem with, for example, Flibanserin, Ivabradine, Lomitapide. The full list is on the Diltiazem page.
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