Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Foscarnet
Severity: Major
Artemether / lumefantrine and Foscarnet: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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 drugs can prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet may additionally cause electrolyte disturbances. Combined use increases the risk of serious ventricular arrhythmia such as torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Foscarnet 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, worsened by foscarnet-related hypocalcemia, hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If unavoidable, obtain an ECG, correct electrolytes before and during therapy and monitor the QTc.
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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References
Other interactions of Foscarnet
- Cidofovir + Foscarnet Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Foscarnet + Vandetanib Contraindicated
- Adagrasib + Foscarnet Major
- Adefovir + Foscarnet Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Foscarnet?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine and Foscarnet 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 drugs can prolong the QT interval, and foscarnet may additionally cause electrolyte disturbances. Combined use increases the risk of serious ventricular arrhythmia such as torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Foscarnet?
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 unavoidable, obtain an ECG, correct electrolytes before and during therapy and monitor the QTc.
What other medicines interact with Foscarnet?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Foscarnet with, for example, Cidofovir, Pimozide, Thioridazine. The full list is on the Foscarnet page.
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