Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Metronidazole
Severity: Minor
Artemether / lumefantrine and Metronidazole: minor 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
Metronidazole is only a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, so any increase in artemether or lumefantrine exposure is expected to be small. Both antimalarials can prolong the QT interval, and metronidazole has also been linked to QT prolongation in rare reports.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Metronidazole have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Weak inhibition of CYP3A4 by metronidazole may slightly reduce clearance of artemether and lumefantrine.
What to do
No routine adjustment is needed. Consider ECG monitoring if other QT-prolonging drugs or electrolyte disturbances are present.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Metronidazole
- Ethanol + Metronidazole Contraindicated
- Metronidazole + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Metronidazole Major
- Disulfiram + Metronidazole Major
- Ergotamine + Metronidazole Major
- Lomitapide + Metronidazole Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Metronidazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Artemether / lumefantrine and Metronidazole have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Metronidazole is only a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, so any increase in artemether or lumefantrine exposure is expected to be small. Both antimalarials can prolong the QT interval, and metronidazole has also been linked to QT prolongation in rare reports.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Metronidazole?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: No routine adjustment is needed. Consider ECG monitoring if other QT-prolonging drugs or electrolyte disturbances are present.
What other medicines interact with Metronidazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Metronidazole with, for example, Ethanol, Pimozide, Amiodarone. The full list is on the Metronidazole page.
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