Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Posaconazole
Severity: Major
Artemether / lumefantrine and Posaconazole: 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
Both posaconazole and artemether/lumefantrine prolong the QT interval, and posaconazole inhibits CYP3A4, raising levels of both antimalarial components. This increases the risk of torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Posaconazole 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, with CYP3A4 inhibition by posaconazole increasing artemether and lumefantrine exposure.
What to do
Avoid the combination if an alternative is available. If used, monitor ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
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 Posaconazole
- Artemether + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Cobimetinib + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Posaconazole Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Posaconazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine and Posaconazole 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 posaconazole and artemether/lumefantrine prolong the QT interval, and posaconazole inhibits CYP3A4, raising levels of both antimalarial components. This increases the risk of torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Posaconazole?
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 the combination if an alternative is available. If used, monitor ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.
What other medicines interact with Posaconazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Posaconazole with, for example, Artemether, Avanafil, Cobimetinib. The full list is on the Posaconazole page.
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