Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Quetiapine
Severity: Major
Artemether / lumefantrine and Quetiapine: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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 agents can prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of arrhythmia. Artemether is also a weak CYP3A4 inducer, which may reduce quetiapine exposure and its effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Quetiapine 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, together with modest CYP3A4 induction that may lower quetiapine concentrations.
What to do
Avoid combined use if an alternative is available. If it is necessary, obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolyte abnormalities, and monitor for arrhythmia and for reduced antipsychotic effect.
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
- Biquelle XL 150mg prolonged-release tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (class statement: medicinal products known to cause electrolyte imbalance or to increase QT interval; "Caution should be exercised when quetiapine is used concomitantly with medicinal products known to cause electrolyte imbalance o… — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Quetiapine
- Adagrasib + Quetiapine Major
- Amiodarone + Quetiapine Major
- Amisulpride + Quetiapine Major
- Amoxapine + Quetiapine Major
- Anagrelide + Quetiapine Major
- Apalutamide + Quetiapine Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Quetiapine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine and Quetiapine 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 agents can prolong the QT interval, so combined use increases the risk of arrhythmia. Artemether is also a weak CYP3A4 inducer, which may reduce quetiapine exposure and its effect.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Quetiapine?
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 combined use if an alternative is available. If it is necessary, obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolyte abnormalities, and monitor for arrhythmia and for reduced antipsychotic effect.
What other medicines interact with Quetiapine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Quetiapine with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Quetiapine page.
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