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Drug interactions

Artemether / lumefantrine + Risperidone

Severity: Major

Artemether / lumefantrine and Risperidone: 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

Artemether/lumefantrine can prolong the QT interval, and risperidone has modest QT-prolonging potential. Lumefantrine is also a CYP2D6 inhibitor and may raise exposure to risperidone, adding to the risk. The label advises caution with other QT-prolonging drugs.

What this interaction means in plain words

Artemether / lumefantrine and Risperidone 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation, plus CYP2D6 inhibition by lumefantrine that may increase risperidone levels.

What to do

Avoid if possible, or obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes before the antimalarial course. Monitor for QT symptoms and for risperidone adverse effects.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Risperidone?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Artemether / lumefantrine and Risperidone 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. Artemether/lumefantrine can prolong the QT interval, and risperidone has modest QT-prolonging potential. Lumefantrine is also a CYP2D6 inhibitor and may raise exposure to risperidone, adding to the risk. The label advises caution with other QT-prolonging drugs.

How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Risperidone?

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, or obtain an ECG and correct electrolytes before the antimalarial course. Monitor for QT symptoms and for risperidone adverse effects.

What other medicines interact with Risperidone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Risperidone with, for example, Ibutilide, Vandetanib, Adagrasib. The full list is on the Risperidone page.

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