Drug interactions
Artemether / lumefantrine + Theophylline
Severity: Minor
Artemether / lumefantrine and Theophylline: 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
Artemether may induce CYP enzymes involved in theophylline metabolism, which could lower theophylline concentrations. Lumefantrine is also a weak CYP2D6 inhibitor. Evidence for a clinically important effect is limited.
What this interaction means in plain words
Artemether / lumefantrine and Theophylline 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
Possible modest induction of hepatic metabolism of theophylline.
What to do
Monitor for reduced bronchodilator control during antimalarial treatment. Check theophylline levels if symptoms change.
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 Theophylline
- Riociguat + Theophylline Contraindicated
- Adenosine + Theophylline Major
- Apalutamide + Theophylline Major
- Bupropion + Theophylline Major
- Carvedilol + Theophylline Major
- Cimetidine + Theophylline Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Artemether / lumefantrine with Theophylline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Artemether / lumefantrine and Theophylline have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Artemether may induce CYP enzymes involved in theophylline metabolism, which could lower theophylline concentrations. Lumefantrine is also a weak CYP2D6 inhibitor. Evidence for a clinically important effect is limited.
How serious is the interaction between Artemether / lumefantrine and Theophylline?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor for reduced bronchodilator control during antimalarial treatment. Check theophylline levels if symptoms change.
What other medicines interact with Theophylline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Theophylline with, for example, Riociguat, Adenosine, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Theophylline page.
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