Drug interactions
Asenapine transdermal + Chloroquine
Severity: Major
Asenapine transdermal and Chloroquine: 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 chloroquine and asenapine can prolong the QTc interval. Combined use increases the potential for torsades de pointes, especially with electrolyte abnormalities or cardiac disease.
What this interaction means in plain words
Asenapine transdermal and Chloroquine 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 through cardiac potassium channel blockade.
What to do
Avoid if possible; if combined, obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs and correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
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
Other interactions of Chloroquine
- Chloroquine + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Asenapine transdermal with Chloroquine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Asenapine transdermal and Chloroquine 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 chloroquine and asenapine can prolong the QTc interval. Combined use increases the potential for torsades de pointes, especially with electrolyte abnormalities or cardiac disease.
How serious is the interaction between Asenapine transdermal and Chloroquine?
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; if combined, obtain baseline and follow-up ECGs and correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia.
What other medicines interact with Chloroquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloroquine with, for example, Cisapride, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Chloroquine page.
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