Drug interactions
Atazanavir + Nifedipine
Severity: Major
Atazanavir and Nifedipine: 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
Atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and can substantially increase nifedipine concentrations, causing hypotension and edema. Atazanavir may also have PR interval prolongation, which adds to concern with calcium channel blockers.
What this interaction means in plain words
Atazanavir and Nifedipine 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.
Atazanavir belongs to Anti Virals; Nifedipine belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Atazanavir inhibits CYP3A4, reducing nifedipine metabolism.
What to do
Start nifedipine at a low dose and titrate to blood pressure, and consider a dose reduction of about half. Monitor ECG if other AV-nodal agents are used.
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 Nifedipine
Other interactions of Atazanavir
- Alfuzosin + Atazanavir Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Avanafil Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Eletriptan Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Eplerenone Contraindicated
- Atazanavir + Ergotamine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Atazanavir with Nifedipine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Atazanavir and Nifedipine 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. Atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and can substantially increase nifedipine concentrations, causing hypotension and edema. Atazanavir may also have PR interval prolongation, which adds to concern with calcium channel blockers.
How serious is the interaction between Atazanavir and Nifedipine?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Start nifedipine at a low dose and titrate to blood pressure, and consider a dose reduction of about half. Monitor ECG if other AV-nodal agents are used.
What other medicines interact with Nifedipine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Nifedipine with, for example, Amifostine, Amlodipine-benazepril, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Nifedipine page.
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