Drug interactions
Atovaquone + Rifampin
Severity: Major
Atovaquone and Rifampin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Rifampin markedly reduces atovaquone plasma concentrations, with a corresponding rise in rifampin levels reported in some studies. This can lead to treatment failure in infections such as Pneumocystis pneumonia or malaria.
What this interaction means in plain words
Atovaquone and Rifampin 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
Rifampin induces hepatic metabolic enzymes and increases atovaquone clearance.
What to do
Avoid concomitant use; if unavoidable, monitor clinical response and consider atovaquone levels or an alternative agent.
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 Atovaquone
- Atovaquone + Efavirenz Moderate
- Atovaquone + Metoclopramide Moderate
- Atovaquone + Rifabutin Moderate
- Atovaquone + Warfarin Moderate
- Atovaquone + Indinavir Minor
- Atovaquone + Metoclopramide intranasal Minor
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Atovaquone with Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Atovaquone and Rifampin 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. Rifampin markedly reduces atovaquone plasma concentrations, with a corresponding rise in rifampin levels reported in some studies. This can lead to treatment failure in infections such as Pneumocystis pneumonia or malaria.
How serious is the interaction between Atovaquone and Rifampin?
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 concomitant use; if unavoidable, monitor clinical response and consider atovaquone levels or an alternative agent.
What other medicines interact with Atovaquone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Atovaquone with, for example, Efavirenz, Metoclopramide, Rifabutin. The full list is on the Atovaquone page.
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