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Drug interactions

Brentuximab + Idelalisib

Severity: Major

Brentuximab and Idelalisib: 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

Idelalisib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor, and MMAE from brentuximab vedotin is a CYP3A4 substrate. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors raise MMAE exposure, which may increase neutropenia and other toxicities. Idelalisib itself also carries infection and neutropenia risk.

What this interaction means in plain words

Brentuximab and Idelalisib 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.

Brentuximab belongs to Oncology; Idelalisib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Strong CYP3A inhibition by idelalisib reduces MMAE metabolism and increases exposure.

What to do

Monitor closely for neutropenia, infection and neuropathy, and consider an alternative to idelalisib. Hold or reduce brentuximab if toxicity occurs.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Brentuximab with Idelalisib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Brentuximab and Idelalisib 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. Idelalisib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor, and MMAE from brentuximab vedotin is a CYP3A4 substrate. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors raise MMAE exposure, which may increase neutropenia and other toxicities. Idelalisib itself also carries infection and neutropenia risk.

How serious is the interaction between Brentuximab and Idelalisib?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor closely for neutropenia, infection and neuropathy, and consider an alternative to idelalisib. Hold or reduce brentuximab if toxicity occurs.

What other medicines interact with Brentuximab?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Brentuximab with, for example, Bleomycin, Dengue vaccine, Etrasimod. The full list is on the Brentuximab page.

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