Drug interactions
Bromocriptine + Ketoconazole
Severity: Major
Bromocriptine and Ketoconazole: 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
Ketoconazole raises bromocriptine concentrations, increasing dopaminergic effects such as nausea, hypotension, dizziness and confusion.
What this interaction means in plain words
Bromocriptine and Ketoconazole 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.
Bromocriptine belongs to Central Nervous System; Ketoconazole belongs to Anti Fungals.
Why it happens
Ketoconazole inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of bromocriptine.
What to do
Avoid the combination when possible. If used together, start with a reduced bromocriptine dose and monitor blood pressure and adverse effects.
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 Ketoconazole
- Alfuzosin + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
Other interactions of Bromocriptine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Bromocriptine with Ketoconazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Bromocriptine and Ketoconazole 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. Ketoconazole raises bromocriptine concentrations, increasing dopaminergic effects such as nausea, hypotension, dizziness and confusion.
How serious is the interaction between Bromocriptine and Ketoconazole?
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 the combination when possible. If used together, start with a reduced bromocriptine dose and monitor blood pressure and adverse effects.
What other medicines interact with Ketoconazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ketoconazole with, for example, Alfuzosin, Alprazolam, Avanafil. The full list is on the Ketoconazole page.
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