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Drug interactions

Cabozantinib + Efavirenz

Severity: Major

Cabozantinib and Efavirenz: 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

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and can lower cabozantinib exposure, reducing antitumor efficacy.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cabozantinib and Efavirenz 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.

Cabozantinib belongs to Oncology; Efavirenz belongs to Anti Virals.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4, increasing cabozantinib clearance.

What to do

Avoid if possible by using a non-inducing antiretroviral. If unavoidable, increase the cabozantinib dose per labeling and return to the usual dose a few days after stopping efavirenz.

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 Cabozantinib with Efavirenz?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cabozantinib and Efavirenz 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. Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and can lower cabozantinib exposure, reducing antitumor efficacy.

How serious is the interaction between Cabozantinib and Efavirenz?

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 by using a non-inducing antiretroviral. If unavoidable, increase the cabozantinib dose per labeling and return to the usual dose a few days after stopping efavirenz.

What other medicines interact with Efavirenz?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Efavirenz with, for example, Cobimetinib, Dienogest / estradiol valerate, Dihydroergotamine intranasal. The full list is on the Efavirenz page.

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