Drug interactions
Carbamazepine + Nilotinib
Severity: Major
Carbamazepine and Nilotinib: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Carbamazepine, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, can substantially lower nilotinib concentrations and risk loss of antileukemic effect. Nilotinib also prolongs the QT interval, so dose escalation to compensate is undesirable.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carbamazepine and Nilotinib 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.
Carbamazepine belongs to Central Nervous System; Nilotinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Induction of CYP3A4-mediated nilotinib metabolism by carbamazepine.
What to do
Choose a non-enzyme-inducing anticonvulsant instead of carbamazepine. If it cannot be avoided, monitor molecular response and QT interval closely.
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 Carbamazepine
- Artemether / lumefantrine + Carbamazepine Contraindicated
- Cabotegravir + Carbamazepine Contraindicated
- Carbamazepine + Delamanid Contraindicated
- Carbamazepine + Dienogest / estradiol valerate Contraindicated
- Carbamazepine + Doravirine Contraindicated
- Carbamazepine + Elbasvir / grazoprevir Contraindicated
Other interactions of Nilotinib
- Amiodarone + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Arsenic trioxide + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Disopyramide + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Nilotinib Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Nilotinib Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carbamazepine with Nilotinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carbamazepine and Nilotinib 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. Carbamazepine, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, can substantially lower nilotinib concentrations and risk loss of antileukemic effect. Nilotinib also prolongs the QT interval, so dose escalation to compensate is undesirable.
How serious is the interaction between Carbamazepine and Nilotinib?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Choose a non-enzyme-inducing anticonvulsant instead of carbamazepine. If it cannot be avoided, monitor molecular response and QT interval closely.
What other medicines interact with Carbamazepine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Carbamazepine with, for example, Artemether / lumefantrine, Cabotegravir, Delamanid. The full list is on the Carbamazepine page.
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