Drug interactions
Carbamazepine + Vemurafenib
Severity: Major
Carbamazepine and Vemurafenib: 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
Carbamazepine may reduce vemurafenib plasma concentrations and weaken its antitumor effect. Loss of tumor control is the main concern.
What this interaction means in plain words
Carbamazepine and Vemurafenib 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; Vemurafenib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 induction by carbamazepine increases vemurafenib metabolism.
What to do
Avoid strong CYP3A4 inducers where possible and use a non-inducing anticonvulsant. If unavoidable, monitor for reduced response.
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 Vemurafenib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Carbamazepine with Vemurafenib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Carbamazepine and Vemurafenib 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 may reduce vemurafenib plasma concentrations and weaken its antitumor effect. Loss of tumor control is the main concern.
How serious is the interaction between Carbamazepine and Vemurafenib?
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 strong CYP3A4 inducers where possible and use a non-inducing anticonvulsant. If unavoidable, monitor for reduced response.
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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