Drug interactions
Ceritinib + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Ceritinib and Imatinib: 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase ceritinib levels. Higher ceritinib exposure increases gastrointestinal toxicity, hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation and hyperglycemia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ceritinib and Imatinib 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.
Ceritinib belongs to Oncology; Imatinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of ceritinib.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If it cannot be avoided, reduce the ceritinib dose by about one third and monitor ECG, electrolytes and liver enzymes; resume the prior dose after imatinib is discontinued.
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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Other interactions of Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Other interactions of Ceritinib
- Ceritinib + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Eletriptan Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Ceritinib + Tolvaptan Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ceritinib with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ceritinib and Imatinib 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. Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase ceritinib levels. Higher ceritinib exposure increases gastrointestinal toxicity, hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation and hyperglycemia.
How serious is the interaction between Ceritinib and Imatinib?
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. If it cannot be avoided, reduce the ceritinib dose by about one third and monitor ECG, electrolytes and liver enzymes; resume the prior dose after imatinib is discontinued.
What other medicines interact with Imatinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.
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