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Drug interactions

Ceritinib + Ketoconazole

Severity: Major

Ceritinib 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 ceritinib exposure, increasing risks of GI toxicity, hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation and hyperglycemia.

What this interaction means in plain words

Ceritinib 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.

Ceritinib belongs to Oncology; Ketoconazole belongs to Anti Fungals.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Strong CYP3A4 inhibition decreases ceritinib clearance.

What to do

Avoid if possible; if unavoidable reduce ceritinib dose by about one third and monitor ECG and liver tests. Resume the prior dose after stopping the inhibitor.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Ceritinib with Ketoconazole?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ceritinib 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 ceritinib exposure, increasing risks of GI toxicity, hepatotoxicity, QT prolongation and hyperglycemia.

How serious is the interaction between Ceritinib 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 if possible; if unavoidable reduce ceritinib dose by about one third and monitor ECG and liver tests. Resume the prior dose after stopping the inhibitor.

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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