Drug interactions
Ceritinib + Tacrolimus
Severity: Major
Ceritinib and Tacrolimus: 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
Ceritinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may raise tacrolimus concentrations, which has a narrow therapeutic window and can cause nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Both drugs also prolong the QT interval, adding to arrhythmia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ceritinib and Tacrolimus 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; Tacrolimus belongs to Miscellaneous.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition by ceritinib reduces tacrolimus clearance, together with additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible. If it is necessary, reduce the tacrolimus dose, monitor trough levels and renal function closely, and follow the ECG and electrolytes.
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 Tacrolimus
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cidofovir + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cyclosporin + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
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 Tacrolimus?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ceritinib and Tacrolimus 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 inhibits CYP3A4 and may raise tacrolimus concentrations, which has a narrow therapeutic window and can cause nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity. Both drugs also prolong the QT interval, adding to arrhythmia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Ceritinib and Tacrolimus?
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 the combination if possible. If it is necessary, reduce the tacrolimus dose, monitor trough levels and renal function closely, and follow the ECG and electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Tacrolimus?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tacrolimus with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Cidofovir. The full list is on the Tacrolimus page.
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