Drug interactions
Chloramphenicol + Docetaxel
Severity: Major
Chloramphenicol and Docetaxel: 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
Docetaxel is metabolized by CYP3A4, so inhibition may raise its levels and increase neutropenia, mucositis and other toxicities. Chloramphenicol also suppresses bone marrow, which may compound hematologic toxicity.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloramphenicol and Docetaxel 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.
Chloramphenicol belongs to Anti Bacterial; Docetaxel belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Chloramphenicol inhibits CYP3A4 metabolism of docetaxel, with additive myelosuppression.
What to do
Avoid the combination if an alternative antibiotic is available. If used, monitor neutrophil counts closely and consider docetaxel dose reduction.
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 Chloramphenicol
Other interactions of Docetaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloramphenicol with Docetaxel?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloramphenicol and Docetaxel 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. Docetaxel is metabolized by CYP3A4, so inhibition may raise its levels and increase neutropenia, mucositis and other toxicities. Chloramphenicol also suppresses bone marrow, which may compound hematologic toxicity.
How serious is the interaction between Chloramphenicol and Docetaxel?
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 an alternative antibiotic is available. If used, monitor neutrophil counts closely and consider docetaxel dose reduction.
What other medicines interact with Chloramphenicol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloramphenicol with, for example, Adagrasib, Avapritinib, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Chloramphenicol page.
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