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Drug interactions

Chloramphenicol + Nilotinib

Severity: Major

Chloramphenicol and Nilotinib: 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

Nilotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate that prolongs the QT interval in a concentration-dependent way, so higher levels raise the risk of torsades de pointes. Chloramphenicol may also add myelosuppression.

What this interaction means in plain words

Chloramphenicol and Nilotinib 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; Nilotinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Chloramphenicol inhibits CYP3A4, increasing nilotinib exposure and QT risk.

What to do

Avoid the combination and choose another antibiotic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG, electrolytes and blood counts, and consider reducing the nilotinib dose.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Chloramphenicol with Nilotinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloramphenicol and Nilotinib 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. Nilotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate that prolongs the QT interval in a concentration-dependent way, so higher levels raise the risk of torsades de pointes. Chloramphenicol may also add myelosuppression.

How serious is the interaction between Chloramphenicol and Nilotinib?

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 and choose another antibiotic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG, electrolytes and blood counts, and consider reducing the nilotinib dose.

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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