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Drug interactions

Chloramphenicol + Saquinavir

Severity: Moderate

Chloramphenicol and Saquinavir: moderate 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

Saquinavir is a CYP3A4 substrate, and higher concentrations can prolong QT and PR intervals. Chloramphenicol may also add bone marrow toxicity.

What this interaction means in plain words

Chloramphenicol and Saquinavir can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Chloramphenicol inhibits CYP3A4, reducing saquinavir metabolism.

What to do

Monitor ECG and blood counts during combined use. Consider an alternative antibiotic where possible.

What to ask your pharmacist

  • Should I take them at different times of day?
  • Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
  • Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?

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 Saquinavir?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Chloramphenicol and Saquinavir can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Saquinavir is a CYP3A4 substrate, and higher concentrations can prolong QT and PR intervals. Chloramphenicol may also add bone marrow toxicity.

How serious is the interaction between Chloramphenicol and Saquinavir?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor ECG and blood counts during combined use. Consider an alternative antibiotic where possible.

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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