Drug interactions
Chloramphenicol + Suvorexant
Severity: Major
Chloramphenicol and Suvorexant: 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
Chloramphenicol may inhibit CYP3A4 and increase suvorexant exposure. This can cause excess sedation, next-day somnolence and impaired driving ability.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloramphenicol and Suvorexant 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; Suvorexant belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition by chloramphenicol decreases suvorexant clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If chloramphenicol is required, use the lowest suvorexant dose and monitor for daytime sedation.
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 Suvorexant
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloramphenicol with Suvorexant?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloramphenicol and Suvorexant 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 may inhibit CYP3A4 and increase suvorexant exposure. This can cause excess sedation, next-day somnolence and impaired driving ability.
How serious is the interaction between Chloramphenicol and Suvorexant?
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 where possible. If chloramphenicol is required, use the lowest suvorexant dose and monitor for daytime sedation.
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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