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Drug interactions

Chloroquine + Lonafarnib

Severity: Major

Chloroquine and Lonafarnib: 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

Lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and may raise chloroquine concentrations, increasing the risk of toxicity, including QT prolongation. The magnitude of the effect on chloroquine is not well characterized.

What this interaction means in plain words

Chloroquine and Lonafarnib 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.

Chloroquine belongs to Anti Parasitic; Lonafarnib belongs to Miscellaneous.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated chloroquine metabolism by lonafarnib.

What to do

Avoid coadministration where possible. If necessary, monitor ECG and for chloroquine adverse effects, and consider reducing the chloroquine 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 Chloroquine with Lonafarnib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloroquine and Lonafarnib 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. Lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor and may raise chloroquine concentrations, increasing the risk of toxicity, including QT prolongation. The magnitude of the effect on chloroquine is not well characterized.

How serious is the interaction between Chloroquine and Lonafarnib?

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 coadministration where possible. If necessary, monitor ECG and for chloroquine adverse effects, and consider reducing the chloroquine dose.

What other medicines interact with Chloroquine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Chloroquine with, for example, Cisapride, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Chloroquine page.

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