Drug interactions
Chloroquine + Perhexiline
Severity: Major
Chloroquine and Perhexiline: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Chloroquine inhibits CYP2D6 and perhexiline is cleared mainly by CYP2D6 and has a narrow therapeutic index. Higher perhexiline levels may lead to hepatotoxicity, peripheral neuropathy, hypoglycemia, and QT-related effects.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloroquine and Perhexiline 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.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP2D6 metabolism of perhexiline, raising its plasma concentration.
What to do
Monitor perhexiline plasma concentrations and reduce the dose as guided by levels. Watch for neuropathy, liver enzyme elevation and hypoglycemia.
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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References
Other interactions of Chloroquine
- Chloroquine + Cisapride Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
- Chloroquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloroquine with Perhexiline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloroquine and Perhexiline 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 inhibits CYP2D6 and perhexiline is cleared mainly by CYP2D6 and has a narrow therapeutic index. Higher perhexiline levels may lead to hepatotoxicity, peripheral neuropathy, hypoglycemia, and QT-related effects.
How serious is the interaction between Chloroquine and Perhexiline?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor perhexiline plasma concentrations and reduce the dose as guided by levels. Watch for neuropathy, liver enzyme elevation and hypoglycemia.
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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