Drug interactions
Chloroquine + Vemurafenib
Severity: Major
Chloroquine and Vemurafenib: 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
Vemurafenib causes concentration-dependent QT prolongation, and chloroquine adds to this effect. The combination may raise the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chloroquine and Vemurafenib 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; Vemurafenib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive pharmacodynamic QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid the combination if an alternative is available. If both must be used, monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly and stop or reduce vemurafenib if QTc becomes markedly prolonged.
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
Other interactions of Vemurafenib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chloroquine with Vemurafenib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chloroquine and Vemurafenib 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. Vemurafenib causes concentration-dependent QT prolongation, and chloroquine adds to this effect. The combination may raise the risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.
How serious is the interaction between Chloroquine and Vemurafenib?
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 if an alternative is available. If both must be used, monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly and stop or reduce vemurafenib if QTc becomes markedly prolonged.
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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