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Drug interactions

Cidofovir + Methotrexate

Severity: Major

Cidofovir and Methotrexate: 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

Cidofovir is nephrotoxic and can impair renal function, which may delay methotrexate elimination and increase its toxicity. Both drugs can also contribute to myelosuppression and infection risk.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cidofovir and Methotrexate 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.

Cidofovir belongs to Anti Virals; Methotrexate belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Additive nephrotoxicity reduces renal methotrexate clearance, together with overlapping myelosuppressive effects.

What to do

Avoid the combination if possible, particularly with high-dose methotrexate. If both are required, monitor renal function, blood counts and methotrexate levels closely and ensure hydration with probenecid per cidofovir protocol.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Cidofovir with Methotrexate?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cidofovir and Methotrexate 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. Cidofovir is nephrotoxic and can impair renal function, which may delay methotrexate elimination and increase its toxicity. Both drugs can also contribute to myelosuppression and infection risk.

How serious is the interaction between Cidofovir and Methotrexate?

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 possible, particularly with high-dose methotrexate. If both are required, monitor renal function, blood counts and methotrexate levels closely and ensure hydration with probenecid per cidofovir protocol.

What other medicines interact with Methotrexate?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Methotrexate with, for example, Acitretin, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal. The full list is on the Methotrexate page.

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