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Drug interactions

Cobicistat + Pimavanserin

Severity: Major

Cobicistat and Pimavanserin: 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

Cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and markedly increases pimavanserin exposure. Higher levels raise the risk of QT prolongation and other dose-related adverse effects.

What this interaction means in plain words

Cobicistat and Pimavanserin 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.

Cobicistat belongs to Miscellaneous; Pimavanserin belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: High

Why it happens

Strong CYP3A4 inhibition by cobicistat reduces the metabolism of pimavanserin.

What to do

Reduce the pimavanserin dose to 17 mg once daily while a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is used. Monitor the ECG in patients with QT risk factors.

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 Cobicistat with Pimavanserin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cobicistat and Pimavanserin 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. Cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and markedly increases pimavanserin exposure. Higher levels raise the risk of QT prolongation and other dose-related adverse effects.

How serious is the interaction between Cobicistat and Pimavanserin?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Reduce the pimavanserin dose to 17 mg once daily while a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is used. Monitor the ECG in patients with QT risk factors.

What other medicines interact with Pimavanserin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Pimavanserin with, for example, Lefamulin, Pimozide, Vandetanib. The full list is on the Pimavanserin page.

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