Drug interactions
Cobimetinib + Imatinib
Severity: Major
Cobimetinib and Imatinib: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph
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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase cobimetinib exposure, raising the risk of toxicity such as rash, diarrhea, hemorrhage, liver injury and retinopathy. Cobimetinib labeling advises avoiding strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cobimetinib and Imatinib 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.
Cobimetinib belongs to Oncology; Imatinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, reducing cobimetinib metabolism.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible. If it is unavoidable, reduce the cobimetinib dose as per labeling and monitor for adverse reactions.
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 Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Other interactions of Cobimetinib
- Cobimetinib + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Cobimetinib + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Cobimetinib Major
- Apalutamide + Cobimetinib Major
- Aprepitant + Cobimetinib Major
- Bosentan + Cobimetinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cobimetinib with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cobimetinib and Imatinib 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. Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase cobimetinib exposure, raising the risk of toxicity such as rash, diarrhea, hemorrhage, liver injury and retinopathy. Cobimetinib labeling advises avoiding strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.
How serious is the interaction between Cobimetinib and Imatinib?
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 where possible. If it is unavoidable, reduce the cobimetinib dose as per labeling and monitor for adverse reactions.
What other medicines interact with Imatinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.
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