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Drug interactions

Crizotinib + Hydroxychloroquine

Severity: Major

Crizotinib and Hydroxychloroquine: 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

Crizotinib can cause QT prolongation and bradycardia, and hydroxychloroquine adds further QT risk. The combination increases the chance of clinically significant arrhythmia.

What this interaction means in plain words

Crizotinib and Hydroxychloroquine 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.

Crizotinib belongs to Oncology; Hydroxychloroquine belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive delayed ventricular repolarization.

What to do

Avoid the combination if possible. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly and reduce or interrupt crizotinib if the 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?

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 Crizotinib with Hydroxychloroquine?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib and Hydroxychloroquine 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. Crizotinib can cause QT prolongation and bradycardia, and hydroxychloroquine adds further QT risk. The combination increases the chance of clinically significant arrhythmia.

How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib and Hydroxychloroquine?

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. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly and reduce or interrupt crizotinib if the QTc becomes markedly prolonged.

What other medicines interact with Hydroxychloroquine?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxychloroquine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Cisapride, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Hydroxychloroquine page.

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