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Drug interactions

Crizotinib + Nefazodone

Severity: Major

Crizotinib and Nefazodone: 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

Nefazodone is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and can raise crizotinib exposure substantially. Higher crizotinib levels increase the risk of adverse effects such as QT prolongation, hepatotoxicity, bradycardia and visual disturbances.

What this interaction means in plain words

Crizotinib and Nefazodone 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Nefazodone inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of crizotinib, reducing its clearance.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible and choose an antidepressant that does not inhibit CYP3A4. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG, electrolytes and liver function and consider reducing the crizotinib dose per labeling.

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 Nefazodone?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib and Nefazodone 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. Nefazodone is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and can raise crizotinib exposure substantially. Higher crizotinib levels increase the risk of adverse effects such as QT prolongation, hepatotoxicity, bradycardia and visual disturbances.

How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib and Nefazodone?

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 and choose an antidepressant that does not inhibit CYP3A4. If it cannot be avoided, monitor ECG, electrolytes and liver function and consider reducing the crizotinib dose per labeling.

What other medicines interact with Crizotinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Crizotinib with, for example, Flibanserin, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib. The full list is on the Crizotinib page.

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