Drug interactions
Crizotinib + Rifabutin
Severity: Major
Crizotinib and Rifabutin: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
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
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and may substantially lower crizotinib exposure, risking loss of efficacy. Crizotinib labeling advises avoiding strong CYP3A inducers.
What this interaction means in plain words
Crizotinib and Rifabutin 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; Rifabutin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Rifabutin induces CYP3A4, increasing crizotinib metabolic clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use a non-inducing alternative where possible; if unavoidable, monitor tumor response closely.
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 Crizotinib
- Crizotinib + Flibanserin Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Saquinavir Contraindicated
- Crizotinib + Thioridazine Contraindicated
Other interactions of Rifabutin
- Cabotegravir + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Lorlatinib + Rifabutin Contraindicated
- Rifabutin + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Apixaban + Rifabutin Major
- Axitinib + Rifabutin Major
- Brexpiprazole + Rifabutin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Crizotinib with Rifabutin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Crizotinib and Rifabutin 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. Rifabutin induces CYP3A4 and may substantially lower crizotinib exposure, risking loss of efficacy. Crizotinib labeling advises avoiding strong CYP3A inducers.
How serious is the interaction between Crizotinib and Rifabutin?
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 and use a non-inducing alternative where possible; if unavoidable, monitor tumor response closely.
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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