Drug interactions
Cyclosporin + Ibuprofen / famotidine
Severity: Major
Cyclosporin and Ibuprofen / famotidine: 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
Ibuprofen with cyclosporine increases the risk of acute kidney injury and may raise cyclosporine nephrotoxicity. NSAIDs can also worsen hypertension and hyperkalemia in these patients.
What this interaction means in plain words
Cyclosporin and Ibuprofen / famotidine 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.
Why it happens
NSAID inhibition of renal prostaglandins causes afferent vasoconstriction, adding to cyclosporine-induced renal vasoconstriction.
What to do
Avoid NSAIDs where possible and use an alternative analgesic such as paracetamol. If unavoidable, use the lowest dose briefly and monitor creatinine, potassium and blood pressure.
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 Cyclosporin
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Cyclosporin Contraindicated
- Aliskiren + Cyclosporin Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Cyclosporin Contraindicated
- Bosentan + Cyclosporin Contraindicated
- Cidofovir + Cyclosporin Contraindicated
- Cyclosporin + Dengue vaccine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Cyclosporin with Ibuprofen / famotidine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Cyclosporin and Ibuprofen / famotidine 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. Ibuprofen with cyclosporine increases the risk of acute kidney injury and may raise cyclosporine nephrotoxicity. NSAIDs can also worsen hypertension and hyperkalemia in these patients.
How serious is the interaction between Cyclosporin and Ibuprofen / famotidine?
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 NSAIDs where possible and use an alternative analgesic such as paracetamol. If unavoidable, use the lowest dose briefly and monitor creatinine, potassium and blood pressure.
What other medicines interact with Cyclosporin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Cyclosporin with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Aliskiren, Bcg vaccine live. The full list is on the Cyclosporin page.
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