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Drug interactions

Dabrafenib + Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol

Severity: Major

Dabrafenib and Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol: major interaction.

Last updated

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

Dabrafenib is an inducer of CYP3A4 and can lower exposure to hormonal contraceptives. Contraceptive efficacy may be reduced, leading to a risk of pregnancy during treatment with a teratogenic agent.

What this interaction means in plain words

Dabrafenib and Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol 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.

Dabrafenib belongs to Oncology; Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Dabrafenib induces CYP3A4, accelerating metabolism of ethinyl estradiol and etonogestrel.

What to do

Use an effective non-hormonal contraceptive method during dabrafenib therapy and for a period after discontinuation, as specified in 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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Dabrafenib with Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dabrafenib and Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol 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. Dabrafenib is an inducer of CYP3A4 and can lower exposure to hormonal contraceptives. Contraceptive efficacy may be reduced, leading to a risk of pregnancy during treatment with a teratogenic agent.

How serious is the interaction between Dabrafenib and Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an effective non-hormonal contraceptive method during dabrafenib therapy and for a period after discontinuation, as specified in labeling.

What other medicines interact with Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol with, for example, Fezolinetant, Aminocaproic acid, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol page.

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