Drug interactions
Deferasirox + Theophylline
Severity: Major
Deferasirox and Theophylline: 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
Deferasirox inhibits CYP1A2, the main enzyme clearing theophylline, and can raise its serum concentrations. Because theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, toxicity including arrhythmias and seizures may occur.
What this interaction means in plain words
Deferasirox and Theophylline 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.
Deferasirox belongs to Miscellaneous; Theophylline belongs to Respiratory.
Why it happens
Deferasirox inhibits CYP1A2, reducing theophylline clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible; otherwise monitor theophylline concentrations and reduce the dose as needed.
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
- Deferasirox - FDA drug label (DailyMed) — openFDA / DailyMed
Other interactions of Theophylline
- Riociguat + Theophylline Contraindicated
- Adenosine + Theophylline Major
- Apalutamide + Theophylline Major
- Bupropion + Theophylline Major
- Carvedilol + Theophylline Major
- Cimetidine + Theophylline Major
Other interactions of Deferasirox
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Deferasirox with Theophylline?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Deferasirox and Theophylline 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. Deferasirox inhibits CYP1A2, the main enzyme clearing theophylline, and can raise its serum concentrations. Because theophylline has a narrow therapeutic range, toxicity including arrhythmias and seizures may occur.
How serious is the interaction between Deferasirox and Theophylline?
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; otherwise monitor theophylline concentrations and reduce the dose as needed.
What other medicines interact with Theophylline?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Theophylline with, for example, Riociguat, Adenosine, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Theophylline page.
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