Drug interactions
Dexamethasone + Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir
Severity: Major
Dexamethasone and Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir: 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
Paritaprevir and ritonavir are CYP3A substrates, so CYP3A induction by dexamethasone may lower their levels and compromise HCV treatment. Ritonavir may also raise dexamethasone exposure.
What this interaction means in plain words
Dexamethasone and Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir 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
Dexamethasone induces CYP3A, reducing paritaprevir and ritonavir exposure; ritonavir inhibits dexamethasone metabolism.
What to do
Avoid prolonged systemic dexamethasone during therapy. If a short course is required, monitor HCV RNA and for corticosteroid adverse effects.
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 Dexamethasone
- Bcg vaccine live + Dexamethasone Contraindicated
- Dexamethasone + Mifepristone Contraindicated
- Dexamethasone + Rilpivirine Contraindicated
- Dexamethasone + Smallpox vaccine live Contraindicated
- Dexamethasone + Varicella virus vaccine live Contraindicated
- Dexamethasone + Yellow fever vaccine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Dexamethasone with Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Dexamethasone and Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir 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. Paritaprevir and ritonavir are CYP3A substrates, so CYP3A induction by dexamethasone may lower their levels and compromise HCV treatment. Ritonavir may also raise dexamethasone exposure.
How serious is the interaction between Dexamethasone and Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir?
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 prolonged systemic dexamethasone during therapy. If a short course is required, monitor HCV RNA and for corticosteroid adverse effects.
What other medicines interact with Dexamethasone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Dexamethasone with, for example, Bcg vaccine live, Mifepristone, Rilpivirine. The full list is on the Dexamethasone page.
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