Drug interactions
Docetaxel + Ketoconazole
Severity: Major
Docetaxel and Ketoconazole: 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
Ketoconazole can reduce docetaxel clearance and increase exposure, with greater risk of neutropenia, mucositis, fluid retention and other toxicities.
What this interaction means in plain words
Docetaxel and Ketoconazole 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.
Docetaxel belongs to Oncology; Ketoconazole belongs to Anti Fungals.
Why it happens
Ketoconazole inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, reducing docetaxel metabolism and efflux.
What to do
Avoid strong CYP3A4 inhibitors where possible. If unavoidable, consider a docetaxel dose reduction and monitor blood counts and toxicity 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 Ketoconazole
- Alfuzosin + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
Other interactions of Docetaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Docetaxel with Ketoconazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Docetaxel and Ketoconazole 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. Ketoconazole can reduce docetaxel clearance and increase exposure, with greater risk of neutropenia, mucositis, fluid retention and other toxicities.
How serious is the interaction between Docetaxel and Ketoconazole?
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 strong CYP3A4 inhibitors where possible. If unavoidable, consider a docetaxel dose reduction and monitor blood counts and toxicity closely.
What other medicines interact with Ketoconazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ketoconazole with, for example, Alfuzosin, Alprazolam, Avanafil. The full list is on the Ketoconazole page.
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