Drug interactions
Docetaxel + Lopinavir
Severity: Major
Docetaxel and Lopinavir: 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
Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and can markedly raise docetaxel exposure, with reports of severe toxicity with ritonavir-containing regimens.
What this interaction means in plain words
Docetaxel and Lopinavir 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; Lopinavir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir inhibits CYP3A4, reducing docetaxel clearance.
What to do
Avoid if possible or use an alternative antiretroviral. If unavoidable, reduce the docetaxel dose and monitor blood counts 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 Docetaxel
Other interactions of Lopinavir
- Alfuzosin + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Eplerenone + Lopinavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Docetaxel with Lopinavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Docetaxel and Lopinavir 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. Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and can markedly raise docetaxel exposure, with reports of severe toxicity with ritonavir-containing regimens.
How serious is the interaction between Docetaxel and Lopinavir?
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 if possible or use an alternative antiretroviral. If unavoidable, reduce the docetaxel dose and monitor blood counts closely.
What other medicines interact with Docetaxel?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Docetaxel with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Atazanavir, Belatacept. The full list is on the Docetaxel page.
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