Drug interactions
Docetaxel + Ritonavir
Severity: Major
Docetaxel and Ritonavir: 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 is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor and also inhibits P-glycoprotein, so it can markedly raise docetaxel exposure. This increases the risk of severe neutropenia, mucositis, fluid retention and other docetaxel toxicities.
What this interaction means in plain words
Docetaxel and Ritonavir 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; Ritonavir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Ritonavir inhibits CYP3A4-mediated docetaxel metabolism and P-glycoprotein efflux, reducing docetaxel clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible; if unavoidable, consider reducing the docetaxel dose and monitor closely for neutropenia and other toxicity. Consider an alternative antiretroviral without strong CYP3A4 inhibition.
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 Ritonavir
- Alfuzosin + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Colchicine + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Ritonavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Docetaxel with Ritonavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Docetaxel and Ritonavir 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 is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor and also inhibits P-glycoprotein, so it can markedly raise docetaxel exposure. This increases the risk of severe neutropenia, mucositis, fluid retention and other docetaxel toxicities.
How serious is the interaction between Docetaxel and Ritonavir?
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 where possible; if unavoidable, consider reducing the docetaxel dose and monitor closely for neutropenia and other toxicity. Consider an alternative antiretroviral without strong CYP3A4 inhibition.
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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