Drug interactions
Doxorubicin + Rifampin
Severity: Moderate
Doxorubicin and Rifampin: moderate interaction.
Last updated
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
Rifampin is a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may lower doxorubicin exposure. Reduced exposure could compromise antineoplastic efficacy. The magnitude in patients is not well quantified.
What this interaction means in plain words
Doxorubicin and Rifampin can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Rifampin induces CYP enzymes and P-gp, increasing doxorubicin elimination.
What to do
Avoid rifampin if an alternative antimicrobial is available. If it is required, monitor for reduced oncologic response.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Doxorubicin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Doxorubicin with Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Doxorubicin and Rifampin can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Rifampin is a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may lower doxorubicin exposure. Reduced exposure could compromise antineoplastic efficacy. The magnitude in patients is not well quantified.
How serious is the interaction between Doxorubicin and Rifampin?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid rifampin if an alternative antimicrobial is available. If it is required, monitor for reduced oncologic response.
What other medicines interact with Doxorubicin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Doxorubicin with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Belatacept, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Doxorubicin page.
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