Drug interactions
Doxorubicin + Saquinavir
Severity: Major
Doxorubicin and Saquinavir: 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
Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may increase doxorubicin exposure. This raises the risk of myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity, and saquinavir may add QT risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Doxorubicin and Saquinavir 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
Boosted saquinavir inhibits CYP3A4 and P-gp, reducing doxorubicin clearance.
What to do
Prefer an alternative antiretroviral during doxorubicin therapy. If unavoidable, monitor blood counts, ECG and cardiac function 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 Doxorubicin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Doxorubicin with Saquinavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Doxorubicin and Saquinavir 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. Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein and may increase doxorubicin exposure. This raises the risk of myelosuppression and cardiotoxicity, and saquinavir may add QT risk.
How serious is the interaction between Doxorubicin and Saquinavir?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an alternative antiretroviral during doxorubicin therapy. If unavoidable, monitor blood counts, ECG and cardiac function closely.
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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