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Drug interactions

Efavirenz + Enzalutamide

Severity: Major

Efavirenz and Enzalutamide: major 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

Enzalutamide is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and may substantially lower efavirenz concentrations, risking virologic failure. Efavirenz, a CYP3A4 inducer, may reduce enzalutamide exposure, though the net active moiety effect is smaller.

What this interaction means in plain words

Efavirenz and Enzalutamide 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.

Efavirenz belongs to Anti Virals; Enzalutamide belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Mutual CYP3A4 induction, with enzalutamide also inducing CYP2B6, increasing clearance of both drugs.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible and choose an antiretroviral less affected by induction. If used, monitor HIV viral load and efavirenz levels, and watch for reduced enzalutamide efficacy.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Efavirenz with Enzalutamide?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Efavirenz and Enzalutamide 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. Enzalutamide is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and may substantially lower efavirenz concentrations, risking virologic failure. Efavirenz, a CYP3A4 inducer, may reduce enzalutamide exposure, though the net active moiety effect is smaller.

How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Enzalutamide?

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 and choose an antiretroviral less affected by induction. If used, monitor HIV viral load and efavirenz levels, and watch for reduced enzalutamide efficacy.

What other medicines interact with Efavirenz?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Efavirenz with, for example, Cobimetinib, Dienogest / estradiol valerate, Dihydroergotamine intranasal. The full list is on the Efavirenz page.

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