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Drug interactions

Efavirenz + Prednisone

Severity: Moderate

Efavirenz and Prednisone: 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

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and can lower exposure to prednisolone, the active metabolite of prednisone. Reduced steroid effect may occur, though the effect appears modest.

What this interaction means in plain words

Efavirenz and Prednisone 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.

Efavirenz belongs to Anti Virals; Prednisone belongs to Endocrine.

Evidence level: Low

Why it happens

Efavirenz induction of CYP3A4 increases clearance of prednisolone.

What to do

Monitor clinical response to prednisone and increase the dose if disease control is inadequate. Reassess dosing if efavirenz is stopped.

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?

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 Prednisone?

MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Efavirenz and Prednisone 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. Efavirenz induces CYP3A4 and can lower exposure to prednisolone, the active metabolite of prednisone. Reduced steroid effect may occur, though the effect appears modest.

How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Prednisone?

MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor clinical response to prednisone and increase the dose if disease control is inadequate. Reassess dosing if efavirenz is stopped.

What other medicines interact with Prednisone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Prednisone with, for example, Bcg vaccine live, Measles vaccine, Mifepristone. The full list is on the Prednisone page.

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