Drug interactions
Efavirenz + Sunitinib
Severity: Major
Efavirenz and Sunitinib: 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
Both can prolong the QT interval, and efavirenz may lower sunitinib exposure by inducing CYP3A4. This could add to arrhythmia risk while reducing anticancer effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Efavirenz and Sunitinib 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; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation plus efavirenz induction of CYP3A4 metabolism of sunitinib.
What to do
Prefer a non-inducing antiretroviral. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes, and consider a sunitinib dose increase as directed in labeling for CYP3A4 inducers.
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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Other interactions of Efavirenz
- Cobimetinib + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Dienogest / estradiol valerate + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Doravirine + Efavirenz Contraindicated
- Efavirenz + Elbasvir / grazoprevir Contraindicated
Other interactions of Sunitinib
- Adagrasib + Sunitinib Major
- Amiodarone + Sunitinib Major
- Amisulpride + Sunitinib Major
- Anagrelide + Sunitinib Major
- Apalutamide + Sunitinib Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Sunitinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Efavirenz with Sunitinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Efavirenz and Sunitinib 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. Both can prolong the QT interval, and efavirenz may lower sunitinib exposure by inducing CYP3A4. This could add to arrhythmia risk while reducing anticancer effect.
How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Sunitinib?
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 a non-inducing antiretroviral. If combined, monitor ECG and electrolytes, and consider a sunitinib dose increase as directed in labeling for CYP3A4 inducers.
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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