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Drug interactions

Efavirenz + Ticagrelor

Severity: Major

Efavirenz and Ticagrelor: 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

Efavirenz is expected to reduce ticagrelor and its active metabolite exposure, which may weaken platelet inhibition and increase the risk of stent thrombosis or ischemic events. Ticagrelor labeling advises avoiding strong CYP3A inducers.

What this interaction means in plain words

Efavirenz and Ticagrelor 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; Ticagrelor belongs to Cardiovascular.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Efavirenz induces CYP3A4, accelerating ticagrelor metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible; use a non-inducing antiretroviral or an alternative antiplatelet agent such as prasugrel, depending on indication.

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 Ticagrelor?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Efavirenz and Ticagrelor 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 is expected to reduce ticagrelor and its active metabolite exposure, which may weaken platelet inhibition and increase the risk of stent thrombosis or ischemic events. Ticagrelor labeling advises avoiding strong CYP3A inducers.

How serious is the interaction between Efavirenz and Ticagrelor?

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; use a non-inducing antiretroviral or an alternative antiplatelet agent such as prasugrel, depending on indication.

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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