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Drug interactions

Eliglustat + Imatinib

Severity: Major

Eliglustat and Imatinib: 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

Imatinib inhibits both CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, the two enzymes that clear eliglustat. Higher eliglustat concentrations can prolong PR, QRS and QT intervals and may provoke arrhythmias. The risk is greatest in CYP2D6 poor or intermediate metabolizers and when multiple enzymes are inhibited.

What this interaction means in plain words

Eliglustat and Imatinib 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.

Eliglustat belongs to Miscellaneous; Imatinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, reducing eliglustat metabolism and raising its plasma levels.

What to do

Avoid in CYP2D6 poor or intermediate metabolizers. In extensive metabolizers, consider reducing the eliglustat dose per labeling for CYP3A inhibitors and monitor ECG and for cardiac symptoms.

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 Eliglustat with Imatinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Eliglustat and Imatinib 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. Imatinib inhibits both CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, the two enzymes that clear eliglustat. Higher eliglustat concentrations can prolong PR, QRS and QT intervals and may provoke arrhythmias. The risk is greatest in CYP2D6 poor or intermediate metabolizers and when multiple enzymes are inhibited.

How serious is the interaction between Eliglustat and Imatinib?

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 in CYP2D6 poor or intermediate metabolizers. In extensive metabolizers, consider reducing the eliglustat dose per labeling for CYP3A inhibitors and monitor ECG and for cardiac symptoms.

What other medicines interact with Imatinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.

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