Drug interactions
Erlotinib + Indinavir
Severity: Major
Erlotinib and Indinavir: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Indinavir inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase erlotinib exposure, raising the risk of toxicity such as severe diarrhea and rash.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erlotinib and Indinavir 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.
Why it happens
Strong CYP3A4 inhibition, with possible P-glycoprotein inhibition, decreases erlotinib clearance.
What to do
Avoid if possible. If combined, monitor closely and reduce erlotinib dose in steps if severe reactions occur.
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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References
Other interactions of Erlotinib
- Amobarbital + Erlotinib Major
- Apalutamide + Erlotinib Major
- Carbamazepine + Erlotinib Major
- Cobicistat + Erlotinib Major
- Darunavir + Erlotinib Major
- Dexlansoprazole + Erlotinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Erlotinib with Indinavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erlotinib and Indinavir 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. Indinavir inhibits CYP3A4 and may increase erlotinib exposure, raising the risk of toxicity such as severe diarrhea and rash.
How serious is the interaction between Erlotinib and Indinavir?
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 if possible. If combined, monitor closely and reduce erlotinib dose in steps if severe reactions occur.
What other medicines interact with Erlotinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Erlotinib with, for example, Amobarbital, Apalutamide, Carbamazepine. The full list is on the Erlotinib page.
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