Drug interactions
Erlotinib + Nefazodone
Severity: Major
Erlotinib and Nefazodone: 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
Nefazodone strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase erlotinib exposure. This raises the risk of dose-related erlotinib toxicity.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erlotinib and Nefazodone 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
Inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of erlotinib by nefazodone.
What to do
Choose an antidepressant that does not inhibit CYP3A4. If unavoidable, monitor for toxicity and reduce erlotinib in 50 mg steps for severe reactions.
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 Nefazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erlotinib and Nefazodone 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. Nefazodone strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and can increase erlotinib exposure. This raises the risk of dose-related erlotinib toxicity.
How serious is the interaction between Erlotinib and Nefazodone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Choose an antidepressant that does not inhibit CYP3A4. If unavoidable, monitor for toxicity and reduce erlotinib in 50 mg steps for severe reactions.
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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