Drug interactions
Erlotinib + Rifampin
Severity: Major
Erlotinib and Rifampin: 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
Rifampin markedly reduces erlotinib exposure and may lead to loss of efficacy. This is documented in pharmacokinetic studies and in labeling.
What this interaction means in plain words
Erlotinib and Rifampin 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
Induction of CYP3A4 by rifampin accelerates erlotinib metabolism.
What to do
Use an alternative to rifampin when possible. If unavoidable, consider increasing the erlotinib dose with monitoring of tolerability, and reduce it again after rifampin is stopped.
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 Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Erlotinib and Rifampin 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. Rifampin markedly reduces erlotinib exposure and may lead to loss of efficacy. This is documented in pharmacokinetic studies and in labeling.
How serious is the interaction between Erlotinib and Rifampin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative to rifampin when possible. If unavoidable, consider increasing the erlotinib dose with monitoring of tolerability, and reduce it again after rifampin is stopped.
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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