Drug interactions
Fluticasone + Saquinavir
Severity: Major
Fluticasone and Saquinavir: 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
Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can substantially raise systemic fluticasone exposure. This increases the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects such as Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Fluticasone and Saquinavir 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
Saquinavir (typically ritonavir-boosted) inhibits CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of fluticasone.
What to do
Use an alternative corticosteroid such as beclomethasone where possible. If co-administered, monitor for Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
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 Fluticasone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Fluticasone with Saquinavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Fluticasone and Saquinavir 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. Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can substantially raise systemic fluticasone exposure. This increases the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects such as Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression.
How serious is the interaction between Fluticasone and Saquinavir?
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 corticosteroid such as beclomethasone where possible. If co-administered, monitor for Cushingoid features and adrenal suppression.
What other medicines interact with Fluticasone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Fluticasone with, for example, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Fluticasone page.
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