Drug interactions
Gefitinib + Pantoprazole
Severity: Major
Gefitinib and Pantoprazole: 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
Gefitinib absorption falls when gastric pH is raised, and acid suppression can lower gefitinib exposure and reduce antitumor effect.
What this interaction means in plain words
Gefitinib and Pantoprazole 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.
Gefitinib belongs to Oncology; Pantoprazole belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract.
Why it happens
Gefitinib is a weak base with pH-dependent solubility, so raised gastric pH reduces its dissolution and absorption.
What to do
Avoid PPIs where possible. If an acid suppressant is essential, use an H2 blocker or antacid given at staggered times, taking gefitinib at least 6 hours apart from them (12 hours from H2 blockers where labeled).
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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Other interactions of Pantoprazole
- Pantoprazole + Rilpivirine Contraindicated
- Acalabrutinib + Pantoprazole Major
- Atazanavir + Pantoprazole Major
- Dacomitinib + Pantoprazole Major
- Dasatinib + Pantoprazole Major
- Erlotinib + Pantoprazole Major
Other interactions of Gefitinib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Gefitinib with Pantoprazole?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Gefitinib and Pantoprazole 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. Gefitinib absorption falls when gastric pH is raised, and acid suppression can lower gefitinib exposure and reduce antitumor effect.
How serious is the interaction between Gefitinib and Pantoprazole?
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 PPIs where possible. If an acid suppressant is essential, use an H2 blocker or antacid given at staggered times, taking gefitinib at least 6 hours apart from them (12 hours from H2 blockers where labeled).
What other medicines interact with Pantoprazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pantoprazole with, for example, Rilpivirine, Acalabrutinib, Atazanavir. The full list is on the Pantoprazole page.
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