Drug interactions
Gemfibrozil + Irinotecan liposomal
Severity: Major
Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan liposomal: 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
Gemfibrozil inhibits UGT1A1, the enzyme that glucuronidates SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan. Higher SN-38 exposure may intensify neutropenia and severe diarrhea.
What this interaction means in plain words
Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan liposomal 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 UGT1A1-mediated glucuronidation of SN-38 raises levels of the active metabolite.
What to do
Avoid combining where possible and use another lipid-lowering agent during irinotecan therapy. If unavoidable, monitor blood counts and diarrhea closely.
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 Gemfibrozil
- Daprodustat + Gemfibrozil Contraindicated
- Elagolix + Gemfibrozil Contraindicated
- Gemfibrozil + Mavacamten Contraindicated
- Gemfibrozil + Metformin-repaglinide Contraindicated
- Gemfibrozil + Ombitasvir / paritaprevir / ritonavir and dasabuvir Contraindicated
- Gemfibrozil + Repaglinide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Gemfibrozil with Irinotecan liposomal?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan liposomal 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. Gemfibrozil inhibits UGT1A1, the enzyme that glucuronidates SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan. Higher SN-38 exposure may intensify neutropenia and severe diarrhea.
How serious is the interaction between Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan liposomal?
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 combining where possible and use another lipid-lowering agent during irinotecan therapy. If unavoidable, monitor blood counts and diarrhea closely.
What other medicines interact with Gemfibrozil?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Gemfibrozil with, for example, Daprodustat, Elagolix, Mavacamten. The full list is on the Gemfibrozil page.
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