Drug interactions
Grapefruit + Imatinib
Severity: Minor
Grapefruit and Imatinib: minor 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
Grapefruit juice can raise imatinib exposure because it inhibits intestinal CYP3A4. The effect is usually modest, but higher imatinib levels may increase dose-related adverse effects such as fluid retention, nausea and myelosuppression.
What this interaction means in plain words
Grapefruit and Imatinib have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Why it happens
Inhibition of intestinal CYP3A4 by grapefruit constituents reduces first-pass metabolism of imatinib.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during imatinib therapy. Watch for increased adverse effects if intake continues.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Imatinib
- Imatinib + Lomitapide Contraindicated
- Imatinib + Lonafarnib Contraindicated
- Amobarbital + Imatinib Major
- Apalutamide + Imatinib Major
- Avapritinib + Imatinib Major
- Benzhydrocodone / acetaminophen + Imatinib Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Grapefruit with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Grapefruit and Imatinib have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Grapefruit juice can raise imatinib exposure because it inhibits intestinal CYP3A4. The effect is usually modest, but higher imatinib levels may increase dose-related adverse effects such as fluid retention, nausea and myelosuppression.
How serious is the interaction between Grapefruit and Imatinib?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during imatinib therapy. Watch for increased adverse effects if intake continues.
What other medicines interact with Imatinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Imatinib with, for example, Lomitapide, Lonafarnib, Amobarbital. The full list is on the Imatinib page.
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