Drug interactions
Hydroxychloroquine + Ritonavir
Severity: Major
Hydroxychloroquine and Ritonavir: 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
Ritonavir can prolong PR and QT intervals and inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, which may raise hydroxychloroquine exposure. Combined use increases the risk of QT-related arrhythmia.
What this interaction means in plain words
Hydroxychloroquine and Ritonavir 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.
Hydroxychloroquine belongs to Musculoskeletal; Ritonavir belongs to Anti Virals.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation, with possible increased hydroxychloroquine levels from CYP inhibition.
What to do
Avoid if an alternative exists; otherwise obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes, and monitor QTc.
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 Hydroxychloroquine
- Arsenic trioxide + Hydroxychloroquine Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Hydroxychloroquine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Hydroxychloroquine Contraindicated
- Hydroxychloroquine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Hydroxychloroquine + Thioridazine Contraindicated
- Hydroxychloroquine + Vandetanib Contraindicated
Other interactions of Ritonavir
- Alfuzosin + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Colchicine + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Ritonavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Hydroxychloroquine with Ritonavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Hydroxychloroquine and Ritonavir 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. Ritonavir can prolong PR and QT intervals and inhibits CYP3A4 and CYP2D6, which may raise hydroxychloroquine exposure. Combined use increases the risk of QT-related arrhythmia.
How serious is the interaction between Hydroxychloroquine and Ritonavir?
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 if an alternative exists; otherwise obtain a baseline ECG, correct electrolytes, and monitor QTc.
What other medicines interact with Hydroxychloroquine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Hydroxychloroquine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Cisapride, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Hydroxychloroquine page.
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