Drug interactions
Imatinib + Lovastatin
Severity: Major
Imatinib and Lovastatin: 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
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise exposure to CYP3A4-dependent statins such as simvastatin. Lovastatin is similarly CYP3A4-dependent, so its levels may increase and with them the risk of myopathy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imatinib and Lovastatin 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.
Imatinib belongs to Oncology; Lovastatin belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4, reducing first-pass and systemic metabolism of lovastatin.
What to do
Consider switching to a statin not reliant on CYP3A4, such as pravastatin or rosuvastatin. If lovastatin is continued, use the lowest dose and monitor for muscle symptoms and creatine kinase.
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 Lovastatin
- Atazanavir + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Cobicistat + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Darunavir + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Elvitegravir / cobicistat / emtricitabine / tenofovir df + Lovastatin Contraindicated
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 Imatinib with Lovastatin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imatinib and Lovastatin 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. Imatinib inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise exposure to CYP3A4-dependent statins such as simvastatin. Lovastatin is similarly CYP3A4-dependent, so its levels may increase and with them the risk of myopathy.
How serious is the interaction between Imatinib and Lovastatin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Consider switching to a statin not reliant on CYP3A4, such as pravastatin or rosuvastatin. If lovastatin is continued, use the lowest dose and monitor for muscle symptoms and creatine kinase.
What other medicines interact with Lovastatin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lovastatin with, for example, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Lovastatin page.
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