Drug interactions
Acetaminophen + Imatinib
Severity: Moderate
Acetaminophen and Imatinib: moderate 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 acetaminophen glucuronidation in vitro, which could shift metabolism toward the toxic NAPQI pathway. Both agents can cause liver injury, so the combination may increase hepatotoxicity risk, particularly with chronic or high-dose acetaminophen.
What this interaction means in plain words
Acetaminophen and Imatinib can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Inhibition of UGT-mediated acetaminophen glucuronidation, with additive hepatotoxic potential.
What to do
Limit acetaminophen to occasional low doses and monitor liver function tests. Prefer alternative analgesics for chronic use.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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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 Acetaminophen with Imatinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Acetaminophen and Imatinib can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Imatinib inhibits acetaminophen glucuronidation in vitro, which could shift metabolism toward the toxic NAPQI pathway. Both agents can cause liver injury, so the combination may increase hepatotoxicity risk, particularly with chronic or high-dose acetaminophen.
How serious is the interaction between Acetaminophen and Imatinib?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Limit acetaminophen to occasional low doses and monitor liver function tests. Prefer alternative analgesics for chronic use.
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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