Drug interactions
Imatinib + Pimozide
Severity: Major
Imatinib and Pimozide: 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 CYP2D6, both involved in pimozide clearance, and may raise pimozide concentrations. Imatinib can also prolong the QT interval, so the risk of dose-related QT prolongation and torsades de pointes is increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Imatinib and Pimozide 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; Pimozide belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Imatinib inhibition of CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 reduces pimozide metabolism, combined with additive QT effects.
What to do
Avoid the combination if possible, or reduce the pimozide dose and obtain a baseline and follow-up ECG. Correct potassium and magnesium abnormalities and monitor for arrhythmia symptoms.
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 Pimozide
- Adagrasib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Anagrelide + Pimozide 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 Pimozide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Imatinib and Pimozide 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 CYP2D6, both involved in pimozide clearance, and may raise pimozide concentrations. Imatinib can also prolong the QT interval, so the risk of dose-related QT prolongation and torsades de pointes is increased.
How serious is the interaction between Imatinib and Pimozide?
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 the combination if possible, or reduce the pimozide dose and obtain a baseline and follow-up ECG. Correct potassium and magnesium abnormalities and monitor for arrhythmia symptoms.
What other medicines interact with Pimozide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Pimozide with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Pimozide page.
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