Drug interactions
Ketoconazole + Palovarotene
Severity: Major
Ketoconazole and Palovarotene: 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
Ketoconazole increases palovarotene exposure, which can heighten retinoid toxicity such as mucocutaneous effects, hypervitaminosis A-like symptoms and premature epiphyseal closure in children.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ketoconazole and Palovarotene 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.
Ketoconazole belongs to Anti Fungals; Palovarotene belongs to Miscellaneous.
Why it happens
Strong inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of palovarotene.
What to do
Avoid concomitant use where possible; if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, monitor closely for retinoid toxicity and consider a dose reduction per labeling.
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 Ketoconazole
- Alfuzosin + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Alprazolam + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine intranasal + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
- Dihydroergotamine + Ketoconazole Contraindicated
Other interactions of Palovarotene
- Acitretin + Palovarotene Contraindicated
- Isotretinoin + Palovarotene Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Palovarotene Major
- Amobarbital + Palovarotene Major
- Apalutamide + Palovarotene Major
- Aprepitant + Palovarotene Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ketoconazole with Palovarotene?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ketoconazole and Palovarotene 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. Ketoconazole increases palovarotene exposure, which can heighten retinoid toxicity such as mucocutaneous effects, hypervitaminosis A-like symptoms and premature epiphyseal closure in children.
How serious is the interaction between Ketoconazole and Palovarotene?
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 concomitant use where possible; if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, monitor closely for retinoid toxicity and consider a dose reduction per labeling.
What other medicines interact with Ketoconazole?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Ketoconazole with, for example, Alfuzosin, Alprazolam, Avanafil. The full list is on the Ketoconazole page.
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