Drug interactions
Ketoconazole + Pioglitazone
Severity: Minor
Ketoconazole and Pioglitazone: minor 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 may modestly raise pioglitazone exposure, though its effect is small because CYP2C8 is the main pathway. Possible consequences are greater glucose lowering, fluid retention and edema.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ketoconazole and Pioglitazone have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Ketoconazole belongs to Anti Fungals; Pioglitazone belongs to Endocrine.
Why it happens
Ketoconazole inhibits CYP3A4, a minor route of pioglitazone metabolism.
What to do
Monitor glycemic control and signs of fluid retention; dose changes are rarely required.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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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 Pioglitazone
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ketoconazole with Pioglitazone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Ketoconazole and Pioglitazone have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Ketoconazole may modestly raise pioglitazone exposure, though its effect is small because CYP2C8 is the main pathway. Possible consequences are greater glucose lowering, fluid retention and edema.
How serious is the interaction between Ketoconazole and Pioglitazone?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor glycemic control and signs of fluid retention; dose changes are rarely required.
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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