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Drug interactions

Lapatinib + Maprotiline

Severity: Major

Lapatinib and Maprotiline: 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

Both agents can prolong the QT interval, so combined use may increase the risk of torsades de pointes. Risk is higher with electrolyte abnormalities or underlying cardiac disease.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lapatinib and Maprotiline 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.

Lapatinib belongs to Oncology; Maprotiline belongs to Central Nervous System.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive prolongation of cardiac repolarization.

What to do

Obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor the QTc during treatment. Consider an alternative antidepressant if the QTc becomes significantly prolonged.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lapatinib with Maprotiline?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lapatinib and Maprotiline 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. Both agents can prolong the QT interval, so combined use may increase the risk of torsades de pointes. Risk is higher with electrolyte abnormalities or underlying cardiac disease.

How serious is the interaction between Lapatinib and Maprotiline?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG, correct potassium and magnesium, and monitor the QTc during treatment. Consider an alternative antidepressant if the QTc becomes significantly prolonged.

What other medicines interact with Maprotiline?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Maprotiline with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Disopyramide, Dofetilide. The full list is on the Maprotiline page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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