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Drug interactions

Lapatinib + Ribociclib

Severity: Major

Lapatinib and Ribociclib: 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 drugs prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Ribociclib is also a CYP3A4 inhibitor and may increase lapatinib exposure, which adds to the risk.

What this interaction means in plain words

Lapatinib and Ribociclib 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; Ribociclib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation, plus ribociclib inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated lapatinib metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination where possible. If it is unavoidable, check baseline and follow-up ECGs and electrolytes, and correct potassium and magnesium.

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 Ribociclib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lapatinib and Ribociclib 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 drugs prolong the QT interval, so combined use raises the risk of torsades de pointes. Ribociclib is also a CYP3A4 inhibitor and may increase lapatinib exposure, which adds to the risk.

How serious is the interaction between Lapatinib and Ribociclib?

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 where possible. If it is unavoidable, check baseline and follow-up ECGs and electrolytes, and correct potassium and magnesium.

What other medicines interact with Lapatinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Lapatinib with, for example, Dofetilide, Ibutilide, Pimozide. The full list is on the Lapatinib page.

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

Open the complete reference, check multi-drug interactions and use dosing tools in the MediHelp app.

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