Drug interactions
Liposomal doxorubicin + Rifampin
Severity: Moderate
Liposomal doxorubicin and Rifampin: moderate 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
Rifampin is a potent inducer of metabolic enzymes and P-glycoprotein and may lower doxorubicin exposure, potentially reducing efficacy. Data are limited, especially for the liposomal product.
What this interaction means in plain words
Liposomal doxorubicin and Rifampin can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Rifampin induces CYP3A4 and P-gp, which increases doxorubicin clearance.
What to do
Use an alternative antimicrobial if clinically acceptable. If rifampin is required, monitor for reduced tumor response.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Liposomal doxorubicin
- Dengue vaccine + Liposomal doxorubicin Contraindicated
- Belatacept + Liposomal doxorubicin Major
- Cyclosporine + Liposomal doxorubicin Major
- Dronedarone + Liposomal doxorubicin Major
- Elvitegravir / cobicistat / emtricitabine / tenofovir df + Liposomal doxorubicin Major
- Fingolimod + Liposomal doxorubicin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Liposomal doxorubicin with Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Liposomal doxorubicin and Rifampin can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Rifampin is a potent inducer of metabolic enzymes and P-glycoprotein and may lower doxorubicin exposure, potentially reducing efficacy. Data are limited, especially for the liposomal product.
How serious is the interaction between Liposomal doxorubicin and Rifampin?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Use an alternative antimicrobial if clinically acceptable. If rifampin is required, monitor for reduced tumor response.
What other medicines interact with Liposomal doxorubicin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Liposomal doxorubicin with, for example, Dengue vaccine, Belatacept, Cyclosporine. The full list is on the Liposomal doxorubicin page.
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