Drug interactions
Lopinavir + Sunitinib
Severity: Major
Lopinavir and Sunitinib: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
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
Lopinavir/ritonavir inhibits CYP3A4, which may raise sunitinib concentrations and toxicity. Lopinavir and sunitinib also each prolong the QT interval, adding to arrhythmia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lopinavir and Sunitinib 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.
Lopinavir belongs to Anti Virals; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
CYP3A4 inhibition (largely via ritonavir boosting) increases sunitinib exposure, plus additive QT prolongation.
What to do
Prefer an antiretroviral regimen without strong CYP3A inhibition. If unavoidable, reduce the sunitinib dose and monitor ECG and electrolytes.
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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References
Other interactions of Sunitinib
- Adagrasib + Sunitinib Major
- Amiodarone + Sunitinib Major
- Amisulpride + Sunitinib Major
- Anagrelide + Sunitinib Major
- Apalutamide + Sunitinib Major
- Arsenic trioxide + Sunitinib Major
Other interactions of Lopinavir
- Alfuzosin + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Cisapride + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Lopinavir Contraindicated
- Eplerenone + Lopinavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lopinavir with Sunitinib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lopinavir and Sunitinib 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. Lopinavir/ritonavir inhibits CYP3A4, which may raise sunitinib concentrations and toxicity. Lopinavir and sunitinib also each prolong the QT interval, adding to arrhythmia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Lopinavir and Sunitinib?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Prefer an antiretroviral regimen without strong CYP3A inhibition. If unavoidable, reduce the sunitinib dose and monitor ECG and electrolytes.
What other medicines interact with Sunitinib?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Sunitinib with, for example, Adagrasib, Amiodarone, Amisulpride. The full list is on the Sunitinib page.
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