Drug interactions
Lovastatin + Nefazodone
Severity: Contraindicated
Lovastatin and Nefazodone: contraindicated 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
Nefazodone strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and substantially raises lovastatin concentrations. Rhabdomyolysis has been reported with this type of combination, and labeling contraindicates it.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lovastatin and Nefazodone are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two.
Why it happens
Strong CYP3A4 inhibition by nefazodone reduces lovastatin clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination; use a statin not metabolized by CYP3A4 or choose a different antidepressant. Check for muscle symptoms and CK if exposure has occurred.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there an alternative to one of these two medicines for me?
- If both are essential, who is monitoring me and how often?
- Which symptoms mean I should stop and seek help straight away?
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References
Other interactions of Lovastatin
- Atazanavir + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Clarithromycin + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Cobicistat + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Conivaptan + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Darunavir + Lovastatin Contraindicated
- Elvitegravir / cobicistat / emtricitabine / tenofovir df + Lovastatin Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lovastatin with Nefazodone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as contraindicated. Lovastatin and Nefazodone are not normally used together. Taking them at the same time is expected to cause harm or make one of them unsafe, so a different medicine is usually chosen for one of the two. Nefazodone strongly inhibits CYP3A4 and substantially raises lovastatin concentrations. Rhabdomyolysis has been reported with this type of combination, and labeling contraindicates it.
How serious is the interaction between Lovastatin and Nefazodone?
MediHelp rates it contraindicated, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Avoid the combination; use a statin not metabolized by CYP3A4 or choose a different antidepressant. Check for muscle symptoms and CK if exposure has occurred.
What other medicines interact with Lovastatin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Lovastatin with, for example, Atazanavir, Clarithromycin, Cobicistat. The full list is on the Lovastatin page.
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