Drug interactions
Lumefantrine + Propafenone
Severity: Major
Lumefantrine and Propafenone: 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
Lumefantrine can inhibit CYP2D6 and also prolongs the QT interval. Propafenone levels may therefore rise while the pharmacodynamic risk of arrhythmia is also increased.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lumefantrine and Propafenone 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.
Why it happens
Lumefantrine inhibits CYP2D6, reducing propafenone metabolism, and both drugs prolong cardiac conduction and repolarization.
What to do
Avoid the combination where possible and consider an alternative antimalarial or antiarrhythmic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for propafenone toxicity.
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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Other interactions of Propafenone
- Dofetilide + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nilotinib + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir / ritonavir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Nirmatrelvir + Propafenone Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Propafenone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lumefantrine with Propafenone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lumefantrine and Propafenone 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. Lumefantrine can inhibit CYP2D6 and also prolongs the QT interval. Propafenone levels may therefore rise while the pharmacodynamic risk of arrhythmia is also increased.
How serious is the interaction between Lumefantrine and Propafenone?
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 and consider an alternative antimalarial or antiarrhythmic. If unavoidable, monitor ECG and electrolytes and watch for propafenone toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Propafenone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Propafenone with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Nilotinib. The full list is on the Propafenone page.
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