Drug interactions
Lumefantrine + Quinine
Severity: Major
Lumefantrine and Quinine: 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
Both drugs prolong the QT interval, and quinine is often avoided with or soon after lumefantrine. Combined use increases arrhythmia risk.
What this interaction means in plain words
Lumefantrine and Quinine 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
Additive pharmacodynamic QT prolongation.
What to do
Avoid giving quinine during or shortly after artemether-lumefantrine unless no alternative exists, and then monitor ECG with electrolytes corrected.
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 Quinine
- Arsenic trioxide + Quinine Contraindicated
- Dofetilide + Quinine Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Quinine Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Quinine Contraindicated
- Mefloquine + Quinine Contraindicated
- Nilotinib + Quinine Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Lumefantrine with Quinine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Lumefantrine and Quinine 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, and quinine is often avoided with or soon after lumefantrine. Combined use increases arrhythmia risk.
How serious is the interaction between Lumefantrine and Quinine?
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 giving quinine during or shortly after artemether-lumefantrine unless no alternative exists, and then monitor ECG with electrolytes corrected.
What other medicines interact with Quinine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Quinine with, for example, Arsenic trioxide, Dofetilide, Dronedarone. The full list is on the Quinine page.
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