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Drug interactions

Mitotane + Sirolimus

Severity: Major

Mitotane and Sirolimus: 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

Mitotane is a potent CYP3A4 inducer and can substantially lower sirolimus concentrations, risking loss of immunosuppression and graft rejection. The inducing effect persists for weeks after mitotane is stopped.

What this interaction means in plain words

Mitotane and Sirolimus 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.

Mitotane belongs to Oncology; Sirolimus belongs to Miscellaneous.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Induction of CYP3A4 (and likely P-glycoprotein) increases sirolimus clearance.

What to do

Monitor sirolimus trough levels closely and increase the dose as required, or use an alternative if possible. Reassess levels and reduce the dose again after mitotane is discontinued.

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?

Bring a full list of your medicines, including over-the-counter products, supplements and herbal remedies, to every pharmacy visit.

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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Mitotane with Sirolimus?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Mitotane and Sirolimus 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. Mitotane is a potent CYP3A4 inducer and can substantially lower sirolimus concentrations, risking loss of immunosuppression and graft rejection. The inducing effect persists for weeks after mitotane is stopped.

How serious is the interaction between Mitotane and Sirolimus?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor sirolimus trough levels closely and increase the dose as required, or use an alternative if possible. Reassess levels and reduce the dose again after mitotane is discontinued.

What other medicines interact with Sirolimus?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Sirolimus with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal. The full list is on the Sirolimus page.

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