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Drug interactions

Mitotane + Sunitinib

Severity: Major

Mitotane 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

Mitotane is a strong CYP3A4 inducer with a long half-life and can markedly reduce sunitinib and active metabolite exposure. This may cause loss of efficacy, and the induction persists for weeks after mitotane stops.

What this interaction means in plain words

Mitotane 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.

Mitotane belongs to Oncology; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Strong induction of CYP3A4 accelerates sunitinib metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination if possible. If necessary, monitor response closely and consider a sunitinib dose increase with careful tolerability monitoring.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Mitotane with Sunitinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Mitotane 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. Mitotane is a strong CYP3A4 inducer with a long half-life and can markedly reduce sunitinib and active metabolite exposure. This may cause loss of efficacy, and the induction persists for weeks after mitotane stops.

How serious is the interaction between Mitotane 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: Avoid the combination if possible. If necessary, monitor response closely and consider a sunitinib dose increase with careful tolerability monitoring.

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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