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Drug interactions

Mitotane + Upadacitinib

Severity: Major

Mitotane and Upadacitinib: 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-lasting effect and can substantially lower upadacitinib exposure. This may cause loss of efficacy.

What this interaction means in plain words

Mitotane and Upadacitinib 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; Upadacitinib belongs to Musculoskeletal.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Mitotane induces CYP3A4, increasing upadacitinib metabolism.

What to do

Avoid the combination, as labeling advises against strong CYP3A inducers. Because induction persists for weeks after mitotane is stopped, monitor efficacy and consider an alternative therapy.

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 Upadacitinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Mitotane and Upadacitinib 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-lasting effect and can substantially lower upadacitinib exposure. This may cause loss of efficacy.

How serious is the interaction between Mitotane and Upadacitinib?

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, as labeling advises against strong CYP3A inducers. Because induction persists for weeks after mitotane is stopped, monitor efficacy and consider an alternative therapy.

What other medicines interact with Upadacitinib?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Upadacitinib with, for example, Abrocitinib, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Baricitinib. The full list is on the Upadacitinib page.

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