Drug interactions
Naloxegol + Rifampicin
Severity: Major
Naloxegol and Rifampicin: 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
Rifampicin markedly lowers naloxegol levels, which can make the treatment of opioid-induced constipation ineffective.
What this interaction means in plain words
Naloxegol and Rifampicin 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.
Naloxegol belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Rifampicin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Strong CYP3A4 (and P-glycoprotein) induction by rifampicin increases naloxegol clearance.
What to do
Avoid the combination and use an alternative laxative approach during rifampicin 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?
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Other interactions of Naloxegol
- Clarithromycin + Naloxegol Contraindicated
- Itraconazole + Naloxegol Contraindicated
- Ketoconazole + Naloxegol Contraindicated
- Naloxegol + Posaconazole Contraindicated
- Naloxegol + Voriconazole Contraindicated
- Bupropion-naltrexone + Naloxegol Major
Other interactions of Rifampicin
- Cabotegravir + Rifampicin Contraindicated
- Delamanid + Rifampicin Contraindicated
- Doravirine + Rifampicin Contraindicated
- Ensitrelvir + Rifampicin Contraindicated
- Fostemsavir + Rifampicin Contraindicated
- Isavuconazole + Rifampicin Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Naloxegol with Rifampicin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Naloxegol and Rifampicin 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. Rifampicin markedly lowers naloxegol levels, which can make the treatment of opioid-induced constipation ineffective.
How serious is the interaction between Naloxegol and Rifampicin?
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 and use an alternative laxative approach during rifampicin therapy.
What other medicines interact with Naloxegol?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Naloxegol with, for example, Clarithromycin, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole. The full list is on the Naloxegol page.
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