Drug interactions
Nifedipine + Pimozide
Severity: Major
Nifedipine and Pimozide: 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
Nifedipine is a CYP3A4 substrate with modest inhibitory activity and may raise pimozide levels. Higher pimozide exposure increases the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
What this interaction means in plain words
Nifedipine and Pimozide 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.
Nifedipine belongs to Cardiovascular; Pimozide belongs to Central Nervous System.
Why it happens
Possible inhibition of CYP3A4-mediated pimozide metabolism, leading to higher pimozide concentrations.
What to do
Avoid if possible and use an alternative antihypertensive. If combined, obtain ECG monitoring and keep the pimozide dose low.
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 Nifedipine
Other interactions of Pimozide
- Adagrasib + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amisulpride + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amitriptyline + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Amoxapine + Pimozide Contraindicated
- Anagrelide + Pimozide Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Nifedipine with Pimozide?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Nifedipine and Pimozide 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. Nifedipine is a CYP3A4 substrate with modest inhibitory activity and may raise pimozide levels. Higher pimozide exposure increases the risk of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.
How serious is the interaction between Nifedipine and Pimozide?
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 if possible and use an alternative antihypertensive. If combined, obtain ECG monitoring and keep the pimozide dose low.
What other medicines interact with Nifedipine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Nifedipine with, for example, Amifostine, Amlodipine-benazepril, Apalutamide. The full list is on the Nifedipine page.
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