Drug interactions
Nifedipine + Saquinavir
Severity: Major
Nifedipine and Saquinavir: 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
Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise nifedipine exposure, increasing hypotension and edema. Saquinavir also carries QT and PR prolongation risks, which adds to the need for careful monitoring.
What this interaction means in plain words
Nifedipine and Saquinavir 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.
Why it happens
Inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism of nifedipine by saquinavir and ritonavir.
What to do
Begin nifedipine at the lowest available dose and titrate to blood pressure. Monitor ECG and blood pressure, and reduce the nifedipine dose if hypotension occurs.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Nifedipine with Saquinavir?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Nifedipine and Saquinavir 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. Saquinavir, usually given with ritonavir, inhibits CYP3A4 and can raise nifedipine exposure, increasing hypotension and edema. Saquinavir also carries QT and PR prolongation risks, which adds to the need for careful monitoring.
How serious is the interaction between Nifedipine and Saquinavir?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Begin nifedipine at the lowest available dose and titrate to blood pressure. Monitor ECG and blood pressure, and reduce the nifedipine dose if hypotension occurs.
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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