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Drug interactions

Oxaliplatin + Palifermin

Severity: Major

Oxaliplatin and Palifermin: 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

Palifermin stimulates epithelial cell growth, which may make mucosal cells more sensitive to cytotoxic chemotherapy when given close in time. Giving it within 24 hours of chemotherapy has been associated with worse and longer oral mucositis.

What this interaction means in plain words

Oxaliplatin and Palifermin 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.

Oxaliplatin belongs to Oncology; Palifermin belongs to Miscellaneous.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Palifermin-induced epithelial proliferation increases sensitivity of mucosal cells to cytotoxic agents.

What to do

Do not give palifermin within 24 hours before, during infusion of, or within 24 hours after oxaliplatin. Schedule doses outside this window.

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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Frequently asked questions

Can I take Oxaliplatin with Palifermin?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Oxaliplatin and Palifermin 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. Palifermin stimulates epithelial cell growth, which may make mucosal cells more sensitive to cytotoxic chemotherapy when given close in time. Giving it within 24 hours of chemotherapy has been associated with worse and longer oral mucositis.

How serious is the interaction between Oxaliplatin and Palifermin?

MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Do not give palifermin within 24 hours before, during infusion of, or within 24 hours after oxaliplatin. Schedule doses outside this window.

What other medicines interact with Oxaliplatin?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Oxaliplatin with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal. The full list is on the Oxaliplatin page.

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