Drug interactions
Paclitaxel + Verapamil
Severity: Moderate
Paclitaxel and Verapamil: moderate 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
Verapamil inhibits P-glycoprotein and may increase paclitaxel exposure, potentially worsening myelosuppression and neuropathy. The clinical significance is uncertain but relevant given paclitaxel's narrow therapeutic index.
What this interaction means in plain words
Paclitaxel and Verapamil can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Paclitaxel belongs to Oncology; Verapamil belongs to Cardiovascular.
Why it happens
Verapamil inhibits P-gp efflux of paclitaxel and may modestly inhibit its CYP3A4 metabolism.
What to do
Monitor blood counts and signs of neuropathy during paclitaxel therapy. Consider an alternative antihypertensive if toxicity develops.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Verapamil
- Dofetilide + Verapamil Contraindicated
- Flibanserin + Verapamil Contraindicated
- Lomitapide + Verapamil Contraindicated
- Lonafarnib + Verapamil Contraindicated
- Pimozide + Verapamil Contraindicated
- Acebutolol + Verapamil Major
Other interactions of Paclitaxel
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Paclitaxel with Verapamil?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Paclitaxel and Verapamil can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Verapamil inhibits P-glycoprotein and may increase paclitaxel exposure, potentially worsening myelosuppression and neuropathy. The clinical significance is uncertain but relevant given paclitaxel's narrow therapeutic index.
How serious is the interaction between Paclitaxel and Verapamil?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor blood counts and signs of neuropathy during paclitaxel therapy. Consider an alternative antihypertensive if toxicity develops.
What other medicines interact with Verapamil?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Verapamil with, for example, Dofetilide, Flibanserin, Lomitapide. The full list is on the Verapamil page.
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