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Drug interactions

Propafenone + Sunitinib

Severity: Major

Propafenone and Sunitinib: major interaction.

Last updated Sources: Health Canada product monograph

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

Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, and combining them increases the chance of torsades de pointes and other ventricular arrhythmias. Risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance or underlying heart disease.

What this interaction means in plain words

Propafenone and Sunitinib 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.

Propafenone belongs to Cardiovascular; Sunitinib belongs to Oncology.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Additive QT prolongation through cardiac ion channel effects (pharmacodynamic).

What to do

Avoid if an alternative antiarrhythmic exists. If combined, check baseline and follow-up ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.

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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References

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Propafenone with Sunitinib?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Propafenone and Sunitinib 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. Both drugs can prolong the QT interval, and combining them increases the chance of torsades de pointes and other ventricular arrhythmias. Risk is higher with electrolyte disturbance or underlying heart disease.

How serious is the interaction between Propafenone and Sunitinib?

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 an alternative antiarrhythmic exists. If combined, check baseline and follow-up ECG and correct potassium and magnesium.

What other medicines interact with Propafenone?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Propafenone with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Nilotinib. The full list is on the Propafenone page.

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