Drug interactions
Ritonavir + Trastuzumab emtansine
Severity: Major
Ritonavir and Trastuzumab emtansine: 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
Ritonavir may raise exposure to DM1, the cytotoxic component released from trastuzumab emtansine. This can increase toxicities such as hepatotoxicity, thrombocytopenia and neuropathy.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ritonavir and Trastuzumab emtansine 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.
Ritonavir belongs to Anti Virals; Trastuzumab emtansine belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Potent CYP3A4 inhibition by ritonavir reduces metabolism of DM1.
What to do
Avoid if possible and consider an alternative antiretroviral regimen. If unavoidable, delay the infusion until ritonavir has cleared and monitor closely for toxicity.
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 Trastuzumab emtansine
Other interactions of Ritonavir
- Alfuzosin + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Amiodarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Avanafil + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Colchicine + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Dronedarone + Ritonavir Contraindicated
- Eletriptan + Ritonavir Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ritonavir with Trastuzumab emtansine?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ritonavir and Trastuzumab emtansine 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. Ritonavir may raise exposure to DM1, the cytotoxic component released from trastuzumab emtansine. This can increase toxicities such as hepatotoxicity, thrombocytopenia and neuropathy.
How serious is the interaction between Ritonavir and Trastuzumab emtansine?
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 consider an alternative antiretroviral regimen. If unavoidable, delay the infusion until ritonavir has cleared and monitor closely for toxicity.
What other medicines interact with Trastuzumab emtansine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Trastuzumab emtansine with, for example, Clarithromycin, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole. The full list is on the Trastuzumab emtansine page.
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