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Drug interactions

Sofosbuvir + St john's wort

Severity: Major

Sofosbuvir and St john's wort: 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

St John's wort induces P-gp and is expected to lower sofosbuvir exposure. This may lead to hepatitis C treatment failure.

What this interaction means in plain words

Sofosbuvir and St john's wort 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.

Evidence level: Moderate

Why it happens

Induction of intestinal P-gp decreases sofosbuvir absorption.

What to do

Avoid combination; stop the herbal product before starting sofosbuvir.

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 Sofosbuvir with St john's wort?

MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Sofosbuvir and St john's wort 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. St John's wort induces P-gp and is expected to lower sofosbuvir exposure. This may lead to hepatitis C treatment failure.

How serious is the interaction between Sofosbuvir and St john's wort?

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 combination; stop the herbal product before starting sofosbuvir.

What other medicines interact with Sofosbuvir?

MediHelp also lists interactions of Sofosbuvir with, for example, Amiodarone, Apalutamide, Carbamazepine. The full list is on the Sofosbuvir page.

Full monographs, dosing and an interaction checker in the MediHelp app

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