Drug interactions
Tacrolimus + Vemurafenib
Severity: Major
Tacrolimus and Vemurafenib: 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
Both agents can prolong the QTc interval, so combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes. Vemurafenib may also induce CYP3A4 and lower tacrolimus levels.
What this interaction means in plain words
Tacrolimus and Vemurafenib 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.
Tacrolimus belongs to Miscellaneous; Vemurafenib belongs to Oncology.
Why it happens
Additive QT prolongation; vemurafenib may also modestly induce CYP3A4, altering tacrolimus exposure.
What to do
Obtain a baseline ECG and electrolytes and repeat ECGs during treatment. Monitor tacrolimus trough concentrations and adjust the dose accordingly.
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 Tacrolimus
- Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Bcg vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cidofovir + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Cyclosporin + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Influenza virus vaccine quadrivalent intranasal + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
- Measles mumps and rubella vaccine live + Tacrolimus Contraindicated
Other interactions of Vemurafenib
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Tacrolimus with Vemurafenib?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Tacrolimus and Vemurafenib 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 agents can prolong the QTc interval, so combined use may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsades de pointes. Vemurafenib may also induce CYP3A4 and lower tacrolimus levels.
How serious is the interaction between Tacrolimus and Vemurafenib?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Obtain a baseline ECG and electrolytes and repeat ECGs during treatment. Monitor tacrolimus trough concentrations and adjust the dose accordingly.
What other medicines interact with Tacrolimus?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Tacrolimus with, for example, Adenovirus types 4 and 7 live, Bcg vaccine live, Cidofovir. The full list is on the Tacrolimus page.
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