Does Busulfan Interact with Itraconazole?
Busulfan and Itraconazole have a major drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Reduced busulfan clearance when itraconazole administered concomitantly with high-dose busulfan, increasing risk of busulfan toxicity. Monitor for signs of toxicity. The mechanism involves reduced busulfan clearance. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Major
- Busulfan Class
- Alkylating Drug
- Itraconazole Class
- Azole Antifungal
- Management
- Close medical supervision required
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Busulfan and Itraconazole occurs because reduced busulfan clearance. Clinically, this means reduced busulfan clearance when itraconazole administered concomitantly with high-dose busulfan, increasing risk of busulfan toxicity. monitor for signs of toxicity. This is classified as a major interaction, meaning it could cause serious harm if not properly managed. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust dosages, substitute one medication, or increase monitoring frequency.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Busulfan and your doctor is considering prescribing Itraconazole (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider