Does Exemestane Interact with Ketoconazole?
Exemestane and Ketoconazole have a minor drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Potent CYP 3A4 inhibitor with no significant effect on exemestane pharmacokinetics in clinical study. The mechanism involves cyp 3a4 inhibition. 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
- Minor
- Exemestane Class
- Aromatase Inhibitor
- Ketoconazole Class
- Azole Antifungal
- Management
- Generally manageable
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Exemestane and Ketoconazole occurs because cyp 3a4 inhibition. Clinically, this means potent cyp 3a4 inhibitor with no significant effect on exemestane pharmacokinetics in clinical study. This is classified as a minor interaction with generally low clinical significance, though your healthcare provider should still be informed that you are taking both medications.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Exemestane and your doctor is considering prescribing Ketoconazole (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
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider