Does Gemfibrozil Interact with Irinotecan Hydrochloride?
Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan Hydrochloride have a contraindicated drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. UGT1A1 inhibitor may increase systemic exposure to irinotecan or SN-38. Do not administer unless no therapeutic alternatives. The mechanism involves ugt1a1 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
- Contraindicated
- Gemfibrozil Class
- Peroxisome Proliferator Receptor alpha Agonist
- Management
- Do not take together
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Gemfibrozil and Irinotecan Hydrochloride occurs because ugt1a1 inhibition. Clinically, this means ugt1a1 inhibitor may increase systemic exposure to irinotecan or sn-38. do not administer unless no therapeutic alternatives. Because of the severity of this interaction, these medications are contraindicated — meaning they should not be taken together under any circumstances. If you are currently taking both, contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss alternatives.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Gemfibrozil and your doctor is considering prescribing Irinotecan Hydrochloride (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 about alternative medications that do not interact with your current regimen
- Ask how frequently you should be monitored while these are co-prescribed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider