Does Hydrocortisone Interact with Rifabutin?
Hydrocortisone and Rifabutin have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. CYP3A4 inducer may decrease serum hydrocortisone concentrations and increase risk of adrenal crisis; may require dose increase. The mechanism involves induction of cyp3a4 metabolism. 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
- Moderate
- Hydrocortisone Class
- Corticosteroid
- Rifabutin Class
- Rifamycin Antimycobacterial
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Hydrocortisone and Rifabutin occurs because induction of cyp3a4 metabolism. Clinically, this means cyp3a4 inducer may decrease serum hydrocortisone concentrations and increase risk of adrenal crisis; may require dose increase. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Hydrocortisone and your doctor is considering prescribing Rifabutin (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 whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider