Does Ketoconazole Interact with Ciclesonide?
Ketoconazole and Ciclesonide have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Co-administration of ciclesonide with ketoconazole, a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased exposure (AUC) of des-ciclesonide approximately 3.6-fold at steady state. The mechanism involves inhibition of cytochrome p450 3a4. 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
- Ketoconazole Class
- Azole Antifungal
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Ketoconazole and Ciclesonide occurs because inhibition of cytochrome p450 3a4. Clinically, this means co-administration of ciclesonide with ketoconazole, a potent cyp3a4 inhibitor, increased exposure (auc) of des-ciclesonide approximately 3.6-fold at steady state. 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 Ketoconazole and your doctor is considering prescribing Ciclesonide (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