Does Prednisone Interact with Ritonavir?
Prednisone and Ritonavir have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. induce barbiturates, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin inhibit ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, indinavir, macrolide antibiotics such as erythromycin indinavir, erythromycin Ketoconazole Ketoconazole has been reported to decrease the metabolism of certain corticosteroids by up to 60%, leading to increased risk of corticosteroid side effects. 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
- Prednisone Class
- Corticosteroid
- Ritonavir Class
- Cytochrome P450 3A Inhibitor
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Prednisone and your doctor is considering prescribing Ritonavir (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