Drug Interaction Report

Using telaprevir together with rifAMPin is not recommended. Combining these medications may decrease the blood levels of telaprevir, which may reduce its effectiveness in treating hepatitis C. Your doctor may be able to prescribe alternatives that do not interact. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food can decrease the levels of rifAMPin in your body. Taking rifAMPin on an empty stomach (at least 30 minutes before or 2 hours after a meal) will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking rifAMPin because alcohol use may increase the risk of damage to your liver. It is important to seek immediate medical care if you experience any severe side effects or symptoms of liver damage such as fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash, itching, loss of appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, dark colored urine, and/or yellowing of the skin or eyes. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Food significantly increases the absorption of telaprevir. Within 30 minutes before you take each dose of telaprevir, you should eat a meal or snack containing approximately 20 grams of fat. Taking it on an empty stomach may lead to inadequate blood levels and reduced effectiveness of the medication. Examples of some foods that could be taken with telaprevir include: bagel with cream cheese; half cup of nuts; 3 tablespoons of peanut butter; 1 cup of ice cream; 2 ounces of American or cheddar cheese; 2 ounces of potato chips; or half cup of trail mix. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have additional questions about how to take telaprevir.