Drug Interaction Report

Clarithromycin may significantly increase the blood levels of nilotinib. This can increase the risk and/or severity of side effects such as anemia, bleeding problems, infections, and irregular heart rhythm. You may not be able to take nilotinib during treatment with clarithromycin, or you may need a dose adjustment and/or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Your doctor may already be aware of the risks, but has determined that this is the best course of treatment for you and has taken appropriate precautions and is monitoring you closely for any potential complications. Contact your doctor if you develop paleness, fatigue, dizziness, unusual bleeding or bruising, or signs and symptoms of infection such as fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, and pain or burning during urination. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations. 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.

Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with nilotinib unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Grapefruit juice can increase the blood levels of nilotinib to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with nilotinib. Food may also increase the blood levels of nilotinib. Therefore, you should take nilotinib on an empty stomach, meaning no food should be eaten for at least two hours before or one hour after taking nilotinib. 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.

Information for this minor interaction is available on the professional version.