Ciclosporin and Simvastatin: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Ciclosporin and Simvastatin unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Ciclosporin interacts with Simvastatin
Ciclosporin inhibits CYP3A4 and OATP1B1, raising simvastatin exposure up to 8-fold and markedly increasing the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
What you should do
Avoid the combination. If a statin is essential, use pravastatin or fluvastatin at the lowest effective dose with creatine kinase monitoring.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Ciclosporin inhibits CYP3A4 and OATP1B1, raising simvastatin exposure up to 8-fold and markedly increasing the risk of m...
Action
Avoid the combination. If a statin is essential, use pravastatin or fluvastatin at the lowest effective dose with creati...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ciclosporin and Simvastatin together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Avoid the combination. If a statin is essential, use pravastatin or fluvastatin at the lowest effective dose with creatine kinase monitoring.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Ciclosporin and Simvastatin is classified as Major — avoid combination. Ciclosporin inhibits CYP3A4 and OATP1B1, raising simvastatin exposure up to 8-fold and markedly increasing the risk of myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Avoid the combination. If a statin is essential, use pravastatin or fluvastatin at the lowest effective dose with creatine kinase monitoring. Always consult your prescribing clinician — do not stop or change medications without medical guidance.
Last reviewed: by iMedic Medical Editorial Team. Our editorial process.