Pimozide and Ritonavir: Drug Interaction Guide
Quick answer: This is a major interaction — avoid combining Pimozide and Ritonavir unless specifically directed by your doctor.
How Pimozide interacts with Ritonavir
Ritonavir is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor that markedly increases pimozide plasma concentrations, causing QT prolongation and risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.
What you should do
Contraindicated combination. If antipsychotic is needed during antiretroviral therapy, use risperidone or quetiapine with dose adjustment and QT monitoring.
Key facts
Severity
Major — avoid combination
Mechanism
Ritonavir is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor that markedly increases pimozide plasma concentrations, causing QT prolongation a...
Action
Contraindicated combination. If antipsychotic is needed during antiretroviral therapy, use risperidone or quetiapine wit...
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Pimozide and Ritonavir together?
No — this combination should generally be avoided. Contraindicated combination. If antipsychotic is needed during antiretroviral therapy, use risperidone or quetiapine with dose adjustment and QT monitoring.
What is the severity of this interaction?
The interaction between Pimozide and Ritonavir is classified as Major — avoid combination. Ritonavir is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor that markedly increases pimozide plasma concentrations, causing QT prolongation and risk of torsades de pointes and sudden cardiac death.
What should I do if I'm prescribed both?
Contraindicated combination. If antipsychotic is needed during antiretroviral therapy, use risperidone or quetiapine with dose adjustment and QT 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.