Can cyclosporine (CsA) and ondansetron be taken together?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 11, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Cyclosporine (CsA) and ondansetron can generally be taken together, but it is crucial to exercise caution and monitor for potential interactions, particularly those affecting the cytochrome P450 system and QT interval prolongation. The primary concern with combining these medications is the potential for drug interactions that could lead to increased levels of cyclosporine in the blood, as cyclosporine is metabolized by cytochrome P450, particularly P450 3A4 1. However, ondansetron is not known to significantly induce or inhibit this enzyme to a degree that would necessitate dose adjustments of cyclosporine based on the provided evidence. Key considerations when taking these medications together include:

  • Monitoring cyclosporine levels to avoid toxicity, as the therapeutic index of cyclosporine is narrow 1.
  • Being aware of the potential for QT interval prolongation, although this is more directly associated with ondansetron and not explicitly mentioned in the context of cyclosporine interactions in the provided study 1.
  • Informing healthcare providers about all medications being taken to minimize risks of adverse interactions. Given the information from the British Association of Dermatologists guidelines for the safe and effective prescribing of oral ciclosporin in dermatology 1, it's essential to consult up-to-date references for possible drug interactions whenever concomitant medications are used.

From the Research

Cyclosporine and Ondansetron Interaction

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the interaction between cyclosporine (CsA) and ondansetron.
  • The studies primarily focus on the nephrotoxicity of cyclosporine, its mechanisms, and its effects on renal function 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • None of the studies mention ondansetron or its potential interaction with cyclosporine.
  • Therefore, it is not possible to determine the safety of taking cyclosporine and ondansetron together based on the provided evidence.

Nephrotoxicity of Cyclosporine

  • Cyclosporine is known to cause nephrotoxicity, which can lead to renal dysfunction and damage 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The mechanisms of cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity involve oxidative stress, autophagy, and signaling pathways 6.
  • The studies suggest that cyclosporine can cause both acute and chronic nephrotoxicity, with chronic nephrotoxicity potentially leading to end-stage renal disease 3, 5.

Potential Considerations

  • When considering the use of cyclosporine, it is essential to monitor renal function and adjust the dosage accordingly to minimize the risk of nephrotoxicity 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • However, without specific information on the interaction between cyclosporine and ondansetron, it is not possible to provide guidance on their concurrent use.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

Cyclosporine nephrotoxicity.

Toxicologic pathology, 1986

Research

Nephrotoxic aspects of cyclosporine.

Transplantation proceedings, 2004

Research

Cyclosporine nephrotoxicity.

Transplantation proceedings, 2004

Research

Cyclosporine nephrotoxicity.

Seminars in nephrology, 2003

Research

Mechanism of cyclosporine A nephrotoxicity: Oxidative stress, autophagy, and signalings.

Food and chemical toxicology : an international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association, 2018

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.