Abacavir and Methadone: interaction and safety
This source-based reference is not a personal treatment recommendation. The relevance and management of an interaction depend on the exact products, route, dose and clinical situation.
Interaction mechanism
Antiretroviral treatment can lower methadone exposure and may precipitate withdrawal.
Clinical significance and safety
Abacavir is specifically listed among antiretrovirals associated with increased methadone clearance or lower methadone levels. Reduced opioid effect or withdrawal can follow, so a clinician should monitor the response when antiretroviral treatment changes. Do not independently change either treatment.
Using this information
This is a source-based reference record, not a recommendation to combine, stop or change medicines. A missing interaction record does not establish safe use. A qualified healthcare professional should consider the exact products, doses, other medicines and individual health circumstances.