Drug Interaction Report

Metronidazole Topical and Levoketoconazole: Interaction Details

AI-assisted, pharmacist-reviewed · Source data updated Aug 8, 2026 · Sources: FDA labeling, DDInter 2.0, cited literature

Metronidazole Topical

MetroCream® MetroGel MetroGel® MetroLotion® Noritate® Cream Nydamax Rosadan
+

Levoketoconazole

Recorlev Recorlev®
Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD, BCPS
Medically reviewed by
Updated Aug 8, 2026
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Interaction severity
Contraindicated
These should generally not be used together.
How we grade severity & evidence

Severity levels

  • Contraindicated: These should generally not be used together.
  • Major: Potentially serious — often needs a change or close monitoring.
  • Moderate: Can be significant — usually manageable with monitoring.
  • Minor: Usually limited clinical impact.

Evidence grades

  • Established: Well documented — supported by controlled studies or strong clinical data.
  • Probable: Good supporting evidence, though not definitively proven.
  • Suspected: Some evidence suggests this interaction, but it is not well established.
  • Possible: Limited or conflicting evidence; the interaction may occur.
  • Theoretical: Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Ratings come from the documented interaction literature and are reviewed by a pharmacist. They describe the documented risk of the combination, not what will necessarily happen to you — your dose, timing, and health picture all matter.

Of 242 documented Metronidazole Topical interactions, 15 are rated contraindicated — including this one.
Worried about symptoms right now? Contact your pharmacist or prescriber, or call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 (US). Call 911 for an emergency.
Onset
unspecified
Evidence
theoretical
Severity
Contraindicated

What happens

An increased risk of QT interval prolongation and an increased risk of torsade de pointes

Interaction Deep Dive

Levoketoconazole use is associated with dose-related QT interval prolongation. Coadministration of levoketoconazole with other drugs that can cause QT prolongation associated with ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes, is contraindicated1.

Why it happens (mechanism)

Additive QT interval prolongation

Common questions

Can I take Metronidazole Topical and Levoketoconazole together?

An increased risk of QT interval prolongation and an increased risk of torsade de pointes Always confirm with your pharmacist or prescriber before making any change.

How serious is the Metronidazole Topical and Levoketoconazole interaction?

It is rated contraindicated. These should generally not be used together.

How quickly could this interaction happen?

The documented onset is "unspecified". The timing of this interaction is not well characterized.

How strong is the evidence for this interaction?

The evidence is graded "theoretical". Predicted from the drugs' pharmacology; not yet confirmed in people.

Questions for your pharmacist

  • Does my dose of Metronidazole Topical or Levoketoconazole need adjusting while I take them together?
  • What symptoms should prompt me to call you or my prescriber right away?
  • Does the timing of my doses matter for this combination?
  • Is there a safer alternative to one of these medications for me?

References (1)

  1. Product Information: RECORLEV(R) oral tablets, levoketoconazole oral tablets. Xeris Pharmaceuticals Inc (per FDA), Chicago, IL, 2023. DailyMed
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This information is for education, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Do not start, stop, or change any medication without talking to your pharmacist or prescriber.