Kaletra (lopinavir/ritonavir)

Lopinavir/ritonavir is commercially available as film-coated tablets containing 100 mg of lopinavir and 25 mg of ritonavir (100 mg of lopinavir/25 mg of ritonavir) or 200 mg of lopinavir and 50 mg of ritonavir (200 mg of lopinavir/50 mg of ritonavir).

Lopinavir/ritonavir is also commercially available as an oral solution containing 80 mg of lopinavir per mL and 20 mg of ritonavir per mL (80 mg of lopinavir/20 mg of ritonavir per mL).

Dosage is expressed in terms of both lopinavir and ritonavir.

The fixed combination of lopinavir and ritonavir (lopinavir/ritonavir) is administered orally once or twice daily.

Not recommended as a once-daily regimen of lopinavir/ritonavir in adults infected with HIV-1 strains with 3 or more of the following mutations associated with lopinavir resistance: L10F/I/R/V, K20M/N/R, L24I, L33F, M36I, I47V, G48V, I54L/T/V, V82A/C/F/S/T, or I84V. Such patients should receive a twice-daily regimen of lopinavir/ritonavir.

Not recommended as a once-daily regimen of lopinavir/ritonavir in patients younger than 18 years of age.

Not recommended as a once-daily regimen of lopinavir/ritonavir in pregnant women.

Not recommended as a once-daily regimen of lopinavir/ritonavir in patients receiving concomitant therapy with efavirenz, nelfinavir, or nevirapine or in those receiving certain anticonvulsants (carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin).

Lopinavir/ritonavir inhibits CYP3A and may increase plasma concentrations of drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A. Clinically important drug interactions, some leading to serious and/or life-threatening adverse effects, may occur due to higher exposures of certain drugs if used concomitantly with lopinavir/ritonavir.

Initiation of drugs that inhibit or induce CYP3A may increase or decrease concentrations of lopinavir/ritonavir, respectively. Clinically important adverse reactions may occur due to higher exposures of lopinavir/ritonavir. Loss of virologic effect and possible development of resistance can occur if lopinavir/ritonavir is used concomitantly with certain drugs.

Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during lopinavir/ritonavir therapy. Clinicians should review all drugs the patient is receiving and monitor for adverse effects during lopinavir/ritonavir therapy.

The following drug interactions are based on studies using lopinavir and/or ritonavir. When using the fixed combination of lopinavir and ritonavir (lopinavir/ritonavir), consider the drug interactions associated with both agents.

The following list is a guide and is not comprehensive of all drugs that may interact with lopinavir/ritonavir. Consider appropriate references for comprehensive information.

Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

Anti-Retrovirals/Atidarsagene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atidarsagene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of apheresed cells.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of atidarsagene autotemcel.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discontinue antiretrovirals for at least one month prior to mobilization (or the expected duration of time needed for elimination of the medication) until all cycles of apheresis are completed. If a patient requires antiretrovirals for HIV prophylaxis, then confirm a negative HIV test before beginning mobilization and apheresis of CD34+ cells.

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications may interfere with the manufacturing of atidarsagene autotemcel therapy.(1)

Anti-Retrovirals/Elivaldogene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Elivaldogene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of apheresed cells.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of elivaldogene autotemcel.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discontinue antiretrovirals for at least one month prior to mobilization and until all cycles of apheresis are completed. If a patient requires antiretrovirals for HIV prophylaxis, then confirm a negative HIV test before beginning mobilization and apheresis of CD34+ cells.

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications may interfere with the manufacturing of elivaldogene autotemcel therapy.(1)

Anti-Retrovirals/Etuvetidigene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etuvetidigene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating HIV-based lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of the apheresed cells.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of etuvetidigene autotemcel.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients should not take antiretrovirals for at least one month prior to mobilization and until at least 7 days after etuvetidigene autotemcel infusion.(1) If a patient requires antiretroviral agents for HIV post-exposure prophylaxis, etuvetidigene autotemcel treatment should be delayed until HIV testing is negative at 6 months post-exposure.(1)

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications may interfere with the manufacturing of etuvetidigene autotemcel therapy.(1)

Anti-Retrovirals/Lovotibeglogene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lovotibeglogene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of apheresed cells.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of lovotibeglogene autotemcel.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discontinue antiretrovirals for at least one month prior to mobilization and until all cycles of apheresis are completed.(1) There are some long-acting antiretroviral medications that may require a longer duration of discontinuation for elimination of the medication. If a patient is taking anti-retrovirals for HIV prophylaxis, confirm a negative test for HIV before beginning mobilization and apheresis of CD34+ cells.(1)

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications may interfere with the manufacturing of lovotibeglogene autotemcel therapy.(1)

Anti-Retrovirals; Hydroxyurea/Betibeglogene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Betibeglogene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of apheresed cells. Hydroxyurea may interfere with hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) mobilization of CD34+ cells.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of hydroxyurea before mobilization may result in unsuccessful stem cell mobilization. Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of betibeglogene autotemcel.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discontinue antiretrovirals and hydroxyurea for at least one month prior to mobilization and until all cycles of apheresis are completed. If a patient requires antiretrovirals for HIV prophylaxis, then confirm a negative HIV test before beginning mobilization and apheresis of CD34+ cells.

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications and hydroxyurea may interfere with the manufacturing of betibeglogene autotemcel therapy.(1)

Antiviral Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lovastatin; Simvastatin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that are metabolized by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated HMG levels, which may increase the risk of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis.(1-18)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Do not use simvastatin with protease inhibitors,(1-3) with or without cobicistat(2,3) or ritonavir. The manufacturer of simvastatin states that the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. The manufacturer of lovastatin states that the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated, including protease inhibitors, with or without cobicistat or ritonavir.(4, 25) The manufacturers of atazanavir,(5) cobicistat,(18) darunavir,(6) fosamprenavir,(7) indinavir,(8) the combination of lopinavir with ritonavir,(9) the combination of nirmatrelvir with ritonavir,(17) saquinavir,(11) and tipranavir(12) state that concurrent use of lovastatin or simvastatin is contraindicated. The manufacturer of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir recommends discontinuing use of lovastatin and simvastatin at least 12 hours prior to initiation of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir and holding statin therapy until 5 days after completing nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy.(17) The manufacturers of amprenavir(13) and nelfinavir(14) state that lovastatin and simvastatin should not be used with these agents. It would be prudent to utilize fluvastatin in patients treated with protease inhibitors who require HMG-CoA reductase therapy.

DISCUSSION: A study in 15 subjects found that darunavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg twice daily) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under curve (AUC) of atorvastatin (10 mg daily) by 64% and 15%, when compared to atorvastatin (40 mg daily) administered alone. Atorvastatin minimum concentration (Cmin) increased by 81% during concurrent therapy.(6) A study in 16 subjects found that fosamprenavir increased atorvastatin Cmax and AUC by 304% and 130%, respectively. Atorvastatin Cmin decreased by 10%.(7) A study in 12 subjects found that lopinavir increased atorvastatin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 4.67-fold, 5.88-fold, and 2.28-fold, respectively. Atorvastatin had no clinically significant effect on lopinavir pharmacokinetics.(9) A study in 12 subjects found that lopinavir increased pravastatin Cmax and AUC by 1.26-fold and 1.33-fold, respectively. Pravastatin had no clinically significant effect on lopinavir pharmacokinetics.(9) A randomized, controlled trial in healthy subjects examined the effects of a combination of ritonavir and saquinavir on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin and the effects of pravastatin on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics. The combination of ritonavir and saquinavir decreased pravastatin levels by 50% and increased atorvastatin and simvastatin levels by 79% and 3059%, respectively. Pravastatin had no statistically significant effect on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics.(14) An open-label study in healthy subjects examined the effects of nelfinavir on atorvastatin and simvastatin pharmacokinetics. Nelfinavir increased atorvastatin AUC, Cmax, and Cmin by 74%, 122%, and 39%, respectively. Nelfinavir increased simvastatin AUC and Cmax by 505% and 517%, respectively. There was no effect on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics when compared to historical controls.(14,16) A study in 14 healthy HIV-seronegative adults found that nelfinavir decreased median pravastatin AUC by 46.5%. Nelfinavir also decreased median pravastatin Cmax by 40.1%.(19) In a study of 25 HIV-positive patients, 13 patients were treated with pravastatin and 12 patients were treated with fluvastatin. Within the 25 patients, 8 patients were also on concomitant indinavir-containing highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Indinavir plasma levels were not significantly influenced by pravastatin or fluvastatin therapy.(20) Rhabdomyolysis has been reported during concurrent use of simvastatin and nelfinavir(21) or ritonavir.(22) Lovastatin was tested in a single dose, open-labeled, randomized crossover study of ten healthy volunteers. Grapefruit juice increased Cmax of lovastatin 12-fold, and the area under the AUC 15-fold. Likewise, the active metabolite lovastatin acid demonstrated a 4-fold increase in Cmax and a 5-fold increase in AUC. Lovastatin and lovastatin acid concentrations and AUC increased in each subject.(23) A study found that itraconazole (200 mg for 4 days) increased lovastatin (40 mg on day 4)Cmax by greater than 25-fold and lovastatin acid AUC and Cmax by greater than 20-fold and 13-fold. A study found that itraconazole (100 mg for 4 days) increased lovastatin (40 mg on day 4) AUC and Cmax by greater than 14.8-fold and lovastatin acid AUC and Cmax by 15.4 and 11.5-fold.(25) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Atazanavir; Lopinavir; Simeprevir/Rosuvastatin (> 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: How atazanavir and lopinavir increase rosuvastatin levels is not known. Simeprevir may increase the absorption of rosuvastatin by inhibiting OATP1B1.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of atazanavir,(3) lopinavir,(4) or simeprevir(2) may result in elevated levels of rosuvastatin, which could result in rhabdomyolysis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients on rosuvastatin with ABCG2 polymorphisms leading to decreased or poor BCRP transporter function may have increased rosuvastatin concentrations and risk of myopathy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving protease inhibitors, consider the use of fluvastatin. If concurrent rosuvastatin is required, limit the dose of rosuvastatin to 10 mg daily or less with careful monitoring.(1,2) The Australian manufacturer of rosuvastatin states that the starting dose of rosuvastatin should not exceed 5 mg daily when used with atazanavir, lopinavir, or simeprevir.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 6 healthy subjects, administration of atazanavir/ritonavir increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of rosuvastatin (10 mg) by 213% and 600%, respectively.(6) In a study of healthy subjects, concurrent use of lopinavir/ritonavir (400 mg-100 mg) and rosuvastatin (20 mg) increased the AUC and Cmax of rosuvastatin 2.1-fold and 4.7-fold, respectively. There were no effects on lopinavir/ritonavir levels.(4,7) In an open-label study of 22 HIV-infected patients, concurrent use of lopinavir/ritonavir and rosuvastatin appears to have increased the AUC of rosuvastatin by 1.6-fold when compared to healthy volunteers. There were no effects on lopinavir/ritonavir levels.(8) In a study in 16 subjects, simeprevir (150 mg daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of rosuvastatin (10 mg single dose) by 3.17-fold and 2.81-fold, respectively.(2) In a study, simeprevir (150 mg daily for 7 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of rosuvastatin (10 mg single dose) by 2.8-fold (1.7-2.6) and 3.2-fold (2.6-3.9), respectively. (1)

Bcrp Inhibitors/Topotecan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of the BCRP transporter may increase the intestinal absorption and hepatic uptake of topotecan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of topotecan with an inhibitor of BCRP may result in elevated levels of topotecan and signs of toxicity. These signs may include but are not limited to anemia, diarrhea, and thrombocytopenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of topotecan states that the use of topotecan and BCRP inhibitors should be avoided. If concurrent use is warranted, carefully monitor patients for adverse effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, the combined use of elacridar (100 mg to 1000 mg), a BCRP and P-gp inhibitor, increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of topotecan approximately 2.5-fold.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, clopidogrel, curcumin, danicopan, dasabuvir, elbasvir, enasidenib, ensitrelvir, febuxostat, fostamatinib, fostemsavir, glecaprevir, grazoprevir, lazertinib, oteseconazole, pacritinib, paritaprevir, pibrentasvir, pirtobrutinib, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, roxadustat, tafamidis, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, turmeric, vadadustat, velpatasvir, voxilaprevir, and zongertinib.(2,3)

Cyp1a2 Inducers/Florquinitau F-18

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Florquinitau F-18 is a CYP1A2 substrate. CYP1A2 inducers may decrease the florquinitau F-18 parent fraction in plasma and reduce brain regional signal intensity.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of CYP1A2 inducers with florquinitau F-18 may interfere with the interpretation of imaging results using fluoroestradiol F-18.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of florquinitau F-18 states use of CYP1A2 inducers should be avoided. Patients should stop CYP1A2 inducers at least 7 days prior to diagnostic testing with florquinitau F-18.(1)

DISCUSSION: Florquinitau F-18 is a CYP1A2 substrate. CYP1A2 inducers may decrease the florquinitau F-18 parent fraction in plasma and reduce brain regional signal intensity.(1) CYP1A2 inducers linked include: aminoglutethimide, asciminib, carbamazepine, fosphenytoin, leflunomide, marijuana smoking, montelukast, moricizine, nelfinavir, olverembatinib, omeprazole, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, ritonavir, teriflunomide, and valproic acid.(2,3)

Dual Inducers Of Cyp2c9 & Cyp3a4/Deuruxolitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Drugs that are both strong CYP3A4 and strong or moderate inducers of CYP2C9 may increase the metabolism of deuruxolitinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with a strong CYP3A4 and strong or moderate CYP2C9 dual inducer may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of deuruxolitinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states to avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 and strong or moderate CYP2C9 inducers.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study with rifampin (a strong CYP3A4 and moderate CYP2C9 inducer), deuruxolitinib area-under-curve (AUC) decreased by 78% and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 41% following concomitant use of multiple doses of 600 mg rifampin and a single dose of 12mg deuruxolitinib (1.5 times the licensed 8 mg dose).(1) Drugs that are dual strong CYP3A4 and strong or moderate CYP2C9 inducers linked to this monograph include: enzalutamide, rifampin and ritonavir.(2-3)

Dual Strong Cyp3a4 & P-Gp Inhibitors/Ensartinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ensartinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and is transported by P-glycoprotein (P-gp).(1) Inhibitors of CYP3A4 and P-gp may inhibit the absorption and metabolism of ensartinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with dual inhibitors of CYP3A4 and P-gp may result in elevated systemic levels and toxicity from ensartinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of ensartinib states concurrent use with both P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ensartinib is predominately metabolized by CYP3A4 and is a P-gp substrate.(1) Dual P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, and tucatinib.(2,3)

Dual Strong Cyp3a4 And P-Gp Inhibitors/Daraxonrasib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Daraxonrasib is a substrate of CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of daraxonrasib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of dual strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of daraxonrasib, including dermatologic toxicity, stomatitis, GI perforation, and interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of daraxonrasib with agents that are both strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole 200 mg once daily (a strong CYP3A and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area under curve (AUC) of daraxonrasib by 5.1-fold.(1) Dual strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors include: clarithromycin, cobicistat, grapefruit, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mifepristone, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib.(2-3)

Hiv Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Rivaroxaban

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rivaroxaban is metabolized by CYP3A4 and is a substrate of the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux transport protein.(1-3) HIV protease inhibitors are CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors and may increase the absorption and decrease the elimination of rivaroxaban.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors may result in elevated levels and clinical effects of rivaroxaban, including an increased risk of bleeding.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for concurrent use of rivaroxaban and HIV protease inhibitors vary in different regions. The Australian(1) and Canadian(2) manufacturers of rivaroxaban state that the concurrent use of strong inhibitors of both P-gp and CYP3A4 with rivaroxaban is contraindicated. The UK manufacturer of rivaroxaban states that concurrent use of these agents is not recommended.(3) The US manufacturer of rivaroxaban states that concurrent use should be avoided.(4) The US manufacturer of atazanavir states that coadministration of atazanavir with ritonavir is not recommended. Coadministration of atazanavir alone should be monitored closely.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of rivaroxaban with ritonavir (600 mg twice daily) increased rivaroxaban area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.5-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively. There were also significant increases in pharmacodynamic effects.(1,2) HIV protease inhibitors linked to this monograph are: atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.

Hiv Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Sildenafil (For Pah)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The metabolism of sildenafil by CYP3A4 may be inhibited by the protease inhibitors and cobicistat.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of sildenafil with a protease inhibitor or cobicistat may result in elevated levels of sildenafil, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, syncope, visual changes, and priapism.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of atazanavir,(1) darunavir,(2) fosamprenavir,(3) indinavir,(4) lopinavir/ritonavir,(5) nelfinavir,(6) nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(7) saquinavir,(9) tipranavir,(10) cobicistat(11), and ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir(15) state that the concurrent use of sildenafil when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of Revatio states that concurrent use is not recommended.(12)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, administration of darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of sildenafil (25 mg) by 38% and 3%, respectively, when compared to the administration of a 100 mg single dose of sildenafil given without darunavir.(3) In a study in 6 HIV-infected males, indinavir (800 mg every 8 hours) increased the AUC and Cmax of indinavir by 11% and 48%, respectively. Sildenafil AUC increased by 340%.(4) The concurrent administration of ritonavir (400 mg twice daily) at steady state with sildenafil (100 mg single dose) resulted in increases in the sildenafil Cmax and AUC by 300% (4-fold) and 1000% (11-fold), respectively.(7,12-14) After 24 hours, plasma levels of sildenafil were still approximately 200 ng/ml (normally 5 ng/ml 24 hours post-dose).(14) In a study in 27 healthy volunteers, the concurrent use of saquinavir (1200 mg 3 times daily for 8 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of sildenafil (100 mg) by 210% and 140%, respectively.(9) Because a safe and effective dosage regimen for the use of sildenafil for PAH with concurrent protease inhibitor therapy has not been determined, the US manufacturer of the protease inhibitors state that concurrent use is contraindicated.(1-10,15)

Lopinavir-Ritonavir/Ombitasvir-Paritaprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir-ritonavir may inhibit the metabolism of paritaprevir by CYP3A4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lopinavir-ritonavir may result in increased levels of paritaprevir and toxicity from paritaprevir.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir(1) and ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir(2) states that coadministration with lopinavir/ritonavir is not recommended.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 18 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir (Technivie) increased paritaprevir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 4.76-fold, 6.1-fold, and 12.33-fold, respectively. In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (800/200 mg once daily) with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir (Technivie) increased paritaprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 1.78-fold, 3.55-fold, and 14.78-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 6 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir (Viekira Pak) increased paritaprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 2.04-fold, 2.17-fold, and 2.36-fold, respectively. Concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (800/200 mg once daily) with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir (Viekira Pak) increased paritaprevir AUC and Cmin by 1.87-fold and 8.23-fold, respectively.(2)

Moderate Cyp1a2 Inducers/Vorasidenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate CYP1A2 inducers may increase the metabolism of vorasidenib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inducer may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of vorasidenib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of vorasidenib states concurrent use with moderate CYP1A2 inducers should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Vorasidenib is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2.(1) Concurrent use of vorasidenib with phenytoin or rifampin (moderate CYP1A2 inducers) is predicted to decrease vorasidenib concentration maximum (Cmax) by 30% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 40%.(1) Moderate CYP1A2 inducers linked to this monograph include: fosphenytoin, leflunomide, nelfinavir, phenytoin, rifampin, ritonavir, and teriflunomide.(2)

Moderate Cyp3a4 Inducers/Daraxonrasib (< 400 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Daraxonrasib is a CYP3A4 substrate. Moderate CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of daraxonrasib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of a moderate inducer of CYP3A4 may decrease the levels and effectiveness of daraxonrasib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that concomitant use of moderate CYP3A4 inducers requires a dose increase of daraxonrasib to 400 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, daraxonrasib area-under-curve (AUC) is predicted to decrease by 50-84% with concomitant use of efavirenz 600 mg once daily and modafinil 400 mg once daily (moderate CYP3A4 inducers).(1) Moderate CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belzutifan, bosentan, cenobamate, dabrafenib, dipyrone, efavirenz, elagolix, etravirine, fexinidazole, lesinurad, lopinavir, lorlatinib, mavacamten, mitapivat, modafinil, nafcillin, pacritinib, pexidartinib, repotrectinib, rifabutin, telotristat, thioridazine, and tovorafenib.(2,3)

Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Atrasentan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors may increase the absorption and/or decrease the hepatic uptake of atrasentan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from atrasentan, including fluid retention and hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of atrasentan states that concurrent use of OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, atrasentan maximum concentration (Cmax) was 4.3 times higher and area-under-curve (AUC) was 3.8 times higher following coadministration of a single dose of 0.75 mg atrasentan with cyclosporine (OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitor) compared to atrasentan alone. OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, cyclosporine, eltrombopag, erythromycin, fostemsavir, gemfibrozil, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir, leflunomide, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir, resmetirom, ritonavir, roxadustat, saquinavir, simeprevir, telaprevir, teriflunomide, tipranavir, vadadustat, velpatasvir, voclosporin, and voxilaprevir.(1,2)

Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Elbasvir-Grazoprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of OATP1B1/3 may decrease the hepatocyte uptake and increase the plasma concentrations of elbasvir and grazoprevir.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an inhibitor of OATP1B1/3 may result in elevated levels of grazoprevir and an increased risk of ALT elevations.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of elbasvir-grazoprevir and OATP1B1/3 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1-2,4) If concurrent use is deemed medically necessary, monitor the patient for toxicity and elevated AST levels.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 10 subjects, atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of elbasvir (50 mg daily) by 4.15-fold, 4.76-fold, and 6.45-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on atazanavir levels.(1,2) In a study in 12 subjects, atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of grazoprevir (200 mg daily) by 6.24-fold, 10.58-fold, and 11.64-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on atazanavir levels.(1,2) In a study in 14 subjects, cyclosporine (400 mg single dose) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of elbasvir (50 mg daily) by 1.95-fold, 1.98-fold, and 2.21-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of grazoprevir (200 mg daily) increased by 17-fold, 15.21-fold, and 3.39-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on cyclosporine levels.(1,2) In a study in 10 subjects, darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of elbasvir (50 mg daily) by 1.67-fold, 1.66-fold, and 1.82-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on darunavir levels.(1,2) In a study in 13 subjects, darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of grazoprevir (200 mg daily) by 5.27-fold, 7.50-fold, and 8.05-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on darunavir levels.(1,2) In a study in 10 subjects, lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of elbasvir (50 mg daily) by 2.87-fold, 3.71-fold, and 4.58-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on lopinavir levels.(1,2) In a study in 13 subjects, lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of grazoprevir (200 mg daily) by 7.31-fold, 12.86-fold, and 21.70-fold, respectively. There were no clinically significant effects on lopinavir levels.(1,2) In single dose studies, rifampin increased levels of both elbasvir and grazoprevir. In a study in 14 subjects, rifampin (600 mg single IV dose) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of a single dose of elbasvir (50 mg) by 41%, 22%, and 31%, respectively. In a study in 14 subjects, rifampin (600 mg single oral dose) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of a single dose of elbasvir (50 mg) by 29%, 17%, and 21%, respectively. In a study in 12 subjects, rifampin (600 mg single IV dose) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of a single dose of grazoprevir (200 mg) by 10.94-fold, 10.21-fold, and 1.77-fold, respectively. In a study in 12 subjects, rifampin (600 mg single oral dose) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of a single dose of grazoprevir (200 mg) by 6.52-fold, 8.35-fold, and 1.61-fold, respectively.(1) OATP1B1/3 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, cyclosporine, darunavir, fostemsavir, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, roxadustat, saquinavir, tipranavir, vadadustat, and voclosporin.(1-3)

Oatp1b3 Inhibitors/Zavegepant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Zavegepant is a substrate of the organic anion transporting polypeptide 1B3 (OATP1B3) transporter. Inhibitors of OATP1B3 may increase zavegepant exposure.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B3 inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from zavegepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent administration of zavegepant with OATP1B3 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, rifampin (an OATP1B3 and NTCP inhibitor) at steady state increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of zavegepant by 2.3-fold and 2.2-fold. Since rifampin is also a CYP3A4 inducer and zavegepant is metabolized by CYP3A4, concurrent use of zavegepant with other OATP1B3 inhibitors that are not CYP3A4 inducers may have an even more significant effect on zavegepant exposure.(1) OATP1B3 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, cobicistat, cyclosporine, darolutamide, enasidenib, encorafenib, fostemsavir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, leflunomide, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, rifampin, ritonavir, teriflunomide, velpatasvir, voclosporin, and voxilaprevir.(2-9)

P-Gp Or Bcrp Inhibitors/Ubrogepant (> 50 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or BCRP may increase the absorption of ubrogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of ubrogepant with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein or BCRP may result in elevated levels of ubrogepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a dosage adjustment of ubrogepant when coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors. The dose of ubrogepant should not exceed 50 mg for initial dose. If a second dose of ubrogepant is needed, the dose should not exceed 50 mg.(1) For patients on concurrent therapy with vimseltinib and ubrogepant: the manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to ubrogepant.(3) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(4)

DISCUSSION: Ubrogepant is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP transporters. Use of P-gp or BCRP inhibitors may increase the exposure of ubrogepant. Clinical drug interaction studies with inhibitors of these transporters were not conducted. The US manufacturer of ubrogepant recommends dose adjustment if ubrogepant is coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: belumosudil, clopidogrel, curcumin, eltrombopag, febuxostat, fostemsavir, leniolisib, momelotinib, oteseconazole, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, tafamidis, oral tedizolid, turmeric, vadadustat, and zongertinib.(2,3,5) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, imlunestrant, neratinib, osimertinib, propafenone, quinidine, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tepotinib, valbenazine, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2,3,5)

Protease Inhibitors/Alfuzosin;Silodosin;Tamsulosin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of alfuzosin,(1) silodosin,(2) and tamsulosin(3) by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Co-administration of a protease inhibitor may result in increased alfuzosin,(1) silodosin,(2) and tamsulosin(3) levels and serious effects such as hypotension.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In patients receiving tamsulosin, the interaction may be worse in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers because tamsulosin also undergoes metabolism by this pathway.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of alfuzosin(1) and silodosin(2) state that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of tamsulosin states that tamsulosin should not be used with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(3) The US manufacturers of atazanavir,(4) darunavir,(5) ensitrelvir,(6) fosamprenavir,(7) indinavir,(8) lopinavir/ritonavir,(9) nelfinavir,(10), nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(11) paritaprevir, (12) saquinavir,(13) and tipranavir(14) state that concurrent use of alfuzosin is contraindicated.

DISCUSSION: Administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily), another inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of alfuzosin (10 mg) by 2.3-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively.(1) Administration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of alfuzosin (10 mg) by 2.1-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively.(1) Administration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days), increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of silodosin (4 mg) by 3.7-fold and 2.9-fold, respectively.(2) Administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 4 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of silodosin (8 mg) by 3.8-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively.(2) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of tamsulosin (0.4 mg) by 2.2-fold and 2.8-fold, respectively.(3)

Protease Inhibitors/Apalutamide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apalutamide is a strong inducer of CYP3A4 and is expected to increase the metabolism of the HIV protease inhibitors.(1-5) HIV protease inhibitors are moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and may decrease the metabolism of apalutamide.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The net effect of the opposing effects of apalutamide and the protease inhibitors on CYP3A4 is unknown. Concurrent or recent use of apalutamide with a protease inhibitor may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the protease inhibitor. Virologic failure and drug resistance may occur.(1-3) Alternatively, protease inhibitors may increase the plasma concentration and toxicities of apalutamide.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of lopinavir-ritonavir and of ritonavir states that concurrent use with apalutamide is contraindicated due to the risk of virologic failure and development of drug resistance.(2,3) Since the other protease inhibitors are also CYP3A4 substrates and frequently used with ritonavir, they are included in this monograph. If alternatives are not available and concurrent use is deemed medically necessary, follow HIV viral loads closely.

DISCUSSION: Co-administration of apalutamide with a single dose of midazolam (a CYP3A4 substrate) led to a 92 % decrease in the area-under-curve (AUC) of midazolam.(1) Ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, was predicted to increase the AUC of single-dose apalutamide by 24% and of steady-state apalutamide by 51%.(1)

Protease Inhibitors/Ergot Alkaloids

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of the ergot alkaloids by CYP3A4, including dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, ergonovine, and methylergonovine. (1-13)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a protease inhibitor with an ergot alkaloid may result in elevated levels, clinical effects, and adverse effects of the ergot alkaloids.(1-13) Signs of ergotism may include peripheral vasospasm and ischemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent administration of ergot alkaloids with amprenavir,(1) atazanavir,(2,3) darunavir,(4) fosamprenavir,(5) indinavir, (6) the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(7) nelfinavir,(8) nirmatrelvir coadministered with ritonavir,(25) ritonavir, (12) saquinavir,(9,10) and tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir(11) is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of methylergonovine states that methylergonovine should not be administered with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors such as protease inhibitors.(13) Protease inhibitors linked include: amprenavir, atazanavir, ensitrelvir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.

DISCUSSION: There have been several case reports of ergotism developing in patients receiving concurrent ergotamine derivatives with indinavir,(14) nelfinavir,(15) or ritonavir.(16-23) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Protease Inhibitors/Oral Midazolam; Triazolam

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of the benzodiazepines midazolam and triazolam at CYP3A4.(1-30)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in increased levels and clinical effects of the benzodiazepines, which may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-30) Higher triazolam levels may increase risk for anterograde amnesia, "sleep driving" and other complex behavior disorders.(30)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The elderly are particularly sensitive to increased plasma concentrations of triazolam.(30)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of the protease inhibitors and US guidelines on use of antiretroviral agents (31) state that concurrent administration of triazolam or oral midazolam with ritonavir-boosted(1-3) darunavir,(4-6) lopinavir,(7-9) nirmatrelvir,(10) paritaprevir,(11) saquinavir,(12-14) or tipranavir (15-17); ritonavir-boosted or unboosted amprenavir,(18-19) atazanavir,(20-21) fosamprenavir,(22-23) indinavir,(24-26); or nelfinavir,(27-29) is contraindicated. Midazolam may be administered by the intravenous route in patients with close clinical monitoring for respiratory depression and/or prolonged sedation. Caution should be exercised and dosage adjustments should be considered if these effects occur.

DISCUSSION: In an open-label, randomized study in 14 subjects, lopinavir/ ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the metabolism of single doses of oral and intravenous midazolam (0.025 mg/kg and 5 mg, respectively) by 77% and 92%, respectively.(32) In a double-blind, randomized, cross-over study in 12 subjects, concurrent administration of saquinavir base with oral midazolam increased the bioavailability of oral midazolam from 41% to 90%. The midazolam maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) increased two-fold and five-fold, respectively. The concurrent administration of saquinavir base with intravenous midazolam resulted in a decrease in midazolam clearance by 56% and increased the midazolam half-life from 4.1 hours to 9.5 hours.(33) In a study in 6 healthy subjects, saquinavir base (1200 mg twice daily) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of midazolam (7.5 mg) by 514% and 235%, respectively.(12) In a study in 16 healthy subjects, saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg twice daily) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of midazolam (7.5 mg) by 1144% and 327%, respectively.(14) In a double-blind study, ritonavir (four doses of 200 mg) decreased the clearance of a single dose of triazolam (0.125 mg) by 96%.(34) Amprenavir,(35), lopinavir,(36) and ritonavir(33,34) have been shown to inhibit triazolam metabolism in vitro in human liver microsomes. In a clinical trial of 13 healthy patients patients receiving concurrent midazolam (3mg) and ritonavir (100 mg three times daily), midazolam AUC increased by a factor of 28.4 +/- 4.2 and oral clearance was reduced to 4.2% of normal.(37) Protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, fosamprenavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir. Ritonavir, as a pharmacokinetic booster, will alert through the primary protease inhibitor.

Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Astemizole; Terfenadine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of astemizole(1-9) and terfenadine(2-10) by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in increased levels of astemizole(1-9) and terfenadine,(2-10) which may result in cardiac arrhythmias including QT prolongation or torsades de pointes.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(14) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(14)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of amprenavir states that concurrent use of astemizole is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturers of darunavir(2), the combination of lopinavir/ ritonavir,(3) the combination of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(15) ritonavir,(4) and tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir(5) state that concurrent use with either astemizole or terfenadine is contraindicated. The US manufacturers of indinavir,(6) nelfinavir,(7) and saquinavir(8,9) state that these agents should not be used concurrently with terfenadine or astemizole. The US manufacturer of terfenadine states that concurrent use with indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, or saquinavir is not recommended.(10) Fexofenadine and loratadine, nonsedating antihistamines that have been shown to have no effects on cardiac function,(11,12) may be alternatives to astemizole and terfenadine in patients receiving protease inhibitors. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: The concurrent administration of Fortovase (saquinavir base) with terfenadine resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of terfenadine (normally undetectable) by 368% and 253%, respectively.(8,9) The AUC and Cmax of the terfenadine acid metabolite increased by 120% and 93%, respectively.(9) Both astemizole and terfenadine are metabolized by CYP3A4. Drugs that block the metabolism of astemizole and terfenadine may produce an increase in the plasma concentrations of these antihistamines. Elevated plasma levels of astemizole and terfenadine can cause QT prolongation and torsades de pointes-type ventricular tachycardia, which may be fatal. Fexofenadine and loratadine have been shown to have no effects on cardiac function.(11,12) Amprenavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir have been shown to inhibit CYP3A4. Fosamprenavir is a prodrug of amprenavir.(13)

Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Lurasidone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lurasidone is a sensitive substrate for CYP3A4.(1) Sensitive substrates will have at least a 5-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) when given with a strong inhibitor of the enzyme.(2) Protease inhibitors and cobicistat are strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 and may inhibit the metabolism of lurasidone.(1,3-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of lurasidone with inhibitors of CYP3A4 may lead to orthostatic hypotension, akathisia, acute dystonia, Parkinsonism, confusion, postural instability or other lurasidone toxicities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Elderly patients, particularly those with a history of falls, swallowing disorders, Parkinson Disease, Lewy Body Disease, or other dementias are more sensitive to antipsychotics and have a greater risk for adverse effects.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lurasidone states that concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is contraindicated.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that all protease inhibitors boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat are contraindicated.(5) If a patient maintained on lurasidone requires a protease inhibitor for treatment of HIV or hepatitis C, then the patient should be converted to another antipsychotic prior to initiation of protease inhibitor therapy. If a patient is currently on lurasidone and addition of unboosted atazanavir is necessary, the dose of lurasidone should be decreased by 50% of the original dose.(5) If a patient is currently on unboosted atazanavir and lurasidone is added to therapy, the recommended starting dose of lurasidone is 20 mg per day, and the maximum dose is 80 mg daily.(5)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of lurasidone (10 mg) by 6.9-fold, and 9.0-fold, respectively.(1) Pretreatment with diltiazem (240 mg daily for 5 days), a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of lurasidone (20 mg) by 2.1-fold, and 2.2-fold, respectively.(1) Agents linked to this monograph are atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

Ritonavir/Meperidine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir, a moderate CYP2B6 inducer and weak CYP3A4 inducer, may induce the metabolism of meperidine to the primary metabolite, normeperidine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritonavir and meperidine may result in decreased levels of meperidine, elevated levels of normeperidine, and CNS toxicity, including seizures, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(2,3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of meperidine states that concomitant use of meperidine and ritonavir should be avoided.(4) The manufacturer of ritonavir states that dosage increases and long-term use of meperidine in patients receiving ritonavir are not recommended.(2) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(5) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(6)

DISCUSSION: In a study in eight healthy subjects, the administration of a single dose of meperidine (50 mg) after 10 days of ritonavir (500 mg twice daily) resulted in decreases in the meperidine area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 67% and 60%, respectively.(3) The AUC and and Cmax of normeperidine increased by 47% and 87%, respectively.(2)

Ritonavir/Neratinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, may inhibit the metabolism of neratinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from neratinib. Life-threatening reactions, such as hepatotoxicity, may occur.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of ritonavir states that concurrent use of neratinib with ritonavir is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of ritonavir recommends avoiding concurrent use of neratinib with ritonavir.(2) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients closely for increased incidence and severity of diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of neratinib by 321% and 481%, respectively.(2)

Ritonavir/Propoxyphene

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir may inhibit the metabolism of propoxyphene. (1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased levels and clinical effects of propoxyphene, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Australian(1) and UK(2) manufacturers of ritonavir state that concurrent propoxyphene is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of ritonavir states that a reduction in propoxyphene dosage may be required during concurrent therapy.(3) If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: There is no clinical documentation substantiating this potential drug interaction. Ritonavir has a high affinity for several CYP hepatic isoenzymes.

Sel Sensitive 3A4 Substrates That Prolong Qt/Adagrasib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Adagrasib is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 and may decrease the metabolism of drugs metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of adagrasib may lead to increased serum levels and adverse effects of drugs sensitive to inhibition of the CYP3A4 pathway.(1) Concurrent use may also result in additive QTc prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of adagrasib states that coadministration of CYP3A4 substrates should be avoided.(1) If patients develop QTc prolongation >500 msec or >60 msec from baseline, withhold adagrasib until QTc interval is less than 481 msec or QTc interval returns to baseline. Resume adagrasib at the next lower dose level. If patients develop torsade de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs and symptoms of serious or life-threatening arrhythmia, permanently discontinue adagrasib.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study, adagrasib (400 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-the-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of midazolam by 21-fold and 4.8-fold, respectively. In a study, adagrasib (600 mg twice daily) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of midazolam by 31-fold and 3.1-fold, respectively.(1) Adagrasib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation. Adagrasib increased QTc in a concentration-dependent manner. In patients administered adagrasib 600 mg twice daily, the mean QTcF change from baseline was 18 msec. In the pooled safety population, 6% of 366 patients with at least one post-baseline ECG had an average QTc greater than 501 msec and 11% of patients had a increase from baseline QTc greater than 60 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4) CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index linked to this monograph include: lopinavir, saquinavir, and terfenadine.(1,3-4)

Select P-Gp Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Aumolertinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aumolertinib is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption, decrease elimination of aumolertinib, and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with selected P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of aumolertinib which may increase the risk for cardiac failure, rhabdomyolysis, thrombosis, elevated LFTs, hyponatremia, hematologic toxicity, and QT prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Patients with risk factors for thrombosis may be at higher risk of adverse events, including those with advanced age, obesity (BMI >30), smoking, prolonged immobilization, heart failure, hypercoagulable state, history of venous thromboembolism, malignancy, and major surgery. The risk for rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of aumolertinib states that concomitant use of aumolertinib and P-gp inhibitors or medicines that prolong the QTc interval should be avoided. If a suitable alternative is not available, consider increasing the frequency of ECG and electrolyte monitoring.(1) For patients on concomitant dronedarone: the manufacturer of dronedarone states that the use of drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated.(3) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation occurs, follow recommended dose modifications: - Grade 2 (QTc interval >480 to 500 ms): Withhold aumolertinib for up to 2 weeks. If QTc interval has not recovered to <= 480 ms, permanently discontinue aumolertinib. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms or within 30 ms of baseline, resume aumolertinib treatment at 110 mg. Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following return to <= 480 ms. Monitor and correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications. - Grade 3 (QTc interval > 500 ms or QTc interval increase of > 60 ms from baseline): Withhold aumolertinib for up to 2 weeks. If QTc interval has not recovered to <= 480 ms or within 30 ms of baseline, permanently discontinue aumolertinib. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms and it is the first occurrence, resume treatment at 110 mg dose. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms and it is the second occurrence or the first occurrence in patients with risk factors, resume treatment at 55 mg dose. Permanently discontinue aumolertinib if signs or symptoms recur at any time on the 55 mg dose. Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following return to <= 480 ms. Monitor and correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications. - QT interval prolongation associated with torsade de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs/symptoms of other serious arrhythmia: permanently discontinue aumolertinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: Based on in vitro data, aumolertinib is a substrate of P-gp.(1) A concentration-QT analysis predicted a QTc interval prolongation at 110 mg aumolertinib of 9.06 ms (upper confidence interval = 11.01 ms) in 49 subjects.(1) In clinical studies (n=545), QT prolongation was reported in 51 patients (9.4%) treated with aumolertinib 110 mg. Seven patients (1.3%) had symptomatic events, including cardiac arrest, syncope, and ventricular arrhythmia. One patient with cardio-respiratory arrest and one patient with sudden cardiac death died. QTcF increase >60 ms occurred in 4.2% of patients, and increase in QTcF to >500 ms occurred in 0.9% of patients.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: amiodarone, azithromycin, clarithromycin, dronedarone, erythromycin, lapatinib, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, osimertinib, posaconazole, propafenone, ranolazine, selpercatinib, telithromycin, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(3)

Selected Cyp3a4 Substrates/Rifampin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rifampin may increase the metabolism of the protease inhibitors(1-12) and cobicistat(13) by inducing CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of rifampin with protease inhibitors may result in decreased levels and clinical effectiveness of the protease inhibitors(1-12,14) and cobicistat.(13) Concurrent use of rifampin with the combination of saquinavir/ritonavir may result in drug-induced hepatitis.(1,14-16)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of atazanavir,(3,4), cobicistat,(12) darunavir,(5) fosamprenavir,(6) the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(8) nelfinavir,(9) saquinavir,(1,11) and tipranavir(12) state that concurrent use of rifampin is contraindicated. The manufacturers of amprenavir,(2) indinavir,(7) and ritonavir(10) state that these agents should not be used with rifampin. The manufacturer of rifampin states that concurrent use of atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir is contraindicated.(14) The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents states that rifampin is contraindicated for patients on boosted or unboosted protease inhibitors. Additional ritonavir does not overcome the interaction and may increase hepatotoxicity, and additional cobicistat is not recommended. DHHS recommends use of rifabutin as an alternative.(17) The CDC/NIH guidelines on treatment of opportunistic infections (OI) in HIV(18) and the CDC's guidelines on managing drug interactions in HIV-related tuberculosis (TB)(19) provide guidance for the use of rifampin with the combination product of lopinavir/ritonavir when rifabutin is not available. The OI guidelines recommend increasing the dose of lopinavir/ritonavir by 50%, and subsequently, increasing to a full double dose, when used with rifampin. Transaminases should be monitored more frequently than usual. The guidelines on drug interactions in HIV-related TB state that higher doses of lopinavir/ritonavir should be used only when close monitoring for hepatotoxicity is possible, and when there is a pressing need to start antiretroviral therapy and other antiretrovirals are not an option. In adults, it is recommended to increase the dose of lopinavir/ritonavir by 50% (to 600/150 mg) for one week, then to double the dose (to 800/200 mg). In children, "super-boosted" lopinavir/ritonavir is recommended, achieved by using pediatric weight-based dosing for lopinavir/ritonavir, plus additional ritonavir to reach milligram to milligram parity of lopinavir and ritonavir doses. For both double dosing and super-boosting, the guidelines caution that unacceptable rates of hepatotoxicity was seen in healthy volunteers, though early clinical experience in HIV+ adults found that double dosing was reasonably well tolerated.

DISCUSSION: The concurrent administration of amprenavir and rifampin decreased amprenavir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 70%, 82%, and 92%, respectively. There was no change in rifampin Cmax or AUC.(2,6,20) In a study in 16 subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) and atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) decreased atazanavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 53%, 72%, and 98%, respectively.(3) In a study in 12 healthy, HIV-negative subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) and indinavir (800 mg three times daily) decreased indinavir Cmax and AUC by 87% and 92%, respectively.(7) In a study in 6 HIV-positive subjects, concurrent indinavir/ritonavir (800/100 mg twice daily) and rifampin (300 mg daily) decreased the AUC of indinavir and ritonavir by 87% and 94%, respectively.(21) In a study in 11 HIV-positive subjects, concurrent indinavir (800 mg three times daily) increased the AUC of a dose of rifampin (600 mg) by 73%.(22) The concurrent administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily for 20 days) and rifampin (600 mg daily for 10 days) in 22 subjects decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 55%, 75%, and 99%, respectively. Concurrent administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (800/200 mg twice daily for 9 days) and rifampin (600 mg daily for 14 days) in 10 subjects did not change lopinavir Cmax and decreased lopinavir AUC and Cmin by 16% and 57%, respectively. Concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/400 mg twice daily for 9 days) and rifampin (600 mg daily for 14 days) in 9 subjects decreased lopinavir Cmax and AUC by 7% and 2%, respectively, and did not change lopinavir Cmin. In these studies, 28% of subjects experienced a grade 2 increase in ALT/AST, of which 7 (21%) prematurely discontinued the study per protocol.(8) In an open-label, randomized study in 32 healthy subjects, all subjects initially received lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily. During concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily), subjects received either 800/200 mg or 400/400 mg of lopinavir/ritonavir twice daily. Concurrent 800/200 mg lopinavir/ritonavir and rifampin decreased lopinavir Cmin by 57% but did not affect lopinavir Cmax. During concurrent 400/400 mg lopinavir/ritonavir and rifampin, lopinavir Cmin and Cmax were similar to levels seen with 400/100 mg lopinavir/ritonavir. Twelve subjects dropped out of the study and 9 developed elevated liver enzymes during concurrent therapy with lopinavir/ritonavir and rifampin.(23) Three studies examining double dosing (800/200 mg) or super-boosting (400/400 mg) of lopinavir/ritonavir with concurrent rifampin in HIV+ patients have been conducted. A study of double dosing and super-boosting in 18 HIV-TB patients(24) and a study of double dosing in 21 HIV+ patients without TB(25) both found that adequate lopinavir/ritonavir levels were achieved with lopinavir/ritonavir dose adjustments. In the study of HIV-TB patients, there were 3 isolated subtherapeutic lopinavir levels which were attributed to poor adherence. Ten of the 11 patients who were followed to completion of TB therapy had undetectable viral loads. There were no grade 3/4 adverse events, and 10 patients had mild side effects. In the study of patients without TB, two patients experienced grade 3/4 transaminitis, and other adverse events were mild. The third study of 25 HIV-TB patients confirmed the frequent but mild GI toxicity and reported that 2 patients had grade 3 transaminitis.(26) Concurrent administration of nelfinavir (750 mg three times daily) and rifampin (600 mg daily) in 12 subjects decreased nelfinavir AUC, Cmax, and Cmin by 83%, 76%, and 92%, respectively.(9) The concurrent administration of ritonavir and rifampin decreased the area-under-curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of ritonavir by 35%, 25%, and 49%, respectively.(10) The concurrent administration of saquinavir and rifampin in 14 subjects reduced the AUC and Cmax of saquinavir by 70% and 65%, respectively.(1,11) In a study in 28 healthy subjects, concurrent administration of rifampin (600 mg daily) with saquinavir (1000 mg twice daily) and ritonavir (100 mg twice daily), 65% (11/17) of subjects developed significant hepatocellular toxicity during the 28 day study. Transaminase elevations of up to greater than 20 times the upper limit of normal values were noted. One subject was admitted to the hospital. All study medications were discontinued in all subjects and all liver function tests were returning to normal. No deaths had been reported.(1,15,16) In an open-label, prospective, single arm study, 32 HIV-positive subjects received concurrent daily didanosine, lamivudine, ritonavir (200 mg), saquinavir (1600 mg), rifampin (600 mg), and isoniazid (300 mg). After 48 weeks, 62.5% had an HIV RNA level less than 50 copies/ml. Two patients had hepatic toxicity. In 10 subjects, saquinavir Cmin was less than 0.05 mcg/ml and 5 of these had virologic failure. Saquinavir Cmin was 44% lower during concurrent rifampin.(27) In an open-label, randomized, cross-over study, rifampin decreased saquinavir AUC by 70% in healthy subjects and by 46% in HIV-positive subjects.(28) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Selected Cyp3a4 Substrates/St. John's Wort

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: St. John's wort may induce CYP3A4 and induce the metabolism of the protease inhibitors(1-11) and cobicistat.(12)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of St. John's wort and a protease inhibitor(1-11) or cobicistat(12) may result in decreased levels of these agents, which may lead to the development of resistant HIV and treatment failure.(1-12)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of amprenavir(1), indinavir,(2) and saquinavir(3,4) state that St. John's wort should not be used by patients receiving these agents. The manufacturers of atazanavir,(5) darunavir,(6) fosamprenavir,(7) the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(8) nelfinavir,(9) ritonavir,(10) tipranavir,(11) and cobicistat(12) state that concurrent use of St. John's wort is contraindicated.

DISCUSSION: In a study in eight healthy, HIV negative subjects, pretreatment with St. John's wort (300 mg tablets, 0.3% hypericin) decreased the indinavir area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 57% and 28%, respectively.(13) In another study in eight healthy, HIV-negative subjects, concurrent St. John's wort (300 mg tablets, 0.3% hypericin three times daily) and indinavir (800 mg three times daily) decreased indinavir AUC and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 54% and 81%, respectively.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Selected Inhibitors Of P-Gp Or Bcrp/Pazopanib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or BCRP may increase the absorption of pazopanib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of pazopanib with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein or BCRP may result in elevated levels of pazopanib and signs of toxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pazopanib states concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors or BCRP inhibitors should be avoided.(1) Monitor patients for increased side effects from pazopanib. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Pazopanib is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP. Inhibitors of these transporters are expected to increase pazopanib levels.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: asciminib, belumosudil, clopidogrel, cyclosporine, curcumin, darolutamide, eltrombopag, enasidenib, febuxostat, fostemsavir, grazoprevir, lazertinib, leflunomide, leniolisib, momelotinib, oteseconazole, pirtobrutinib, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, tafamidis, teriflunomide, tolvaptan, turmeric, vadadustat, and zongertinib.(1,3-5) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diltiazem, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, ivacaftor, ledipasvir, neratinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tepotinib, tezacaftor, ticagrelor, valbenazine, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(3,4)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Aliskiren

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aliskiren is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase the absorption of aliskiren.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of aliskiren and P-gp inhibitors may result in elevated levels of aliskiren. This may result in increased effect and toxicity of aliskiren including hypotension.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of aliskiren states that concurrent use of itraconazole should be avoided.(1) The UK manufacturer of aliskiren states that the concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors such as itraconazole is contraindicated.(2) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent administration of aliskiren is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(7)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent itraconazole (100 mg) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of aliskiren (150 mg) by 5.8-fold and 6.5-fold, respectively.(2,3) Selected P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: aumolertinib, clarithromycin, daraxonrasib, indinavir, itraconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, propafenone, rifampin, vepdegestrant, and vimseltinib.(4,5)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Atorvastatin (>20 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of atorvastatin by CYP3A4.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors may result in elevated levels of atorvastatin, which could result in rhabdomyolysis.(1-5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving protease inhibitors, consider the use of fluvastatin. If atorvastatin is used with concurrent darunavir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, or saquinavir, limit the dose of atorvastatin to 20 mg daily with careful monitoring.(1-5)

DISCUSSION: A study in 15 subjects found that darunavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg twice daily) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under curve (AUC) of atorvastatin (10 mg daily) by 44% and 15%, when compared to atorvastatin (40 mg daily) administered alone. Atorvastatin minimum concentration (Cmin) increased by 81% during concurrent therapy.(2) In a study in 16 subjects, concurrent atorvastatin (10 mg daily for 4 days) and fosamprenavir (1400 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) increased atorvastatin Cmax and AUC by 304% and 130%, respectively. Atorvastatin Cmin decreased by 10%.(3) The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of amprenavir decreased by by 18%, 27%, and 12%, respectively.(3) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of atorvastatin (10 mg daily for 4 days) and fosamprenavir (700 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) with ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) increased the atorvastatin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 184%, 153%, and 73%, respectively.(1,4) There were no changes in amprenavir Cmax, AUC, or Cmin.(3) A randomized, controlled trial in healthy subjects examined the effects of a combination of ritonavir and saquinavir on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin and the effects of pravastatin on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics. The combination of ritonavir and saquinavir decreased pravastatin levels by 50% and increased atorvastatin and simvastatin levels by 79% and 3059%, respectively. Pravastatin had no statistically significant effect on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics.(6) Concurrent administration of atorvastatin (40 mg for 4 days) with ritonavir-saquinavir (400 mg twice daily) increased atorvastatin AUC and Cmax by 3.9-fold and 4.3-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration of atorvastatin (20 mg) with lopinavir-ritonavir (400-100 mg twice daily) increased atorvastatin by 5.9-fold.(1)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Bepridil

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atazanavir,(1-2) darunavir,(3-4) ensitrelvir,(5) lopinavir,(6) nirmatrelvir,(7-8) paritaprevir,(9) and tipranavir(10) may inhibit the metabolism of bepridil.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of atazanavir,(1-2) darunavir,(3-4) ensitrelvir,(5) lopinavir,(6) nirmatrelvir,(7-8) paritaprevir,(9) or tipranavir(10) may result in increased levels and clinical effects of bepridil.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturers of atazanavir(2) and darunavir(4) state that concurrent use of bepridil is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturers of atazanavir, darunavir, lopinavir, and paritaprevir recommend caution and monitoring of bepridil concentrations during concurrent therapy.(1,3,6,9) The US manufacturer of tipranavir states that concurrent administration with bepridil is contraindicated.(10)

DISCUSSION: The protease inhibitors linked to this monograph inhibit CYP3A4 at clinically relevant concentrations.

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Vardenafil (> 2.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of vardenafil by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of vardenafil with protease inhibitors may result in increased levels of and adverse effects from vardenafil, including hypotension, visual changes, and sustained erections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: US guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents recommends patients receiving protease inhibitors should receive no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 72 hours. US labeling recommendations for concurrent use of vardenafil with protease inhibitors state: -Patients receiving any ritonavir- or cobicistat-containing regimens, including atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir should receive no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 72 hours. -Patients receiving unboosted atazanavir, unboosted fosamprenavir, unboosted indinavir, or nelfinavir should take no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 24 hours. Canadian labeling contraindicates concurrent use of atazanavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir with vardenafil.(6,13,17) Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of vardenafil adverse effects, including hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of indinavir (800 mg three times daily) with vardenafil (10 mg) increased the vardenafil area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 16-fold and 7-fold, respectively. Vardenafil half-life increased 2-fold. At 24-hours post-dose, vardenafil levels fell to approximately 4% of vardenafil Cmax. The AUC and Cmax of indinavir decreased by 30% and 40%, respectively. Concurrent use of ritonavir (600 mg twice daily)with vardenafil (5 mg) increased vardenafil AUC and Cmax by 49-fold and 13-fold, respectively. The half-life of vardenafil increased to 26 hours. The ritonavir AUC and Cmax decreased by 20%.

Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Clopidogrel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Clopidogrel is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite via a 2 step process. The first conversion step is mediated by CYP2C19, CYP1A2 and CYP2B6, while the second step is mediated by CYP3A4, CYP2B6 and CYP2C19.(1,2) CYP2C19 contributes to both steps and is thought to be the more important enzyme involved in formation of the pharmacologically active metabolite.(1) CYP3A4 is responsible for 39.8% of the second step of metabolism. Protease inhibitors that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of clopidogrel to its active form by CYP3A4.(1,3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in decreased clopidogrel effectiveness, resulting in increased risk of adverse cardiac events.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of clopidogrel does not make specific recommendations for concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Patient monitoring for adequate inhibition of platelet reactivity with clopidogrel is warranted. HIV treatment guidelines from the US Department of Health and Human Services and the European AIDS Clinical Society, and the University of Liverpool HIV Drug Interactions database all recommend not to coadminister clopidogrel with any protease inhibitor or cobicistat.(4-6) Consider alternatives to protease inhibitors that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients stabilized on clopidogrel and alternatives to clopidogrel in patients stabilized on protease inhibitors that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider appropriate testing to assure adequate inhibition of platelet reactivity.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, cross-over study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) of the active metabolite of clopidogrel (300 mg loading dose, followed by 75 mg daily) by 61%. The area-under-curve (AUC) of the active metabolite of clopidogrel was decreased by 22% following the loading dose and by 29% during maintenance dosing. Clopidogrel-induced inhibition of platelet aggregation was decreased by 28% following the loading dose and by 33% during the maintenance dose.(7) A randomized cross over study in 12 healthy volunteers and 9 HIV-infected patients evaluated the impact of boosted antiretroviral therapy (ARV) on the pharmacokinetics and efficacy of clopidogrel. Healthy patients had 3.2-fold lower AUC (p=0.02) and Cmax of clopidogrel active metabolite (p=0.03) than HIV patients. Platelet reactivity was also 35% lower in health patients compared to HIV patients (p=0.04). All healthy patients had a platelet reactivity below the cut-off value at 4 hours after clopidogrel dose, while 44% of HIV patients were above the cut-off value of 206.(8) A cross-sectional study in 240 post acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients compared platelet reactivity under aspirin and P2Y12 inhibitor therapy between HIV and non-HIV patients with first episode ACS on dual antiplatelet therapy. Study evaluated residual platelet aggregation (RPA), P2Y12 assay (PRU), and VASP platelet reactivity index (VASP-PRI). HIV patients were all on ARV therapy, most commonly with protease inhibitors (darunavir, lopinavir, atazanavir, and indinavir in combination with ritonavir in all but two patients). Patients on ARV containing protease inhibitors compared to other combinations had increased platelet reactivity to P2Y12 inhibitors and higher prevalence of high residual platelet reactivity (HPR) (OR 4.4 (95%CI 1.1-18.1) with RPA, P = 0.04; OR 3.1 (95%CI = 0.84-11.5) with VASP-PRI; P = 0.09, and OR 4.3 (95%CI 1.02-18.1) with PRU, P = 0.047). Patients with CD4 T cell count lower than 350/mm3 also had consistently increased platelet reactivity to P2Y12 inhibitors and higher prevalence of HPR (OR 3.41 (95%CI 0.60-19.4) with RPA, P = 0.17; OR 7.1 (95%CI 0.94-54.2) with VASP-PRI, P = 0.06; and OR 7.9 (95%CI 1.42-44.8) with PRU, P = 0.002), although this association was not significant for all three tests.(9) Selected protease inhibitors that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(10)

Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Eletriptan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cobicistat or protease inhibitors which are strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may reduce the CYP3A4 mediated metabolism of eletriptan.(1-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eletriptan with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4(1-7) may result in elevated levels of and adverse effects from eletriptan.(1-6) Agents linked to this monograph are: atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eletriptan states that eletriptan should not be used within at least 72 hours of potent inhibitors of CYP3A4.(2) The UK manufacturer of eletriptan states that eletriptan should not be used together with indinavir, nelfinavir, or ritonavir.(1) If migraine treatment is needed during protease inhibitor therapy, use triptans not metabolized by CYP3A4 such as frovatriptan, sumatriptan, or zolmitriptan.(8-11)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole 400 mg, increased the eletriptan maximum concentration (Cmax) and exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) by 2.7-fold and 5.9-fold, respectively. The half-life of eletriptan increased from 4.8 hours to 8.3 hours.(1) In another trial, a high dose of a moderate to strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, erythromycin (1000 mg), increased the eletriptan Cmax and AUC by 2-fold and 3.6-fold, respectively. The half-life of eletriptan increased from 4.6 hours to 7.1 hours.(2)

Selected Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cisapride

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors impair the CYP3A4 mediated metabolism of cisapride.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from cisapride, including life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias such as torsades de pointes.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, the risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with cisapride is contraindicated. Use alternative antiemetics, or an alternative to the strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, whichever is more clinically appropriate. The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent administration with cisapride is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(5) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, avacopan, ciprofloxacin, clofazimine, conivaptan, darunavir, erythromycin, fosamprenavir, rilzabrutinib, and treosulfan.(5)

Selected Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Domperidone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors impair the CYP3A4 mediated metabolism of domperidone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from domperidone, including life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias such as torsades de pointes.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In epidemiologic studies and post-market safety data, domperidone was associated with an increased risk for serious ventricular arrhythmias in patients > 60 years of age, using more than 30 mg of domperidone daily, and having other risk factors for QT prolongation.(1) In general, the risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with domperidone is contraindicated. Use alternative antiemetics, or an alternative to the strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, whichever is more clinically appropriate. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of domperidone during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment is contraindicated.(3,4)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) tripled plasma levels of domperidone (10 mg four times daily). In male subjects, the combination significantly increased QTc interval greater than either agent alone. In females, there were no significant changes in QTc intervals, but QTc intervals were correlated with domperidone levels.(5) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole. Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, clofazimine, darunavir, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluconazole, and fosamprenavir. One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Conivaptan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of conivaptan.(1) Toxicity may result from an overly rapid correction of serum sodium. Conivaptan may also increase levels of levoketoconazole.(4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of conivaptan.(1) Elevated levels of these agents may lead to increased clinical effects such as hypotension, hypovolemia, and thirst, as well as toxicity in the form of neurologic sequelae such as osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS). ODS can lead to coma and death. Symptoms of ODS include dysarthria, mutism, dysphagia, lethargy, affective changes, spastic quadriparesis, seizures, and coma.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of conivaptan and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with conivaptan is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2)

DISCUSSION: Conivaptan is a substrate of CYP3A4. Coadministration of conivaptan (10mg) and ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, 200 mg) resulted in a 4-fold increase in the AUC and an 11-fold increase in the Cmax of conivaptan.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Slt Strong & Moderate 3A4 Inhibitors/Cilostazol (>50 Mg Bid)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of cilostazol.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of cilostazol and strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of cilostazol, which may produce increased effects of cilostazol and adverse effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of cilostazol should be limited to 50 mg twice daily in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 healthy males, the administration of a single dose of cilostazol (10 mg) with erythromycin (500 mg every eight hours) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of cilostazol by 47% and 73%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of 4'-trans-hydroxy-cilostazol were increased by 29% and 141%, respectively.(2) Analysis of population pharmacokinetics indicated that the concurrent administration of diltiazem with cilostazol increased cilostazol concentrations by 53%. Concurrent administration of diltiazem and cilostazol decreased cilostazol clearance by 30%, increased the Cmax by 30%, and increased AUC by 40%.(1) In a study, the administration of a single dose of cilostazol (10 mg) with erythromycin (500 mg every eight hours) increased the Cmax and AUC of cilostazol by 47% and 73%, respectively. The AUC of 4'-trans-hydroxy-cilostazol was increased by 141%.(1) In an vitro study in human liver microsomes, ketoconazole inhibited the metabolism of cilostazol.(3)

Str 3A4 Inhib;Atazan;Darun/Colchicine (For Cardioprotection)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of colchicine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from colchicine. Symptoms of colchicine toxicity include muscle weakness or pain; numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes; myelosuppression; abdominal pain; nausea; severe diarrhea or vomiting; feeling weak or tired; increased infections; and pale or gray color of the lips, tongue, or palms of hands.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of colchicine used for cardiovascular risk reduction states that concurrent use of colchicine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: There are several reports of colchicine toxicity(4-6) and death(7,8) following the addition of clarithromycin to therapy. In a retrospective review of 116 patients who received clarithromycin and colchicine during the same hospitalization, 10.2% (9/88) of patients who received simultaneous therapy died, compared to 3.6% (1/28) of patients who received sequential therapy.(9) An FDA review of 117 colchicine-related deaths that were not attributable to overdose found that 60 deaths (51%) involved concurrent use of clarithromycin.(2) In a study in 23 subjects, pretreatment with clarithromycin (250 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 227.2% (range 65.7% to 591.1%) and by 281.5% (range 88.7% to 851.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 101.7% (range 19.6% to 219%) and by 212.2% (range 76.7% to 419.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 18 subjects, pretreatment with ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 184.4% (range 79.2% to 447.4%) and by 296% (range 53.8% to 924.4%), respectively.(1) Colchicine toxicity has been reported with concurrent use of CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors such as clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,10)

Str Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Panobinostat (> 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of panobinostat.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from panobinostat,(1) including increased risk of bleeding and prolongation of the QT interval which may result in life-threatening arrhythmia and death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dose of panobinostat to 10 mg when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Limit the starting dose of panobinostat to 10 mg in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, continue standard monitoring of complete blood counts, ECG, and serum electrolytes. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, paleness; unusual or unexplained bleeding or bruising; signs of infection such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms. If panobinostat toxicity occurs, panobinostat or the CYP3A4 inhibitor may need to be discontinued.(1) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In 14 patients with advanced cancer, ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, 200 mg twice daily for 14 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of panobinostat by 62% and 73%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(1,3-4)

Strong & Moderate 3A4 Inhibitor That Prolong Qt/Fexinidazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QT interval may inhibit the metabolism of fexinidazole to its active metabolites. Fexinidazole may increase the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of fexinidazole with inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may result in decreased levels of its active metabolites, resulting in decreased efficacy. Concurrent administration of fexinidazole with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of fexinidazole with medications that prolong the QT interval and inhibit CYP3A4. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for lack of efficacy of fexinidazole.(1) Avoid use of fexinidazole in patients who have a baseline QTcF interval greater than 470 msec, a history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, cardiac arrhythmias, uncompensated heart failure, or family history of sudden death, or uncorrected hypokalemia.(1) If patients are, or need to be, treated with drugs known to prolong the QTcF interval or to induce bradycardia, either do not initiate therapy with fexinidazole until such drugs are eliminated from the body (allow a washout period of 5 half-lives for such other drugs). Do not start such drugs until fexinidazole therapy is eliminated (allow a washout period of 7 days).(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, fexinidazole was associated with a concentration-dependent QTcF prolongation. At recommended therapeutic doses, the mean (upper 90% confidence interval) increase in QTcF is predicted to be 19.0 msec (23.3 msec). The observed increase in QTcF appears to be associated with the M2 (sulfone) metabolite of fexinidazole.(1) Although no clinical drug interaction studies were performed with CYP3A4 inhibitors, the formation of the M1 and M2 metabolites may be decreased.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT included: adagrasib, ceritinib, clofazimine, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, nilotinib, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Asunaprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of asunaprevir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from asunaprevir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with asunaprevir is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: Asunaprevir is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate. Sensitive substrates would be expected to have an area-under-curve (AUC) ratio of at least 5-fold.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, ceritinib, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, lonafarnib, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, ledipasvir, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan, and verapamil.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Elacestrant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of elacestrant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases elacestrant plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of elacestrant states avoid concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with elacestrant.(1) The US manufacturer of elacestrant does not provide dose modification recommendations with strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. The Australian and UK manufacturers state concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided and an alternative concomitant medicinal product with no or minimal potential to inhibit CYP3A4 should be considered. If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, the elacestrant dose should be reduced to 172 mg once daily with careful monitoring of tolerability. Subsequent dose reduction to 86 mg once daily may be considered with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors based on tolerability. If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the elacestrant dose should be increased to the dose used prior to the initiation of the CYP3A4 inhibitor (after 5 half-lives of the CYP3A4 inhibitor).(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased elacestrant area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 5.3-fold and 4.4-fold, respectively.(1) Coadministration of fluconazole (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) is predicted to increase elacestrant AUC and Cmax by 2.3-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, oral lefamulin, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, verapamil, and voxelotor.(4,5)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Infigratinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of infigratinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases infigratinib plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with infigratinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of multiple doses of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased infigratinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 622% and 164%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, and verapamil.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lemborexant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of lemborexant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from lemborexant, including somnolence, fatigue, CNS depressant effects, daytime impairment, headache, and nightmare or abnormal dreams.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with lemborexant should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Lemborexant is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a PKPB model, concurrent use of lemborexant with itraconazole increased area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 3.75-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively. Concurrent use of lemborexant with fluconazole increased AUC and Cmax by 4.25-fold and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, oral lefamulin, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan, and verapamil.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Nirogacestat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of nirogacestat.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases nirogacestat plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions, including hepatotoxicity, diarrhea, hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with nirogacestat.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of nirogacestat by 8.2-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively, following a single 100 mg dose of nirogacestat. In a PKPB model, nirogacestat AUC was predicted to increase by 6.33-, 5.19-, and 3.46-fold following coadministration of multiple doses of nirogacestat (150 mg BID) with itraconazole, ketoconazole and clarithromycin (strong CYP3A inhibitors), respectively.(1) In a PKPB model, nirogacestat AUC was predicted to increase 2.73-and 3.18-fold following coadministration of multiple doses of nirogacestat (150 mg BID) with erythromycin (moderate CYP3A inhibitor) and fluconazole (moderate CYP3A inhibitor), respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, oral lefamulin, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, verapamil, and voxelotor.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Repotrectinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of repotrectinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases repotrectinib plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions, including CNS effects (dizziness, ataxia, cognitive disorders), interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis, hepatotoxicity, and myalgia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with repotrectinib. Discontinue CYP3A4 inhibitors for 3 to 5 half lives of the inhibitor prior to initiating repotrectinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of repotrectinib by 5.9-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, and verapamil.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 & Ugt1a1 Inducers/Cabotegravir-Rilpivirine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, efavirenz, encorafenib, enzalutamide, eslicarbazepine, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, natisedine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, ritonavir, or St. John's wort may induce the metabolism of cabotegravir-rilpivirine by CYP3A4 and uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, efavirenz, encorafenib, enzalutamide, eslicarbazepine, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, natisedine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, ritonavir, or St. John's wort may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of cabotegravir-rilpivirine, as well as the development of resistance.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cabotegravir-rilpivirine states that concurrent use of CYP3A4 inducers and/or UGT1A1 inducers is contraindicated.(1) It may take several weeks after the discontinuation of an enzyme inducer for enzyme activity to return to normal.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the concentration maximum (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and concentration minimum (Cmin) of rilpivirine (150 mg daily) by 69%, 80%, and 89%, respectively. There were no significant effects on the Cmax or AUC of rifampin or 25-desacetylrifampin.(1) In a study in 15 subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of cabotegravir by 6%, 59%, and 50%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inducers linked include: apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, dexamethasone, encorafenib, enzalutamide, eslicarbazepine, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, natisedine, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, or St. John's wort.(1,2) UGT1A1 inducers linked include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifapentine, rifampin, and ritonavir.(1,2)

Strong Cyp3a4 And Oatp1b Inhibitors/Orforglipron

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Orforglipron is metabolized via CYP3A4 and transported by OATP1B. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and OATP1B may increase exposure to orforglipron.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of orforglipron with strong CYP3A4 and OATP1B inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of orforglipron, including severe gastrointestinal adverse effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of orforglipron states that concurrent use of drugs that are strong CYP3A4 and OATP1B inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, coadministration of orforglipron with clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 3.5-fold increase in orforglipron area-under-curve (AUC) and a 1.9-fold increase in maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) In a clinical study, coadministration of orforglipron with cyclosporine 200 mg twice daily, an OATP1B inhibitor, resulted in a 2.6-fold increase in orforglipron AUC and a 1.3-fold increase in Cmax.(1) Strong CYP3A4 and OATP inhibitors include: clarithromycin, cobicistat, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib That Prolong Qt/Mavorixafor (>200 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of mavorixafor and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1) Mavorixafor is also a substrate of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). P-gp inhibitors may increase mavorixafor exposure.(1) Many CYP3A4 inhibitors also inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp), including adagrasib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, saquinavir, and telithromycin.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of mavorixafor including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dose of mavorixafor to 200 mg once daily when used concomitantly with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor ECG prior to initiation, during concurrent therapy, and as clinically indicated.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QT prolongation occurs, a dose reduction or discontinuation of mavorixafor may be required.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study with healthy subjects, itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) increased the exposure to single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg similar to that from single-dose mavorixafor 400 mg alone. This suggests that itraconazole increased mavorixafor exposure by about 2-fold.(1) A study in healthy volunteers found that ritonavir 100 mg twice daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg by 60% and 39%, respectively.(4) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(2,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib; Protease Inhib/Lumateperone (>10.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of lumateperone.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lumateperone with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or protease inhibitors increases lumateperone exposure, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B or C) may be at higher risk of increased lumateperone exposure.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of lumateperone recommends decreasing the dosage of lumateperone to 10.5 mg once daily in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that protease inhibitors should not be coadministered with lumateperone.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of lumateperone with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 4-fold and 3.5-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax), respectively.(1) Coadministration of lumateperone with diltiazem, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 2.5-fold and 2-fold increase AUC and Cmax, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib;Atazanav;Darunavir/Saxagliptin (>2.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of saxagliptin.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of saxagliptin.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of saxagliptin states that the dose of saxagliptin should be limited to 2.5 mg daily in patients taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 9 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 62% and 2.5-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 95% and 91%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of ketoconazole decreased 16% and 13%, respectively.(1,2) Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 2.4-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 96% and 90%, respectively.(1) Inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibit That Prolong Qt/Pimavanserin (> 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimavanserin and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase systemic exposure and the risk for pimavanserin toxicities such as peripheral edema, confusion, or additive QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pimavanserin recommends avoiding use with agents that prolong the QTc interval.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that pimavanserin should not be coadministered with saquinavir or lopinavir due to the risk of QTc prolongation.(3) If concomitant use of pimavanserin and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed, the pimavanserin dose should be reduced to 10 mg once daily.(1) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study, ketoconazole increased pimavanserin maximum concentration (Cmax) 1.5-fold and area-under-curve(AUC) 3-fold. A thorough QTc study performed in 252 subjects found a mean maximum change from baseline of 13.5 msec (upper bound of the 90% confidence interval was 16.6 msec) at twice the therapeutic dose.(1) Thus, coadministration of pimavanserin and a QT prolonging agent, even at a reduced dose, may increase the risk for significant QT prolongation. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Anamorelin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of anamorelin and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of anamorelin, including hyperglycemia, hepatotoxicity, and additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of anamorelin states that concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study of 12 healthy volunteers, concomitant use of anamorelin 25 mg with ketoconazole 200 mg every 12 hours for 3 doses (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased anamorelin maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 3.12-fold and 3.22-fold, respectively.(1) Anamorelin blocks sodium channels and may suppress cardiac conduction, resulting in prolongation of the QRS width or QT interval. A study of 7 healthy volunteers receiving single-dose anamorelin 400 mg found that 1 patient experienced QRS width prolongation. In 60 healthy adults, the maximum difference (upper limit of 95% one-sided confidence interval) in the change from baseline in QTcF interval compared to placebo was 6.16 (7.73) msec in patients on 100 mg and 7.38 (10.31) msec in patients on 300 mg.(1) The Japanese pharmacovigilance database was reviewed to evaluate disproportionality of conduction defects related to anamorelin. Out of 537 cases of adverse reactions, there were 51 cases of conduction defects (36 cases of prolonged QT, 5 cases of prolonged QRS complex, 2 cases of long QT syndrome). When adjusted for concomitant use of QT prolonging agents, the reporting odds ratio (ROR) of anamorelin-related conduction defects was 20.00 (95% CI 14.86-26.91).(3) There have been several case reports of widened QRS complexes following anamorelin exposure, usually accompanied by worsening hepatic function.(4-6) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(7-8)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Bosutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of bosutinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from bosutinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, myelosuppression, transaminitis, renal toxicity, and cardiac failure.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with bosutinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and bosutinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, phase I, double-blind, placebo-controlled, sequential group study, 48 healthy adults received a single dose of bosutinib 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, or 600 mg with ketoconazole 400 mg days -1 and days 1-4. Bosutinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) increased 7.3-fold and 7.7-fold.(3) In an open-label, randomized, 2-period, crossover study, healthy subjects received a single dose of bosutinib 100 mg alone and with multiple doses of ketoconazole 400 mg. Bosutinib Cmax and AUC increased 5.2-fold and 8.6-fold, respectively.(4) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received bosutinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 8 patients(38.1%), with 5 patients (62.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 3 patients(37.5%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms) events. Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (12.5%) patient having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms. No patients had a QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms, ventricular tachycardia (VT), sudden cardiac death (SCD), or TdP.(5) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(6) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(7,8)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Dronedarone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of dronedarone and result in additive risk of QTc prolongation. Dronedarone is a CYP3A4 substrate.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that prolongs QT may increase the levels and effects of dronedarone, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes( TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of dronedarone states that concurrent administration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. Concurrent use of drugs that prolong the QT interval is also contraindicated. Treatment with drugs that prolong QTc or are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors must be stopped before starting dronedarone.(1) If alternatives are not available and concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If the QTc interval is >500 msec, discontinue dronedarone.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of ketoconazole 200 mg once daily and dronedarone (dosage not stated) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of dronedarone by 17-fold and 9-fold, respectively.(1) Dronedarone causes dose-dependent increases in QTc, with 400 mg twice daily taken with food causing an estimated 15 msec increase in QTcF.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Gepirone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of gepirone and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of gepirone including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Serotonin syndrome may also result. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include tremor, agitation, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, clonus, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and muscle rigidity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated in patients undergoing therapy with gepirone.(1) If coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, monitor for prolongation of the QTc interval more frequently.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTcF is > 450 msec at baseline, do not initiate gepirone. If QTc increases to > 450 msec during treatment, monitor ECGs more frequently and do not increase the dose of gepirone.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of gepirone 36.3 mg by about 5.25-fold and 5.5-fold, respectively.(1) In a thorough QT study, 100 mg per day of immediate-release gepirone increased the mean QTc by 18.4 msec (upper 90% CI = 22.7 msec) on day 1 and 16.1 msec (upper 90% CI = 20.7) on day 7. The dose of gepirone was 2-fold the exposure of the recommended maximum daily dose.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Gepotidacin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may inhibit the metabolism of gepotidacin and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels and toxicity from gepotidacin,(1) including diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain and prolongation of the QT interval, which may result in life-threatening arrhythmia and death. Concurrent use may also result in additive QTc prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of gepotidacin states to avoid concurrent administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The manufacturer of gepotidacin states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating gepotidacin, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, correct any electrolyte abnormalities and instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Gepotidacin is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(1) Concomitant administration of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 (itraconazole; 200 mg per day for 3 days), and a single 1500 mg dose of gepotidacin resulted in a increase in gepotidacin maximum concentration (Cmax) of 1.4-fold and area under the curve (AUC) of 1.5-fold.(1) The effect of gepotidacin on the QTc interval was evaluated in a randomized, active (moxifloxacin 400 mg) and placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over trial in healthy subjects who received single intravenous (IV) infusions of gepotidacin over 2 hours. A dose- and concentration-dependent QTc prolongation effect of gepotidacin was observed. The mean placebo-corrected change from baseline QTcF values around Tmax were 12 msec at 1,000 mg IV and 22 msec at 1,800 mg IV (not approved dosing regimens and route of administration). Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ivabradine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ivabradine and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ivabradine including an additive reduction in heart rate which can contribute to QT prolongation or torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of ivabradine states that concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1,2,4,5) Guideline recommendations state ivabradine should not be used with protease inhibitors.(6) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for bradycardia (heart rate less than 50 bpm), dizziness, fatigue, hypotension, and/or symptoms of atrial fibrillation (heart palpitations, chest pressure, shortness of breath).

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors ketoconazole (200 mg daily) and josamycin (1000 mg twice daily) increased mean ivabradine plasma exposure by 7- to 8-fold.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Levoketoconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may inhibit the metabolism of levoketoconazole and result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that prolongs the QT interval may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from levoketoconazole.(1) Elevated levels of levoketoconazole may increase the risk of QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, hypokalemia, and hemorrhagic events.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states that levoketoconazole is contraindicated with other agents that prolong the QT interval. Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors two weeks before and during levoketoconazole treatment. Levoketoconazole is also contraindicated in patients with a prolonged QTcF interval of greater than 470 msec at baseline, history of torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or long QT syndrome (including first-degree family history). Use caution in patients with other risk factors for QT prolongation including congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, and uncorrected electrolyte abnormalities. Consider more frequent ECG monitoring. Prior to starting levoketoconazole, obtain a baseline ECG and correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. If a patient develops QT prolongation with a QTc interval greater than 500 msec, temporarily discontinue levoketoconazole. After resolution of prolonged QTc interval, levoketoconazole may be resumed at a lower dose. If QTc interval prolongation recurs, permanently discontinue levoketoconazole.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states levoketoconazole is both an inhibitor and substrate of CYP3A4.(1) During phase 1 and 2 studies, which excluded patients with baseline QTcF interval greater than 470 msec, 4 (2.4%) patients experienced QTcF > 500 msec, and 23 (14.7%) patients experienced change-from-baseline QTcF > 60 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Lonafarnib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of lonafarnib and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of lonafarnib including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in severe nausea and vomiting, increased liver enzymes, myelosuppression, and hypertension.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of lonafarnib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The manufacturer of lonafarnib states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs when initiating, during concurrent use, and as clinically indicated.(1) Lonafarnib dose modification recommendation: if the QTc interval is greater than or equal to 500 msec, withhold lonafarnib until the QTc interval is less than 470 msec, then resume lonafarnib at the same dosage.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: With coadministration of a single oral dose of 50 mg lonafarnib following 200 mg ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) once daily for 5 days, the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) were increased by 425% and 270%, respectively.(1) In a thorough QT study, lonafarnib 200 mg twice daily for 9 consecutive days and a single 200 mg dose on day 10 increased the mean QTc interval by 19 msec (upper bound of 90% confidence interval = 27 msec) on day 10 at 48 hours after administration of the morning dose of lonafarnib 200 mg. The Cmax on Day 10 was 2233 ng/ml, which is similar to the mean Cmax of 2695 ng/ml observed in the Hutchinson-Gilford Progeria Syndrome patient population.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Mobocertinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of mobocertinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from mobocertinib including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with mobocertinib.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Increase the frequency of ECG monitoring in patients with risk factors for QTc prolongation, including congenital long QT syndrome, heart disease, or electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If patients develop QTc prolongation during mobocertinib therapy, dose modifications are recommended: - If Grade 2 (QTc interval 481-500 msec) and first occurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the same dose. - If Grade 2 and recurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the next lower dose or permanently discontinue. - If Grade 3 (QTc interval >= 501 msec or QTc interval increase of > 60 msec from baseline) and first occurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the next lower dose or permanently discontinue. - If Grade 3 and recurrence: permanently discontinue mobocertinib. - If Grade 4 (Torsades de pointes; polymorphic ventricular tachycardia; signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia): permanently discontinue mobocertinib.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of mobocertinib with multiple doses of itraconazole or ketoconazole (strong CYP3A inhibitors) is predicted to increase the steady-state combined molar area-under curve (AUC) of mobocertinib and its active metabolites by 374 to 419%.(1) In a clinical study, mobocertinib 160 mg once daily was associated with a concentration-dependent increase in QTc, with the largest mean increase in QTc of 23 msec.(1) In clinical studies, patients were excluded if baseline QTc was greater than 470 msec. In a subset of 250 patient with scheduled and unscheduled electrocardiograms (ECGs), 1.2% of patients had a QTc interval >500 msec and 11% of patients had a change-from-baseline QTc interval >60 msec. Grade 4 Torsades de Pointes occurred in 1 patient (0.4%).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pacritinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pacritinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase the levels and effects of pacritinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include bleeding, diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, major adverse cardiovascular events, thrombosis, and infection.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated in patients undergoing therapy with pacritinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If coadministration is unavoidable, monitor for prolongation of the QTc interval.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If patients develop QTc prolongation >500 msec or >60 msec from baseline, hold pacritinib. If QTc prolongation resolves to <=480 msec or to baseline within 1 week, resume pacritinib at the same dose. If time to resolution of the QTc interval takes greater than 1 week to resolve, reduce the pacritinib dose according to labeling.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of pacritinib (400 mg) by 30% and 80%, respectively.(1) In a 24 week clinical study, patients treated with pacritinib 200 mg twice daily had a change in QTc from baseline of 11 msec (90% CI: 5-17).(1) Pacritinib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation. In clinical trials, patients with QTc prolongation >500 msec occurred in 1.4% of patients in the treatment arm compared to 1% in the control arm. The treatment arm had a greater incidence of an increase in QTc > 60 msec from baseline than the control arm (1.9% vs 1%, respectively). QTc prolongation adverse reactions were higher in the treatment arm than the control group (3.8% vs 2%, respectively).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pimozide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of pimozide with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT is contraindicated, especially when other risk factors for QT prolongation are present. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ranolazine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ranolazine and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects from ranolazine, including additive QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia like torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of ranolazine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1,2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased plasma levels of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) by 220%.(1) Ranolazine-induced QTc prolongation is dose and concentration-related.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(1,2,4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Sebetralstat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may inhibit the metabolism of sebetralstat and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels and effects of sebetralstat including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Child-Pugh class B or C hepatic impairment may increase the risk for increased exposure to sebetralstat. Sebetralstat should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C).(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of sebetralstat states that concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Concomitant use of sebetralstat with itraconazole (200 mg once daily for 6 days), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased sebetralstat maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.4-fold and 5.2-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in healthy subjects, the largest mean increase in QTc interval was 10.4 msec (upper confidence interval = 15.3 msec) after administration of sebetralstat (2.5 times the maximum recommended dose). The increase in the QTc interval was concentration dependent.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Taletrectinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may inhibit the metabolism of taletrectinib and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels and toxicity from taletrectinib including hepatotoxicity and myalgia. Concurrent use may also result in additive QTc prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Taletrectinib should be taken on an empty stomach. Administration with food may increase the risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval. If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, adjust the frequency of monitoring as recommended in the prescribing information. Withhold taletrectinib if the QTc interval is >500 msec or the change from baseline is >60 msec.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Taletrectinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(1) Concomitant administration of itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) and taletrectinib resulted in a increase in taletrectinib maximum concentration (Cmax) of 1.8-fold and area under the curve (AUC) of 3.3-fold.(1) In a pooled safety population, 351 patients had at least one post baseline ECG assessment. Of those patients, 13% experienced an increase in QTcF of >60 msec compared to baseline after receiving taletrectinib and 2.6% had an increase in QTcF to >500 msec. Overall, 3.4% of patients had Grade 3 or greater QTc interval prolongation. The median time from the first dose of taletrectinib to the onset of ECG QT prolongation was 22 days (range: 1 day to 38.7 months). QTc prolongation led to dose interruption and dose reduction, each in 2.8% of patients treated with taletrectinib.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Zidesamtinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of zidesamtinib and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of zidesamtinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may result in elevated zidesamtinib levels and toxicities, including interstitial lung disease, pneumonitis, pancreatitis, myalgias, and additive QT prolongation, which may lead to potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, and advanced age.(1,2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of zidesamtinib states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of zidesamtinib also states that concurrent use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored more frequently.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor ECG and electrolytes when initiating zidesamtinib, during concurrent use, and as clinically indicated. Consider increasing the frequency of ECG and electrolyte monitoring. Withhold, then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue zidesamtinib based on severity.(1) If QTc prolongation occurs, follow recommended dose modifications: - Grade 2 (QTc interval 481-500 ms): Withhold zidesamtinib until recovery to Grade <= 1 or baseline; correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications; and resume at same dose. - Grade 3 (QTc interval >= 501 ms or QTc interval increase of > 60 ms from baseline): Withhold zidesamtinib until recovery to Grade <= 1 or baseline; correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications; and resume at reduced dose. - Grade 4 (Torsades de pointes; polymorphic ventricular tachycardia; or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia): Permanently discontinue zidesamtinib. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Zidesamtinib is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a study, itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of zidesamtinib by 2.6-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively.(1) Zidesamtinib 100 mg once daily increased the QTc by 13 ms (upper confidence interval = 19 ms) in patients with advanced ROS1-positive NSCLC and other advanced ROS1-positive solid tumors.(1) In a pooled safety study, QTc increase >60 ms occurred in 2% of patients and 0.2% of patients had an increase in QTcF > 500 ms.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Abemaciclib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Abemaciclib is a substrate of CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of abemaciclib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels and toxicity from abemaciclib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for management of this interaction vary in different regions. The US manufacturer of abemaciclib states to avoid concurrent administration with ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) The US manufacturer of abemaciclib recommends a dose reduction of abemaciclib if concurrent use with other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (other than ketoconazole). In patients on the recommended starting dose of abemaciclib 200 mg twice daily or 150 mg twice daily, reduce the abemaciclib dose to 100 mg twice daily. In patients who have had a dose reduction of abemaciclib to 100 mg twice daily due to adverse reactions, further reduce the dose to 50 mg twice daily with concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) The Australian manufacturer of abemaciclib recommends specific dose recommendations based on the concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. If given with ketoconazole, the recommended abemaciclib dose is 50 mg once daily. If given with itraconazole, the recommended abemaciclib dose is 50 mg twice daily. If given with clarithromycin, the recommended abemaciclib dose is 100 mg twice daily. For other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, the recommended abemaciclib dose is 50 mg twice daily.(2) If the concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the abemaciclib dose after 3-5 half-lives of the inhibitor to the dose that was used prior to starting the strong inhibitor.(1,2) Monitor patient for signs and symptoms of abemaciclib toxicity with concurrent use.

DISCUSSION: Abemaciclib is a substrate of CYP3A4.(1) Concurrent administration of ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) is predicted to increase the area-under-curve (AUC) of abemaciclib up to 16-fold.(1) Concurrent administration of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) is predicted to increase the relative potency adjusted unbound AUC of abemaciclib and its active metabolites (M2, M18, and M20) by 2.2-fold.(1) Concurrent administration of clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single dose of 50 mg of abemaciclib increased the relative potency adjusted unbound AUC of abemaciclib and its active metabolites (M2, M18, and M20) by 1.7-fold.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, troleandomycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Acalabrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of acalabrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for acalabrutinib toxicities such as neutropenia, anemia, or thrombocytopenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of acalabrutinib and strong CYP3A inhibitors. Consider an alternative concomitant medication with less potential for CYP3A4 inhibition. If a CYP3A inhibitor will be used short-term (such as anti-infective for up to 7 days), interrupt acalabrutinib therapy.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of itraconazole (200mg once daily for 5 days) with acalabrutinib increased acalabrutinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 3.9 and 5.1-fold, respectively. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Avutometinib-Defactinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Avutometinib and defactinib are CYP3A4 substrates. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of defactinib. Avutometinib also undergoes non-enzymatic degradation is not affected by CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of defactinib and toxicity from avutometinib-defactinib, including hepatotoxicity, rhabdomyolysis, ocular toxicities, and skin toxicities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of avutometinib-defactinib and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Defactinib maximum concentration (Cmax) increased by 2.2-fold and area-under-curve (AUC) by 3.9-fold following concomitant use with itraconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) 200 mg daily for 10 days. The AUC of M4, a major active metabolite of defactinib, increased by 2.2-fold and Cmax decreased by 6.8%.(1) No clinically significant differences in avutometinib pharmacokinetics were observed when used concomitantly with itraconazole.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cobimetinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of cobimetinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from cobimetinib, including hemorrhage, cardiomyopathy, dermatologic reactions, retinopathy, hepatotoxicity, or rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with cobimetinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. The manufacturer of cobimetinib states an alternative to a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor in patients taking cobimetinib 20 mg or 40 mg daily is recommended.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole 200 mg once daily for 14 days followed by a single dose of cobimetinib 10 mg increased mean cobimetinib area-under-curve (AUC) 6.7-fold (90% CI 5.6, 8.0).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Dabrafenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of dabrafenib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from dabrafenib, including hemorrhage, cardiomyopathy, uveitis, skin toxicities, or hyperglycemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with dabrafenib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor patients closely for toxicity. The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 4 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of dabrafenib (75 mg BID) by 71%. The AUC of hydroxy-dabrafenib and desmethyl-dabrafenib increased by 82% and 68%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Dapagliflozin-Saxagliptin-Metformin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of saxagliptin.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of saxagliptin.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of the combination product containing dapagliflozin-saxagliptin-metformin states that this combination should not be coadministered with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 9 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 62% and 2.5-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 95% and 91%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of ketoconazole decreased 16% and 13%, respectively.(1,2) Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 2.4-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 96% and 90%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Dapoxetine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of dapoxetine.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of dapoxetine.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: If the patient is a CYP2D6 poor metabolizer, dapoxetine metabolism can be further inhibited.(1-3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of dapoxetine at any dose is contraindicated in patients taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1-3) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for agitation, hallucinations, muscle twitching/stiffness/tightness, rapid heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, sweating or fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal bleeding or bruising, difficulty urinating or the inability to urinate, seizures or convulsions, signs of mania (greatly increased energy, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, unusually grand ideas, excessive happiness or irritability, talking more or faster than usual). The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of dapoxetine during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment is contraindicated.(4,5)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 7 days), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of dapoxetine (30 mg) by 35% and 99%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active fraction are expected to increase by 25% and 2-fold, respectively, with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1-3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-7)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Daridorexant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of daridorexant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from daridorexant including somnolence, fatigue, CNS depressant effects, daytime impairment, or headache.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian and UK manufacturers of daridorexant state that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(2-3) The US manufacturer of daridorexant states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with daridorexant should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Daridorexant is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a PKPB model, concurrent use of daridorexant with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased daridorexant area-under-curve (AUC) by 400%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Doxorubicin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of doxorubicin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from doxorubicin, including cardiomyopathy, myelosuppression, or hepatic impairment.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with doxorubicin.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition.

DISCUSSION: Doxorubicin is a substrate of CYP3A4.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Finerenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of finerenone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of finerenone with a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 increases finerenone concentrations and may increase the risk of toxicity (e.g. hyperkalemia, hypotension).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Severe renal disease increases the risk for hyperkalemia.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of finerenone states that the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of finerenone during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment is contraindicated.(2,3) In all patients taking finerenone with a moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor serum potassium during drug initiation or dosage adjustment of either finerenone or the moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitor. Dose adjustment may be necessary.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of finerenone with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased finerenone area-under-curve (AUC) by greater than 400%.(1) Concurrent use of finerenone with erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased finerenone mean AUC by 248% and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 88%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Futibatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Futibatinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Agents that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of futibatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated systemic levels and toxicity from futibatinib including hyperphosphatemia, retinal pigment epithelial detachment and elevated liver enzymes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of futibatinib states concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, multiple doses of itraconazole (an inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased the mean maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of futibatinib by 51% and 41%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Leniolisib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of leniolisib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from leniolisib including neutropenia.(1) Common side effects may also include sinusitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with leniolisib should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Leniolisib exposure was increased 2-fold when coadministered with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Levomilnacipran (>80Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of levomilnacipran.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of levomilnacipran.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of levomilnacipran should not exceed 80 mg daily in patients taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for agitation, hallucinations, muscle twitching/stiffness/tightness, rapid heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, sweating or fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal bleeding or bruising, difficulty urinating or the inability to urinate, seizures or convulsions, signs of mania (greatly increased energy, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, unusually grand ideas, excessive happiness or irritability, talking more or faster than usual).

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the Cmax and AUC of levomilnacipran between 1.25 and 1.50-fold and between 1.50 and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Macitentan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of macitentan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of macitentan.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of macitentan states that use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. When strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are required (e.g. protease inhibitors in the treatment of HIV), use other treatment options for pulmonary arterial hypertension.(1) The Journal of American College of Cardiology (JACC) states concurrent use of macitentan and nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is not advised. JACC recommends discontinuing macitentan for at least 36 hours before initiation of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.(2)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of macitentan approximately 2.3 and 1.3-fold respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Mitapivat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of mitapivat.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from mitapivat including decreased estrone and estradiol levels in males, increased urate, back pain, and arthralgias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with mitapivat should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Mitapivat is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a pharmacokinetic study with mitapivat 20 mg single dose, itraconazole increased mitapivat area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 4.9-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively. In a pharmacokinetic study with mitapivat 50 mg twice daily, itraconazole increased mitapivat AUC and Cmax by 3.6-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively. With ketoconazole, mitapivat doses of 5, 20, or 50 mg twice daily had an AUC and Cmax increased by 3.9-fold and 2.4-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Naloxegol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of naloxegol.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of naloxegol, which may precipitate opioid withdrawal symptoms.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients taking methadone may be more likely to experience gastrointestinal side effects such as abdominal pain and diarrhea as a result of opioid withdrawal.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of naloxegol and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent administration with naloxegol is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5) If concurrent use is deemed medically necessary, monitor patients for signs of opioid withdrawal such as sweating, chills, diarrhea, stomach pain, anxiety, irritability, yawning, restlessness, muscle/joint aches, increased lacrimation, running nose, and piloerection. Monitor patients taking methadone for abdominal pain and diarrhea as well.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of naloxegol by 9.58-fold and 12.85-fold, respectively.(2) Diltiazem (240 mg XR daily), a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of naloxegol by 2.85 and 3.41, respectively.(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Nimodipine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nimodipine is metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may decrease the metabolism of nimodipine.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from nimodipine.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of nimodipine capsules states that the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated due to the risk of significant hypotension.(1) The US manufacturer of nimodipine solution states that strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should generally be avoided.(2) The US manufacturers of some strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, including cobicistat(4) and ritonavir,(5) state that concurrent use of CYP3A4 substrates for which increased levels may cause serious or life-threatening events are contraindicated. If coadministration is necessary, monitor the patient closely and adjust the dose of nimodipine as needed.(3)

DISCUSSION: In 7 healthy volunteers, cimetidine (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) 200 mg 3 times daily with meals and 400 mg at bedtime increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of nimodipine (30 mg 3 times daily) by 82% and 54%, respectively. There was no change in blood pressure, heart rate, or tolerability of nimodipine, and no dose adjustment was required.(6) The combination of nimodipine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors has not been studied, but a more marked effect is expected. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(7-8)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Olaparib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of olaparib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from olaparib, including myelodysplastic syndrome, pneumonitis, thromboembolic events, anemia, neutropenia or thrombocytopenia.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with olaparib.(1,2) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concomitant use with olaparib cannot be avoided, reduce the olaparib dose. Dosage adjustments are specific to the formulation of olaparib (CAPsules or TABlets).(1,2) -Reduce the dosage of the CAPsule formulation to 150 mg (3 CAPsules) taken twice daily.(1) -Reduce the dosage of the TABlet formulation to 100 mg (one 100 mg TABlet) twice daily).(2) If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the dose of olaparib taken prior to initiation of the CYP3A4 inhibitor after 3 to 5 half-lives.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, the area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) of olaparib was increased 2.7- and 1.4-fold, respectively when it was administered with itraconazole (dose not specified), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1,2,3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Olverembatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Olverembatinib is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of olverembatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of olverembatinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of olverembatinib, including myelosuppression, bleeding, and hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of olverembatinib states coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study of 16 healthy subjects, coadministration of olverembatinib 20 mg with itraconazole 200 mg daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 2.59-fold increase in olverembatinib's area-under-curve (AUC) and a 1.76-fold increase in olverembatinib's maximum concentration (Cmax).(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Oveporexton

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Oveporexton is metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of oveporexton.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of oveporexton, including insomnia, urinary frequency and urgency, and CPK elevation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Adverse reactions from oveporexton may be more likely in patients with Child-Pugh class C hepatic impairment and in patients with severe renal impairment on dialysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of oveporexton with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of oveporexton by 7.4-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively. Oveporexton half-life was increased by about 5-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Palovarotene

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of palovarotene.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in increased levels of and effects from palovarotene including rash, alopecia, skin exfoliation, photosensitivity, reduction in bone mass, hyperostosis, and night blindness.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with palovarotene should be avoided.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of palovarotene by 121% and 212%, respectively.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Plitidepsin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of plitidepsin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from plitidepsin.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be discontinued at least 1 week prior to starting treatment and while on treatment with plitidepsin.

DISCUSSION: In vitro studies indicate that CYP3A4 is the main enzyme involved in the metabolism of plitidepsin. The Australian manufacturer of plitidepsin states that coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Pyrotinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pyrotinib is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pyrotinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of pyrotinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of pyrotinib, including hepatotoxicity, decreased left ventricular ejection fraction, bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal adverse effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pyrotinib states coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study of healthy subjects, coadministration of pyrotinib with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 11.8-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and a 3.78-fold increase in maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Remibrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Remibrutinib is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of remibrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from remibrutinib, including bleeding.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in older patients (65 years and over) and patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients taking remibrutinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, remibrutinib maximum concentration (Cmax) increased by 3.3-fold and area-under-curve (AUC) increased by 4.3-fold following concomitant administration with ritonavir (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) 100 mg twice daily for 4 days.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Rilzabrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rilzabrutinib is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of rilzabrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from rilzabrutinib, including hepatotoxicity and immunosuppression.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B-C) may be more susceptible to the effects of this drug interaction due to the potential for increased rilzabrutinib exposure.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients taking rilzabrutinib. If concurrent use cannot be avoided and the CYP3A4 inhibitor will be used short term (i.e., less than 7 days), interrupt treatment with rilzabrutinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, ritonavir (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) of rilzabrutinib by 5-fold and the area-under-curve (AUC) by 8-fold at steady state.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Rimegepant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rimegepant is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may decrease the metabolism of rimegepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from rimegepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of rimegepant recommends avoiding concomitant use of agents that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors due to a significant increase in exposure to rimegepant.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study, itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of rimegepant (75 mg) by 4-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Slt High Strength Antimuscarinics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of darifenacin(1) and fesoterodine.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and signs of toxicity from darifenacin(1) and fesoterodine.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of darifenacin states that the daily dose of darifenacin should not exceed 7.5 mg in patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The US manufacturer of fesoterodine states that the daily dose of fesoterodine should not exceed 4 mg in adult patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. In pediatric patients, the daily dose of fesoterodine in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be reduced to 4 mg in patients weighing greater than 35 kilograms. Use of fesoterodine in pediatric patients weighing greater than 25 kilograms and up to 35 kilograms is not recommended.(2) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with fesoterodine is contraindicated in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 10 extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers and 1 poor CYP2D6 metabolizer, concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of darifenacin (7.5 mg daily) by 3.9-fold and 4.6-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 12.9-fold and 12-fold, respectively, in the poor metabolizer, compared to historical controls. The concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg) and darifenacin (15 mg daily) increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 11.5-fold and 10.73-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 4.9-fold and 4.9-fold, respectively, in the poor metabolizer, compared to historical controls.(1) Concurrent administration of darifenacin (30 mg daily) and erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 128% and 95%, respectively. Administration of darifenacin (30 mg daily) and fluconazole, another moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 84% and 88%, respectively. No dosage adjustment is recommended during concurrent therapy with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) In a study, co-administration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice a day) increased the Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of fesoterodine 2.0 and 2.3-fold in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers and 2.1 and 2.5-fold in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, respectively. Fesoterodine Cmax and AUC were 4.5-fold and 5.7-fold higher in subjects who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and taking ketoconazole when compared to extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers not taking ketoconazole.(2) In another study, ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of fesoterodine 2.2-fold in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers and 1.5-fold and 1.9-fold in CYP P-450-2D6 poor metabolizers, respectively.(1,2) Fesoterodine Cmax and AUC were 3.4-fold and 4.2-fold higher in subjects who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and taking ketoconazole when compared to extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers not taking ketoconazole.(2) Based on a controlled randomized study in 28 healthy adults, oral fluconazole (200 mg daily) taken with oral fesoterodine (8 mg daily) was generally well tolerated in patients. A slightly non-clinically significant rise in plasma fesoterodine levels did occur. No clinically significant side effects were reported. The most common side effects reported by patients include: dizziness, blurred vision and abdominal distension when fluconazole was taken with fesoterodine.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Solifenacin (> 5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of solifenacin.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and signs of toxicity from solifenacin.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US and Swedish manufacturers of solifenacin state the daily dose should be limited to 5 mg in adults and should not exceed the starting dose in children and adolescents when administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. The starting dose of solifenacin is 2 mg for patients weighing up to 15 kg, 3 mg for patients over 15 kg to 45 kg, 4 mg for patients over 45 kg to 60 kg, and 5 mg for patients over 60 kg.(1,24) The Swedish manufacturer of the combination product of tamsulosin-solifenacin states that the daily dose of solifenacin should not exceed 6 mg in patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.(3) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with solifenacin is contraindicated in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 21 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of solifenacin (10 mg) by 1.5-fold and 2.7-fold,respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Sonidegib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of sonidegib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from sonidegib, including musculoskeletal adverse reactions (elevated creatine kinase) or rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with sonidegib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition.

DISCUSSION: In a study, 15 healthy subjects received a single sonidegib 800 mg alone or after ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily for 14 days. Mean area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) increased by 2.2-fold and 1.5-fold respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Sparsentan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of sparsentan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from sparsentan including hepatotoxicity, hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with sparsentan should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, interrupt therapy with sparsentan. When resuming sparsentan, consider dose titration.(1)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration of a single dose of sparsentan with itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of sparsentan by 25% and 174%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Suzetrigine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Suzetrigine and M6-SUZ (active metabolite of suzetrigine) are CYP3A4 substrates. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors increase suzetrigine and M6-SUZ exposures, which may cause suzetrigine adverse reactions.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from suzetrigine including pruritis, muscle spasms, increased blood creatine phosphokinase, and rash.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of suzetrigine and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concomitant administration of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single dose of suzetrigine increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of suzetrigine and active metabolite M6-SUZ by 4.8-fold and 4.4-fold, respectively, while the maximum concentration (Cmax) of suzetrigine increased by 1.5-fold and Cmax of M6-SUZ decreased by 32%.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tolvaptan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tolvaptan.(1) Toxicity may result from an overly rapid correction of serum sodium.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of tolvaptan.(1) Elevated levels of tolvaptan may lead to increased clinical effects such as hypotension, hypovolemia, and thirst, as well as toxicity in the form of neurologic sequelae such as osmotic demyelination syndrome (ODS). ODS can lead to coma and death. Symptoms of ODS include dysarthria, mutism, dysphagia, lethargy, affective changes, spastic quadriparesis, seizures, and coma.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of tolvaptan and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The Australian manufacturer of tolvaptan provides different recommendations with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors based on the indication for tolvaptan. Refer to product labeling for recommendations with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(2,3) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with tolvaptan is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4)

DISCUSSION: Tolvaptan is a substrate of CYP3A4. Concurrent administration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased tolvaptan exposure by 5-fold. Administration of ketoconazole at dosages of 400 mg daily would be expected to produce greater increases, as would concurrent administration with other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Trabectedin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which strongly inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may impede the metabolism of trabectedin.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for adverse effects from trabectedin.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible, avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients receiving trabectedin.(1) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concomitant administration with trabectedin is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3) If short term use (i.e. less than 14 days) of a CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, administer the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor one week after trabectedin infusion and discontinue it prior to the next trabectedin infusion.(1) Monitor closely for adverse effects and decrease dosage if required.

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, a single dose of trabectedin with ketoconazole 200 mg orally twice daily for 7.5 days increased trabectedin exposure (AUC, area-under-curve) 66% compared with a single dose of trabectedin given alone.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Trastuzumab Emtansine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Trastuzumab emtansine is a conjugate of trastuzumab and emtansine, a complex of MCC-DM1. DM1 is a microtubule inhibitor and is metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 are expected to inhibit the metabolism of DM1.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 are expected to increase exposure to and toxicity from DM1, an active metabolite of trastuzumab emtansine, including hepatotoxicity, pneumonitis, hemorrhage, thrombocytopenia, or neurotoxicity.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US, UK, and Canadian manufacturers recommend avoiding the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with trastuzumab emtansine. Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition.(1-4) If concurrent use with trastuzumab emtansine is unavoidable, consider delaying trastuzumab emtansine treatment until the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor has cleared from circulation (approximately 3 half-lives of the inhibitor). If strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are used concurrently with trastuzumab emtansine, patients should be closely monitored for toxicity.(1-3) The Australian manufacturer recommends patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors concomitantly with trastuzumab emtansine should be closely monitored for adverse reactions.(4)

DISCUSSION: Trastuzumab emtansine is a conjugate of trastuzumab and emtansine, a complex of MCC-DM1. DM1 is a microtubule inhibitor. In vitro studies in human liver microsomes indicate that DM1 is metabolized by CYP3A4 and inhibition of this isoenzyme is expected to result in elevated levels of and toxicity from DM1.(1-4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ubrogepant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ubrogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ubrogepant with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in a significant increase in exposure of ubrogepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ubrogepant states coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ubrogepant with ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 9.7-fold and 5.3-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax), respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Valbenazine (> 40 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of valbenazine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for valbenazine toxicities such as QT prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may further increase levels of valbenazine.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the valbenazine dose to 40 mg once daily when valbenazine is coadministered with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of ketoconazole with valbenazine increased valbenazine maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 2 and 1.5-fold, respectively. Cmax and AUC for the active metabolite of valbenazine (alpha-HTBZ) increased by approximately 2 and 1.6-fold, respectively. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vilazodone (>20 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of vilazodone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of vilazodone.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of vilazodone should be reduced to 20 mg daily when coadministered with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for agitation, hallucinations, muscle twitching/stiffness/tightness, rapid heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, sweating or fever, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal bleeding or bruising, difficulty urinating or the inability to urinate, seizures or convulsions, signs of mania (greatly increased energy, trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, unusually grand ideas, excessive happiness or irritability, talking more or faster than usual).

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole increased vilazodone concentrations by 50%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vincristine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of vincristine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from vincristine, including myelosuppression, neurologic toxicity, tumor lysis syndrome, hepatotoxicity, constipation, or bowel obstruction.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with vincristine.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. The US manufacturer of vincristine states that concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that patients who develop significant hematological or gastrointestinal toxicity on concomitant vincristine should temporarily hold lopinavir/ritonavir, or use alternative medications that do not inhibit CYP3A4 or P-gp.(2) The Australian manufacturer of vincristine states coadministration of vincristine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be used with caution.(19) The Australian manufacturer of voriconazole recommends that a dose adjustment of vincristine be considered when coadministered with voriconazole.(20)

DISCUSSION: Vincristine is a substrate of CYP3A4. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may increase toxicity of vincristine.(1) There are several case reports of neurotoxicity with concurrent administration of vincristine and itraconazole (6,12-16), posaconazole (8), and voriconazole.(11) There is a case report of neurotoxicity with concurrent administration of lopinavir-ritonavir with vincristine.(9) In a retrospective study of 29 adults with acute lymphoplastic leukemia (ALL) receiving concurrent vincristine and azole therapy (fluconazole, voriconazole, or posaconazole), patients were more likely to have a dose modification (dose reduction or discontinue drug, 58.6% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.02) and more likely to have symptoms of decreased peristalsis (65.5% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.019). A mean dose reduction of vincristine when combined with an azole was 46.5%. Six patients had to withhold treatment with vincristine because of the severity of the neurotoxicity.(10) In a prospective study in 22 children receiving various chemotherapy with prophylactic itraconazole oral solution (0.5 ml/kg per day), two children receiving vincristine developed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and one child developed syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).(17) In a retrospective review, 8 ALL patients on vincristine and voriconazole prophylaxis (200 mg twice a day) did not show any signs of neurotoxicity.(18) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, fusidic acid, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vinflunine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of vinflunine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from vinflunine, including neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anemia, constipation, stomatitis, diarrhea, or alopecia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with vinflunine.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. The manufacturer of vinflunine states that concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a phase I study, concurrent use of ketoconazole (400 mg orally daily for 8 days) increased the exposure to vinflunine and DVFL by 30% and 50%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Voclosporin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of voclosporin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from voclosporin, including infection, neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, hypertension, or hyperkalemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The prescribing information for voclosporin states the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with voclosporin is contraindicated.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of voclosporin during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment is contraindicated.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of voclosporin and ketoconazole 400 mg daily (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor)for 9 days increased the concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 6.45-fold and 18.55-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent use of voclosporin and verapamil 80 mg three times a day for 10 days (moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) increased Cmax and AUC by 2.08-fold and 2.71-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Zilurgisertib (>50 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Zilurgisertib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of zilurgisertib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of zilurgisertib including headaches, arthralgias, and upper respiratory infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When used concomitantly with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce zilurgisertib dose to 50 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, itraconazole increased zilurgisertib area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.13-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.28-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Atazanavir; Darunavir/Avanafil

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of avanafil.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of avanafil, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of avanafil states that the concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 is contraindicated.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that boosted atazanavir or darunavir should not be coadministered with avanafil. Unboosted atazanavir may be coadministered with avanafil doses not exceeding 50 mg every 24 hours.(2) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of avanafil is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of avanafil (50 mg) by 3-fold and 13-fold, respectively. The half-life of avanafil increased from 5 hours to 9 hours.(1) Ritonavir (600 mg BID), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 and an inhibitor of CYP2C19, increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of avanafil (50 mg) by 2.4-fold and 13-fold, respectively. The half-life of avanafil increased from 5 hours to 9 hours.(1) Erythromycin (500 mg BID), a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of avanafil (200 mg) by 2-fold and 3-fold, respectively. The half-life of avanafil increased from 5 hours to 8 hours.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, elvitegravir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4-5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Atazanavir; Darunavir/Suvorexant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 impair the metabolism of suvorexant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of suvorexant with a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in an increase in hypnotic levels and clinical adverse effects such as confusion, memory loss, sleep-walking or sleep-driving behaviors, thought or behavioral changes, or excessive daytime drowsiness, as well as toxic effects such as profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Systemic exposure may also be increased in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Elderly and debilitated patients are more likely to have impaired motor or cognitive performance when treated with hypnotics.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of suvorexant states that concurrent use with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 is not recommended. Consider alternative agents with less CYP3A4 inhibition when possible.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that suvorexant should not be coadministered with protease inhibitors.(2) Patients requiring concurrent therapy will need a substantially lower dose of suvorexant. Patients should be counseled that concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with suvorexant may result in an increase in side effects such as confusion, memory loss, sleep-walking or sleep-driving behaviors, or daytime drowsiness. With moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4, the manufacturer recommends a starting dose of 5 mg daily and a maximum dose of 10 mg daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole increased suvorexant AUC and Cmax by approximately 2.75-fold and 1.25-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, elvitegravir, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Atazanavir;Darunavir/Lercanidipine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of lercanidipine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of lercanidipine with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may lead to increased lercanidipine effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of lercanidipine states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, concurrent administration of ketoconazole increased lercanidipine's area-under-the-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 15-fold and 8-fold, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, erythromycin, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Darunavir/Irinotecan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of SN-38, the active metabolite of irinotecan. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and darunavir may prevent the breakdown of SN-38 to its inactive metabolites APC, NPC, M2, M3, and M4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Coadministration of irinotecan with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in increased irinotecan plasma concentration, and therefore increased exposure to its active metabolite SN-38. Increased SN-38 exposure may lead to serious toxicity, including severe neutropenia, interstitial pulmonary disease, and even death.(3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of irinotecan and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or darunavir is contraindicated.(2-4) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be discontinued at least 1 week prior to starting irinotecan.(4) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concomitant administration with irinotecan is contra-indicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider a four-fold reduction in irinotecan dose.(3) Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be closely monitored for toxicity.

DISCUSSION: A randomized cross-over study involving seven patients was performed in which each was given irinotecan 350 mg/m2 IV alone for 90 minutes and followed 3 weeks later by irinotecan 100 mg/m2 given with ketoconazole 200 mg orally 1 hour before or 23 hours after the infusion of irinotecan, or both cycles were given vice versa. With ketoconazole coadministration, the conversion of irinotecan to its inactive metabolite was reduced by 87%, whereas the relative exposure to the active prodrug was increased by 109%. Both hematologic (degree of myelosuppression; percent decrease in neutrophil count) and nonhematologic (nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea) parameters were similar between the courses, despite a 3.5 fold reduced irinotecan dose when given in combination with ketoconazole. The authors concluded that the coadministration of various CYP3A4 inhibitors could potentiate a fatal outcome.(3) A prospective, open-label, randomized study was conducted to determine the pharmacokinetics of lopinavir (LPV)/ritonavir (RTV) administration with irinotecan (CPT11). Eight HIV-infected, Caucasian male patients with Kaposi's sarcoma, stage IV (according to New York University classification) were administered highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). HAART consisted of 400 mg lopinavir/ 100 mg ritonavir (Kaletra) twice daily (b.i.d) in association with NRTIs b.i.d. for at least 1 month before the start of anticancer chemotherapy. Patients were then treated with irinotecan as a single agent (150 mg/m2) over a 90 min infusion at days 1 and 10, every 3 weeks. Concomitant LPV/RTV treatment reduced the irinotecan clearance from 21.3 +/- 6.3 to 11.3 +/- 3.5 l/h/m2 (P=0.0008) causing an 89% increase of CPT11 AUC (P=0.001) and a 20% increase in the Cmax of CPT11 (p=0.02). The LPV/RTV treatment increased the AUC of SN38 by 204% (p=0.0001) and AUC of SN38G by 94% (P=0.002). Conversely, LPV/RTV treatment caused an 81% reduction in AUC of APC (p=0.02). Overall, the authors concluded that CYP3A4 inhibitors like LPV/RTV decrease CPT11 clearance and increase SN-38 exposure, potentially leading to CPT11 toxicity if not monitored closely.(7) Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(8) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors/Eplerenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of eplerenone.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eplerenone with a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 or a protease inhibitor may result in 5-fold increases in eplerenone concentrations and toxicity (e.g. hyperkalemia, hypotension).(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Severe renal disease increases the risk for hyperkalemia.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of eplerenone states that the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that protease inhibitors are contraindicated with eplerenone.(3) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of eplerenone is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4) The starting dose of eplerenone for hypertension should be reduced to 25 mg in patients receiving moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) In all patients taking eplerenone who start taking a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, check serum potassium and creatinine levels after 3-7 days of concurrent therapy.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (200 mg BID) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of eplerenone (100 mg) by 1.7-fold and 5.4-fold, respectively.(1) The concurrent use of eplerenone with less potent CYP3A4 inhibitors (erythromycin 500 mg BID, fluconazole 200 mg daily, saquinavir 1200 mg TID, and verapamil 240 mg daily) increased the Cmax of eplerenone by 1.4-fold to 1.6-fold and the AUC of eplerenone by 2.0-fold and 2.9-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors/Ticagrelor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ticagrelor.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in a substantial increase in exposure to and effects from ticagrelor, including increased risk of bleeding.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of ticagrelor states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of ticagrelor states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(2) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of ticagrelor is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent ketoconazole increased ticagrelor maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.4-fold and 7.3-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active ticagrelor metabolite decreased by 89% and 56%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors/Vorapaxar

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of vorapaxar.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 or a protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of vorapaxar,(1) including an increased risk of bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of vorapaxar states that concurrent use with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that protease inhibitors should not be coadministered with vorapaxar.(4) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with vorapaxar is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 28 days) increased exposure to vorapaxar (20 mg on Day 7, 2.5 mg on Days 8-28) by 2-fold.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitor linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6)

Strong Or Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Flibanserin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Flibanserin is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, though CYP2C19 also plays a role in metabolism.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in high to very high levels of and toxicity from flibanserin, including severe hypotension or syncope.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with any degree of hepatic impairment, who are poor CYP2C19 metabolizers, or who also receive concomitant therapy with strong CYP2C19 inhibitors are expected to have increased systemic concentrations of flibanserin, adding to the risk for hypotension or syncopal episodes.(1) Hypotensive or syncopal episodes are more common when flibanserin is taken during waking hours.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concomitant use of flibanserin with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors significantly increases flibanserin concentrations which may lead to hypotension and syncope. The manufacturer of flibanserin states moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are contraindicated.(1) If the benefit of initiating a CYP3A4 inhibitor within 2 days of stopping flibanserin clearly outweighs the risk flibanserin-associated hypotension or syncope, monitor and counsel the patient regarding symptoms of hypotension or syncope. Discontinue moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors for 2 weeks before initiating or restarting flibanserin therapy.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study with 15 healthy subjects, the combination of flibanserin (100 mg on day 6) and fluconazole (a moderate CYP3A4 and strong CYP2C19 inhibitor, 400 mg once then 200 mg daily for 5 days) resulted in an increased flibanserin exposure of 7-fold. Hypotension or syncope requiring supine placement with leg elevation occurred in 3 subjects (20%). One patient became unresponsive with a blood pressure of 64/41 mm Hg and required emergency room treatment where she required intravenous saline.(1) Though the combination has not been studied, a similar result is plausible with voriconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and moderate CYP2C19 inhibitor.(1) In a drug interaction study with flibanserin 50 mg (one-half of the recommended dose) and ketoconazole 400 mg, flibanserin exposure increased 4.5-fold. One of 24 patients(4%) developed syncope.(1) A study of 12 healthy men and women on itraconazole (400 mg once then 200 mg daily for 4 days) with flibanserin 50 mg given 2 hours after itraconazole found that flibanserin exposure was increased 2.6-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole (also a CYP2C19 inhibitor), fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, ledipasvir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan, and verapamil.(1-3)

Strong Or Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lomitapide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lomitapide is primarily metabolized via CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in high to very high levels of and toxicity from lomitapide.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment or with end-stage renal disease.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Given the magnitude of this interaction and the potential toxicity of lomitapide, moderate and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are contraindicated.(1) When possible use an alternative to the CYP3A4 inhibitor. If a moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, discontinue lomitapide. Due to its long half-life, it will take 1 to 2 weeks for remaining lomitapide to be eliminated; thus lomitapide adverse effects could occur after discontinuation. The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with lomitapide is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration with ketoconazole (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased lomitapide area-under-curve (AUC) by 27-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3,5) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole (also a CYP2C19 inhibitor), fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, lefamulin, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan, and verapamil.(1-3)

Ugt1a1 Inducers/Cabotegravir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifapentine, rifampin, and ritonavir may induce the metabolism of cabotegravir by uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucuronosyl transferase 1A1 (UGT1A1).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifapentine, rifampin, or ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of cabotegravir, as well as the development of resistance.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cabotegravir states that concurrent use of UGT1A1 inducers such as carbamazepine, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifapentine, rifampin, and ritonavir is contraindicated.(1) It may take several weeks after the discontinuation of an enzyme inducer for enzyme activity to return to normal.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 15 subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the concentration maximum (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and concentration minimum (Cmin) of cabotegravir by 6%, 59%, and 50%, respectively.(1) UGT1A1 inducers linked include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifapentine, rifampin, and ritonavir.(1,2)

Ugt1a1 Inducers/Sacituzumab Govitecan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inducers of UGT1A1 may increase the metabolism of SN-38, the topoisomerase inhibitor which is the antineoplastic component of sacituzumab govitecan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of UGT1A1 inducers may result in decreased exposure to sacituzumab govitecan and therapeutic failure.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of UGT1A1 inducers in patients receiving sacituzumab govitecan.(1)

DISCUSSION: SN-38, the small molecule moiety of sacituzumab govitecan, is metabolized by UGT1A1, and inducers of UGT1A1 are expected to decrease SN-38 levels and effectiveness.(1) In a clinical trial, patients homozygous for decreased function UGT1A1*28 allele had a 26% incidence of Grade 4 neutropenia, compared to 13% of patients heterozygous for the UGT1A1*28 allele and 11% of patients homozygous for the wild type allele.(1) UGT1A1 inducers linked to this monograph include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, lorlatinib, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, ritonavir.

Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

Anti-Retrovirals/Marnetegragene Autotemcel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Marnetegragene autotemcel is prepared from apheresed cells that are transduced with a replication defective, self-inactivating lentiviral vector. Antiretrovirals may interfere with the manufacturing of transduced cells.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of antiretrovirals before mobilization and apheresis may interfere with the production of marnetegragene autotemcel.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discontinue antiretrovirals for at least one month prior to mobilization (or the expected duration of time needed for elimination of the antiretrovirals) until all cycles of apheresis are completed. If a patient requires antiretrovirals for HIV prophylaxis, then confirm a negative HIV test before beginning mobilization and apheresis of CD34+ cells.(1)

DISCUSSION: Antiretroviral medications may interfere with the manufacturing of marnetegragene autotemcel.(1)

Antiretroviral Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Selected Steroids

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Antiretroviral CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of corticosteroids metabolized by CYP3A4. Dexamethasone may induce metabolism of agents that are substrates of CYP3A4.(1-13,50)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of antiretroviral CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from corticosteroids metabolized by CYP3A4, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression. Concurrent dexamethasone may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of CYP3A4 substrates.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy of corticosteroids metabolized by CYP3A4 with antiretroviral CYP3A4 inhibitors. Alternative corticosteroids that are less affected by CYP3A4 inhibitors should be considered, like beclomethasone, prednisone, and prednisolone. If concurrent therapy is warranted, patients should be closely monitored for systemic effects. The corticosteroid may need to be discontinued. Patients receiving concurrent therapy with dexamethasone and substrates of CYP3A4 should also be monitored for decreased effectiveness of the CYP3A4 substrate. The manufacturers of nasal fluticasone(14-16) and fluticasone for inhalation(17) state that concurrent use of fluticasone and atazanavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir or saquinavir is not recommended. The US manufacturers of atazanavir,(1) fosamprenavir,(5) indinavir(6) and nelfinavir(8) recommend caution with concurrent use of inhaled or nasal fluticasone. Consider alternatives to fluticasone if long-term use is required.

DISCUSSION: In a study, boceprevir (800 mg TID for 7 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of prednisone (40 mg) by 22%. The maximum concentration (Cmax) and AUC of prednisolone increased by 16% and 37%, respectively.(2) A study of 14 healthy adults found that concurrent use of ketoconazole with ciclesonide increased the AUC of ciclesonide's active metabolite, des-ciclesonide, by approximately 3.6-fold at steady state, while levels of ciclesonide remained unchanged. However, the study concluded that no dosage adjustments were required because ciclesonide has a very low potential to cause side effects.(18) A study in 18 healthy subjects examined the effects of ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) on fluticasone nasal spray (200 mcg daily). In most subjects, fluticasone was undetectable (<10 pg/ml) when administered alone. In subjects in whom fluticasone was detectable when given alone, Cmax and area-under-curve AUC averaged 11.9 pg/ml and 8.43 pg x hr/ml, respectively. With concurrent ritonavir, fluticasone Cmax and AUC increased to 318 pg/ml and 3102.6 pg x hr/ml, respectively.(7,11,14) This reflects increases in Cmax and AUC by 25-fold and 350-fold, respectively.(3) The cortisol AUC decreased by 86%.(6,14-16) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, ritonavir (200 mg twice daily for 4 and 14 days) increased the AUC of a single dose of prednisolone by 1.41-fold and 1.30-fold, respectively, after 4 days and 14 days of ritonavir.(19) There have been several case reports of Cushing's syndrome in patients treated concurrently with ritonavir and inhaled budesonide,(19-20) dexamethasone,(22) injectable triamcinolone,(23-26) nasal fluticasone.(28-46) Hepatitis has also been reported with concurrent budesonide and ritonavir.(47) In a study in 9 healthy subjects, mibefradil (50 mg once daily for 3 days) increased the AUC, Cmax, and elimination half-life of methylprednisolone by 3.8-fold, 1.8-fold, and 2.7-fold, respectively.(48) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, following nefazodone administration the following changes were seen with methylprednisolone: mean (+/-SD) area under the concentration-time curve was significantly higher (1393 +/- 343 vs. 2966 +/- 928 ug*h/L; P < 0.005), apparent clearance was lower (28.7 +/- 7.2 vs. 14.6 +/- 7.8 L/h; P < 0.02) and the terminal elimination half-life was longer (2.28 +/- 0.49 vs. 3.32 +/- 0.95 hours; P < 0.02).(49) Selected steroids metabolized by CYP3A4 are linked to this monograph.(50) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors and substrates linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lenacapavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(50)

Cobicistat; Protease Inhibitors/Salmeterol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Some protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of the portion of salmeterol that is swallowed, resulting in significant systemic absorption.(1-14)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in systemic effects of salmeterol, including palpitations and sinus tachycardia.(1-14)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of salmeterol and the protease inhibitors state that the concurrent use of salmeterol with HCV or HIV protease inhibitors is not recommended.(1-14) The National Institutes of Health COVID-19 treatment guidelines recommend holding salmeterol during and for at least 2-3 days after completion of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy.(15) The Canadian manufacturer of salmeterol states that concurrent use of atazanavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, and saquinavir is not recommended.(16) Canadian labeling contraindicates concurrent use of atazanavir/ritonavir, darunavir/cobicistat, and lopinavir/ritonavir with salmeterol.(18-21) Consider the use of alternative agents.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 20 healthy subjects, concurrent administration of salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily) and ketoconazole (400 mg once daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) for 7 days increased the plasma area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of salmeterol 16-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively. Concurrent use did not result in clinically significant changes in heart rate, mean blood potassium, mean blood glucose or mean QTc; however, concurrent use was associated with more frequent increases in QTc duration. Three subjects were withdrawn from the study because of systemic salmeterol effects (2 with QTc prolongation and 1 with palpitations and sinus tachycardia).(1) An in vitro study showed that ketoconazole completely inhibited the formation of alpha-hydroxysalmeterol by CYP3A4.(1,22) Protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, saquinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

Cobicistat; Ritonavir/Voriconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir may induce the metabolism of voriconazole by CYP2C9 and CYP2C19.(1,2) Voriconazole may induce the metabolism of low-dose ritonavir.(1) Voriconazole may inhibit the metabolism of cobicistat by CYP3A4.(1,3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritonavir may result in decreased levels of voriconazole and therapeutic failure. Concurrent use of voriconazole and low-dose ritonavir may also result in decreased levels of ritonavir.(1,2) The combination of voriconazole with cobicistat may result in increased levels and toxicity of cobicistat.(3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV treatment guidelines recommend not coadministering voriconazole with ritonavir or cobicistat unless benefits outweigh risks.(4) The US manufacturers of voriconazole(1) and ritonavir(2) state that concurrent use of voriconazole with high-dose ritonavir (400 mg twice daily) is contraindicated. The concurrent use of voriconazole with low-dose ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) should be avoided unless the potential benefits justify the risk to the patient.(2,4) The Canadian manufacturer of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir states that concurrent use with voriconazole is contraindicated due to a risk of reduction in voriconazole plasma concentrations and possible loss of effect.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ritonavir (400 mg twice daily) decreased voriconazole (400 mg twice daily) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% and by 82%, respectively. There were no significant effects on ritonavir Cmax or AUC.(1,2) In a study in healthy subjects, ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) decreased voriconazole (400 mg twice daily for one day, then 200 mg twice daily) Cmax and AUC by 24% and 39%, respectively. Ritonavir Cmax and AUC decreased by 24% and 14%, respectively.(1) Conversely, in a study of 20 healthy subjects, ritonavir (300 mg twice daily for 2 days) increased voriconazole (400 mg single dose) Cmax and AUC by 17.5% and 3.5 fold respectively.(6)

Darunavir; Lopinavir; Ritonavir/Glecaprevir-Pibrentasvir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown but may involve OATP1B1/3. Darunavir and lopinavir are inhibitors of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3. Ritonavir is an inhibitor of OATP1B1. Glecaprevir is a substrate of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Darunavir, lopinavir, and ritonavir may increase the concentrations of glecaprevir and the risk for glecaprevir toxicities including an increased risk of ALT elevations.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of glecaprevir-pibrentasvir states that the coadministration with darunavir, lopinavir, or ritonavir is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 8 subjects, the concomitant administration of darunavir-ritonavir (800/100 mg once daily) with glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (300/120 mg daily) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-the-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of glecaprevir by 3.09-fold, 4.97-fold, and 8.24-fold, respectively. (1) In a study in 9 subjects, the concomitant administration of lopinavir-ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (300/120 mg daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, Cmin of glecaprevir by 2.55-fold, 4.38-fold, and 18.6-fold, respectively. Pibrentasvir's AUC and Cmin were increased by 2.46-fold and 5.24-fold, respectively.(1)

Dual Strong Cyp3a4 & P-Gp Inhib That Prolong Qt/Pralsetinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Combined strong CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pralsetinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a combined strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor that prolongs QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from pralsetinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1-3) Other toxicities include hemorrhagic events, pneumonitis, hepatotoxicity, and hypertension.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Coadministration of pralsetinib with combined strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors that prolong QT should be avoided. If coadministration with a combined strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor that prolongs QT cannot be avoided, use with caution reduce the dose of pralsetinib as follows: -If the current dose is 400 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 200 mg daily. -If the current dose is 300 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 200 mg daily. -If the current dose is 200 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 100 mg daily. After the inhibitor is discontinued for three to five half-lives, resume the dose of pralsetinib at the dose taken prior to initiation of the inhibitor.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If the QTc interval exceeds 500 ms, interrupt pralsetinib therapy until QTc is <470 ms. Resume pralsetinib at the same dose if risk factors that cause QT prolongation an are identified and corrected. If risk factors that cause QT prolongation are not identified, resume pralsetinib at a reduced dose. Permanently discontinue pralsetinib if the patient develops life-threatening arrhythmia.(3)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole 200 mg once daily (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) with a single pralsetinib 200 mg dose increased pralsetinib concentration maximum (Cmax) by 84% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 251%.(1) In clinical trials, QTc prolongation developed in 5.1% of patients on pralsetinib, with 2 patients (0.4%) having serious prolongation. Two patients required dose reductions or interruptions. No patients required permanent discontinuation of pralsetinib, and there was no life-threatening or fatal QT prolongation.(2) In a secondary analysis of the phase II ARROW study, ECG and plasma concentrations of 34 patients were examined. At steady state, mean change in QTc was 4.9-7.7 ms, with a greater QTc increase at higher concentrations, especially above 3,000 ng/mL. Although median minimum concentration (Cmin) is 1,150 ng/mL, there is a large interindividual variation and concentrations above 3,000 ng/mL may be expected in some patients.(2) Combined strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, and telithromycin.(5,6)

Dual Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitor & P-Gp Inhibitors/Riociguat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Riociguat is primarily metabolized by CYP1A1 and to a lesser extent by CYP3A4/3A5, CYP2C8, and CYP2J2.(1) P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and BCRP (breast cancer resistance protein) transport proteins participate in the biliary/fecal elimination of riociguat.(2) Dual inhibitors of CYP3A4 and P-gp may inhibit metabolic and transporter-based elimination of riociguat.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with dual inhibitors of CYP3A4 and P-gp may result in elevated systemic levels and toxicity (e.g. hypotension) from riociguat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for riociguat-associated hypotension is higher in patients with a systolic blood pressure (SBP) < or = 110 prior to treatment initiation or dose increase. Patient specific factors such as renal or hepatic impairment, or age > 65 years are associated with higher systemic exposure(1) to riociguat and may increase interaction risk or severity.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a lower riociguat starting dose of 0.5 mg three times daily in patients receiving concomitant treatment with dual strong CYP and P-gp inhibitors.(1) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with riociguat is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3) Patients stabilized on riociguat when a dual strong CYP and P-gp inhibitor is initiated may need to have their riociguat dose lowered for the duration of concurrent therapy. Monitor blood pressure and counsel patient to report low blood pressure, lightheadedness or chest pain. Patients stabilized on concomitant therapy may need to have their riociguat dose retitrated upward after discontinuation of the dual strong CYP and P-gp inhibitors.

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, ketoconazole (an inhibitor of CYP1A1, CYP3A4, and P-gp) given 400 mg once daily increased the mean maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of riociguat by 46% and 150%, respectively.(2) The frequency or magnitude of this interaction is difficult to predict in a specific patient due to significant interpatient variability in drug kinetics. For example, between patient variability in systemic exposure(AUC)relative to dose is 90%. The amount of riociguat metabolized may be as low as 27% or as high as 72%. Cigarette smoking induces the CYP1A1 mediated metabolism of riociguat leading to about a 50% decrease in systemic exposure compared with non-smoking patients.

Fosamprenavir; Ritonavir/Ulipristal

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fosamprenavir and ritonavir may initially inhibit (use less than 7 days) then induce (use greater than 7 days) the metabolism of ulipristal by CYP3A4.(1) With short term use (less than 7 days), fosamprenavir or ritonavir lead to CYP3A4 inhibition. However, with long-term use (greater than 7 days), fosamprenavir or ritonavir lead to CYP3A4 induction.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fosamprenavir or ritonavir may result in an initial effect of increased ulipristal levels, but continued use over time or use within the previous 2-3 weeks may result decreased levels and effectiveness of ulipristal.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of ulipristal states that concurrent use with ritonavir is not recommended. Decreased effectiveness of ulipristal may occur even 2-3 weeks after discontinuation of ritonavir.(1)

DISCUSSION: CYP3A4 inducers may decrease levels and effectiveness of ulipristal. Enzyme induction may take 2-3 weeks to wear off. Plasma levels of ulipristal may be reduced even if the CYP3A4 inducer was discontinued in the previous 2-3 weeks.(1)

Hiv Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Apixaban

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apixaban is metabolized by CYP3A4 and is a substrate of the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux transport protein.(1-4) HIV protease inhibitors are CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors and may increase the absorption and decrease the elimination of apixaban.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors may result in elevated levels and clinical effects of apixaban, including an increased risk of bleeding.(1-5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for concurrent use of apixaban and HIV protease inhibitors vary in different regions. The Australian(1) and Canadian(2) manufacturers of apixaban state that the concurrent use of agents that are strong inhibitors of both P-gp and CYP3A4 with apixaban is contraindicated. The UK manufacturer of apixaban states that concurrent use of these agents is not recommended.(3) The US manufacturer of apixaban states that if concurrent use cannot be avoided, the dosage of apixaban should be reduced by 50% except in patients already receiving apixaban 2.5 mg twice daily, for whom concurrent use should be avoided.(4) The US manufacturer of atazanavir states that coadministration of unboosted atazanavir should be closely monitored.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor, increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of apixaban by 2-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively.(1) HIV protease inhibitors linked to this monograph are: atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.

Lopinavir/Qt Prolonging Agents

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir has been shown to prolong the QTc interval by 5 msec. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of lopinavir with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lopinavir states that the concurrent administration of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, placebo and active controlled crossover study in 39 healthy subjects designed to evaluated QTc intervals, lopinavir/ritonavir increased QTc by 5.3 msec and 15.2 msec for 400/100 mg twice daily and 800/200 mg twice daily, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Lopinavir/Tipranavir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tipranavir may induce the metabolism of lopinavir by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tipranavir-ritonavir may result in decreased levels of, effectiveness of, and resistance to lopinavir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lopinavir-ritonavir states that coadministration with tipranavir (500 mg twice daily) and ritonavir (200 mg twice daily) is not recommended.(1) The US manufacturer of tipranavir states that concurrent use is not recommended.(2)

DISCUSSION: In 21 subjects, concurrent tipranavir-ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily) and lopinavir-ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the lopinavir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 47%, 55%, and 70%, respectively.(1,2)

Lopinavir; Saquinavir; Ombitas-Paritap-Ritonavir/Darunavir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir-ritonavir, saquinavir-ritonavir, and ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir may induce the metabolism of darunavir by CYP3A4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir or saquinavir-ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of darunavir.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of darunavir states that coadministration of darunavir with either lopinavir/ritonavir with or without an additional low-dose ritonavir, or saquinavir with or without low-dose ritonavir is not recommended.(1) The FDA and manufacturer of ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir state that: - In treatment-naive patients and treatment-experienced patients with no darunavir-associated mutations, darunavir 800 mg daily without ritonavir can be co-administered with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir. - In treatment-experienced patients with at least one darunavir-associated resistance mutation or with no resistance information, coadministration of darunavir is not recommended because lower minimum concentrations (Cmin) of darunavir increase the risk for HIV treatment failure.(2-3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (1200/100 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased darunavir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 21%, 38%, and 51%, respectively. Lopinavir AUC and Cmin increased by 9% and 23%, respectively, when compared to the administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) administered alone.(1) In a study in 15 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (1200/100 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (533/133.3 mg twice daily) decreased darunavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 21%, 41%, and 55%, respectively. Lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased by 11%, 9%, and 13%, respectively, when compared to the administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) administered alone.(1) In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with saquinavir (1000 mg twice daily) decreased the darunavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 17%, 26%, and 42%, respectively. Saquinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin decreased by 6%, 6%, and 18%, respectively, when compared to saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg twice daily) administered alone.(1) In a study in 8 subjects, concurrent darunavir (800 mg once daily) with ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir (Viekira Pak) decreased the darunavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 8%, 24%, and 48%, respectively, Darunavir administered with Viekira Pak in the morning was compared to darunavir administered with ritonavir (100 mg) in the morning. In a study in 7 subjects, concurrent darunavir (600 mg twice daily) with ritonavir (100 mg once daily in the evening) with Viekira Pak decreased the darunavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 13%, 20%, and 43%, respectively. In a study in 10 subjects, darunavir (800 mg) and ritonavir (100 mg once daily in the evening) with Viekira Pak decreased the darunavir Cmax and Cmin by 21% and 46%. Darunavir's AUC was increased by 34%.(2)

Oatp1b1 Inhibitors/Eluxadoline

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: OATP1B1 inhibitors may decrease the hepatic uptake of eluxadoline.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from eluxadoline, including constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, and impaired mental and physical abilities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent OATP1B1 inhibitors should receive a dose of eluxadoline of 75 mg twice daily. Monitor patients for impaired mental or physical abilities, abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of a single dose (600 mg) of cyclosporine, an OATP1B1 inhibitor, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of eluxadoline (100 mg) by 4.4-fold and 6.2-fold, respectively.(1) OATP1B1 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, boceprevir, cyclosporine, darunavir, encorafenib, eltrombopag, erythromycin, gemfibrozil, leflunomide, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, rifampin, ritonavir, roxadustat, saquinavir, simeprevir, telaprevir, teriflunomide, tipranavir, vadadustat, and voclosporin.(1,2)

Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Brincidofovir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors may increase the absorption and/or decrease the hepatic uptake of brincidofovir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from brincidofovir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of brincidofovir states that alternative medications that are not OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitors should be considered. If concurrent use is necessary, instruct the patient to take the OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitor at least 3 hours after brincidofovir and increase monitoring for side effects, including transaminase and bilirubin elevations and GI side effects like diarrhea.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, single-dose oral cyclosporine (600 mg, an OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitor) increased the mean brincidofovir area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 374% and 269%, respectively.(1) OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, darunavir, eltrombopag, encorafenib, erythromycin, gemfibrozil, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir, ledipasvir, leflunomide, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, rifampin, ritonavir, roxadustat, saquinavir, simeprevir, sofosbuvir, telaprevir, teriflunomide, tipranavir, vadadustat, velpatasvir, and voclosporin.(1,2)

P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Relugolix

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Relugolix is a substrate of the intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux transporter. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase the absorption of relugolix.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of relugolix with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of relugolix and adverse effects, including hot flashes, skin flushing, musculoskeletal pain, hyperglycemia, acute renal injury, transaminitis, arrhythmias, and hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of relugolix states that the coadministration of relugolix with P-gp inhibitors should be avoided. If the P-gp inhibitor is to be used short-term, relugolix may be held for up to 2 weeks. If treatment with relugolix is interrupted for longer than 7 days, resume relugolix with a loading dose of 360 mg on the first day, followed by 120 mg once daily.(1) If coadministration with a P-gp inhibitor cannot be avoided, relugolix should be taken at least 6 hours before the P-gp inhibitor. Monitor the patient more frequently for adverse events.(1) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of relugolix with erythromycin (a P-gp and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of relugolix by 6.2-fold. Voriconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) did not have a clinically significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of relugolix.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, curcumin, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, lapatinib, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, mibefradil, mifepristone, neratinib, osimertinib, paroxetine, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, ritonavir, sarecycline, schisandra, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(3,4)

P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Or Ugt Inducers/Letermovir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Letermovir is a substrate of the efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1/3 enzymes. P-gp induction may decrease systemic absorption of letermovir, while UGT1A1/3 induction may increase the metabolism of letermovir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of P-glycoprotein or UGT1A1/3 inducers may result in decreased levels and loss of effectiveness of letermovir.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of letermovir states that coadministration of P-gp inducers or UGT1A1/3 inducers is not recommended.

DISCUSSION: In a study, at 24 hours after the last dose of rifampin (600 mg daily), the AUC of letermovir was decreased by 85 %, compared to letermovir when taken alone.(1) Inducers of P-glycoprotein or of UGT1A1/3 linked to this monograph include: apalutamide, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, lorlatinib, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, rifapentine, ritonavir, and St. John's wort.(2)

Protease Inh;Cobicistat/Slt Immunosuppressants;Temsirolimus

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: HIV and HCV protease inhibitors as well as cobicistat may inhibit the metabolism of cyclosporine, sirolimus, and temsirolimus by CYP3A4.(1-15)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of HIV or HCV protease inhibitors as well as cobicistat may result in increased levels of cyclosporine, sirolimus, or temsirolimus.(1-15)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: For patients concurrently taking cyclosporine, sirolimus, or temsirolimus and either a HIV or HCV protease inhibitor or cobicistat, therapeutic concentration monitoring of the immunosuppressant is recommended. Depending upon the agents involved, dose decreases of the immunosuppressant agent may be required.(1-15) Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation recommend avoiding the use of ritonavir- or cobicistat-based HIV or HCV antiviral regimens with cyclosporine or sirolimus due to an increased risk of graft loss and death, as well as the availability of HIV integrase inhibitors that avoid interactions with immunosuppressants. If the combination must be used, lower the dose of cyclosporine to 25-50 mg daily or sirolimus to 1 mg once or twice weekly. Monitor drug concentrations closely.(1) The US manufacturer of sirolimus protein-bound injection (Fyarro) states a dose reduction to 56 mg/m2 is recommended when used concurrently with moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(16) The US manufacturer of temsirolimus recommends that concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as protease inhibitors be avoided. If concurrent use is warranted, a dosage reduction to 12.5 mg/week of temsirolimus should be considered. If the protease inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period of 1 week should be allowed before adjusting the dosage of temsirolimus to previous levels.(2) The selected immunosuppressants linked to this monograph include: cyclosporine, sirolimus, and temsirolimus. The protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

DISCUSSION: A retrospective study of 42 HIV+ kidney transplant recipients examined rejection rates in patients on ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (PI) antiretroviral regimens compared to patients on other antiretroviral regimens. Immunosuppression therapy consisted of cyclosporine in 7 patients (17%) and tacrolimus in 32 patients (76%). The remaining 3 patients were transitioning between drugs. Over 3 years, 65% of patients on PI-based antiretroviral therapy experienced rejection, compared with 36% of patients on other antiretroviral therapies (p<0.001). There was no difference in patient or graft survival at 3 years.(17) Cyclosporine: Boceprevir (800 mg TID for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of cyclosporine (100 mg single dose) by 2-fold and 2.68-fold, respectively. Boceprevir AUC increased 16%.(4) In a case report, cyclosporine dosage requirements decreased 12-fold following the addition of amprenavir/ritonavir. In another patient, cyclosporine dosage requirements decreased 3.5-fold following the addition of fosamprenavir.(18) In a study in 3 HIV+ transplant patients who were receiving lopinavir/ ritonavir, cyclosporine doses were reduced to 5-20% of standard doses to prevent toxicity.(19) In a clinical study, 7 HIV+ patients concurrently taking cyclosporine and nelfinavir experienced a 19% increase in time to Cmax (Tmax) and a 2-fold increase in AUC of cyclosporine when nelfinavir was added.(20) In a case report, cyclosporine levels tripled and signs of toxicity developed 3 days after the addition of saquinavir (1200 mg 3 times daily) to cyclosporine (150 mg twice daily). Cyclosporine and saquinavir dosages were decreased to 75 mg twice daily and 600 mg 3 times daily, respectively. Cyclosporine Cmin levels were 90% of those seen with 150 mg twice daily. Saquinavir AUC was 4.3-fold higher than in patients taking saquinavir 600 mg twice daily without cyclosporine and 11.1-fold higher than literature values.(21) In a study in 9 subjects, the concurrent administration of telaprevir (750 mg TID) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of cyclosporine (10 mg) by 87% and 54%, respectively, when compared to levels achieved with a single 100 mg dose of cyclosporine. Extrapolated to level expected with the 100 mg dose, cyclosporine Cmax and AUC would have increased by 32% and 4.64-fold, respectively.(5) Sirolimus: Boceprevir (800 mg TID for 9 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of sirolimus (2 mg single dose) by 4.84-fold and 8.121-fold, respectively. Boceprevir Cmin increased 21%.(4) In a case report, the pharmacokinetics of a liver transplant patient concurrently taking nelfinavir (250 mg) and sirolimus (2 mg) were compared to the pharmacokinetics in 3 other liver transplant patients that were also taking sirolimus, but not nelfinavir. The maximum concentration (Cmax) was 3.2 times higher, the area-under-curve (AUC) was 1.6 times higher, the half life was prolonged by 60%, and the 0-hr and 24-hour trough levels (Cmin) of sirolimus were 9-fold and 5-fold higher, respectively, in patients concurrently taking nelfinavir and sirolimus.(22) Temsirolimus: Concurrent administration of ketoconazole, another inhibitor of CYP3A4, had no effects on temsirolimus AUC or Cmax; however, sirolimus AUC and Cmax increased 3.1-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively. Dosage adjustment of temsirolimus to 12.5 mg/week in the presence of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is expected to adjust levels to the range observed without inhibitors; however, there are no data available with this dose adjustment.(3)

Protease Inhibitors/Bosentan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of bosentan by CYP3A4 and by inhibiting its uptake into hepatocytes by OATP.(1-11) Bosentan may induce the metabolism of atazanavir.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors without adjusting the dose of bosentan may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from bosentan.(1) Administration of bosentan and atazanavir without ritonavir may result in decreased levels of atazanavir.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of bosentan, a protease inhibitor that is a CYP3A4 inhibitor and a CYP2C9 inhibitor (e.g. amiodarone, fluconazole, oxandrolone, or sulfinpyrazone)(12) could lead to blockade of both major metabolic pathways for bosentan, resulting in large increases in bosentan plasma concentrations.(12)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients who have been receiving a protease inhibitor for at least 10 days, initiate bosentan at a dosage of 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based on tolerability.(1-11) In patients who have been receiving bosentan, discontinue bosentan for at least 36 hours prior to initiating atazanavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, or tipranavir. After 10 days of protease inhibitor therapy, bosentan may be resumed at a dosage of 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based on tolerability.(1-8,11) In patients who have been receiving bosentan, adjust the dosage of bosentan to 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based on tolerability in patients who have been receiving indinavir or nelfinavir.(9-10) Review medication list to see if patient is also receiving a CYP2C9 inhibitor (e.g. amiodarone, fluconazole, miconazole, oxandrolone, sulfinpyrazone, or phenylbutazone). Concomitant use of both a CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inhibitor is not recommended by the manufacturer as the combination may lead to large increases in bosentan plasma concentrations.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir increased the initial and steady-state minimum concentrations (Cmin) of bosentan by 48-fold and 5-fold, respectively. There were no significant effects on lopinavir/ritonavir pharmacokinetics.(1) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Protease Inhibitors/Carbamazepine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Carbamazepine may induce the metabolism of the protease inhibitors at CYP3A4.(1-7) Ritonavir may inhibit the metabolism of carbamazepine by CYP3A4.(8,9)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of indinavir and carbamazepine may result in higher than anticipated carbamazepine levels, decreased indinavir plasma levels, and antiretroviral therapy failure.(1,2) The concurrent use of amprenavir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, and saquinavir may result in decreased levels of these agents and antiretroviral therapy failure.(3-7) The concurrent use of darunavir/ritonavir(11) or ritonavir(7,9,11) and carbamazepine may result in elevated levels of carbamazepine and signs of carbamazepine toxicity.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider avoiding the concurrent use of carbamazepine and amprenavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, or saquinavir. If concurrent therapy is warranted, carbamazepine and protease inhibitor levels, as well as antiretroviral response, should be closely monitored. In patients receiving concurrent therapy with carbamazepine and darunavir/ritonavir(10) or ritonavir(8), carbamazepine levels should be closely monitored and the patient should be observed for signs of carbamazepine toxicity. The dosage of carbamazepine may need to be adjusted or carbamazepine may need to be discontinued. The manufacturer of lopinavir states that lopinavir/ritonavir should not be administered once daily to patients receiving carbamazepine.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, concurrent carbamazepine (200 mg twice daily) with darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) had no significant effects on darunavir pharmacokinetics. The maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of carbamazepine increased by 43%, 45%, and 54%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of carbamazepine epoxide decreased by 54%, 54%, and 52%, respectively.(10) In a case report, an HIV-positive male restarted antiretroviral therapy with indinavir (800 mg every 8 hours), lamivudine (150 mg twice daily), and zidovudine (200 mg three times daily) in November of 1997. In January of 1998, carbamazepine (200 mg daily) was started for post-herpetic neuralgia. Despite the low dose of carbamazepine, carbamazepine levels were 6.7 mg/L and 8.9 mg/L in February, 1998 and March, 1998, respectively. At the end of March, 1998, carbamazepine was discontinued. In January and February of 1998, the patient's viral load was undetectable and his CD4+ count was 340x106/L and 400x106/L, respectively. By April of 1998, his HIV-RNA level had risen to 6x103 copies/ml and his CD4+ count decreased to 200x106/L. His HIV-RNA level increased to 300x103 copies/ml three months later. Prior to carbamazepine therapy, the patient's indinavir levels had been 61% of the reference population. During carbamazepine therapy, his indinavir levels decreased to a value of 4% of the reference population. Two weeks after carbamazepine was discontinued, his indinavir levels increased to a value of 173% of the reference population.(2) In a case report, a 36 year-old male HIV-positive patient was treated with phenytoin (400 mg/day) and carbamazepine (600 mg/day) in addition to his antiretroviral regimen that included zidovudine and zalcitabine. His HIV regimen was changed to stavudine, lamivudine, and indinavir, which resulted in a partial viral-load response. This regimen was then replaced with lamivudine, didanosine, ritonavir, and saquinavir, which resulted in the patient's viral load becoming undetectable. Levels of carbamazepine at this time were normal (6.5 mcg/ml). Over the next two months, the patient developed a progressive gait disorder and dizziness. His carbamazepine level increased to 18 mcg/ml. Carbamazepine was replaced with primidone.(9) In a case report, a 20 year-old male had been HIV-positive since age 8 and been maintained on carbamazepine (350 mg twice daily) since age 12. The patient was admitted for changes to his antiretroviral regimen. On day 2, his carbamazepine level was 9.5 mcg/ml and his aminotransferase (ALT) value was normal. On day 8, a single dose of ritonavir (200 mg) was administered. Within 12 hours, his carbamazepine level increased to 17.8 mcg/ml. On day 9, ritonavir (200 mg three times daily), but ritonavir was discontinued on day 10 because of intractable nausea and vertigo. On day 12, the patient's ALT level was 141 International Units/L. On day 13, ritonavir (200 mg every 24 hours) was restarted. The patient's carbamazepine level increased to 16.3 mcg/ml and ritonavir was discontinued.(10) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Protease Inhibitors/Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to increase the metabolism of protease inhibitors.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of protease inhibitors.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of darunavir and lopinavir/ritonavir advise caution with concurrent use of drugs that induce CYP3A4 as they would be expected to decrease the plasma concentrations of the protease inhibitor.(1,2) The manufacturers of enzalutamide and mitotane (strong CYP3A4 inducers) advise avoiding concomitant use with narrow therapeutic drugs that are metabolized by CYP3A4.(3-5) If enzalutamide is discontinued, the effects of enzyme induction may persist for one month or longer.(4)

DISCUSSION: In a study using rifampin 600 mg once daily with lopinavir/ritonavir 400 mg/100 mg twice daily, lopinavir area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) were decreased by 75% and 55%, respectively, compared to lopinavir/ritonavir given alone.(2) Protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(3,4) Strong CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: enzalutamide and mitotane.(6,7)

Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Tacrolimus

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tacrolimus CYP3A4.(1,2) HIV and HCV protease inhibitors as well as cobicistat are CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1-17)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels of tacrolimus, including QT prolongation, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, cardiovascular toxicity, hypertension, anemia, and increased risk of serious infections.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tacrolimus states that concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in a rapid and sharp rise in tacrolimus concentration despite immediate tacrolimus dose reduction. Frequent monitoring of tacrolimus levels should start within 1-3 days of initiation of concurrent therapy and continue as necessary.(2) For patients concurrently taking tacrolimus and either a HIV or HCV protease inhibitor or cobicistat, therapeutic concentration monitoring of the immunosuppressant is recommended. Depending upon the agents involved, dose decreases of the immunosuppressant agent may be required.(1-17) Guidelines from the American Society of Transplantation recommend avoiding the use of ritonavir- or cobicistat-based HIV or HCV antiviral regimens with tacrolimus due to an increased risk of graft loss and death, as well as the availability of HIV integrase inhibitors that avoid interactions with immunosuppressants. If the combination must be used, lower the dose of tacrolimus to 1 mg once or twice a week. Monitor drug concentrations closely.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

DISCUSSION: A retrospective study of 42 HIV+ kidney transplant recipients examined rejection rates in patients on ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor (PI) antiretroviral regimens compared to patients on other antiretroviral regimens. Immunosuppression therapy consisted of cyclosporine in 7 patients (17%) and tacrolimus in 32 patients (76%). The remaining 3 patients were transitioning between drugs. Over 3 years, 65% of patients on PI-based antiretroviral therapy experienced rejection, compared with 36% of patients on other antiretroviral therapies (p<0.001). There was no difference in patient or graft survival at 3 years.(18) Boceprevir (800 mg TID for 11 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) by 9.90-fold and 17.1-fold, respectively. There were no significant effects on boceprevir pharmacokinetics.(4) In a case report, tacrolimus levels in a 50 year-old male kidney transplant recipient increased from 7.5 ng/ml to 111.2 ng/ml one week after initiation of an HIV regimen including elvitegravir 150 mg, cobicistat 150 mg, emtricitabine 200 mg, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg once daily. The patient experienced headache, insomnia, stomachache, hyperkalemia, and increased SCr at which time the HIV regimen was stopped. On day 15 the patient's tacrolimus level returned to 4.0 ng/ml at which time the patient resumed tacrolimus at previous stable dose and the HIV regimen was changed to abacavir 600 mg, dolutegravir 50 mg, and lamivudine 300 mg daily without any further increase in tacrolimus levels.(19) In a case report, tacrolimus levels in a 41 year-old male kidney transplant recipient increased from 8.7 ng/ml to 106 ng/ml within 3 days of the addition of tenofovir and darunavir/ritonavir therapy, despite the patient's tacrolimus dosage being decreased 12%. Concurrent therapy was eventually titrated to 0.5 mg of tacrolimus given once weekly.(20) There are several case reports of decreased tacrolimus requirements and/or toxicity during concurrent indinavir,(21) lopinavir/ritonavir,(22-24) and nelfinavir.(25) In a study in 5 HIV+ liver transplant patients, tacrolimus needs were 38 times lower with concurrent nelfinavir.(23) A case report describes a 52 year-old male with HIV and hepatitis C who experienced severe tacrolimus toxicity after the addition of an HIV regimen including nelfinavir (750 mg three times daily) following his liver transplantation. The HIV regimen was temporarily stopped until the tacrolimus levels normalized at which time the medications were restarted having replaced nelfinavir with saquinavir (400 mg twice/day) and ritonavir (400 mg twice/day). The patient again experienced neurological symptoms associated with tacrolimus toxicity and was found to have a tacrolimus level over 120 ng/ml. The medications were held allowing for a long recovery. The HIV regimen was rechallenged a third time using the original combination which included nelfinavir. The dose of tacrolimus was dramatically decreased and the schedule changed until the tacrolimus levels finally stabilized.(26) In a study in 9 subjects, the concurrent administration of telaprevir (750 mg TID) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of tacrolimus (0.5 mg) by 2.34-fold and 17.6-fold, respectively, when compared to levels achieved with a single 2 mg dose of tacrolimus. Extrapolated to level expected with the 2 mg dose, tacrolimus Cmax and AUC would have increased by 9.35-fold% and 70.3-fold, respectively.(5) The protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

Ritonavir & Ritonavir-Boosted Protease Inhibitors/Boceprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Boceprevir may induce the metabolism of the protease inhibitors. Darunavir/ritonavir and lopinavir/ritonavir may also induce the metabolism of boceprevir.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of boceprevir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the protease inhibitor. Concurrent use of darunavir/ritonavir or lopinavir/ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of boceprevir.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of boceprevir with ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors is not recommended.(1,3,4) Monitor patients receiving concurrent boceprevir and ritonavir without other protease inhibitors for response.(4) Patients who have already begun concurrent therapy should be monitored for HCV-treatment response and for potential HCV and HIV virologic rebound. Discuss the risk/benefit of continued concurrent therapy with the patient.(2)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of boceprevir (800 mg TID for 6 days) with atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily for 22 days)) decreased atazanavir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and trough concentrations (Cmin) by 25%, 35%, and 49%, respectively. There were no significant effect on boceprevir levels.(4) Concurrent use of boceprevir (800 mg TID for 6 days) with darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg BID for 22 days) decreased darunavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 36%, 44%, and 59%, respectively. Boceprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin decreased by 25%, 32%, and 35%, respectively.(4) Concurrent use of boceprevir (800 mg TID for 6 days with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg BID for 22 days) decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 30%, 34%, and 43%, respectively. Boceprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin decreased by 50%, 45%, and 57%, respectively.(4) Concurrent ritonavir (100 mg daily for 12 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of boceprevir (400 mg TID for 15 days) by 27% and 19%, respectively. The minimum concentration (Cmin) of boceprevir increased by 4%.(4)

Ritonavir/Isavuconazonium

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of isavuconazonium.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels and toxicity from isavuconazonium, leading to antifungal discontinuation. Adverse reactions may include headache, dizziness, paresthesia, somnolence, disturbance in attention, dysgeusia, dry mouth, diarrhea, oral hypoesthesia, vomiting, hot flush, anxiety, restlessness, palpitations, tachycardia, photophobia and arthralgia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with familial short QT syndrome may be at increased risk of heart arrhythmias.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of isavuconazonium with high-dose ritonavir (400 mg BID) is contraindicated. The use of low-dose ritonavir or lopinavir/ritonavir should be approached with caution.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, monitor patients for isavuconazonium toxicity, including headache, dizziness, paresthesia, somnolence, disturbance in attention, dysgeusia, dry mouth, diarrhea, oral hypoesthesia, vomiting, hot flush, anxiety, restlessness, palpitations, tachycardia, photophobia and arthralgia. Isavuconazonium or ritonavir may need to be discontinued.

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (200 mg BID) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of isavuconazole (from a single dose of isavuconazonium equivalent to 200 mg isavuconazole) by 9% and 422%, respectively.(1) Lopinavir/ritonavir (400 mg/100 mg BID) increased the Cmax and AUC of isavuconazole by 74% and 96%, respectively.(1) Supratherapeutic doses of isavuconazonium (three times the recommended dosage) used in a study resulted in 17.9% of patients discontinuing isavuconazonium therapy.(1)

Select Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Trazodone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of trazodone.(1-7) Trazodone has been shown to prolong the QT interval. Other agents that prolong the QT interval may have an additive effect. Trazodone's active metabolite meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (m-CPP) is metabolized by CYP2D6. Telithromycin and lopinavir-ritonavir are also weak CYP2D6 inhibitors.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and adverse effects from trazodone, including nausea, dizziness, hypotension, syncope, serotonin syndrome, and cardiac arrhythmias including QT prolongation or torsades de pointes, which may be life-threatening.(1) Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include tremor, agitation, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, clonus, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and muscle rigidity.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe with larger and/or routine doses of trazodone. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(8) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(8)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of trazodone states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, a lower dose of trazodone should be considered in patients receiving CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1-7) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. In addition to QT prolongation, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome. Instruct patients to report muscle twitching, tremors, shivering and stiffness, fever, heavy sweating, heart palpitations, restlessness, confusion, agitation, trouble with coordination, or severe diarrhea.

DISCUSSION: In a cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, pretreatment with clarithromycin (500 mg, 4 doses given over 32 hours) increased the maximum concentration, (Cmax) half-life, and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of trazodone (50 mg) by 35% (p<0.005), 96% (p<0.02), and 99% (p<0.001), respectively. Trazodone oral clearance decreased by 46% (p<0.001). Pharmacodynamic effects of trazodone were also increased, as shown by changes in self-rated sedation, observer-rated sedation, digit-symbol substitution test (DSST) scores.(9) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, short-term ritonavir (four doses of 200 mg twice daily) increased the AUC and half-life of a single dose of trazodone (50 mg) by 2.4-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively. The Cmax of trazodone increased 34% and its clearance decreased 52%. Three subjects experienced nausea, dizziness, or hypotension and one of these subjects also experienced syncope during concurrent administration.(1-3) In a single case report, a female experienced serotonin syndrome characterized by high blood pressure (240/120 mmHg); intermittent numbness of the right side of her lips and nose and fingers of the right hand; nausea; loose stools; flushed, pruritic skin; confusion; and difficulty concentrating four days after the addition of trazodone (25-50 mg daily) to nefazodone.(7) An in vitro study in human liver microsomes showed that indinavir, ketoconazole, and ritonavir inhibited the metabolism of trazodone.(6) Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole are considered to be potent inhibitors of the CYP3A4 isoenzyme.(10) Fluconazole's inhibition of CYP3A4 is dose dependent.(11)

Select Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Tadalafil (Bph)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tadalafil.(1-11)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of tadalafil, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.(1-11)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tadalafil states that tadalafil for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not recommended with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The HIV guidelines state that the recommended daily dose of tadalafil for BPH should be 2.5 mg daily in patients receiving concurrent therapy.(12) The US manufacturers of tadalafil(2) and the protease inhibitors(3-11) state that the recommended dose of as needed tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is 10 mg of tadalafil every 72 hours in patients receiving concurrent therapy. The US manufacturer of tadalafil states that the recommended dose of daily tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients taking potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 is 2.5 mg.(2) The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have received a protease inhibitor for at least one week, the initial dosage of tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension should be 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(3-11) The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be discontinued for 24 hours before beginning protease inhibitor therapy other than nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. After one week, tadalafil may be resumed at a dosage of 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(3-11) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be adjusted to 20 mg daily prior to beginning therapy with nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(8) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, maintain tadalafil dose when switching from darunavir/ritonavir to darunavir/cobicistat.(13) Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of tadalafil adverse effects, including hypotension, syncope, visual changes, and priapism. Patients experiencing these effects should report them promptly to their physician.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (500 mg or 600 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil area-under-curve (AUC) by 32% and decreased tadalafil concentration maximum (Cmax) by 30%. Concurrent administration of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily for 17 doses) had no significant effects on the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg). Tadalafil Cmax decreased 30%. Tipranavir Cmax, AUC, and concentration minimum (Cmin) decreased by 10%, 15%, and 19%, respectively. Administration of a single dose of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg) increased the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg) by 2.33-fold. Tadalafil Cmax decreased 22%. Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (200 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil AUC by 124%.

Selected Antiretrovirals/Orlistat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. Orlistat may reduce the absorption of lipophilic antiretroviral HIV drugs by retention in the gastrointestinal tract or reduced gastrointestinal tract transit time.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of orlistat and atazanavir, efavirenz, emtricitabine, maraviroc, ritonavir, or tenofovir may result in a decrease in the levels and clinical effects of the antiretroviral, including loss of virological control.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: HIV RNA levels should be frequently monitored in patients taking orlistat while being treated for HIV infection. If there is a confirmed increase in HIV viral load, orlistat should be discontinued.(1)

DISCUSSION: Loss of virological control has been reported in HIV-infected patients taking orlistat concomitantly with lipophilic antiretroviral drugs.(1) There are three case reports of patients having an increased HIV viral load after taking orlistat concomitantly with their HIV therapy.(2-4) Antiretrovirals included in this monograph are atazanavir, efavirenz, emtricitabine, maraviroc, ritonavir, and tenofovir.

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Meperidine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of meperidine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from meperidine, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If concomitant use is necessary, consider dose reduction of meperidine until stable drug effects are achieved. Monitor patients for respiratory depression and sedation at frequent intervals.(1) If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, consider increasing the meperidine dose until stable drug effects are achieved. Monitor for signs of opioid withdrawal.(1) The Australian manufacturer of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir contraindicates co-administration with meperidine.(2) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(3) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(4)

DISCUSSION: Plasma concentrations of the active metabolite normeperidine may be increased by ritonavir (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor).(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that would be expected to interact with meperidine include: boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, elvitegravir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, voriconazole.(5) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: erythromycin and fluconazole.(5)

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Salmeterol Combinations

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the CYP3A4 metabolism of the portion of both the corticosteroid (budesonide or fluticasone) and salmeterol that is swallowed, resulting in significant systemic absorption.(1-18)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in increased systemic exposure and effects of budesonide or fluticasone, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression. Systemic effects of salmeterol, including palpitations and sinus tachycardia, may also occur.(1-18)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression may be higher in patients with concurrent use of systemic glucocorticoids.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent therapy of budesonide-salmeterol or fluticasone-salmeterol with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended.(18) Alternative corticosteroids that are less affected by CYP3A4 inhibitors should be considered, like beclomethasone. Canadian labeling contraindicates concurrent use of atazanavir/ritonavir, darunavir/cobicistat, and lopinavir/ritonavir with salmeterol.(19-22) If concurrent therapy is warranted, patients should be closely monitored for systemic effects. Advise patients receiving concurrent therapy to rinse their mouth thoroughly after administering budesonide-salmeterol or fluticasone-salmeterol to limit the amount of drug that is swallowed.

DISCUSSION: A study in 18 healthy subjects examined the effects of ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) on fluticasone nasal spray (200 mcg daily). In most subjects, fluticasone was undetectable (<10 pg/ml) when administered alone. In subjects in whom fluticasone was detectable when given alone, maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) averaged 11.9 pg/ml and 8.43 pg x hr/ml, respectively. With concurrent ritonavir, fluticasone Cmax and AUC increased to 318 pg/ml and 3102.6 pg x hr/ml, respectively.(8,13,17) This reflects increases in Cmax and AUC by 25-fold and 350-fold, respectively. The cortisol AUC decreased by 86%.(18) There have been many case reports of Cushing's syndrome in patients treated concurrently with ritonavir and fluticasone.(23-41) In a study in 20 healthy subjects, concurrent administration of salmeterol (50 mcg twice daily) and ketoconazole (400 mg once daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) for 7 days increased the plasma AUC and Cmax of salmeterol 16-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively. Concurrent use did not result in clinically significant changes in heart rate, mean blood potassium, mean blood glucose or mean QTc; however, concurrent use was associated with more frequent increases in QTc duration. Three subjects were withdrawn from the study because of systemic salmeterol effects (2 with QTc prolongation and 1 with palpitations and sinus tachycardia).(18) An in vitro study showed that ketoconazole completely inhibited the metabolism of salmeterol to alpha-hydroxysalmeterol by CYP3A4.(42) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(43)

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Selected Opioids

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of alfentanil,(1,2) benzhydrocodone,(3) fentanyl,(1,2) hydrocodone,(4) oxycodone,(5) and sufentanil.(6) Benzhydrocodone is a prodrug of hydrocodone.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from alfentanil,(1,2) benzhydrocodone,(3) fentanyl,(1,2) hydrocodone,(4) oxycodone,(5) and sufentanil,(6) including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Heat.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving potent or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors for an extended period of time. Dosage adjustments should be made if warranted. The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concomitant administration of fentanyl is not recommended during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(7) Avoid exposing the fentanyl patch application site and surrounding area to direct external heat sources as there have been reports of overdose and death as a result of exposure to heat. The manufacturer of sufentanil sublingual tablets states that if concomitant use with CYP3A4 inhibitors is necessary, consider use of an alternate agent that allows dose adjustment.(6) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(8) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(9)

DISCUSSION: A nested-case control study of patients who were prescribed fentanyl patches, hydromorphone, or oxycodone and were hospitalized for opioid toxicity found that, among 70 cases and 120 control patients, CYP3A4-inhibiting macrolides (erythromycin and clarithromycin) were associated with a higher risk of opioid toxicity (aOR 3.80, 95% CI: 1.36-11.56 with fentanyl; aOR 3.38, 95% CI: 1.28-8.97 with hydromorphone; aOR 3.11, 95% CI: 1.05-9.51 with oxycodone).(10) In a randomized, placebo-controlled trial in 20 healthy subjects, clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single oral dose of oxycodone (10 mg) by 2-fold and 2.3-fold in young and elderly subjects, respectively.(11) In a controlled cross-over study in 6 subjects, 7 days of pretreatment with erythromycin decreased the clearance of alfentanil by 25%. Alfentanil half-life increased by 56%.(12) Erythromycin has been shown to inhibit fentanyl metabolism in vitro.(13) In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study in 9 subjects, single doses of intravenous fluconazole (400 mg) and oral fluconazole (400 mg) decreased the clearance of a single dose of alfentanil (20 mcg/kg) by 58% and 55%, respectively. Alfentanil half-life almost doubled after both intravenous and oral fluconazole. Both intravenous and oral fluconazole increased subjective effects of alfentanil and increased alfentanil-induced respiratory depression.(14) In a cross-over study, pretreatment with itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) had no effect on a single dose of intravenous fentanyl (3 mcg/kg).(15) In a cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, itraconazole (200 mg daily for 5 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single oral dose of oxycodone (10 mg) by 144% and 45%, respectively. The AUC of noroxycodone decreased 49% and the AUC of oxymorphone increased 359% with concurrent itraconazole and oral oxycodone. Itraconazole increased the AUC of a single intravenous dose of oxycodone (0.1 mg/kg) by 51%.(16) In a randomized cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, ketoconazole increased the AUC of oxycodone by 2-fold to 3-fold and also increased oxycodone-related nausea, drowsiness, and pruritus.(17) In a randomized cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, ketoconazole increased the AUC of oxymorphone by 3-fold following a single dose of oxycodone (0.2 mg/kg). Increased side effects were also noted.(18,19) Ketoconazole has been shown to inhibit the metabolism of alfentanil,(20) fentanyl,(13) and oxycodone(21) in vitro. In a study of 11 subjects, ritonavir reduced the clearance of fentanyl 67% and increased the AUC 174%. Eight subjects reported nausea during the study.(22) In a randomized cross-over study in 16 healthy subjects, ritonavir (300 mg twice daily for 4 days) and lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily for 4 days) increased the AUC of a single dose of oxycodone (10 mg) by 3.0-fold and 2.6-fold, respectively. Oxycodone half-life increased 55% and 58%, respectively, with concurrent ritonavir or lopinavir/ritonavir. Both regimens also increased self-reported oxycodone effects.(23) The Australian manufacturer of ritonavir states that the AUC of fentanyl may be potentially increased 3-fold with concurrent ritonavir.(24) In a randomized cross-over study in 11 healthy subjects, telithromycin (800 mg daily for 4 days) increased the AUC of a single dose of oxycodone (10 mg immediate-release) by 80%. The AUC of noroxycodone was decreased by 46%. There was a modest increase in the pharmacodynamic effects of oxycodone.(25) In a randomized cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, troleandomycin increased the AUC of alfentanil by 135%.(26) In a randomized cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, troleandomycin increased the AUC of a single dose of fentanyl (oral transmucosal, 10 mcg/kg) by 76%.(27) Troleandomycin has been shown to inhibit alfentanil(19) and fentanyl(28) metabolism in vitro. In a randomized, cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, concurrent use of voriconazole and alfentanil increased the AUC of alfentanil 6-fold and decreased its clearance by 85%.(25,29) In a randomized, cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, voriconazole (400 mg twice daily, Day 1; 200 mg twice daily, Day 2) and fluconazole (400 mg daily, Day 1; 200 mg daily, Day 2) decreased the clearance of a single dose of intravenous fentanyl (5 mcg/kg) by 23% and 16%, respectively.(30) In a randomized cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, pretreatment with voriconazole for 4 days increased the AUC, Cmax, and half-life of a single dose of oxycodone (10 mg) by 3.6-fold, 1.7-fold, 2.0-fold, respectively.(31) There are case reports of interactions between alfentanil and erythromycin,(32) fentanyl and clarithromycin,(33) fentanyl and fluconazole,(34) fentanyl and itraconazole,(35) and oxycodone and voriconazole.(36) In the case report with fentanyl and fluconazole, the patient died of respiratory depression.(34) A study in healthy subjects shown that the application of heat over the fentanyl patch system increased mean overall fentanyl exposure by 120% and average maximum fentanyl level by 61%.(2) In a single dose study of sufentanil sublingual tablet 15 mcg with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, ketoconazole, resulted in 77% and 19% greater AUC and Cmax values of sufentanil, respectively, compared to its administration alone.(6) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that have been documented to interact with alfentanil, benzhydrocodone, fentanyl, hydrocodone, and/or oxycodone or would be expected to interact with these agents include: boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, elvitegravir, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, voriconazole.(37) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that have been documented to interact with alfentanil, benzhydrocodone, fentanyl, hydrocodone, and/or oxycodone include: erythromycin and fluconazole.(37)

Selected Inhibitors Of Bcrp/Cladribine Oral

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of BCRP may increase the absorption of cladribine.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of cladribine with an inhibitor of BCRP may result in elevated levels of cladribine and signs of toxicity.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of cladribine states concurrent use of BCRP inhibitors should be avoided during the 4- to 5-day cladribine treatment.(1-2) Selection of an alternative concurrent medication with no or minimal transporter inhibiting proprieties should be considered. If this is not possible, dose reduction to the minimum mandatory dose of the BCRP inhibitor, separation in timing of administration, and careful patient monitoring is recommended.(1-2) Monitor for signs of hematologic toxicity. Lymphocyte counts should be monitored.

DISCUSSION: Cladribine is a substrate of BCRP. Inhibitors of this transporter are expected to increase cladribine levels.(1-2) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, clopidogrel, curcumin, danicopan, darolutamide, dasabuvir, eltrombopag, enasidenib, ensitrelvir, febuxostat, fostamatinib, fostemsavir, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, grazoprevir, lazertinib, oteseconazole, pacritinib, paritaprevir, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tafamidis, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, turmeric, vadadustat, and zongertinib.(1-4)

Selected Moderate Cyp2c9 Inducers/Siponimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Drugs that are moderate inducers of CYP2C9 may increase the metabolism of siponimod.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a siponimod with a moderate CYP2C9 inducer may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of siponimod.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of a strong inducer of CYP3A4 may magnify the effect of the CYP2C9 inducer on siponimod and further decrease the levels of siponimod. Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of siponimod says that the combination of siponimod with a moderate CYP2C9 inducer and a strong CYP3A4 inducer is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased siponimod area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 57 % and 45 %, respectively in CYP2C9 normal metabolizers. Across all CYP2C9 genotypes, rifampin decreased the AUC of siponimod by 78 % in an in silico evaluation.(1) Drugs that are both moderate CYP2C9 inducers linked to this monograph include: aprepitant and ritonavir.(2-3)

Selected Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Voxilaprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitors may increase exposure to voxilaprevir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from voxilaprevir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent administration of voxilaprevir with OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 inhibitors is not recommended.(1,4) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for adverse effects. The American Society of Transplantation guidelines state that the combination of voxilaprevir and cyclosporine is contraindicated.(3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 25 subjects, cyclosporine (600 mg single dose) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of voxilaprevir (100 mg single dose) by 19.02-fold and 9.39-fold, respectively. There were no significant effects on cyclosporine levels.(1) OATP inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, cyclosporine, encorafenib, fostemsavir, leniolisib, letermovir, lopinavir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, roxadustat, vadadustat, and voclosporin.(1,2,4)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Dabigatran

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dabigatran etexilate is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Inhibition of intestinal P-gp leads to increased absorption of dabigatran.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use dabigatran with P-gp inhibitors may lead to elevated plasma levels of dabigatran, increasing the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Factors associated with an increased risk for bleeding include renal impairment, concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors, patient age >74 years, coexisting conditions (e.g. recent trauma) or use of drugs (e.g. NSAIDs) associated with bleeding risk, and patient weight < 50 kg.(1-4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Assess renal function and evaluate patient for other pre-existing risk factors for bleeding prior to initiating concurrent therapy. The US manufacturer of dabigatran states that the concurrent use of dabigatran and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided in atrial fibrillation patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 ml/min) and in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl less than 50 ml/min) being treated for or undergoing prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The interaction with P-gp inhibitors can be minimized by taking dabigatran several hours apart from the P-gp inhibitor dose.(1) The concomitant use of dabigatran with P-gp inhibitors has not been studied in pediatric patients but may increase exposure to dabigatran.(1) While the US manufacturer of dabigatran states that no dosage adjustment is necessary in other patients,(1) the Canadian manufacturer of dabigatran states that concomitant use of strong P-gp inhibitors (e.g., glecaprevir-pibrentasvir) is contraindicated. When dabigatran is used for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total hip or knee replacement concurrently with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil, the dose of dabigatran should be reduced from 110 mg twice daily to 150 mg once daily. For patients with CrCl less than 50 ml/min on verapamil, a further dabigatran dose reduction to 75 mg once daily should be considered. Verapamil should be given at least 2 hours after dabigatran to minimize the interaction.(2) The UK manufacturer of dabigatran also states the use of dabigatran with strong P-gp inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir or itraconazole) is contraindicated. Concurrent use of ritonavir is not recommended. When dabigatran is used in atrial fibrillation patients and for treatment of DVT and PE concurrently with verapamil, the UK manufacturer recommends reducing the dose of dabigatran from 150 mg twice daily to 110 mg twice daily, taken simultaneously with verapamil. When used for VTE prophylaxis after orthopedic surgery concurrently with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil, the dabigatran loading dose should be reduced from 110 mg to 75 mg, and the maintenance dose should be reduced from 220 mg daily to 150 mg daily, taken simultaneously with the P-gp inhibitor. For patients with CLcr 30-50 mL/min on concurrent verapamil, consider further lowering the dabigatran dose to 75 mg daily.(3) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Consider regular monitoring of hemoglobin, platelet levels, and/or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or ecarin clotting time (ECT). When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(10)

DISCUSSION: When dabigatran was co-administered with amiodarone, the extent and rate of absorption of amiodarone and its active metabolite DEA were essentially unchanged. The dabigatran area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) were increased by about 60% and 50%, respectively;(1,2) however, dabigatran clearance was increased by 65%.(1) Pretreatment with quinidine (200 mg every 2 hours to a total dose of 1000 mg) increased the AUC and Cmax of dabigatran by 53% and 56%, respectively.(1,2) Chronic administration of immediate release verapamil one hour prior to dabigatran dose increased dabigatran AUC by 154%.(4) Administration of dabigatran two hours before verapamil results in a negligible increase in dabigatran AUC.(1) Administration of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir (400/100/200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dabigatran (75 mg) by 2.87-fold and 2.61-fold, respectively.(5) Simultaneous administration of glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (300/120 mg daily) with a single dose of dabigatran (150 mg) increased the Cmax and AUC by 2.05-fold and 2.38-fold, respectively.(6) A retrospective comparative effectiveness cohort study including data from 9,886 individuals evaluated adverse bleeding rates with standard doses of oral anticoagulants with concurrent verapamil or diltiazem in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and normal kidney function. The study compared rates of bleeding following co-administration of either dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban with verapamil or diltiazem, compared to co-administration with amlodipine or metoprolol. Results of the study found that concomitant dabigatran use with verapamil or diltiazem was associated with increased overall bleeding (hazard ratio (HR) 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05-2.20, p<0.05) and increased overall GI bleeding (HR 2.16; 95% CI, 1.30-3.60, p<0.05) when compared to amlodipine. When compared to metoprolol, concomitant dabigatran use with verapamil or diltiazem was also associated with increased overall bleeding (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.02-2.00, p<0.05) and increased overall GI bleeding (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.42-3.79, p<0.05). No association was found between increased bleeding of any kind and concurrent use of rivaroxaban or apixaban with verapamil or diltiazem.(7) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with dabigatran and amiodarone or verapamil concluded that concurrent use is considered safe if CrCl is greater than 50 ml/min but should be avoided if CrCl is less than 50 ml/min in VTE and less than 30 ml/min for NVAF. Concurrent use with diltiazem was considered safe.(9) P-gp inhibitors include amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, conivaptan, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diosmin, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir, imlunestrant, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, selpercatinib, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, voclosporin, and voxilaprevir.(1-9)

Selected Protease Inhibitors And Nnrtis/Garlic

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. Garlic may induce the metabolism of protease inhibitors and non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs) by CYP3A4. P-glycoproteins may also be involved.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of garlic and a protease inhibitor or NNRTI may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the protease inhibitor or NNRTI therapy.(2-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients taking a protease inhibitor or NNRTI should avoid taking garlic supplements. Garlic from food sources is not likely to cause a problem, although there may be some concern if patients are ingesting a large quantity of garlic on a regular basis.

DISCUSSION: A study in nine HIV-negative subjects examined the effects of the concurrent use of a garlic supplement (taken twice daily) on saquinavir (1200 mg twice daily). Concurrent use resulted in a decrease in saquinavir area-under-curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and trough concentration (Cmin) by 51%, 49%, and 54%, respectively, when compared to the administration of saquinavir alone. Following a garlic washout period, saquinavir levels only returned to 60-70% of baseline.(2) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, the administration of garlic (10 mg twice daily) for four days had no significant effects on a single dose of ritonavir (400 mg). Ritonavir AUC and Cmax decreased by 17% and by 25%, respectively. However, the authors cautioned that their results should not be extrapolated to steady-state conditions.(4)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Alprazolam

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors, including amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir, may inhibit the metabolism of alprazolam by CYP3A4.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir may result in increased levels and clinical effects of alprazolam, which may result in extreme sedation and respiratory depression.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Inhibition of alprazolam may be greater in patients who have recently started therapy with a protease inhibitor.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider alternative benzodiazepines such as lorazepam, temazepam, or oxazepam. If concurrent use is necessary, patients receiving amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, or tipranavir should be observed for increased alprazolam effects. The dosage of alprazolam may need to adjusted, or alprazolam may need to be discontinued.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, the administration of a single dose of alprazolam (1.0 mg) following 12 days of ritonavir therapy (titrated up to 500 mg daily) resulted in a decrease in the alprazolam area-under-curve (AUC) by 12%.(1,3) The maximum concentration (Cmax) of alprazolam decreased by 16%.(1) In contrast to this, in a double-blind study in 10 healthy subjects, the administration of a single dose of alprazolam (1.0 mg) following four doses of ritonavir (200 mg) resulted in a decrease in alprazolam clearance by 59%. Ritonavir has been shown to inhibit and induce CYP3A4.(3) In a study in 17 subjects, telaprevir (750 mg every 8 hours for 10 days) increased the AUC of a single dose of alprazolam (0.5 mg) by 35%.(4)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Contraceptives

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors(1-10), fosamprenavir(1), and nelfinavir(2) may induce the metabolism of estrogens. Unboosted atazanavir may inhibit the metabolism of estrogens and progestins.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of estrogen and increased levels of progestins, which may increase the risk of insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and acne.(1-10) Additionally, concurrent use of atazanavir-cobicistat with drospirenone-containing contraceptives may result in elevated levels of and effects from drospirenone, including hyperkalemia.(4) Atazanavir alone may result in elevated levels of estrogens.(3) Hormonal contraceptives may decrease the effectiveness of fosamprenavir.(1) Elevated liver enzymes may also occur.(1) Concurrent use with tipranavir may increase the risk of rash.(5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) HIV guidelines recommend that concurrent use of oral contraceptives with atazanavir/ritonavir, darunavir/ritonavir, or lopinavir/ritonavir be done with a contraceptive product that contains at least 35 mcg ethinyl estradiol. If atazanavir is used without ritonavir, limit the dose of ethinyl estradiol to 30 mcg. Atazanavir/cobistat is contraindicated with drospirenone-containing products. No dose adjustment is needed when atazanavir/cobicistat is used with other oral contraceptives.(11) Most manufacturer recommendations differ from the DHHS guidelines. The manufacturer of atazanavir states that if an oral contraceptive agent containing either norgestimate or norethindrone is used with atazanavir without ritonavir, the contraceptive should contain no more than 30 mcg of ethinyl estradiol. These agents should be used with caution. Oral contraceptives containing progestins other than norethindrone or norgestimate and hormonal contraceptives other than oral (e.g. patches, rings, injections) have not been studied with atazanavir (boosted or unboosted), and alternative contraceptive methods are recommended.(3,4) The manufacturers of fosamprenavir,(1) darunavir,(5) and tipranavir(6) state that alternate methods of non-hormonal contraception are recommended. The manufacturers of the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(7) nelfinavir,(2) ritonavir,(8) and saquinavir(9) state that additional or alternate methods of contraception should be used in patients receiving these agents. The manufacturer of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir states that a non-hormonal method of contraception should be considered during nirmatrelvir/ritonavir therapy until one menstrual cycle after stopping therapy.(10) The CDC contraceptive guidelines state that intrauterine devices (copper or levonorgestrel) may be used with any antiretroviral agent.(12) The manufacturer of darunavir/cobicistat states that additional or alternative (non-hormonal) forms of contraception should be considered when estrogen-containing contraceptives are co-administered with darunavir/ritonavir.(17)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of unboosted amprenavir (1200 mg twice daily) with ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone (0.035 mg/1 mg daily) decreased the amprenavir area-under-curve (AUC) and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 22% and 20%, respectively. The Cmin of ethinyl estradiol was increased by 32%. The AUC and Cmin of norethindrone were increased by 18% and 45%, respectively. Fosamprenavir is a prodrug of amprenavir.(1) In contrast, a study of fosamprenavir/ritonavir (700/100 mg twice daily) with ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone (0.035/0.5 mg daily) in 25 subjects had no effect on amprenavir levels. In addition, this combination decreased the Cmax and AUC of ethinyl estradiol by 28% and 37%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of norethindrone decreased by 38%, 34%, and 26%, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration of atazanavir (400 mg daily) with ethinyl estradiol-norethindrone (Ortho-Novum) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax), AUC, and Cmin of ethinyl estradiol by 15%, 48%, and 91%, respectively, and the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of norethindrone by 67%, 210%, and 362%, respectively.(3) Concurrent administration of atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) with ethinyl estradiol-norgestimate (Ortho Tri-Cyclen) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), AUC, and Cmin of ethinyl estradiol by 16%, 19%, and 37%, respectively, and increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of norgestimate by 68%, 85%, and 202%, respectively.(3) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent administration of darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) with ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone (0.035/1 mg daily) decreased ethinyl estradiol Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 32%, 44%, and 62%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin, of norethindrone decreased by 10%, 14%, and 30%, respectively.(6) The concurrent administration of nelfinavir (2250 mg daily) and ethinyl estradiol (35 mcg daily) and norethindrone (0.4 mg daily) decreased the AUC, Cmax, and Cmin of ethinyl estradiol by 47%, 28%, and 62%, respectively, and decreased the AUC and Cmin of norethindrone by 18% and 46%, respectively. There was no effect on the Cmax of norethindrone.(2) Concurrent administration of lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) and Ortho Novum (once daily) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of ethinyl estradiol by 41%, 42%, and 58%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin, of norethindrone decreased by 16%, 17%, and 32%, respectively.(7) Concurrent administration of ritonavir (500 mg twice daily) and ethinyl estradiol (50 mcg single dose) decreased ethinyl estradiol AUC and Cmax by 40% and 32%, respectively.(8,14) In a study in 8 healthy females, ethinyl estradiol/gestodene (0.03/0.075 mg) had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of saquinavir (600 mg).(15) In a study in 21 subjects, concurrent ethinyl estradiol/norethindrone (0.035/1 mg) and tipranavir-ritonavir (500/100 mg twice daily) decreased tipranavir Cmin by 27%. Ethinyl estradiol AUC and Cmax decreased by 48% and 48%, respectively. There were no significant effects on norethindrone levels. In a study in 13 subjects, concurrent ethinyl estradiol/ norethindrone (0.035/1 mg) and tipranavir-ritonavir (750/200 mg twice daily) had no significant effects on tipranavir levels. Ethinyl estradiol AUC and Cmax decreased by 52% and 43%, respectively. There were no significant effects on norethindrone levels.(6) Selected protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, and ritonavir. Although not directly linked, protease inhibitor regimens containing saquinavir and tipranavir also alert.

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Flecainide; Propafenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atazanavir (unboosted or boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat), darunavir (with ritonavir or cobicistat), indinavir (unboosted or boosted with ritonavir), lopinavir/ritonavir, nelfinavir, and paritaprevir/ritonavir may inhibit the metabolism of flecainide and propafenone.(1-10)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in increased levels and clinical effects of flecainide and propafenone, including serious and/or life-threatening effects like QT prolongation and torsades de pointes.(1-10)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal and hepatic impairment may increase risk for excessive QTc prolongation as flecainide and propafenone are both renally and hepatically eliminated. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(11) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(11)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US Department of Health and Human Service guidelines for the use of antiretrovirals state that flecainide and propafenone should not be coadministered with protease inhibitors.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of atazanavir states that concurrent use of ritonavir-boosted atazanavir with flecainide or propafenone is contraindicated.(3) The US manufacturers of atazanavir/cobicistat,(4) darunavir,(5-6) and paritaprevir/ritonavir(10) recommend clinical monitoring and therapeutic drug monitoring of flecainide and propafenone if coadministration is necessary. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Atazanavir (unboosted or boosted with ritonavir or cobicistat), darunavir (with ritonavir or cobicistat), indinavir (unboosted or boosted with ritonavir), lopinavir/ritonavir, nelfinavir, and paritaprevir/ritonavir have been shown to inhibit CYP3A4 in vitro and in vivo. Agents that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and have high first pass metabolism, like flecainide and propafenone, may be the most susceptible to large increases when coadministered with these protease inhibitors.(2-10)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Maraviroc

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Some protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of maraviroc by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors without a dosage adjustment of maraviroc may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from maraviroc.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with renal and/or hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of maraviroc states that adult patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as protease inhibitors (except for tipranavir/ritonavir) should receive a dose of 150 mg maraviroc twice daily. This is the recommended dose in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors regardless of whether or not the patient is also receiving a strong inducer of CYP3A4.(1) In adults, maraviroc should not be used with a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor in patients with a creatinine clearance less than 30 ml/min or end-stage renal disease. Patients with hepatic impairment should be closely monitored for maraviroc-related side effects.(1) In adults, patients receiving tipranavir/ritonavir should receive 300 mg maraviroc twice daily.(1) In pediatric patients aged 2 years and older weighing at least 10 kg, patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 such as protease inhibitors (except for tipranavir/ritonavir) regardless of whether or not the patient is also receiving a strong inducer of CYP3A4 should receive the following maraviroc dose based on tablet or oral solution (20 mg/ml): - 10 - <20 kg: 50 mg twice daily or 50 mg (2.5ml) twice daily - 20 - <30 kg: 75 mg twice daily or 80 mg (4 ml) twice daily - 30 - <40 kg: 100 mg twice daily or 100 mg (5 ml) twice daily - >= 40 kg: 150 mg twice daily or 150 mg (7.5 ml) twice daily In pediatric patients aged 2 years and older weighing at least 10 kg, no dose recommendations are available with mild to moderate renal impairment. Maraviroc is contraindicated in pediatric patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease who are on concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent atazanavir (400 mg daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (300 mg twice daily) by 4.19-fold, 3.57-fold, and 2.09-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (300 mg twice daily) by 6.67-fold, 4.88-fold, and 2.67-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (150 mg twice daily) by 8.00-fold, 4.05-fold, and 2.29-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 10 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) and etravirine (200 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (150 mg twice daily) by 5.27-fold, 3.10-fold, 1.77-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (400 mg daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (100 mg twice daily) by 3.75-fold, 5.00-fold, and 3.38-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (300 mg twice daily) by 9.24-fold, 3.95-fold, and 1.97-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) and efavirenz (600 mg daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (300 mg twice daily) by 6.29-fold, 2.53-fold, 1.25-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 8 subjects, concurrent ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (100 mg twice daily) by 4.55-fold, 2.61-fold, and 1.28-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax of maraviroc (100 mg twice daily) by 11.3-fold, 9.77-fold, 4.78-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg twice daily) and efavirenz (600 mg daily) increased the Cmin, AUC, and Cmax, of maraviroc (100 mg twice daily) by 8.42-fold, 5.00-fold, and 2.26-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily) increased the Cmin and AUC of maraviroc (150 mg twice daily) by 80% and 2%, respectively. The Cmax of maraviroc decreased by 14%.(1) Selected protease inhibitors include: amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Quinine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism of this interaction is not completely known and is likely multifactorial. Quinine is a substrate of CYP3A4, P-gp, and UGT.(1-3) Protease inhibitors primarily inhibit CYP3A4 but may also inhibit or induce other hepatic metabolic processes. In particular, ritonavir may induce P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and uridine-5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT).(2-4) Nelfinavir and tipranavir are known to induce UGT while atazanavir and indinavir inhibit UGT.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ritonavir has been reported to result in elevated levels of and toxicity from quinine. Quinine toxicity includes symptoms of cinchonism (headache, vasodilation/sweating, nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, tinnitus, hearing impairment, vertigo/dizziness, blurred vision/disturbance in color perception/blindness, abdominal pain, deafness) as well as QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,5) On the other hand, concurrent lopinavir-ritonavir (fixed dose combination) has been reported to result in decreased levels of quinine. Whether this finding translates into reduced anti-malarial efficacy is unknown. One of the studies examining the use of lopinavir-ritonavir with quinine found that free, unbound levels of quinine was decreased, whereas the other found an increase in free quinine levels.(2,3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(6) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(6)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of quinine and ritonavir recommend avoiding the use of quinine in patients maintained on ritonavir.(1,4) If concurrent therapy is required, consider reducing the dose of quinine.(1,4,5) There is no FDA or guideline recommendation for the concurrent use of other protease inhibitors with quinine. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model suggests that quinine dosage may need to be increased when used with lopinavir-ritonavir, based on decreased quinine concentrations when used with lopinavir-ritonavir.(7) Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be monitored with electrocardiograms during treatment with quinine. Electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, and potassium) should also be monitored.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In 10 healthy subjects, ritonavir (200 mg every 12 hours for 9 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of quinine (600 mg) by 4-fold each. The clearance of quinine decreased 4.5-fold. There were no significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of ritonavir.(1,5) A pharmacokinetic study of 12 healthy volunteers who were coadministered quinine and lopinavir-ritonavir found that lopinavir-ritonavir led to a decrease in the Cmax and AUC of total quinine by 48% and 50%, respectively, and of free quinine by 33% and 36%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of total 3-hydroxyquinine, the major active metabolite of quinine, both decreased by 69%, and of free 3-hydroxyquinine decreased by 65% and 39%, respectively. The mechanism of interaction was attributed to ritonavir induction of UGT enzymes and of the P-gp transporter.(2) The effects of other ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor regimens on quinine has not been studied. Nelfinavir and tipranavir are known to induce UGT while atazanavir and indinavir inhibit UGT. In another pharmacokinetic study of 19 healthy subjects, quinine Cmax and AUC decreased by 49% and 58%, respectively, when administered concurrently with lopinavir-ritonavir, compared to when administered alone. The Cmax and AUC of 3-hydroxyquinine decreased by 85% and 98%, respectively, when given with lopinavir-ritonavir. A significant increase (236%) in free quinine Cmax was observed. The clinical significance of these changes is unclear.(3) A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model predicted that lopinavir-ritonavir decreases the AUC of unbound quinine by about 70%, compared to quinine alone. The authors suggested increasing the dose of quinine from 600 mg three times daily to 1,800 mg three times daily.(7)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Rifabutin; Rifapentine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of rifabutin by CYP3A4.(1-29) Rifabutin may induce the metabolism of some protease inhibitors.(1-14) Rifabutin may decrease the metabolism of darunavir by competitive inhibition at CYP3A4.(17-19) Rifapentine may induce the metabolism of the protease inhibitor by CYP3A4.(14)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir or tipranavir with rifabutin may result in increased levels, clinical effects, and side effects (including neutropenia, lymphopenia, and influenza-like illness) of rifabutin.(1-29) Levels of amprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, and saquinavir may be decreased.(1-14) The increased levels of darunavir seen with concurrent rifabutin are not expected to be clinically significant.(17-19) Concurrent or recent use of rifapentine may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the protease inhibitor.(14)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents,(27) the CDC/NIH guidelines on treatment of opportunistic infections (OI) in HIV(28), and the CDC's guidelines on managing drug interactions in HIV-related tuberculosis (TB)(29) all recommend that the dose of rifabutin be reduced to 150 mg once daily, or 300 mg three times weekly (a 50% reduction), when used with boosted or unboosted protease inhibitors. Previous iterations of the guidelines recommended a rifabutin dose of 150 mg three times weekly, but some studies have found subtherapeutic rifabutin levels as a result.(30-35) Given the risk of rifamycin resistance, the guidelines now recommend a higher dose of rifabutin than previously, but state that clinicians should recognize that there are limited safety data with this dose and patients need to be closely monitored for rifabutin-related toxicities. The Australian, UK, and US manufacturers of amprenavir,(1,2,3) fosamprenavir,(4,6) indinavir,(7,8,9) and nelfinavir(10,11,12) recommend reducing the dose of rifabutin by at least 50% when used concurrently. The Australian(7) and US(9) manufacturers of indinavir recommend that the dosage of indinavir be increased to 1,000 mg every eight hours. The UK manufacturer of indinavir recommends that the dosage of indinavir be increased to 1,000 mg or 1,200 mg every eight hours.(8) The US manufacturer of nelfinavir(12) and the US manufacturer of rifabutin(14) recommend a dosage of nelfinavir of 1,250 mg twice daily when used with rifabutin. Monitoring of patients should be increased. Monitor for neutropenia, liver enzyme levels, and consider monitoring rifabutin concentrations. The Australian, Canadian, UK, and US manufacturers of atazanavir,(15,16,17) darunavir,(18,19,20) fosamprenavir when used with ritonavir,(4,5,6) lopinavir-ritonavir,(21,22,23) saquinavir,(13) and tipranavir (24) recommend that the dosage of rifabutin be reduced by 75% (e.g. 150 mg every other day or 3 times per week) with careful monitoring. Additional dose adjustment may be warranted. In Australia, the combination of atazanavir with cobicistat is contraindicated with rifabutin.(15) Monitoring of patients should be increased. Monitor for neutropenia, liver enzyme levels, and consider monitoring rifabutin concentrations. When ritonavir is used as an antiretroviral agent at 500 mg bid or above, it is contraindicated with rifabutin.(25,26) When used as a boosting agent, refer to the dosing for the primary protease inhibitor. Consider alternatives to rifapentine in patients receiving protease inhibitors. DHHS guidelines state that rifapentine should not be coadministered with any protease inhibitors.(27) In Australia, the combination of atazanavir with cobicistat is contraindicated with rifapentine.(15) Selected protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, and telaprevir.

DISCUSSION: Two open-label, randomized, cross-over studies, one in South Africa(30) and one in Vietnam(31), comparing rifabutin doses of 300 mg daily alone with 150 mg 3 times weekly or 150 mg daily given with lopinavir-ritonavir (LPVr) found that the 150 mg daily dose with LPVr attained higher rifabutin levels than 300 mg daily alone, and the 150 mg 3 times weekly dose with LPVr led to lower rifabutin levels than 300 mg daily alone. The levels of the rifabutin active metabolite 25-O-desacetylrifabutin was markedly elevated with both dosages in both studies. All 16 patients in the South Africa study and 22/24 patients in the Vietnam study had negative cultures at the end of TB therapy. Mild adverse events were common. Two cases of uveitis occurred in the South Africa study and none in the Vietnam study. Grade 3 neutropenia occurred in 5 patients and 1 patient in the South Africa and Vietnam study, respectively. A retrospective cohort study of HIV-TB co-infected patients on ritonavir-boosted atazanavir compared the use of rifabutin 150 mg 3 times weekly (n=118) with rifabutin 150 mg daily (n=174). Significantly more patients in the rifabutin daily group than the rifabutin three times weekly group achieved clinical cure (73% vs. 44.1%, p<0.001).(36) A number of other small studies in HIV-TB co-infected patients on ritonavir-based antiretroviral therapy have also found that a rifabutin dose of 150 mg 3 times weekly led to inadequate rifabutin levels but high 25-O-desacetylrifabutin levels. Many patients achieved clinical cure despite the low rifabutin levels, but studies did report patient deterioration, deaths, relapse, or resistance in patients with low rifabutin levels.(32-35) A case series of 3 patients with AIDS and TB reported that the patients developed acquired rifamycin resistance despite receiving directly observed therapy for TB. All the patients had been on ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitors and had a rifabutin dose of 150 mg every other day.(37) In a study in 7 subjects, atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) and rifabutin (150 mg twice weekly) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of rifabutin by 2.49-fold, 1.48-fold, and 1.40-fold, respectively, when compared to the administration of 150 mg daily of rifabutin. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 7.77-fold, 10.90-fold, and 11.45-fold, respectively.(15) Concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) and rifabutin (150 mg every other day) decreased rifabutin Cmax and AUC by 28% and 7%, respectively, and increased rifabutin Cmin by 64% when compared to the administration of rifabutin (300 mg daily) alone. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 4.77-fold, 9.81-fold, and 27.1-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of darunavir increased 42%, 57%, and 75%, respectively.(20) In a study using concurrent rifabutin (150 mg daily) with darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily), lymphopenia and influenza-like illnesses were reported at a higher frequency than in patients who received rifabutin alone. One patient experienced a grade 3 decrease in white blood cell count during concurrent therapy.(19) Concurrent fosamprenavir/ritonavir (700/100 mg twice daily) and rifabutin (150 mg every other day) increased amprenavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 36%, 35%, and 17%, respectively. Rifabutin Cmax decreased by 14% and rifabutin Cmin increased by 28%. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 579%, 1120%, and 2510%, respectively. The AUC of rifabutin plus 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 64%.(6) In a study in 14 healthy, HIV-negative subjects, concurrent rifabutin (150 mg once daily) and indinavir (800 mg every 8 hours) decreased indinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 20%, 32%, and 40%, respectively. Rifabutin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased by 1.29-fold, 1.54-fold, and 1.99-fold, respectively.(9,28) In a study in 18 healthy subjects, concurrent indinavir (1,000 mg three times daily) with rifabutin (150 mg daily) increased rifabutin and 25-O-desacetylrifabutin AUC by 70% and 120%, respectively, when compared to the administration of rifabutin (300 mg daily) alone. In a study in 10 HIV-positive subjects, concurrent administration of indinavir (1,000 mg three times daily) with rifabutin (150 mg daily) produced indinavir levels similar to indinavir (800 mg three time daily) administered alone.(39) Concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with rifabutin (150 mg daily) increased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 1.08-fold, 1.17-fold, and 1.20-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of rifabutin increased by 2.12-fold, 3.03-fold, and by 4.90-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 23.6-fold, 47.5-fold, and by 94.9-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of rifabutin plus 25-O-desacetylrifabutin increased by 3.46-fold, 5.73-fold, and 9.53-fold, respectively.(23) Concurrent rifabutin (300 mg daily) and nelfinavir (750 mg every 8 hours) increased rifabutin AUC, Cmax, and Cmin by 207%, 146%, and 305%, respectively. Nelfinavir AUC, Cmax, and Cmin decreased by 32%, 24%, and 53%, respectively. Concurrent rifabutin (150 mg once daily) and nelfinavir (750 mg every 8 hours) increased rifabutin AUC, Cmax, and Cmin by 83%, 19%, and 177%, respectively. Nelfinavir AUC, Cmax, and Cmin decreased by 23%, 18%, and 25%, respectively. Concurrent rifabutin (150 mg once daily) and nelfinavir (1,250 mg every 12 hours) decreased nelfinavir Cmin by 15%. There was no effect on nelfinavir AUC or Cmax.(12) Rifapentine (600 mg twice weekly for 28 days) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of indinavir (800 mg 3 times daily on Days 15-28) by 70% and 55%, respectively. Indinavir clearance increased 3-fold. There was no affect on indinavir half-life. There were no effects on rifapentine pharmacokinetics.(14) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Sodium Fusidate

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium fusidate and selected protease inhibitors may inhibit the biotransformation of each other by CYP3A4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in increased levels and toxicity from sodium fusidate and protease inhibitors, including hepatotoxicity(1,2) and bone marrow suppression.(3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Australian and UK manufacturers of sodium fusidate state that concurrent use of sodium fusidate and CYP3A4 biotransformed drugs such as ritonavir and saquinavir is not recommended.(1,2) The Canadian and UK manufacturers of ritonavir and the Canadian manufacturer of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir state concurrent use with fusidic acid is contraindicated.(3-5) The UK manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that concurrent use with fusidic acid is contraindicated for dermatological infections and not recommended for osteo-articular infections.(6) The US manufacturer of saquinavir states that concurrent use of saquinavir/ritonavir and fusidic acid is not recommended due to potential for increased mutual toxicities.(7)

DISCUSSION: Although the specifics of sodium fusidate metabolic pathways are not known, an interaction between sodium fusidate and drugs that are biotransformed by CYP3A4 is suspected.(1,2)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Telaprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of darunavir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, and telaprevir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of telaprevir with darunavir/ritonavir, fosamprenavir/ritonavir, or lopinavir/ritonavir is not recommended. Monitor patients receiving concurrent telaprevir and atazanavir/ritonavir for atazanavir related side effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily for 20 days) with teleprevir (750 mg q8h for 10 days) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of telaprevir by 21%, 20%, and 15%, respectively. The Cmax of atazanavir decreased by 15%, while the AUC and Cmin of atazanavir increased by 17% and 85%, respectively.(1) In a study in 11 subjects, concurrent darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg daily for 20 days) with telaprevir (750 mg q8h for 10 days) decreased the Cmax, AUC, Cmin of telaprevir by 36%, 35%, and 32%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of darunavir decreased 40%, 40%, and 42%, respectively. In a study in 15 subjects, concurrent telaprevir (1125 mg q12h for 4 days) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of darunavir (600/100 mg bid for 24 days) by 47%, 51%, and 58%, respectively.(1) In a study in 18 subjects, concurrent fosamprenavir/ritonavir (700/100 mg bid for 20 days) and telaprevir (750 mg q8h for 10 days) decreased the telaprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 33%, 32%, and 30%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of fosamprenavir decreased by 35%, 47%, and 56%, respectively. In a study in 17 subjects, concurrent telaprevir (1125 mg q12h for 4 days) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of fosamprenavir (700/100 mg bid for 24 days) by 40%, 49%, and 58%, respectively.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg bid for 20 days) and telaprevir (750 mg q8h for 10 days) decreased the telaprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 53%, 54%, and 52%, respectively. There were no significant changes in lopinavir pharmacokinetics.(1) In a study in 14 subjects, a single dose of ritonavir (100 mg) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of telaprevir (750 mg) 1.30-fold and 2.00-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 5 subjects, concurrent ritonavir (100 mg bid for 14 days) and telaprevir (750 mg q8h for 14 days) decreased the telaprevir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 15%, 24%, and 32%, respectively.(1)

Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitor;Protease Inhib/Disopyramide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of disopyramide by inhibition of CYP3A4.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors with disopyramide may result in elevated levels of disopyramide and serious and/or life-threatening effects, including QT prolongation.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal and hepatic impairment may increase risk for excessive QTc prolongation as disopyramide is eliminated renally and hepatically. To prevent increased serum levels and risk for ventricular arrhythmias, disopyramide must be dose adjusted in renal and hepatic insufficiency. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Coadministration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors with disopyramide should be avoided. If use of the combination is warranted, clinical monitoring is recommended.(1,2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism and increase levels of disopyramide by inhibition of CYP3A4.(1,2) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, boceprevir, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, josamycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, relacorilant, telaprevir, tipranavir, and tucatinib.(4,5)

Slt Protease Inhibitors/Barbiturates;Phenobarbital;Phenytoin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The anticonvulsants and protease inhibitors may induce the metabolism of each other.(1-3) Primidone is metabolized to phenobarbital.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of barbiturates, phenobarbital, phenytoin or primidone with fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir or tipranavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of both agents.(1-6)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy closely. The dosage of both agents may need to be adjusted.(1-6) US labeling states that use of fosamprenavir, indinavir, saquinavir or tipranavir in patients receiving concurrent phenobarbital or phenytoin should done used with caution.(1-2,4-5) The US manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that lopinavir/ritonavir should not be administered once daily in patients receiving concurrent phenobarbital or phenytoin.(3)

DISCUSSION: In an open-label, randomized clinical trial in 24 subjects, the addition of phenytoin (300 mg daily) to lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased lopinavir area-under-curve (AUC) by 30%. The addition of lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) to phenytoin (300 mg daily) decreased phenytoin AUC by 23%.(6)

Slt Protease Inhibitors;Cobicistat/Vonoprazan-Clarithromycin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of clarithromycin.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of clarithromycin(1-10), reduced levels of 14-OH-clarithromycin,(1-4) and QTc prolongation.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with decreased renal function (as shown by a creatinine clearance (CrCL) of 60 ml/min or less are more susceptible to effects of the interaction.(1-10) The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(11) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(11)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of clarithromycin-vonoprazan states concurrent use with ritonavir is not recommended in patients with decreased renal function.(1) The manufacturer of clarithromycin states that in patients receiving ritonavir, the dose of clarithromycin be reduced by 50% in patients with a CrCl of 30 ml/min to 60 ml/min. For patients with a CrCl of less than 30 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 75%. No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with normal renal function.(2) The manufacturers of darunavir,(5) the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(6) ritonavir,(3) and tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir(4) recommend that the dose of clarithromycin be reduced by 50% in patients with a CrCl of 30 ml/min to 60 ml/min. For patients with a CrCl of less than 30 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 75%. No adjustment is necessary in patients with normal renal function. The manufacturer of the combination of elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil states that no adjustment is necessary in patients with a CrCl greater than or equal to 60 ml/min. In patients with a CrCl of 50 ml/min to 60 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 50%.(7) Dosages of clarithromycin in excess of 1000 mg per day should not be used in patients taking protease inhibitors.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 17 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) and darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of darunavir by 17%, 13%, respectively. Clarithromycin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased by 1.26-fold, 1.57-fold, and 2.74-fold, respectively.(5) In a study in 22 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin and ritonavir increased clarithromycin AUC,(1,3) Cmax,(3) and Cmin(3) by 77%, 31%, and 2.8-fold, respectively. The AUC,(1) Cmax,(1) and Cmin(1) of 14-OH-clarithromycin decreased by 100%, 99%, and 100%, respectively. Ritonavir AUC, Cmax, Cmin increased by 12%, 15%, 14%, respectively.(3) In a study in 24 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) and tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily) increased tipranavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 1.40-fold, 1.66-fold, 2.00-fold, respectively. The AUC and Cmin of clarithromycin increased 1.19-fold and 1.68-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 14-OH-clarithromycin decreased by 97%, 97%, and 95%, respectively.(4) In a controlled study in 21 healthy volunteers the use of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 for 7 days) concurrently with clarithromycin (500mg twice daily for 14 days) led to increased TPV/r Cmax, AUC, and Cp12h by 40%, 66%, and 100% respectively. The formation of the active metabolite 14-OH-CLR was decreased by 95%, and both AUC and Cmax of 14-OH-CLR were decreased by 97% in the presence of tipranavir. Single dose tipranavir/ritonavir result in no statistical change in clarithromycin AUC or Cmax, but a 50% increase in Cp12h was identified. Multiple dose tipranavir/ritonavir showed a 19% increase in clarithromycin AUC, no change in Cmax, and a 68% increase in Cp12h versus clarithromycin alone.(12) Selected protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, lopinavir, ritonavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

Slt Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitor & Substrate/Lumacaftor-Ivacaftor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, ritonavir, telithromycin, and tucatinib are both strong inhibitors and substrates of CYP3A4.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of ivacaftor. Lumacaftor is a strong inducer of CYP3A4. Over time, lumacaftor induction moderates the CYP3A4 inhibitor effect on ivacaftor. In addition, lumacaftor may increase the metabolism of agents that are metabolized by CYP3A4.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ivacaftor.(3) Concurrent use of lumacaftor with agents that are CYP3A4 substrates may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the substrate.(3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction severity may be increased in patients with hepatic impairment.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lumacaftor-ivacaftor states that concurrent use of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates and those with a narrow therapeutic index are not recommended. An alternative to macrolide antibiotics (e.g. clarithromycin, telithromycin) should be considered, such as ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, and levofloxacin. Azole antifungals are not recommended. Consider an alternative such as fluconazole.(3) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use with lumacaftor-ivacaftor is not recommended two weeks before, during, and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5) If concurrent use is necessary, recommended adjustments depend upon whether lumacaftor-ivacaftor or the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor was started first. - If the patient has been stabilized on lumacaftor-ivacaftor therapy when the CYP3A4 inhibitor is started, no dose adjustments are necessary. - If lumacaftor-ivacaftor tablets are started in a patient currently receiving a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, then begin with one tablet daily for the first week of treatment. Following this period, continue with the recommended daily dose. - If lumacaftor-ivacaftor granules are started in a patient currently receiving a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, then begin with one packet of oral granules every other day for the first week of treatment. Following this period, continue with the recommended daily dose. If lumacaftor-ivacaftor tablet therapy is stopped for more than one week while taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, when re-initiated the lumacaftor-ivacaftor tablets the dose should be one tablet daily for the first week. Following this period, continue with the recommended daily dose. If lumacaftor-ivacaftor granules therapy is stopped for more than one week while taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, when re-initiated the lumacaftor-ivacaftor granules the dose should be one packet of oral granules every other day for the first week. Following this period, continue with the recommended daily dose.

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study lumacaftor reduced exposure to ivacaftor, a CYP3A4 sensitive substrate, by 80%.(3) Concurrent administration with itraconazole (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased ivacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) by 4.3-fold.(3) A study in 12 subjects compared ivacaftor alone (study A), ivacaftor with ritonavir (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) 50 mg daily on days 1-4 (study B), and ivacaftor with ritonavir 50 mg daily for two weeks prior and on days 1-4 of ivacaftor administration (study C). In study A, B, and C, ivacaftor AUC increased from 10.94 mcg/hr to 215.6 mcg/hr and 216 mcg/hr, respectively, with the addition of ritonavir. Ivacaftor concentration maximum (Cmax) was 0.9944 mcg, 1.812 mcg, and 2.267 mcg in study A, B, and C, respectively.(4) Agents that are both strong inhibitors and substrates of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, ritonavir, telithromycin, and tucatinib.(1-2)

Str 3A4 Inhib Prol Qt/Tolterodine (>1 Mg Ir Or >2 Mg Er)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tolterodine by CYP3A4.(1,2) Tolterodine has been observed to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of tolterodine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of tolterodine and signs of toxicity, including potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers may be at increased risk.(1,2) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of tolterodine recommends that a maximum tolterodine dosage of 1 mg twice daily of the non extended release dosage form(1) or 2 mg once daily of the extended release dosage form(2) be used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. The manufacturer of tolterodine states concurrent use agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used with caution. Consider close observation in patients with a known history of QT prolongation or patients taking antiarrhythmic medications.(1,2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in eight subjects who were deficient in CYP2D6, the concurrent administration of tolterodine (2 mg) with ketoconazole (200 mg once daily for four days), another inhibitor of CYP3A4, resulted in a 60% decrease in tolterodine clearance.(6) Tolterodine AUC and Cmax increased 2.5-fold and 2-fold, respectively.(2) In a study of the effect of tolterodine immediate release tablets, the effect on the QT interval appeared greater for 8 mg/day (two times the therapeutic dose) compared to 4 mg/day. Tolterodine 2 mg BID and tolterodine 4 mg BID increased the QTcF by 5.01 msec (0.28-9.74 msec) and 11.84 msec (7.11-16.58 msec), respectively. The change in QT interval was more pronounced in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (PM) than extensive metabolizers (EMs).(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(1,7,8)

Strong & Moderate 3A4 Inhib That Prolong Qt/Encorafenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of encorafenib and cause additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from encorafenib, including QT prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval with encorafenib should be avoided. If concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with encorafenib is unavoidable, reduce the encorafenib dose as follows: - If the current daily dose of encorafenib is 450 mg, reduce encorafenib to 150 mg with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, and 225 mg with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. - If the current daily dose of encorafenib is 300 mg, reduce encorafenib to 75 mg with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, and 150 mg with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. - If the current daily dose of encorafenib is 225 mg or 150 mg, reduce encorafenib to 75 mg with both strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. - After the inhibitor has been discontinued for 3 to 5 half-lives, resume encorafenib dose that was taken prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. Recommended dosage modifications for encorafenib and QTc prolongation adverse reactions include: - QTcF greater than 500 ms and less than or equal to 60 ms increase from baseline: Withhold encorafenib until QTcF less than or equal to 500 ms. Resume at reduced dose. If more than one recurrence, permanently discontinue encorafenib. - QTcF greater than 500 ms and greater than 60 ms increase from baseline: Permanently discontinue encorafenib.(1) See prescribing information for additional information regarding dose reductions.(1)

DISCUSSION: Encorafenib has been associated with a dose-dependent QTc interval prolongation. Following administration of encorafenib in combination with binimetinib, the largest mean (90% CI) QTcF change from baseline was 18 ms (14-22 ms), based on central tendency analysis.(1) Coadministration of posaconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) or diltiazem (moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of encorafenib by 3-fold and 2-fold, respectively, and increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) by 68% and 45%, respectively, after a single dose of encorafenib 50 mg (0.1 times the recommended dose).(1) Encorafenib has been associated with a dose-dependent QTc interval prolongation. Following administration of encorafenib in combination with binimetinib, the largest mean (90% CI) QTcF change from baseline was 18 ms (14-22 ms), based on central tendency analysis.(1) Following administration of encorafenib in combination with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6, an increase of QTcF >500 ms was measured in 4% (9/226) of patients. Following administration of encorafenib with cetuximab and FOLFIRI, an increase of QTcF >500 ms was measured in 1.5% (1/65) of patients.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, and telithromycin.(4-6) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: clofazimine and fluconazole.(4-6)

Strong & Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Eliglustat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of eliglustat. If the patient is also taking an inhibitor of CYP2D6, eliglustat metabolism can be further inhibited.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of eliglustat, including prolongation of the PR, QTc, and/or QRS intervals, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: If the patient has liver disease, is also taking an inhibitor of CYP2D6 and/or is an intermediate or poor metabolizer of CYP2D6, eliglustat metabolism can be further inhibited.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of eliglustat with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 concomitantly with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP2D6 in both extensive and intermediate metabolizers of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) The concurrent use of eliglustat with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 in intermediate and poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) The concurrent use of eliglustat with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 in intermediate and poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 should be avoided.(1) The dosage of eliglustat with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 in extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6 should be limited to 84 mg daily.(1) The concurrent use of eliglustat with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 concomitantly with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) The concurrent use of eliglustat with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 concomitantly with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP2D6 in poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 should be avoided and is contraindicated in extensive and intermediate metabolizers of CYP2D6.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased eliglustat (84 mg BID) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 4-fold and 4.4-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PKPB) models suggested ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 4.4-fold and 5.4-fold, respectively, in intermediate metabolizers. PKPB models suggested ketoconazole may increase the Cmax and AUC of eliglustat (84 mg daily) by 4.3-fold and 6.2-fold, respectively, in poor metabolizers.(1) PKPB models suggested fluconazole, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 2.8-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 2.5-fold and 2.9-fold, respectively in intermediate metabolizers. PKPB models suggest that concurrent eliglustat (84 mg BID), paroxetine (a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6), and ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 16.7-fold and 24.2-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. In intermediate metabolizers, eliglustat Cmax and AUC would be expected to increase 7.5-fold and 9.8-fold, respectively.(1) PKPB models suggest that concurrent eliglustat (84 mg BID), terbinafine (a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6), and ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 10.2-fold and 13.6-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. In intermediate metabolizers, eliglustat Cmax and AUC would be expected to increase 4.2-fold and 5-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3,4) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, casopitant, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, duvelisib, erythromycin, fluconazole, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, and treosulfan.(1,3,4)

Strong & Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Guanfacine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of guanfacine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of guanfacine, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, loss of consciousness, and drowsiness.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients maintained on guanfacine may need dosage adjustments if strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 are initiated or discontinued. The manufacturer of extended-release guanfacine recommends a starting dose of extended-release guanfacine initiated at half the recommended level of the weight based dosing in patients receiving strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4. If a patient has been maintained on extended-release guanfacine and is started on a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, the dose of extended-release guanfacine should be decreased to half the recommended weight based dose. If a patient has been maintained on extended-release guanfacine and a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and the strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the dose of extended-release guanfacine may need to be increased to the recommended weight based dose based upon patient response. Extended-release guanfacine target dose range for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is 0.05-0.12 mg/kg/day. Doses above 4 mg/day have not been evaluated in children ages 6-12 years and doses above 7 mg/day have not been evaluated in adolescents ages 13-17 years.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (dosage not stated), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of guanfacine (dosage not stated) by approximately 1.75-fold and 3-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan and verapamil.(1-3)

Strong 3A4 Inhibitors/Eszopiclone > 2 Mg; Zopiclone > 5 Mg

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 impair the metabolism of eszopiclone(1) and zopiclone.(2,3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eszopiclone(1) or zopiclone(2,3) with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in an increase in hypnotic levels and clinical adverse effects such as confusion, memory loss, sleep-walking or sleep-driving behaviors, thought or behavioral changes, or excessive daytime drowsiness, as well as toxic effects such as profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Systemic exposure may also be increased in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Elderly and debilitated patients are more likely to have impaired motor or cognitive performance when treated with hypnotics.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eszopiclone states the total dose should not exceed 2 mg in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of zopiclone states the prescribed dose should not exceed 5 mg in patients treated with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(2) Patients should be counseled that concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with eszopiclone or zopiclone may result in an increase in side effects such as confusion, memory loss, sleep-walking or sleep-driving behaviors, or daytime drowsiness.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of eszopiclone by 2.2-fold. Eszopiclone maximum concentration (Cmax) and half-life were increased 1.4-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively.(1) An in vitro study in human liver microsomes found that ketoconazole inhibited the metabolism of zopiclone.(2) In a study in 10 subjects, itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) increased the AUC, Cmax, and half-life of zopiclone by 73%, 29%, and 40%, respectively. However, there were no significant differences in clinical effects when compared to placebo.(4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, elvitegravir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Deflazacort

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deflazacort is a prodrug and is rapidly metabolized to the active metabolite, 21-desDFZ, by esterases. The metabolite 21-desDFZ is metabolized by CYP3A4 to inactive metabolites.(1) Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of the active metabolite of deflazacort metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from deflazacort.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends decreasing the dose to one-third of the recommended dose of deflazacort when used concurrently with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. For example, if the recommended dose of deflazacort is 36 mg per day, the reduced dose would be 12 mg per day when administered with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: Deflazacort is a prodrug and is rapidly metabolized to the active metabolite, 21-desDFZ. The metabolite 21-desDFZ is metabolized by CYP3A4.(1) Coadministration of deflazacort with clarithromycin, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased total geometric mean exposure (maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC)) to the active metabolite 21-desDFZ by 2.3- to 3.4-fold.(1)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ivacaftor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ivacaftor.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ivacaftor.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole, the dose of ivacaftor should be reduced to one 150 mg tablet or one packet (25 mg if body weight 5 kg to < 7 kg, 50 mg if body weight < 14 kg, 75 mg if weight equal or > 14 kg) two times a week.(1) In patients receiving concurrent moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors such as amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, berotralstat, crizotinib, cyclosporine, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluconazole, fosamprenavir, fosaprepitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, ledipasvir, netupitant, schisandra or verapamil, the dose of ivacaftor should be reduced to one 150 mg tablet or one packet (25 mg if body weight 5 kg to < 7 kg, 50 mg if body weight < 14 kg, 75 mg if weight equal or > 14 kg) daily.(1) In patients who are less than 6 months of age, concurrent use of ivacaftor with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration with ketoconazole (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased ivacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) by 8.5-fold.(1) Concurrent administration with fluconazole (a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased ivacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) by 3-fold.(1) A study in 12 subjects compared ivacaftor alone (study A), ivacaftor with ritonavir (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) 50 mg daily on days 1-4 (study B), and ivacaftor with ritonavir 50 mg daily for two weeks prior and on days 1-4 of ivacaftor administration (study C). In study A, B, and C, ivacaftor AUC increased from 10.94 mcg/hr to 215.6 mcg/hr and 216 mcg/hr, respectively, with the addition of ritonavir. Ivacaftor concentration maximum (Cmax) was 0.9944 mcg, 1.812 mcg, and 2.267 mcg in study A, B, and C, respectively.(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-5) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, ledipasvir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan and verapamil.(3-5)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Pemigatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pemigatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor increases pemigatinib plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pemigatinib states that coadministration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. If coadministration cannot be avoided, the dosage of pemigatinib should be reduced as follows: -Reduce dose from 13.5 mg to 9 mg. -Reduce dose from 9 mg to 4.5 mg. If the strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the pemigatinib dose that was taken prior to the initiation of the inhibitor after 3 half-lives of the CYP3A4 inhibitor have elapsed.(1)

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) by 17% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 88% following a single oral pemigatinib dose of 4.5 mg. Concomitant use of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors is predicted to increase pemigatinib exposure by approximately 50-80%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, and verapamil.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Selumetinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of selumetinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from selumetinib, including vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, ocular toxicity (e.g., blurred vision, visual loss), cardiomyopathy, and rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of selumetinib states that the coadministration of selumetinib with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. If coadministration cannot be avoided, the dosage of selumetinib should be reduced as follows: -If the current dose is 25 mg/m2 twice daily, reduce to 20 mg/m2 twice daily. -If the current dosage is 20 mg/m2 twice daily, reduce to 15 mg/m2 twice daily. If the strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the selumetinib dose that was taken prior to the initiation of the inhibitor after 3 half-lives of the CYP3A4 inhibitor have elapsed.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study of 26 healthy subjects, itraconazole 200 mg twice daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of selumetinib 25 mg by 49% and 19%, respectively. Fluconazole 400 mg loading dose then 200 mg daily (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and strong CYP2C19 inhibitor) increased AUC and Cmax of selumetinib (25 mg) by 53% and 26%.(1,2) In a pharmacokinetic model, erythromycin (a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) was predicted to increase selumetinib AUC and Cmax by 41% and 23%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib and voriconazole.(3) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, and verapamil.(3)

Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tezacaftor-ivacaftor.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from tezacaftor-ivacaftor.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Refer to current prescribing information for tezacaftor-ivacaftor for dose adjustment recommendations with strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(2) Dose modifications for concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: - In adults, patients 12 years and older, and patients 6 to 12 years old weighing at least 30 kg who are receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, the morning dose of tezacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 150 mg should be given twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart. The evening dose of ivacaftor 150 mg should not be taken. - In patients 6 to 12 years old weighing less than 30 kg who are receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, the morning dose of tezacaftor 50 mg/ivacaftor 75 mg should be given twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart. The evening dose of ivacaftor 75 mg should not be taken.(2) Dose modifications for concurrent use of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors: - In adults, patients 12 years and older, and patients 6 to 12 years old weighing at least 30 kg who are receiving concurrent moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, the morning dose of tezacaftor 100 mg/ivacaftor 150 mg should be given every other day alternating with ivacaftor 150 mg. The evening dose of ivacaftor 150 mg should not be taken. - In patients 6 to 12 years old weighing less than 30 kg who are receiving concurrent moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors, the morning dose of tezacaftor 50 mg/ivacaftor 75 mg should be given every other day alternating with ivacaftor 75 mg. The evening dose of ivacaftor 75 mg should not be taken.(2)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration with ketoconazole (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased ivacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) by 8.5-fold.(1) Concurrent administration with fluconazole (a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased ivacaftor AUC by 3-fold.(1) Concurrent administration with itraconazole (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased tezacaftor AUC by 4-fold and ivacaftor by 15.6-fold.(2) Concurrent administration with fluconazole (a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased tezacaftor AUC by 2-fold.(2) A study in 12 subjects compared ivacaftor alone (study A), ivacaftor with ritonavir (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) 50 mg daily on days 1-4 (study B), and ivacaftor with ritonavir 50 mg daily for two weeks prior and on days 1-4 of ivacaftor administration (study C). In study A, B, and C, ivacaftor AUC increased from 10.94 mcg/hr to 215.6 mcg/hr and 216 mcg/hr, respectively, with the addition of ritonavir. Ivacaftor concentration maximum (Cmax) was 0.9944 mcg, 1.812 mcg, and 2.267 mcg in study A, B, and C, respectively.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4-6) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan, and verapamil.(4-6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib That Prolong Qt/Artemether;Lumefantrine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of artemether and lumefantrine and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of potent CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval with artemether-lumefantrine may result in elevated levels of the antimalarial agents and increased risk of toxicities, including additive prolongation of the QTc interval, which may result in life threatening arrhythmia and death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the use of artemether-lumefantrine should be avoided in patients taking drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be approached with caution.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 13 healthy subjects, administration of ketoconazole (400 mg Day 1, 200 mg Days 2-5, a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4) with a single dose of artemether-lumefantrine (20 mg/120 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of artemether and lumefantrine by 2.3-fold and 1.6-fold, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval linked to this monograph include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, lopinavir, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibit That Prolong Qt/Pimavanserin (<=10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimavanserin and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase systemic exposure and the risk for pimavanserin toxicities such as peripheral edema, confusion, or additive QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pimavanserin recommends avoiding use with agents that prolong the QTc interval.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that pimavanserin should not be coadministered with saquinavir or lopinavir due to the risk of QTc prolongation.(3) If concomitant use of pimavanserin and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed, the pimavanserin dose should be reduced to 10 mg once daily.(1) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study, ketoconazole increased pimavanserin maximum concentration (Cmax) 1.5-fold and area-under-curve(AUC) 3-fold. A thorough QTc study performed in 252 subjects found a mean maximum change from baseline of 13.5 msec (upper bound of the 90% confidence interval was 16.6 msec) at twice the therapeutic dose.(1) Thus, coadministration of pimavanserin and a QT prolonging agent, even at a reduced dose, may increase the risk for significant QT prolongation. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ceritinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ceritinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ceritinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include bradycardia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, transaminitis, hyperglycemia, interstitial lung disease, and pancreatitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) may be at increased risk of this interaction. Ceritinib dose reduction may be warranted in severe hepatic impairment. See prescribing information for recommendations.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with ceritinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If concurrent use with ceritinib is unavoidable, reduce the dosage of ceritinib by one-third, rounding to the nearest 150 mg dosage strength. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the dose that was taken prior to using the inhibitor.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and ceritinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 19 healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 14 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of ceritinib (450 mg) by 22% and 2.9-fold, respectively. The steady-state AUC of ceritinib at reduced doses after concurrent ketoconazole was predicted by simulations to be similar to the steady-state AUC of ceritinib alone.(1) In a clinical trial 3% of patients experienced a QTc interval increase over baseline greater than 60 msec. Less than 1% of patients (1 of 304) treated with ceritinib was found to have a QTc greater than 500 msec. The upper limit of the 90% confidence interval for mean QTC increase was 16 msec at ceritinib 750 mg. Data suggested that ceritinib produces concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, clarithromycin, lopinavir, posaconazole, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Clozapine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of clozapine.(1,2) Concurrent use of clozapine with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of clozapine with CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of clozapine and an increase in clozapine related side effects such as orthostatic hypotension, syncope, QT prolongation, profound sedation and seizures.(1) The use of clozapine in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Clozapine levels should be monitored in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Patients should be monitored for signs of clozapine toxicity, including QT prolongation. The dosage of clozapine may need to be adjusted, or one or both agents may need to be discontinued. Clozapine levels should also be monitored following the discontinuation of of the CYP3A4 inhibitor from concurrent therapy.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted in patients receiving clozapine, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 92 psychiatric patients maintained on clozapine, the ratio of clozapine levels/dose was found to correlate with expression of CYP3A4.(1) Clozapine is a substrate of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, and CYP3AA4.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Crizotinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of crizotinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from crizotinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include neutropenia, bradycardia, hepatotoxicity, interstitial lung disease, and severe visual loss.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval in patients undergoing therapy with crizotinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. In Adults: If concurrent use of crizotinib for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer or inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor in adults and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, a dose reduction of crizotinib to 250 mg daily is recommended. In Pediatrics or Young Adults: If concurrent use of crizotinib for systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (in pediatrics), inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (in pediatrics) or systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (in young adults) and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, dose reductions of crizotinib based on body surface area (BSA) are recommended for both capsule and pellet formulations. See prescribing information for dose reductions. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued and not replaced with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resume the dose of crizotinib that was taken prior to initiating the inhibitor.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with crizotinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) increased maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of crizotinib (150 mg) by 44% and 216%, respectively. Itraconazole (200 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of crizotinib (250 mg daily) by 33% and 57%, respectively.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received crizotinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 1 patient (50%) with 1 patient (100%) having a Grade 1 event. No patients had a QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms, VT, SCD, or TdP.(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Dasatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of dasatinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from dasatinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include myelosuppression, serious hemorrhages, fluid retention, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac ischemia, transient ischemic attacks, and severe dermatological reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with dasatinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If concurrent use with dasatinib and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 is warranted, consider decreasing the dose of dasatinib to 20 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 70 mg daily, 20 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 100 mg daily, and to 40 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 140 mg daily. If this dose is not tolerated, either the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be discontinued or dasatinib should be stopped until therapy with the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been completed. When the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued, a one-week washout period should be allowed before the dosage of dasatinib is increased. For patients taking 60 mg or 40 mg daily, consider interrupting dasatinib until the inhibitor is discontinued. Allow a washout period of approximately one week after the inhibitor is stopped before reinitiating dasatinib.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and dasatinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) with dasatinib (20 mg) increased dasatinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 4-fold and 5-fold, respectively. Recommended dosage adjustments are expected to adjust the dasatinib AUC to ranges observed without CYP3A4 inhibitors; however, there are no clinical data available.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received dasatinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 48 patients(41.7%) with 8 patients(16.7%) having Grade 1 and 15 patients(31.3%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 8 patients(16.7%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 14 patients (29.2%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. VT was seen in 2 (4.2%) patients and 1 (2.1%) patient experienced TdP.(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Dordaviprone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dordaviprone is a CYP3A4 substrate and has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of dordaviprone and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of dordaviprone, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of dordaviprone states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If current use cannot be avoided, separate administration of dordaviprone and the QT-prolonging agent. The manufacturer does not provide details about how to separate administration and states that the exposure-response relationship and time course of pharmacodynamic response is not fully characterized. Dordaviprone's time to maximum concentration (Tmax) occurs at 1.4 hours (0.5, 5.6 hours) and mean terminal half-life is 11 hours.(1) Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should also be avoided.(1) If concomitant use with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided in adult and pediatric patients who weigh at least 52.5 kg, reduce the dordaviprone dosage from 625 mg to 375 mg once weekly. Recommended doses for patients weighing less than 52.5 kg receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors has not been established.(1) Baseline and periodic monitoring of ECG and electrolytes is recommended.(1) Increase the frequency of monitoring in patients with congenital long QT syndrome, existing QTc prolongation, history of ventricular arrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, heart failure, or who are taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If QTc interval prolongation occurs, dose modifications are warranted. If QTc is >500 msec or the change from baseline is >60 msec, interrupt dordaviprone therapy until QTc interval is <= 480 msec or returns to baseline. If the patient has Torsades de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs or symptoms of serious or life-threatening arrhythmia, permanently discontinue dordaviprone.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study, concomitant use of dordaviprone with itraconazole 200 mg daily for 8 days (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased dordaviprone maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 2-fold and 4-fold, respectively.(1) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (fluconazole or erythromycin) are predicted to increase dordaviprone Cmax and AUC by 1.5-fold and 2.5-fold.(1) Dordaviprone causes concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In a QT study, the estimated change in QTcF was 11.8 msec (90% CI: 9.8, 13.7) with dordaviprone at 1.2 times the maximum recommended dose.(1) In a pooled safety analysis, out of 82 patients with a post-baseline ECG, 6% of patients had an increase in QTc of >60 msec from baseline and 1.2% had an increase in QTc >500 msec.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Glasdegib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of glasdegib and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase systemic exposure and the risk for glasdegib toxicities such as neutropenia. Concurrent use may also result in additive QTc prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of glasdegib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated. ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications. ---Interrupt glasdegib therapy for QTc interval greater than 500 ms. ---Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following resolution of QTc prolongation. ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting glasdegib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of ketoconazole (strong 3A4 inhibitor) with glasdegib increased glasdegib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 1.4 and 2.4-fold, respectively.(1) In a randomized, single-dose, double-blind, 4-way cross-over, placebo- and open-label moxifloxacin-controlled study in 36 healthy subjects, the largest placebo and baseline-adjusted QTc interval change was 8 msec (90% CI: 6-10 msec) with a single 150 mg dose of glasdegib. (The 150 mg single dose was used to achieve therapeutic plasma concentrations.) With two-fold therapeutic plasma concentrations (achieved with a 300 mg single dose), the QTc change was 13 msec (90% CI: 11-16 msec).(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ivosidenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ivosidenib.(1) Use of CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for ivosidenib toxicities such as QT prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of ivosidenib and strong CYP3A inhibitors. Consider an alternative concomitant medication with less potential for CYP3A4 inhibition.(1) The US manufacturer of ivosidenib states when concomitant use of ivosidenib and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed, the ivosidenib dose should be reduced to 250 mg once daily.(1) If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the ivosidenib dose to the recommended dose of 500 mg once daily after at least 5 half-lives of the strong 3A4 inhibitor. During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of itraconazole (200 mg once daily for 18 days) with a single dose of ivosidenib (250 mg) increased ivosidenib area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 269%. No change was seen in ivosidenib's maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) Data from a pharmacokinetic simulation suggests that fluconazole, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, may increase ivosidenib (500 mg) single-dose AUC by 173%. In regards to multiple-dosing, coadministration of ivosidenib with fluconazole is predicted to increase ivosidenib Cmax and AUC by 152% and 190%, respectively.(1) In clinical trials of ivosidenib, 9% of patients experienced a QTc interval greater than 500 msec and 14% of patients had an increased from baseline QTc interval of greater than 60 msec. Patients with a baseline QTc of equal to or greater than 450 msec without pre-existing bundle branch block, or with a history of long QT syndrome were excluded from this trial.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, and telithromycin.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Lapatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of lapatinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from dasatinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include severe diarrhea, cardiotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, interstitial lung disease, and severe dermatological reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with lapatinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If concurrent use with lapatinib is warranted, a dose reduction to 500 mg/day should be considered. If the 3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, at least 1 week should elapse before the lapatinib dose is adjusted upward.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and lapatinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased lapatinib area-under-curve (AUC) and half-life (T1/2) by 3.6-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively. The dosage adjustment to 500 mg/day is based on pharmacokinetic studies and is predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without inhibitors; however, there are no clinical data with this dosage adjustment in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Nilotinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of nilotinib.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from nilotinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1-3) Other toxicities include myelosuppression, severe hemorrhage, vascular occlusive events, hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, and fluid retention.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with nilotinib.(1-3) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. Consider interrupting nilotinib therapy if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed. If concurrent use is warranted with nilotinib hydrochloride, a dose reduction to 300 mg once daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+CML or to 200 mg once daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML-CP should be considered.(1) If concurrent use is warranted with nilotinib tartrate, a dose reduction to 142 mg once daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+CML or to 95 mg once daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML-CP should be considered.(2) If concurrent use is warranted with nilotinib orally disintegrating tablets, a dose reduction to 120 mg once daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+CML or to 80 mg once daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML-CP should be considered.(3) If the 3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period should occur before the nilotinib dose is adjusted upward.(1-3) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and nilotinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (400 mg daily) increased nilotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 3-fold.(1-3) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received nilotinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 29 patients (38.7%) with 1 patient(3.5%) having Grade 1 and 2 patients(7%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 9 patients (31%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 17 patients(58.6%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients developed VT, SCD, or TdP.(5) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(6) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(7,8)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Osilodrostat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QT interval may inhibit the metabolism of osilodrostat(1,2) and result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of osilodrostat with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may result in elevated levels of and effects from osilodrostat, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of increased exposure to osilodrostat is higher if the coadministered drug also inhibits other CYP or UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) enzymes, or if the patient is taking other drugs that inhibit other CYP or UGT enzymes.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of osilodrostat recommends a dose reduction by half the current dose of osilodrostat with concomitant use of agents that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors due to a significant increase in exposure to osilodrostat.(1) Use caution when using osilodrostat concurrently with other agents that can prolong the QT interval and consider more frequent ECG monitoring. A dose-dependent QT interval prolongation was noted in clinical studies. Prior to initiating therapy with osilodrostat, obtain a baseline ECG and monitor for QTc interval changes thereafter. Consider temporary discontinuation of therapy if the QTc interval increases > 480 msec. When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2)

DISCUSSION: Osilodrostat is metabolized by multiple CYP and UGT enzymes. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are predicted to inhibit metabolism of osilodrostat.(1) QTc prolongation has been reported with osilodrostat. In a thorough QT study in 86 healthy patients, osilodrostat increased baseline QTcF by 1.73 msec at a 10 mg dose and 25.38 msec at a 150 mg dose (up to 2.5 times the maximum recommended dosage). The predicted mean placebo-corrected QTcF at the highest recommended dose in clinical practice (30 mg twice daily) was estimated as 5.3 msec.(1) In a clinical study, five patients (4%) were reported to have an event of QT prolongation, three patients (2%) had a QTcF increase of > 60 msec from baseline, and 18 patients (13%) had a new QTcF value of > 450 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pazopanib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pazopanib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from pazopanib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include hepatotoxicity, cardiac dysfunction, serious hemorrhage, arterial and venous thrombosis, thrombotic microangiopathy, gastrointestinal perforation and fistula, hypertension, hypothyroidism, interstitial lung disease, and proteinuria.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with pazopanib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent administration with pazopanib is warranted, the dosage of pazopanib should be reduced to 400 mg. Additional dosage reductions may be required if adverse events occur.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and pazopanib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Administration of multiple doses of oral pazopanib (400 mg) with multiple doses of oral ketoconazole (400 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of pazopanib by 1.7-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively. Administration of a single dose of pazopanib ophthalmic drops and ketoconazole, an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and P-gp, increased the AUC and Cmax of pazopanib by 220% and 150%, respectively. Administration of lapatinib (1500 mg), a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, P-gp, and BCRP, increased the AUC and Cmax of pazopanib (800 mg) by 50% and 60%, respectively. Decreasing the dosage of pazopanib to 400 mg in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is expected to adjust the AUC of pazopanib to the normal range; however, there are no clinical data available to support this.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received pazopanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 32 patients (19.4%) with 18 patients (56.3%) having Grade 1 and 4 patients (12.5%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 3 patients (9.3%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 4 patients (12.5%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. VT was seen in 2 (6.3%) patients and 1 (3.1%) patient experienced SCD.(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Quetiapine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of quetiapine.(1) Quetiapine is a sensitive substrate for CYP3A4 and so an approximately 5-fold or higher increase in exposure (AUC, area-under-curve) is possible when quetiapine is given with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(2) In addition, concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that also prolongs the QT interval may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from quetiapine,(1-4) including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, such as torsades de pointes.(1,5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quetiapine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) If addition of concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, US manufacturers state the quetiapine dose should be reduced to 1/6th of the original dose. When the inhibitor is discontinued, return to the original quetiapine dose.(1) The UK manufacturer states the concurrent use of quetiapine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(5) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, excessive drowsiness, rapid pulse/hypotension, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, or muscle stiffness/tremors (EPS). Monitor patients when strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 are co-prescribed with quetiapine as the magnitude of the interaction is highly variable between patients. Use of higher doses of either the CYP3A4 inhibitor or quetiapine are other factors which may affect the magnitude of this interaction. Decrease the quetiapine dose if needed.

DISCUSSION: In a study, concurrent use of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) and quetiapine resulted in an increase in quetiapine Cmax and AUC by 3.35-fold and 6.2-fold, respectively. Ketoconazole also decreased the mean apparent oral clearance of quetiapine by 84%, and increased quetiapine mean elimination half-life by 2.6-fold.(1,6) Although quetiapine was not associated with QT or QTc changes in clinical trials, QT prolongation has been reported in post-marketing reports in conjunction with the use of other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that also are known QT prolonging agents include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(7,8) These agents may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(8)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Quizartinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of quizartinib and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 that prolongs the QTc interval may result in elevated levels and increased effects of quizartinib such as neutropenia.(1) Concurrent use may also result in additive QTc prolongation, which may lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quizartinib recommends reducing the dosage of quizartinib when used concomitantly with strong CYP3A inhibitors.(1) The manufacturer recommends the following dose reduction: -If the patient is taking 53 mg once daily, reduce the dose to 26.5 mg once daily. -If the patient is taking 35.4 mg once daily, reduce the dose to 17.7 mg once daily. -If the patient is taking 26.5 mg once daily, reduce the dose to 17.7 mg once daily. -If the patient is taking 17.7 mg once daily, interrupt treatment with quizartinib for the duration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitor use. After discontinuation of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for 5 half-lives, resume the quizartinib dose that was taken before initiating the strong inhibitor. Quizartinib is only available through a restricted REMS program due to the serious risk of QT prolongation, torsades de pointes (TdP), and cardiac arrest. The manufacturer recommends monitoring as follows: -Initiate quizartinib only if the QTcF is less than or equal to 450 ms. -During induction and consolidation, monitor ECGs prior to initiation and then at minimum once weekly during treatment. -During maintenance, monitor ECGs prior to initiation and then at minimum once weekly for the first month following dose initiation and escalation and clinically therafter. Dose escalation may occur only if the QTcF is less than or equal to 450 ms. The manufacturer recommends the following dose modifications for adverse reactions: -If the QTcF is 450 ms to 480 ms (Grade 1) - Continue quizartinib dose. -If the QTcF is 481 ms to 500 ms (Grade 2) - Reduce the dose of quizartinib without interruption based on prescribing information. Resume the previous dose in the next cycle if the QTcF has decreased to less than 450 ms. -If the QTcF is greater than 500 ms (Grade 3) - Interrupt quizartinib. Resume at a reduced dose based on prescribing information when the QTcF is less than 450 ms. Maintain the dose of 26.5 mg once daily during maintenance if the QTcF is greater than 500 ms during induction or consolidation. -If recurrent QTcF is greater than 500 ms (Grade 3) - Permanently discontinue quizartinib if QTcF is greater than 500 ms despite dose reduction and correction/elimination of other risk factors. -If TdP, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs/symptoms of life-threatening arrhythmia occur (Grade 4) - Permanently discontinue quizartinib. Obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: The area-under-curve (AUC) of quizartinib increased by 94% and the maximum concentration (Cmax) by 17% following coadministration of a single 26.5 mg quizartinib dose with ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor). The AUC of active metabolite AC886 decreased by 15% and decreased Cmax by 60%.(1) Quizartinib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation, torsades de pointes, ventricular arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and sudden death. Quizartinib increased QTc in a dose- and concentration-dependent manner.(1) In an exposure-response analysis, quizartinib had a predicted concentration-dependent QTc prolongation of 18 to 24 ms (upper bound of 2-sided 90% CI: 21 and 27 ms) at a median steady-state Cmax dose of 26.5 mg and 53 mg during maintenance therapy.(1) In patients administered quizartinib, 2.3% of 265 patients had a QTcF greater than 500 msec and 10% of patients had a increase from baseline QTcF greater than 60 msec.(1) In patients administered quizartinib during the induction phase, torsades de pointes occurred in approximately 0.2% of patients, cardiac arrest occurred in 0.6%, including 0.4% with a fatal outcome, and 0.1% of patients experienced ventricular fibrillation.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing torsades de pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Revumenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of revumenib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels of and effects from revumenib including QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of revumenib states that concomitant use of other drugs that may prolong the QTc interval should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating revumenib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(1) If the QTc interval is greater than 480 ms, withhold revumenib therapy. Resume revumenib after the QTc interval drops to 480 msec or less.(1) If concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is unavoidable, dose reduction of revumenib is necessary. -For patients 1 year and older who weigh at least 40 kg, decrease the dosage of revumenib to 160 mg twice daily. -For patients 1 year and older who weigh less than 40 kg, decrease the dosage of revumenib to 95 mg/m2 twice daily. Refer to the revumenib prescribing information for total tablet dosage by body surface area. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the dose of revumenib to the recommended dose without strong CYP3A4 inhibitors after at least 5 half-lives of the inhibitor.(1) If coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that prolongs QT is unavoidable, monitor for prolongation of the QTc interval.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study, azole antifungals that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (i.e., posaconazole, itraconazole, and voriconazole) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of revumenib by 2-fold. Cobicistat (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the AUC and Cmax of revumenib by 2.5-fold.(1) In clinical trials, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 29% of 135 patients treated with the recommended dosage of revumenib; 12% of patients had Grade 3 QTc prolongation. Revumenib increased the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At the mean steady-state Cmax using the highest approved recommended dosage of revumenib without CYP3A4 inhibitors, QTc increase was predicted to be 27 msec (upper bound of 90% confidence interval = 30 msec). At the steady-state Cmax using the highest approved recommended dosage of revumenib with CYP3A4 inhibitors, QTc increase was predicted to be 19 msec (upper bound of 90% confidence interval = 22 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QT interval include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, ribociclib, saquinavir.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ribociclib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ribociclib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for ribociclib toxicities such as neutropenia or QT prolongation. QT prolongation may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of ribociclib and strong CYP3A inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval. Consider an alternative concomitant medication with less potential for CYP3A4 inhibition. The US manufacturer states the following dose modifications are needed if use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided: -For patients with early breast cancer, decrease ribociclib to 200 mg once daily. -For patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer, decrease ribociclib to 400 mg once daily. -If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, change the ribociclib dose (after at least 5 half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) to the dose used prior to the initiation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) The Swedish manufacturer states that if patients must be given a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor concurrently with ribociclib, the ribociclib dose should be reduced to 400 mg once daily. In patients who have had their ribociclib dose reduced to 400 mg daily and in whom coadministration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, the ribociclib dose should be further reduced to 200 mg. In patients who have had their ribociclib dose reduced to 200 mg daily and in whom coadministration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, ribociclib treatment should be interrupted.(4) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Ribociclib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At steady state, the mean increase in QTc interval exceeded 20 msec.(1) In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of ritonavir (100 mg twice a day for 14 days) with a single dose of ribociclib (400 mg) increased ribociclib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 1.7 and 3.2-fold, respectively. Cmax and AUC for LEQ803 (ribociclib metabolite) decreased by 96% and 98%, respectively.(1) Data from a pharmacokinetic simulation suggests that erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, may increase ribociclib (600 mg)Cmax and AUC by 1.2-fold and 1.3-fold. The increase of ribociclib's Cmax and AUC was estimated to be 1.4-fold and 2.1-fold in patients on ribociclib 400 mg. The increase of ribociclib's Cmax and AUC was estimated to be 1.7-fold and 2.8-fold in patients on ribociclib 200 mg.(4) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, clarithromycin, lopinavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Romidepsin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of romidepsin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from romidepsin, including prolongation of the QT interval which may result in life-threatening arrhythmia and death; myelosuppression including thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, lymphopenia or anemia; serious infections; or tumor lysis syndrome.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age. Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of romidepsin states that appropriate cardiovascular monitoring, such as baseline and regular monitoring of ECG and obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels, should be performed if concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the ECG is warranted. Monitor for romidepsin toxicity and follow recommended dose modifications for toxicity, if necessary, when romidepsin is initially co-administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting episodes; unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, paleness, unusual or unexplained bleeding or bruising; signs of infection such as fever, cough, flu-like symptoms; burning on urination; muscle aches; or worsening of skin problems.(1)

DISCUSSION: In patients with advanced cancer, ketoconazole increased the Cmax and AUC of romidepsin (8mg/m2) by 10% and 25%, respectively.(1) In two clinical trials, discontinuation of romidepsin secondary to QT prolongation occurred in at least 2% of patients.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Selpercatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may inhibit the metabolism of selpercatinib and result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that prolongs the QT interval may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from selpercatinib.(1) Elevated levels of selpercatinib may increase the risk of QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, and severe or life-threatening hemorrhagic events.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of selpercatinib recommends avoiding concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with selpercatinib. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, monitor the QTc interval more frequently and reduce the dose of selpercatinib as follows: - If the current dose of selpercatinib is 160 mg twice daily, decrease the dose to 80 mg twice daily. - If the current dose of selpercatinib is 120 mg twice daily, decrease the dose to 40 mg twice daily. - If the current dose of selpercatinib is 80 mg twice daily, decrease the dose to 40 mg twice daily. - If the current dose of selpercatinib is 40 mg three times daily, decrease the dose to 40 mg once daily.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2) If grade 3 QT interval prolongation occurs, withhold selpercatinib until recovery to baseline or Grades 0 or 1, then resume selpercatinib at a reduced dose. If grade 4 QT interval prolongation occurs, discontinue selpercatinib.(1) After the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued for 3 to 5 elimination half-lives, resume selpercatinib at the dose taken prior to initiating the CYP3A inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, selpercatinib 160 mg twice daily increased QTc by a mean of 10.6 msec (upper 90% confidence interval: 12.1 msec). An increase in QTcF interval to greater than 500 msec was measured in 6% of patients and an increase in the QTcF interval of at least 60 msec over baseline was measured in 15% of patients.(1) In a study, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of selpercatinib by 133% and 30%, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Sunitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of sunitinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from sunitinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, cardiotoxicity, hemorrhagic events, thrombotic microangiopathy, proteinuria, severe dermatological reactions, thyroid dysfunction, hypoglycemia, and osteonecrosis of the jaw.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with sunitinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If concurrent therapy with sunitinib is warranted, a dosage reduction of sunitinib to a minimum of 37.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a minimum of 25 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered. Monitor QT interval more frequently.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and sunitinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole increased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 49% and 51%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received sunitinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 26 patients(19.4%) with 16 patients(61.5%) having Grade 1 and 6 patients(23.1%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. VT was seen in 1 (3.8%) patient and 1 (3.8%) patient experienced SCD.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Toremifene

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of toremifene and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from toremifene, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include hepatotoxicity and hypercalcemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with toremifene.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is required, toremifene therapy should be interrupted. If it is not possible to interrupt toremifene therapy, electrocardiograms (ECGs) should be obtained and patients should be closely monitored for QT prolongation.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 18 subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of toremifene (80 mg daily) by 1.4-fold and 2.9-fold, respectively. N-demethyltoremifene Cmax and AUC decreased by 56% and 20%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Vemurafenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Vemurafenib is a substrate of CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of vemurafenib.(1) Use of CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 that prolongs the QTc interval may result in increased levels and toxicity from vemurafenib, including additive QT prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vemurafenib states to avoid concurrent administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and replace these drugs with alternative drugs whenever possible.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor the patient for signs of vemurafenib toxicity. Consider dose reduction of vemurafenib if clinically indicated. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. Vemurafenib should not be initiated in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT interval, patients having a baseline QTc greater than 500 msec, uncorrectable electrolyte abnormalities, or known long QT syndrome.(1) All patients receiving vemurafenib should undergo ECG testing at baseline, after 15 days of treatment, monthly during the first 3 months of treatment, and then every 3 months. If a patient's QTc exceeds 500 msec during treatment, vemurafenib should be discontinued and cardiac risk factors for QT prolongation should be controlled. Consider discontinuing other medications known to prolong the QT interval at this time. If the patient's QTc decreases below 500 msec, vemurafenib may be introduced at a lower dosage according to the current labeling recommendations. If the patient's QTc remains greater than 500 msec and increased >60 msec from pre-treatment values after controlling cardiac risk factors for prolongation, permanently discontinue vemurafenib.(1)

DISCUSSION: A study of vemurafenib 960 mg twice daily with itraconazole 200 mg daily increased vemurafenib area-under-curve (AUC) by 40% with a similar increase in concentration maximum (Cmax).(1) Vemurafenib is associated with concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In the first month of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 12.8 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 14.9 msec). In the first 6 months of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 15.1 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 17.7 msec).(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Vepdegestrant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of vepdegestrant and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may result in elevated vepdegestrant levels and toxicities, including neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, and additive QT prolongation, which may lead to potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, and advanced age.(1,2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vepdegestrant states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of vepdegestrant also states that concurrent use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided.(1) In patients taking 200 mg daily of vepdegestrant, if concurrent use cannot be avoided, lower the dosage of vepdegestrant to 100 mg daily. After the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued for 3 to 5 elimination half-lives, resume vepdegestrant 200 mg daily. Patients on vepdegestrant 100 mg daily should avoid coadministration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) For levoketoconazole, the manufacturer states that levoketoconazole is contraindicated with other agents that prolong the QT interval.(3) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor ECG when initiating vepdegestrant, during concurrent use, and as clinically indicated. Consider increasing the frequency of ECG monitoring. Do not initiate vepdegestrant in patients with a baseline QTc >470 ms. Withhold vepdegestrant if the QTc is >480 ms or the change from baseline is >60 ms.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Vepdegestrant is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a study, itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of vepdegestrant by 1.7-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively.(1) Vepdegestrant 200 mg daily increased QTc by 12 ms (upper confidence interval = 15 ms) in patients with ESR1 mutation-positive breast cancer.(1) In VERITAC-2, QTc prolongation occurred in 10% of patients, with 1.6% of patients having Grade 3 events. QTc was >500 ms in 1.6% of patients and QTc increase from baseline of >60 ms occurred in 2.6% of patients.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Aripiprazole Lauroxil Submicronized

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of aripiprazole.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from aripiprazole.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: With aripiprazole(1), this interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of the extended release injectable aripiprazole lauroxil, submicronized (Aristada Initio) recommends avoiding use of strong 3A4 inhibitors with Aristada Initio. Aristada Initio is only available as a single strength as a single-dose prefilled syringe.(1)

DISCUSSION: Drug interaction studies have not been conducted with Aristada Initio. Aristada Initio has a long half-life (15-18 days).(1) The coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 14 days) with a single dose of aripiprazole (15 mg) resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. Itraconazole is expected to interact similarly.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Avacopan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of avacopan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from avacopan, including serious infections, elevated liver enzymes, or hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dose of avacopan to 30 mg once daily when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) Australian and UK manufacturers of avacopan state coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be used with caution. Patients must be monitored for potential increase of side effects due to the increased exposure of avacopan.(2,3) Monitor liver tests, including AST, ALT, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin. Advise patients to report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity.

DISCUSSION: In a study, administration of itraconazole 200 mg once daily for 4 days increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of avacopan by 1.87-fold and 2.19-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Avapritinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of avapritinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of avapritinib with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increases avapritinib plasma concentrations, which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions of avapritinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of avapritinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of avapritinib 300 mg once daily with itraconazole 200 mg daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, is predicted to increase avapritinib AUC by 600% at steady state.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Axitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of axitinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from axitinib, including hypertension, thromboembolic events, or hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with axitinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use with axitinib is warranted, consider decreasing the dose of axitinib by one-half (e.g. start with an initial dose of 2 mg twice daily). Subsequent doses may be increased or decreased based on patient response. When the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued, allow a washout period equal to 3-5 half-lives of the inhibitor before increasing the dose of axitinib.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg twice daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of axitinib (5 mg) by approximately 1.5-fold and 2-fold, respectively. Recommended dosage adjustments are expected to produce AUC levels comparable to axitinib administered without a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor; however, no data is available.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Brigatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Brigatinib is a substrate of CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of brigatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels and toxicity from brigatinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of brigatinib states to avoid concurrent administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, reduce the once daily dose of brigatinib by approximately 50% (i.e. from 180 mg to 90 mg). Upon discontinuation of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resume the brigatinib dose that was tolerated prior to initiating the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) Monitor patient for signs of brigatinib toxicity with concurrent use.

DISCUSSION: Brigatinib is a substrate of CYP3A4.(1) Concurrent administration of itraconazole (200 mg twice daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single 90 mg dose of brigatinib increased the brigatinib maximum concentration (Cmax) by 21% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 101% compared to brigatinib alone.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cabazitaxel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of cabazitaxel.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from cabazitaxel, including bone marrow suppression, renal failure, cystitis, or pulmonary dysfunction.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with cabazitaxel.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use is required, consider a 25% cabazitaxel dose reduction.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 23 advanced cancer patients, ketoconazole (400 mg daily) increased the exposure of cabazitaxel (5 mg/m2) by 25%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cabozantinib Lauryl Sulfate

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of cabozantinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from cabozantinib, including hemorrhage, thrombotic events, hypertension and hypertensive crisis, diarrhea, proteinuria, or osteonecrosis of the jaw.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with cabozantinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. Dosage adjustments are specific to the formulation of cabozantinib prescribed. If concurrent use of cabozantinib CAPsules are warranted, the dose of cabozantinib CAPsules should be reduced by 11.5 mg (e.g. from 34.5 mg to 23 mg daily, or from 23 mg to 11.5 mg daily, or from 11.5 mg to 11.5 mg every other day).(1) When the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued for 3 to 5 elimination half-lives, resume the dose of cabozantinib that was used prior to initiating the inhibitor.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 27 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of cabozantinib by 38%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cabozantinib S-Malate Capsules

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of cabozantinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from cabozantinib, including hemorrhage, thrombotic events, hypertension and hypertensive crisis, diarrhea, proteinuria, or osteonecrosis of the jaw.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with cabozantinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. Dosage adjustments are specific to the formulation of cabozantinib prescribed. If concurrent use of cabozantinib CAPsules are warranted, the dose of cabozantinib CAPsules should be reduced by 40 mg (e.g. from 140 mg to 100 mg daily or from 100 mg to 60 mg daily).(1) When the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued, resume the dose of cabozantinib that was used previously 2-3 days after discontinuation of the inhibitor.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 27 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of cabozantinib by 38%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cabozantinib S-Malate Tablets

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of cabozantinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from cabozantinib, including hemorrhage, thrombotic events, hypertension and hypertensive crisis, diarrhea, proteinuria, or osteonecrosis of the jaw.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with cabozantinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. Dosage adjustments are specific to the formulation of cabozantinib prescribed. If concurrent use of cabozantinib TABlets are warranted, reduce the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 40 mg daily, or from 40 mg to 20 mg daily, or from 20 mg daily to 20 mg every other day in pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with bodyweight less than 40kg).(1) When the CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued, resume the dose of cabozantinib that was used previously 2-3 days after discontinuation of the inhibitor.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 27 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of cabozantinib by 38%.(3,4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Capivasertib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the CYP3A4 metabolism of capivasertib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from capivasertib, hyperglycemia, severe diarrhea, and cutaneous adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, reduce the capivasertib dose to 320 mg twice daily for 4 days followed by 3 days off.(1) After discontinuation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for 3 to 5 half-lives of the inhibitor, resume the capivasertib dosage that was taken prior to initiating the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) is predicted to increase capivasertib area-under-curve (AUC) by up to 1.7-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by up to 1.4-fold.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Colchicine (For Gout & Fmf)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of colchicine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from colchicine. Symptoms of colchicine toxicity include muscle weakness or pain; numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes; myelosuppression; abdominal pain; nausea; severe diarrhea or vomiting; feeling weak or tired; increased infections; and pale or gray color of the lips, tongue, or palms of hands.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with renal and/or hepatic impairment(1,2) and in patients who receive concurrent therapy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with colchicine is contraindicated in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1-3) Avoid concurrent use in other patients, if possible.(3) In patients without renal or hepatic impairment who are currently taking or have taken strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in the previous 14 days, the dosage of colchicine should be reduced. For gout flares, the recommended colchicine dosage is 0.6 mg (1 tablet) for one dose, then 0.3 mg (half tablet) 1 hour later. This dose should be repeated no earlier than in 3 days.(1,2) For gout prophylaxis, if the original colchicine dosage was 0.6 mg twice daily, use 0.3 mg daily. If the original dosage was 0.6 mg daily, use 0.3 mg every other day.(3-11) For Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), the recommended maximum daily dose of colchicine is 0.6 mg (may be given as 0.3 mg twice a day).(1,2) Patients should be instructed to immediately report any signs of colchicine toxicity, such as muscle weakness/pain, numbness/tingling in fingers/toes, unusual bleeding or bruising, infections, weakness/tiredness, pale/gray color of the lips/tongue/palms of hands, and/or severe diarrhea/vomiting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 21 subjects, pretreatment with azithromycin (500 mg Day 1, then 250 mg daily Days 2-5) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 21.6% (range -41.7% to 222%) and by 57.1% (range -24.3% to 241.1%), respectively.(1) There are several reports of colchicine toxicity(4-6) and death(7,8) following the addition of clarithromycin to therapy. In a retrospective review of 116 patients who received clarithromycin and colchicine during the same hospitalization, 10.2% (9/88) of patients who received simultaneous therapy died, compared to 3.6% (1/28) of patients who received sequential therapy.(9) An FDA review of 117 colchicine-related deaths that were not attributable to overdose found that 60 deaths (51%) involved concurrent use of clarithromycin.(2) In a study in 23 subjects, pretreatment with clarithromycin (250 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 227.2% (range 65.7% to 591.1%) and by 281.5% (range 88.7% to 851.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 101.7% (range 19.6% to 219%) and by 212.2% (range 76.7% to 419.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 18 subjects, pretreatment with ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 184.4% (range 79.2% to 447.4%) and by 296% (range 53.8% to 924.4%), respectively.(1) Colchicine toxicity has been reported with concurrent use of CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors such as clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,10)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Copanlisib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Copanlisib is a substrate of CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of copanlisib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels and toxicity from copanlisib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of copanlisib states to avoid concurrent administration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of copanlisib to 45 mg.(1) Monitor patient for signs and symptoms of copanlisib toxicity with concurrent use.

DISCUSSION: Copanlisib is a substrate of CYP3A4.(1) Concurrent administration of itraconazole (200 mg once daily for 10 days, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single 60 mg dose of copanlisib increased the copanlisib area-under-curve (AUC) by 53% with no effect on maximum concentration (Cmax) compared to copanlisib alone.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, lonafarnib, ketoconazole, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Culmerciclib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of culmerciclib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of culmerciclib, such as hepatotoxicity, immunosuppression, neutropenia, or gastrointestinal adverse reactions.(1,2) Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and unexplained fatigue.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of culmerciclib states that culmerciclib coadministration with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. If concurrent use is medically necessary, reduce the dose of culmerciclib to 120 mg once daily.(1) If the concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the culmerciclib dose after 3-5 half-lives of the inhibitor to the dose that was used prior to starting the strong inhibitor.(1) Monitor liver tests, including AST, ALT, before treatment initiation, every 2 weeks for the first 2 months of treatment, monthly for the following two months, and upon clinical indication. Advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Monitor complete blood counts before treatment initiation, at the start of each cycle, on day 15 of the first two cycles, and upon clinical indication.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole (200 mg, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased culmerciclib (single dose 60 mg) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 30.1% and 72.3%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Docetaxel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of docetaxel.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from docetaxel, including cutaneous reactions, neurologic reactions, eye disorders, or asthenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with docetaxel.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent therapy with docetaxel is required, consider a 50% reduction in the dose of docetaxel. Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy closely for signs of toxicity.(1) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(3,4)

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, cross-over study in 7 cancer patients, patients received docetaxel (100 mg/m2 intravenous) alone and docetaxel (10 mg/m2 intravenous) with ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 3 days). The mean dose-normalized area-under-curve (AUC) of docetaxel increased 2.2-fold and docetaxel clearance decreased 49% when administered with ketoconazole.(1) In a randomized, cross-over study in 7 subjects, subjects received docetaxel (100 mg/m2) alone and docetaxel (15 mg/m2) with ketoconazole (400 mg 3 times daily). Ketoconazole decreased docetaxel clearance by 50%. There was large inter-patient variability.(2) In a study in 15 subjects, ketoconazole increased fecal docetaxel excretion by 2-fold but did not affect urinary parent drug excretion.(5) In a study in 41 patients, concurrent ketoconazole allowed a dose of 70 mg docetaxel with similar docetaxel AUC and toxicity compared to the administration of docetaxel (75 mg/m2) alone.(6) A study in 42 patients examined escalating doses of ketoconazole on docetaxel pharmacokinetics. Ketoconazole at doses of 1200 mg daily, 800 mg daily, and 600 mg daily increased docetaxel exposure 2.6-fold, 1.6-fold, and 1.3 to 1.5-fold, respectively.(7) A parallel study in 82 subjects compared docetaxel (75 mg/m2) alone with docetaxel (70 mg) with ketoconazole. Concurrent ketoconazole decreased docetaxel clearance by 40%. Similar docetaxel AUC and tumor efficacy were noted, with decreased toxicity during concurrent ketoconazole and reduced-dose docetaxel therapy.(8) In a study in 12 patients, the administration of ritonavir (100 mg) simultaneously or 60 minutes before docetaxel (100 mg orally) increased the bioavailability of docetaxel by 131% and 161%, respectively.(9) Data from two clinical trials involving patients taking docetaxel concurrently with ritonavir and patients taking docetaxel oral or I.V. alone were analyzed in order to determine the impact of ritonavir's strong inhibition of CYP3A4 on the pharmacokinetics of docetaxel. Patients from the first trial were randomly assigned to receive either ritonavir 100 mg followed by oral docetaxel 10 mg 60 minutes later on day 1, ritonavir 100 mg and docetaxel 10 mg simultaneously on day 8, and I.V. docetaxel 100 mg on day 22 or an identical regimen with the only difference being that days 1 and 8 were reversed. The second trial was utilized solely for the data on patients being administered oral docetaxel 75 mg/m2 alone or I.V. docetaxel 100 mg/m2. The results of the study showed an increase in the gut bioavailability of docetaxel from 19 to 39% with co-administration of ritonavir as well as a reduction in the clearance of docetaxel by approximately 90%.(10) There are several case reports of docetaxel toxicity in patients treated with concurrent ritonavir.(11,12) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(13,14)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Duvelisib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of duvelisib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of duvelisib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of duvelisib states that use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. When strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are required, reduce the dose of duvelisib to 15 mg twice daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 5 days) with a single oral 10 mg dose of duvelisib increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of duvelisib approximately 4-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively. Based on physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PKPB) modeling, the increase in exposure to duvelisib is estimated to be approximately 2-fold at steady state with concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. PKPB modeling showed no effect on duvelisib exposure with concurrent use of mild or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Elagolix

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of elagolix.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for elagolix toxicities including an increased risk of ALT elevations.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of elagolix 200 mg twice daily and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors for more than 1 month is not recommended. Limit concomitant use of elagolix 150 mg once daily and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors to 6 months.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in 11 healthy subjects, coadministration of ketoconazole (400 mg once daily) with a single dose of elagolix (150 mg) increased elagolix maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 1.77-fold and 2.2-fold, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Elexacaftor-Tezacaftor-Ivacaftor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dosage of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor should be reduced when co-administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. -The evening dose of ivacaftor should not be taken. -For individuals 12 years and older or children 6 to less than 12 years old weighing more than 30 kg, the morning dose of therapy should be modified as follows: Day 1 - two tablets of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor; Day 2 - no dose; Day 3 - no dose; Day 4 - two tablets of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor. Thereafter, continue two elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor tablets twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart. -For children 2 to less than 6 years old weighing less than 14 kg, the morning dose of therapy should be modified as follows: Day 1 - one packet of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (elexacaftor 80 mg/tezacaftor 40 mg/ivacaftor 60 mg); Day 2 - no dose; Day 3 - no dose; Day 4 - one packet of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor. Thereafter, continue two elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor tablets twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart. -For children 2 to less than 6 years old weighing 14 kg or more, the morning dose of therapy should be modified as follows: Day 1 - one packet of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (elexacaftor 100 mg/tezacaftor 50 mg/ivacaftor 75 mg); Day 2 - no dose; Day 3 - no dose; Day 4 - one packet of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor. Thereafter, continue two elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor tablets twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart. -For children 6 to less than 12 years old weighing less than 30 kg, the morning dose of therapy should be modified as follows: Day 1 - two tablets of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (elexacaftor 50 mg/tezacaftor 25 mg/ivacaftor 37.5 mg); Day 2 - no dose; Day 3 - no dose; Day 4 - two tablets of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor. Thereafter, continue two elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor tablets twice a week, approximately 3 to 4 days apart.(1)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased elexacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.8-fold and tezacaftor AUC by 4 to 4.5-fold. When co-administered with itraconazole and ketoconazole, ivacaftor AUC increased by 15.6-fold and 8.5-fold, respectively.(1) A study in 12 subjects compared ivacaftor alone (study A), ivacaftor with ritonavir (a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) 50 mg daily on days 1-4 (study B), and ivacaftor with ritonavir 50 mg daily for two weeks prior and on days 1-4 of ivacaftor administration (study C). In study A, B, and C, ivacaftor AUC increased from 10.94 mcg/hr to 215.6 mcg/hr and 216 mcg/hr, respectively, with the addition of ritonavir. Ivacaftor concentration maximum (Cmax) was 0.9944 mcg, 1.812 mcg, and 2.267 mcg in study A, B, and C, respectively.(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Elinzanetant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Elinzanetant is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of elinzanetant.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of elinzanetant with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in a significant increase in exposure of elinzanetant.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian manufacturer of elinzanetant states coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of elinzanetant states concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of elinzanetant with itraconazole 200 mg daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 4.6-fold to 6.3-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and a 3.3-fold increase in maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Entrectinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of entrectinib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of entrectinib, such as QT prolongation, hepatotoxicity, CNS effects, hyperuricemia, anemia, or neutropenia.(1,2) Symptoms of hepatotoxicity can include nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and unexplained fatigue.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of entrectinib states that entrectinib coadministration with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, reduce the entrectinib dose as follows for adult and pediatric patients 2 years and older: -If the starting dose is 600 mg, reduce the entrectinib dose to 100 mg daily. -If the starting dose is 400 mg, reduce the entrectinib dose to 50 mg daily. -If the starting dose is 300 mg, reduce the entrectinib dose to 50 mg daily. -If the starting dose is 200 mg, reduce the entrectinib dose to 50 mg on alternate days.(1) For pediatric patients less than 2 years old, avoid coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the entrectinib dose to the dose that was used before starting the inhibitor after three to five plasma half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Monitor liver tests, including AST and ALT. Advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity. During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The Australian manufacturer of entrectinib states that entrectinib coadministration with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. If concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of entrectinib to 100 mg once daily.(4) If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the entrectinib dose to the dose that was used before starting the inhibitor after three to five plasma half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(4) The manufacturer of itraconazole states avoid concomitant use during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5,6)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single 100 mg entrectinib dose increased entrectinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 1.7-fold and 6-fold.(1) Coadministration of a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor with entrectinib is predicted to increase entrectinib Cmax and AUC by 2.9-fold and 3-fold. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: boceprevir, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, relacorilant, telaprevir, troleandomycin, and tucatinib.(1,7)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Erlotinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of erlotinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from erlotinib, including interstitial lung disease, renal failure, hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal perforation, skin disorders, ocular disorders, or cerebrovascular events.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with erlotinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent therapy with erlotinib is required, decrease the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements.(1) The AU manufacturer of erlotinib cautions administering erlotinib with potent CYP3A4 inhibitors and states the dose of erlotinib should be reduced if toxicity is observed.(2)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration of erlotinib with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, ketoconazole, increased erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 67%.(1) In a study, 24 healthy subjects received a single erlotinib 100 mg dose alone or after ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily for 5 days. Mean AUC and concentration maximum (Cmax) increased by approximately 2-fold.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Fedratinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of fedratinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of fedratinib, such as neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, hepatotoxicity, or gastrointestinal toxicity.(1) Symptoms of hepatotoxicity can include nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and unexplained fatigue.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider alternative therapies that do not strongly inhibit CYP3A4 when taking fedratinib.(1) Reduce the fedratinib dose to 200 mg once daily when administered concurrently with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the fedratinib dose should be increased to 300 mg once daily during the first two weeks after discontinuation of the CYP3A4 inhibitor, and then to 400 mg once daily thereafter as tolerated.(1) Monitor liver tests, including AST, ALT, and bilirubin. Advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity.

DISCUSSION: In a pharmacokinetic study in healthy subjects, coadministration of ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single 300 mg fedratinib dose increased fedratinib area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 3.06-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.93-fold. The exposure to fedratinib was determined to be similar to the exposure from a single 500 mg dose of fedratinib alone.(1,2) Based on modeling and simulation, coadministration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, such as ketoconazole 400 mg once daily, with fedratinib 400 mg once daily is predicted to increased fedratinib AUC by 2-fold.(1) Based on modeling and simulation, coadministration of a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, such as erythromycin 500 mg three times daily or diltiazem 120 mg twice daily, with fedratinib 400 mg once daily is predicted to increased fedratinib AUC by 1.2-fold and 1.1-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, and tucatinib.(1,3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Iberdomide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Iberdomide is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of iberdomide.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of iberdomide, including thromboembolic events and hematologic abnormalities (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of iberdomide states that concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. If concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors cannot be avoided, reduce iberdomide dose to 1 mg every other day on Days 1 to 21 of a 28-day cycle.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study of healthy subjects, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased iberdomide area-under-curve (AUC) to 2.4-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ibrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ibrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from ibrutinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with ibrutinib.(1) The concurrent chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with ibrutinib is not recommended. For short-term use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, such as 7 days or less of antibiotics/antifungals, consider interruption of ibrutinib therapy.(1) The Australian and UK manufacturers of ibrutinib state that use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. If the benefit outweighs the risk and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be used, reduce the ibrutinib dose to 140 mg for the duration of the inhibitor use or withhold ibrutinib temporarily (for 7 days or less). Monitor patient closely for toxicity and follow dose modification guidance as needed.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 18 healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib (single 40 mg dose) by 24-fold and 29-fold, respectively.(1) The coadministration of multiple doses of voriconazole increased ibrutinib's Cmax and AUC by 6.7-fold and 5.7-fold.(1) Simulations under fed conditions suggest that posaconazole may increase ibrutinib's AUC by 7-fold to 10-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin and tucatinib.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Idelalisib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of idelalisib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from idelalisib, including hepatotoxicity, diarrhea, colitis, pneumonitis, neutropenia or intestinal perforation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with idelalisib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use with idelalisib is warranted, monitor patients for toxicity and follow toxicity dose modification guidelines.(1) The Australian manufacturer of idelalisib states that while no initial dose adjustment of idelalisib is considered necessary when coadministered with a CYP3A4 inhibitor, intensified monitoring of side effects is recommended.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 4 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of idelalisib (400 mg single dose) by 1.8-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Imlunestrant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of imlunestrant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from imlunestrant, including hepatotoxicity, myelosuppression, interstitial lung disease, and gastrointestinal adverse effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment.(1) The recommended dosage of imlunestrant for patients with moderate (Child-Pugh B) or severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment is 200 mg once daily. See prescribing information for recommendations.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of imlunestrant with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of imlunestrant to 200 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, imlunestrant area-under-curve (AUC) increased 2.1-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) increased by 1.9-fold following concomitant use of itraconazole (strong CYP3A inhibitor) for multiple days.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Istradefylline

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of istradefylline.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of istradefylline, such as dyskinesias, impulse control disorder, hallucinations and psychosis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with hepatic impairment may be exposed to higher concentrations of istradefylline and may be more susceptible to the effects of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of istradefylline states that the maximum dose of istradefylline in patients on concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is 20 mg daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) 200 mg twice daily for 4 days with a single 40 mg dose of istradefylline increased the area-under-the-curve (AUC) of istradefylline by 2.5-fold, but did not affect the maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ixabepilone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ixabepilone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from ixabepilone, including hepatotoxicity, peripheral neuropathy, myelosuppression, or neutropenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with ixabepilone.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use with ixabepilone is warranted, a dose reduction to 20 mg/m2 of ixabepilone should be considered. Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be closely monitored for acute toxicities (e.g. frequent monitoring of peripheral blood counts). If the inhibitor is discontinued, allow a 1 week washout period before adjusting the dose of ixabepilone to recommended amounts.(1)

DISCUSSION: In vitro studies indicate that CYP3A4 is the main route of metabolism for ixabepilone.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Larotrectinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of larotrectinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for larotrectinib toxicities such as neurotoxicity or hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of larotrectinib and strong CYP3A inhibitors. Consider an alternative concomitant medication with less potential for CYP3A4 inhibition.(1) The US manufacturer of larotrectinib states when concomitant use of larotrectinib and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed, the larotrectinib dose should be reduced by 50%.(1) If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, change the larotrectinib dose to the dose used prior to the initiation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor after 3 to 5 elimination half-lives.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of itraconazole (strong 3A4 inhibitor) with a single dose of larotrectinib (100 mg) increased larotrectinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 2.8 and 4.3-fold, respectively. (1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lirafugratinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lirafugratinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of lirafugratinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of lirafugratinib, including ocular toxicities (retinal pigment epithelial detachment, blurred vision, corneal keratitis) and hyperphosphatemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with lirafugratinib. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, reduce the dosage of lirafugratinib to 40 mg once daily. If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the prior dosage of lirafugratinib after 3 elimination half-lives of the inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, itraconazole 200 mg daily for 8 days increased lirafugratinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 2-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.3-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lorlatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of lorlatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of lorlatinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of lorlatinib states that use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. When strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are required, reduce the dose of lorlatinib to 75 mg once daily. In patients who have had a dose reduction to 75 mg once daily due to adverse reactions and who initiate a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce the lorlatinib dose to 50 mg once daily.(1) If concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the lorlatinib dose after 3 plasma half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor to the dose that was used before starting the strong inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole with a single oral 100 mg dose of lorlatinib increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of lorlatinib approximately 42% and 24%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lurbinectedin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of lurbinectedin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with lurbinectedin may increase systemic exposure and the risk for toxicities such as myelosuppression, hepatotoxicity, neuropathy, fatigue, nausea, and musculoskeletal pain.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lurbinectedin states that the concurrent use of lurbinectedin with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. If the use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of lurbinectedin by 50%. After discontinuation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for 5 half-lives of the inhibitor, resume the lurbinectedin dose used before starting the inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of total lurbinectedin by 2.7-fold and unbound lurbinectedin by 2.4-fold.(1) In a study including data from 443 patients with solid and hematologic malignancies treated in six phase I and three phase II trials with lurbinectedin as a single agent or combined with other agents, lurbinectedin clearance decreased by 30%, area-under-curve (AUC) increased by 42%, and concentration maximum (Cmax) increased by 7% when coadministered with a CYP3A inhibitor.(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Mavacamten

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of mavacamten.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an inhibitor of CYP3A4 increases plasma exposure of mavacamten which may increase the incidence and severity of adverse reactions of mavacamten.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: CYP2C19 poor metabolizers may experience an increased incidence or severity of adverse effects.(1-3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mavacamten recommends initiating mavacamten at one dose below the recommended starting dose in patients who are on stable therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Reduce dose by one level (i.e., 15 to 10 mg, 10 to 5 mg, or 5 to 2.5 mg) in patients who are on mavacamten treatment and intend to initiate a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Schedule clinical and echocardiographic assessment 4 weeks after inhibitor initiation, and do not up-titrate mavacamten until 12 weeks after inhibitor initiation.(1) Avoid initiation of concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients who are on stable treatment with the lowest recommended dose of mavacamten because a lower dose is not available.(1) For short-term use (e.g. 1 week), interrupt mavacamten therapy for the duration of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. After therapy with the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, mavacamten may be reinitiated at the previous dose immediately upon discontinuation.(1) The Canadian manufacturers of mavacamten state concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(2) The UK manufacturer of mavacamten states concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is dependent on CYP2C19 phenotype. In patients who are CYP2C19 poor metabolizers, concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated. In patient who are CYP2C19 intermediate, normal, rapid, or ultrarapid metabolizers, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may be used concurrently without dose adjustment of mavacamten. Monitor left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) in 4 weeks then resume usual monitoring schedule.(3)

DISCUSSION: Concomitant use of mavacamten (15 mg) with ketoconazole 400 mg, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, once daily is predicted to increase mavacamten area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) up to 130% and 90%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, and tucatinib.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Naldemedine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of naldemedine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels and potential risk of adverse reactions of naldemedine.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer states concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) The US manufacturer recommends monitoring for potential naldemedine-related adverse reactions.(2) If concurrent use is unavoidable, monitor patients for signs of naldemedine adverse reactions, such as abdominal pain and opioid withdrawal.

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A, increased exposure to naldemedine area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.9-fold which may result in an increased risk of adverse reactions.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Omaveloxolone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of omaveloxolone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from omaveloxolone including hepatotoxicity and hyperlipidemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with omaveloxolone should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, reduce the omaveloxolone dosage to 50 mg daily and monitor closely. If adverse reactions emerge, coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be discontinued.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of omaveloxolone with itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of omaveloxolone by 3-fold and 4-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Paclitaxel

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of paclitaxel.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from paclitaxel, including myelosuppression, neutropenia, sensory neuropathy, pneumonitis, anemia, or thrombocytopenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with paclitaxel.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition.

DISCUSSION: In vitro studies indicate CYP3A4 may be the secondary pathway for two minor metabolites of paclitaxel.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Palbociclib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of palbociclib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from palbociclib, including neutropenia, interstitial lung disease, or pneumonitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with palbociclib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use with palbociclib cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of palbociclib to 75 mg daily. If the 3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period of 3-5 half-lives of the inhibitor should occur before the palbociclib dose is adjusted upward.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, itraconazole (200 mg daily) increased the concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of palbociclib by 34% and 87%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Pexidartinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pexidartinib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of pexidartinib, such as hepatotoxicity.(1,2) Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and unexplained fatigue.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pexidartinib states that pexidartinib coadministration with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) If coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, reduce the pexidartinib dose according to the following recommendations. If the planned total daily dose is currently 500 mg, modify the total daily dose to 250 mg by administering 125 mg twice daily. If the planned total daily dose is currently 375 mg, modify the total daily dose to 250 mg by administering 125 mg twice daily. If the planned total daily dose is currently 250 mg, modify the total daily dose to 125 mg by administering 125 mg once daily. If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the pexidartinib dose to the dose that was used before starting the inhibitor after three plasma half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Monitor liver tests, including AST, ALT, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, ALP and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) according to the recommendations in the Turalio package insert. Advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased pexidartinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 48% and 70%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Pexidartinib (200 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pexidartinib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of pexidartinib, such as hepatotoxicity.(1,2) Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain, and unexplained fatigue.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pexidartinib states that pexidartinib coadministration with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) If coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor cannot be avoided, reduce the pexidartinib dose according to the following recommendations. If the planned total daily dose is currently 800 mg, modify the total daily dose to 400 mg by administering 200 mg twice daily. If the planned total daily dose is currently 600 mg, modify the total daily dose to 400 mg by administering 200 mg twice daily. If the planned total daily dose is currently 400 mg, modify the total daily dose to 200 mg by administering 200 mg once daily. If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase the pexidartinib dose to the dose that was used before starting the inhibitor after three plasma half-lives of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Monitor liver tests, including AST, ALT, total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, ALP and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) according to the recommendations in the Turalio package insert. Advise patients to immediately report any symptoms of hepatotoxicity.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of itraconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased pexidartinib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 48% and 70%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Pirtobrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pirtobrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from pirtobrutinib including hemorrhage and cytopenias such as neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with pirtobrutinib should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, reduce the dose of pirtobrutinib by 50 mg. If the current pirtobrutinib dosage is 50 mg once daily, interrupt pirtobrutinib treatment for the duration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitor use.(1) After discontinuation of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for 5 half-lives, resume the previous pirtobrutinib dose.(1)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration of a single 200 mg dose of pirtobrutinib with itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased area-under-curve (AUC) of pirtobrutinib by 49%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ponatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ponatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from ponatinib, including thromboembolic events, hepatotoxicity, heart failure, hypertension, pancreatitis, neuropathy, ocular toxicity, hemorrhage, myelosuppression, or tumor lysis syndrome.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with ponatinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent administration with ponatinib is warranted, the recommended ponatinib dose should be reduced based on current daily dose during concomitant treatment:(1) -If current daily dose is 45 mg, reduce to 30 mg daily. -If current daily dose is 30 mg, reduce to 15 mg daily. -If current daily dose is 15 mg, reduce to 10 mg daily. -If current daily dose is 10 mg, avoid concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Even with the dose reduction, patients receiving concomitant therapy may be at increased risk for adverse reactions. Assure recommended monitoring (e.g. complete blood counts, liver function, lipase, blood pressure measurement) is scheduled and patient is aware of signs of thrombosis (e.g. symptoms of myocardial infarction or stroke). If the ponatinib dose has been reduced due to coadministration of a CYP3A4 inhibitor, and the inhibitor is subsequently discontinued, reevaluate ponatinib efficacy and safety to determine if a dose increase is appropriate.(1)

DISCUSSION: In 22 healthy volunteers, ketoconazole (400 mg once daily) increased the concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single 15 mg dose of ponatinib by 47% and 78%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Reboxetine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Reboxetine is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of reboxetine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of reboxetine, including hypertension, tachycardia, orthostasis, and urinary retention.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK prescribing information states that reboxetine should not be given with drugs known to inhibit CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: In healthy volunteers, ketoconazole 200 mg daily with single dose reboxetine 4 mg increased R,R(-)-reboxetine and S,S(+)-reboxetine area-under-curve (AUC) by 58% and 43%, respectively. Half life increased significantly but maximum concentration (Cmax) did not change, which the authors postulated was the reason for lack of increased side effects. The authors recommended caution and considering reboxetine dose reduction.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Regorafenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Regorafenib and active M2 and M5 metabolites contribute to anticancer activity. Although interpatient variability is high, with repeated dosing the systemic exposure to each component (regorafenib, M2 and M5) is similar. CYP3A4 converts regorafenib to the active M2 metabolite. M2 is subsequently converted, via an unknown pathway, to the active M5 metabolite.(1) Thus, inhibition of CYP3A4 leads to increased serum levels of regorafenib, but decreased levels of both M2 and M5.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: In an interaction study of regorafenib with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, a 33% increase in exposure to regorafenib did not compensate for a 93% decrease in exposure to M2 and M5. Overall, mean exposure to the combination of regorafenib, M2 and M5 decreased by approximately 50 per cent.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of regorafenib states concomitant use with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided. Whenever possible, to assure maximal efficacy of regorafenib it would be prudent to use an alternative agent in place of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(2) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of regorafenib is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(4)

DISCUSSION: Regorafenib was approved for use prior to completion of an exposure-response analysis or a population pharmacokinetic study.(1) The outcomes of these studies will increase understanding and improve prediction of regorafenib interaction risks. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph are: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Rivoceranib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of rivoceranib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from rivoceranib, including increased risk of hypertension, proteinuria, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, hyperbilirubinemia, anemia, and hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with rivoceranib. Consider alternatives with minimal or little enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use is necessary, closely monitor for adverse effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: In vitro data shows that rivoceranib is metabolized by CYP3A4.(1) A study with rivoceranib showed that itraconazole reduced the clearance of rivoceranib by 40% and increased the area-under-curve (AUC) by 75%.(1) In an animal study, rivoceranib levels were significantly increased when coadministered with ketoconazole and voriconazole.(2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Rupatadine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of rupatadine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from rupatadine, including increased risk of somnolence, headache, tiredness, asthenia, or dry mouth.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian prescribing information states concurrent use of rupatadine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended.(1) The UK prescribing information states concurrent use of rupatadine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(2)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of rupatadine 20 mg and ketoconazole increased the systemic exposure of rupatadine 10-fold.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Sevabertinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sevabertinib is metabolized via CYP3A4. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of sevabertinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sevabertinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in a significant increase in exposure of sevabertinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sevabertinib states coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) If coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors cannot be avoided, reduce sevabertinib dosage as follows: - If current dosage is 20 mg twice daily; reduce to 10 mg twice daily - If current dosage is 10 mg twice daily; reduce to 10 mg once daily - If current dosage is 10 mg once daily; withhold sevabertinib until the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued.(1) After the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued for 3 to 5 elimination half-lives, resume the sevabertinib dosage that was used prior to initiating the strong inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of sevabertinib with itraconazole 200 mg daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and a 1.6-fold increase in maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Sonrotoclax

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors inhibit the metabolism of sonrotoclax.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of sonrotoclax, increasing the risk for tumor lysis syndrome and other toxicities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for tumor lysis syndrome include higher tumor burden such as bulky lymphadenopathy or lymphocytosis and reduced renal function.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations vary depending the stage of therapy. During the initiation and ramp-up phase of sonrotoclax therapy, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are contraindicated due to the increased risk for tumor lysis syndrome. In patients taking the target daily dose of sonrotoclax after the ramp-up phase who start a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, decrease sonrotoclax daily dose to 20 mg. Monitor for tumor lysis syndrome, hematologic and non-hematologic toxicity and adjust dosage as directed in prescribing information. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the prior (i.e., pre-inhibitor) sonrotoclax dose at least 5 days after discontinuation of the inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, itraconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of sonrotoclax by 11-fold and 4-fold, respectively. Posaconazole (a strong CYP3A inhibitor) increased sonrotoclax AUC and Cmax by 13-fold and 7-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Sunvozertinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of sunvozertinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from sunvozertinib, including interstitial lung disease, gastrointestinal adverse reactions, dermatologic adverse reactions, or ocular toxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with sunvozertinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent therapy with sunvozertinib is required, decrease the dose of sunvozertinib from 200 mg to 150 mg.(1) After discontinuing the CYP3A4 inhibitor, the prior sunvozertinib dose can be resumed after 3 to 5 half-lives of the CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration of sunvozertinib with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, itraconazole, increased sunvozertinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.5-fold and 1.3-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Surufatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of surufatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from surufatinib, including increased risk of bleeding, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, and proteinuria.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with surufatinib. Consider alternatives with minimal or little enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use is necessary, closely monitor for adverse effects.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In vitro data shows that surufatinib is metabolized by CYP3A4. The manufacturer of surufatinib states that concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tavapadon

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tavapadon is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tavapadon.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of tavapadon, including hypotension, altered impulse control, hallucinations, and dyskinesias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of hallucinations appears to be increased in patients 65 years of age and older.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: During tavapadon titration, concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided. During tavapadon maintenance, if strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are initiated, decrease the dosing frequency from once daily to every 7 days: - If the current dose of tavapadon is 5 mg daily, lower dosage to 5 mg every 7 days. - If the current dose of tavapadon is 10 mg daily, lower dosage to 10 mg every 7 days. - If the current dose of tavapadon is 15 mg daily, lower dosage to 15 mg every 7 days. If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, resume the prior maintenance dosage of tavapadon and monitor patients for clinical response and tolerability.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, itraconazole 200 mg daily for 14 days increased tavapadon area-under-curve (AUC) by 5-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 4-fold. When itraconazole is given with tavapadon once weekly, steady-state AUC and Cmax are predicted to fluctuate between +84% to -23% and +50% to -41%, respectively, across the 7-day dosing interval compared to tavapadon once daily alone.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tazemetostat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tazemetostat.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from tazemetostat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tazemetostat says to avoid coadministration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with tazemetostat.(1) If coadministration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors cannot be avoided, reduce the tazemetostat dose as follows: If the current tazemetostat dose is 800 mg twice daily, reduce the dose to 400 mg twice daily. If the current tazemetostat dose is 600 mg twice daily, reduce the dose to 400 mg for the first dose and 200 mg for the second dose. If the current tazemetostat dose is 400 mg twice daily, reduce the dose to 200 mg twice daily.(1) After discontinuation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for 3 elimination half-lives, resume the prior tazemetostat dose.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of fluconazole, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, with tazemetostat 400 mg twice daily in patients increased tazemetostat steady-state area-under-curve (AUC) by 3.1-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.3-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tretinoin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tretinoin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in increased levels of and effects from tretinoin including hepatotoxicity and hyperlipidemia.(1) Retinoids, including tretinoin, have been associated with intracranial hypertension, especially in pediatric patients. Early signs and symptoms include papilledema, headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with tretinoin should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions.(1) Evaluate patients with symptoms for intracranial hypertension (such as papilledema, headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances), and, if present, institute care in concert with neurological assessment. Consider interruption, dose reduction, or discontinuation of tretinoin as appropriate.(1) The Australian manufacturer of tretinoin states that serum concentration levels should be monitored and, if needed, appropriate dose adjustments of tretinoin should be considered during treatment with antifungal agents such as posaconazole, voriconazole, ketoconazole, and itraconazole, and during the following days after treatment.(2)

DISCUSSION: In 13 patients on tretinoin for 4 weeks, single-dose ketoconazole (400 to 1200 mg) increased tretinoin area-under-curve (AUC) by 72%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Upadacitinib (>=30 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of upadacitinib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from upadacitinib, including neutropenia, serious infections, thrombosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, GI perforation, and transaminitis.(1,2) Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators, including idelalisib, lonafarnib, and ribociclib, may result in an increased risk of serious infections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of upadacitinib states that upadacitinib requires a dose adjustment with concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for atopic dermatitis concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 15 mg once daily. Coadministration of upadacitinib 30 mg once daily with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for ulcerative colitis concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 30 mg once daily for 8 weeks during the induction phase and then 15 mg once daily in the maintenance phase.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for Crohn's disease concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 30 mg once daily for 12 weeks during the induction phase and then 15 mg once daily in the maintenance phase.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or giant cell arteritis, no dose adjustment is needed with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Monitor closely for adverse reactions.(1) Concurrent use of upadacitinib 15 mg with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be approached with caution. Patients should be closely monitored for adverse reactions.(1,2) For concurrent treatment with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, dose adjustments should be considered throughout the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment and for 3 days following the last dose of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.(3)

DISCUSSION: In a study of 11 subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 6 days, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of single-dose upadacitinib 3 mg by 1.7-fold and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Venetoclax

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors inhibit the metabolism of venetoclax.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of venetoclax, increasing the risk for tumor lysis syndrome and other toxicities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for tumor lysis syndrome include (1): - the ramp-up phase of venetoclax therapy when tumor burden is highest - initial magnitude of tumor burden - renal impairment The risk of venetoclax toxicities may be increased in patients with severe hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations vary depending on diagnosis, stage of therapy, and strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. During the initiation/ramp-up phase of venetoclax therapy in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are contraindicated due to the increased risk for tumor lysis syndrome. During the initiation/ramp-up phase of venetoclax therapy in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who are taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, decrease venetoclax dose as follows: - With posaconazole, decrease venetoclax dose on day 1 to 10 mg, on day 2 to 20 mg, on day 3 to 50 mg, and on day 4 to 70 mg. - With other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, decrease venetoclax dose on day 1 to 10 mg, on day 2 to 20 mg, on day 3 to 50 mg, and on day 4 to 100 mg. In patients taking a steady daily dosage for CLL, SLL, or AML (after completion of the ramp-up phase), avoid use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor if possible. If a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be used, decrease venetoclax daily dose as follows: - When used concomitantly with posaconazole, decrease venetoclax to 70 mg daily. - When used concomitantly with other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, decrease venetoclax to 100 mg daily. Monitor for tumor lysis syndrome, hematologic and non-hematologic toxicity and adjust dosage as directed in prescribing information. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the manufacturer of venetoclax recommends resuming the prior (i.e. pre-inhibitor) venetoclax dose 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In 11 previously treated NHL subjects, ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor which also inhibits P-gp and BCRP) 400 mg daily for 7 days increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of venetoclax by 130 % and 540 %, respectively.(1) In 12 patients with NHL, venetoclax 50 mg single dose was administered on day 1 and day 8 with ketoconazole 400 mg once daily administered on days 5-11 to evaluate pharmacokinetic parameters of concurrent administration. Coadministration increased venetoclax Cmax and AUC with a mean increase of 2.3-fold and 6.4-fold, respectively, with a range in AUC change of 2-12-fold. One patient excluded from statistical analysis due to receiving a dose of ketoconazole of 200 mg once daily had an increase in venetoclax Cmax and AUC of 2.3-fold and 3.5-fold, respectively.(2) In a study in 6 healthy subjects, coadministration of venetoclax and ritonavir (50 mg once daily) for 14 days increased venetoclax's Cmax and AUC by 140 % and 690 %, respectively.(1) Coadministration of posaconazole (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) 300 mg daily and venetoclax 50 mg daily for 7 days led to a 61 % and 86 % increase in venetoclax Cmax, respectively, compared to venetoclax 400 mg daily administered alone. Venetoclax AUC increased by 90 % and 144 %, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vinblastine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of vinblastine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from vinblastine, including leukopenia, alopecia, hypertension, or constipation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with vinblastine.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. The manufacturer of vinblastine states that caution should be used if coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that patients who develop significant hematological or gastrointestinal toxicity on concomitant vinblastine should temporarily hold lopinavir/ritonavir, or use alternative medications that do not inhibit CYP3A4 or P-gp.(2)

DISCUSSION: There have been 2 case reports of vinblastine hematologic toxicity during concurrent lopinavir-ritonavir therapy. In both cases, vinblastine was administered without toxicity when lopinavir-ritonavir therapy was suspended.(3,4) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(5,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Amprenavir;Atazanavir/Mifepristone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of mifepristone.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of mifepristone with a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in a 5-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) or 80 per cent decrease in mifepristone clearance, leading to toxicity such as adrenal insufficiency and hypokalemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of mifepristone for use in patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome states the benefit of the CYP3A4 inhibitor must be carefully weighed against the potential risks and concurrent use should only occur when necessary.(1) If starting mifepristone in a patient already taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, initiate mifepristone at 300 mg and titrate if clinically indicated to a maximum dose of 900 mg.(1) If a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is started in a patient already taking mifepristone, the following dose adjustments are recommended: - If current mifepristone dose is 300 mg, no dose change warranted; - If current mifepristone dose is 600 mg, reduce dose to 300 mg and titrate if clinically indicated to a maximum dose of 600 mg; - If current mifepristone dose is 900 mg, reduce dose to 600 mg and titrate if clinically indicated to a maximum dose of 900 mg; and - If current mifepristone dose if 1200 mg, reduce dose to 900 mg.(1)

DISCUSSION: A drug interaction study examined mifepristone 600 mg daily with concurrent ketoconazole 200 mg twice daily on days 13-17. Concurrent administration increased mifepristone area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.38-fold and 1.28-fold, respectively.(1) A drug interaction study of 33 healthy subjects on itraconazole 200 mg daily coadministered with mifepristone 900 mg daily for 14 days found that itraconazole increased the Cmax and AUC of mifepristone by 1.1-fold and 1.2-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, saquinavir, relacorilant, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Darunavir/Everolimus

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of everolimus.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from everolimus.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of everolimus states that concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1,2) The Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that darunavir should not be coadministered with everolimus, and therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended when everolimus is used with other protease inhibitors.(3) The American Society of Transplantation (AST) guidelines state that clarithromycin, ketoconazole, voriconazole, and HIV protease inhibitors are contraindicated with everolimus.(4) If the combination of clarithromycin and everolimus must be used, AST guidelines recommend lowering the dose of everolimus by up to 50% upon initiation of the antibiotic and monitoring levels daily.(4) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent use of everolimus is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(5) If everolimus is used with itraconazole or ketoconazole, AST guidelines recommend lowering the dose of everolimus by at least 50% and monitoring everolimus levels closely.(4) Case reports have described the use of voriconazole with everolimus.(6)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent use of ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and a Pg-p inhibitor, increased everolimus area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 3.9-fold and 15.0-fold, respectively.(1) In a case report, a renal transplant patient on everolimus and started on voriconazole experienced an increase in everolimus trough concentration (Cmin) of 7.5-fold, which was normalized with a lowering of everolimus dose from 1.5 mg twice daily to 0.25 mg twice daily. Voriconazole was discontinued after one month, and another month later, posaconazole was started. Cmin increased by 3.8-fold, which led to an adjustment of everolimus dose from 1 mg twice daily to 0.5 mg twice daily.(6) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, nefazodone, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,7,8) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 have been shown to have less of an effect on everolimus pharmacokinetics. In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent use of erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a P-gp inhibitor, increased everolimus AUC and Cmax by 2.0-fold and 4.4-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent use of verapamil, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a P-gp inhibitor, increased everolimus AUC and Cmax by 2.3-fold and 3.5-fold, respectively.(1)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors/Cariprazine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cariprazine and its major active metabolite DDCAR are metabolized by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor or protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from cariprazine.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible, avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors with cariprazine. The US manufacturer of cariprazine states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors requires a dose adjustment. If a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is initiated in a patient on a stable dose of cariprazine, the following dose adjustments are recommended: -If current cariprazine dose is 1.5 or 3 mg daily - Decrease cariprazine dose to 0.5 mg daily. -If current cariprazine dose is 4.5 or 6 mg daily - Decrease cariprazine dose to 0.75 mg daily. In adult patients taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor when cariprazine is started, the following dose adjustments are recommended: -For schizophrenia or bipolar mania: Start cariprazine dose at 0.5 mg daily; increase to 0.75 mg daily, if needed. -For bipolar depression or adjunctive therapy for treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Start cariprazine dose at 0.5 mg daily.(1) -Initiating cariprazine is not recommended in pediatric patients while taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) Cariprazine has two active metabolites, DCAR and DDCAR which have similar in vitro activity and potency. However, DDCAR has a longer half-life (1-3 weeks) than cariprazine (2-4 days), resulting in systemic DDCAR concentrations that are about 4-fold higher than cariprazine. Thus although interaction onset may begin within a few days, the full effect of inhibition may not be seen for 4 or more weeks. When the inhibitor is discontinued, cariprazine, DCAR and DDCAR will begin to fall and the dosage may need be increased. Monitor for decreased effectiveness for 4 or more weeks. The Australian, Canadian, and UK manufacturers of cariprazine state that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(2-4) The Canadian manufacturer of cariprazine states that concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is also contraindicated for at least 2 weeks after cariprazine discontinuation.(3)

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study, coadministration of ketoconazole 400 mg/day with cariprazine 0.5 mg/day increased cariprazine exposure (AUC, area-under-curve) 4-fold and increased DDCAR AUC about 1.5-fold.(1) In a PKPB model, coadministration of ketoconazole 400 mg/day with cariprazine 0.5 mg/day is predicted to increase cariprazine concentration maximum (Cmax) and AUC by 5.5-fold and 6-fold, respectively. Coadministration of fluconazole 200 mg/day with cariprazine 0.5 mg/day is predicted to increased cariprazine Cmax and AUC by up to 3-fold.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir-ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6,7)

Strong Cyp3a4 Or Strong & Moderate Cyp2c9 Inhib/Erdafitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Erdafitinib is metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 or moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 may inhibit the metabolism of erdafitinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 or moderate CYP2C9 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of erdafitinib, including retinopathy and hyperphosphatemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US prescribing information states that concurrent use of erdafitinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or moderate CYPC9 inhibitors should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor closely for adverse reactions and consider a dose modification based on prescribing information. If the strong CYP3A4 or moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor is discontinued, consider increasing the erdafitinib dose if patient does not have any drug-related toxicity.(1) If concurrent use with nitisinone cannot be avoided, the manufacturer of nitisinone recommends reducing the dosage of a CYP2C9 substrate like erdafitinib by one-half.(2)

DISCUSSION: In PKPB models, concurrent use of fluconazole (a moderate CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inhibitor) resulted in erdafitinib mean ratios for concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of 121% and 148% , respectively, compared to erdafitinib alone.(1) In PKPB models, concurrent use of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) resulted in erdafitinib mean ratios for Cmax and AUC of 105% and 134%, respectively, compared to erdafitinib alone.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4) Strong CYP2C9 inhibitors include: camizestrant.(3,4) Moderate inhibitors of CYP2C9 include: adagrasib, amiodarone, apazone, asciminib, benzbromarone, fluconazole, miconazole, mifepristone, milk thistle, nitisinone, oxandrolone, phenylbutazone, and sulfaphenazole.(3,4)

Strong Or Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Simeprevir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may slow down the metabolism of simeprevir.(1) Simeprevir may inhibit the metabolism of darunavir, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from simeprevir.(1) Simeprevir may increase levels and toxicity of darunavir, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of simeprevir states that concurrent administration of strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 is not recommended due to risk of toxicity.(1) The American Society of Transplantation guidelines state that the combination of cyclosporine and simeprevir is contraindicated.(7) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent administration with simeprevir is not recommended during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment (6).

DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 subjects, erythromycin (500 mg TID for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC) and Cmin of simeprevir (150 mg daily for 7 days) by 4.53-fold, 7.47-fold, and 12.74-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of erythromycin increased by 1.59-fold and 1.39-fold, respectively.(1) In a study in 9 subjects, an individualized dose of cyclosporine increased the Cmax and AUC of simeprevir (150 mg daily for 14 days) by 4.74 fold and 5.81-fold.(1) In a study in 25 subjects, simeprevir (50 mg once daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of darunavir (800 mg once daily) by 4%, 18%, and 31%.(4) In a study in 25 subjects, darunavir-ritonavir (800 mg-100 mg once daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of simeprevir (50 mg once daily) by 1.79-fold, 2.59-fold, and 4.58-fold.(4) In a study in 12 subjects, ritonavir (100 mg twice daily, 15 days) increased the AUC, Cmax, and Cmin of simeprevir (200 mg daily, 7 days) by 618% (463-815%), 370% (284-476%), and 1335% (929-1901%).(5) Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include adagrasib, amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, clofazimine, cobicistat, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, ensitrelvir, erythromycin, fedratinib, fosamprenavir, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosnetupitant, idelalisib, imatinib, indinavir, isavuconazonium, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lefamulin, lenacapavir, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, milk thistle, nefazodone, nelfinavir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, nirogacestat, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, rilzabrutinib, ritonavir, saquinavir, schisandra, silibinin, stiripentol, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, treosulfan, troleandomycin, tucatinib, verapamil, and voriconazole.(1-3)

Strong Ugt Inducers/Deferasirox

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inducers of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) may induce the metabolism of deferasirox.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of carbamazepine, efavirenz, etravirine, fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, or ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of deferasirox.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of strong UGT inducers with deferasirox. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider increasing the initial dose of deferasirox by 50%. Further dosage adjustments should be made based upon serum ferritin levels and clinical response. Doses above 40 mg/kg are not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, administration of rifampin (600 mg/day for 9 days) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of deferasirox (30 mg/kg) by 44%.(1) Other strong inducers of UGT, such as carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, and ritonavir are expected to produce similar results.(1)

Ugt And Selected Cyp3a4 Inducers/Acoramidis

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: UGT and selected CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of acoramidis, which is glucuronidated by UGT1A9, UGT1A1, and UGT2B7.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of UGT and selected CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of acoramidis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of acoramidis states to avoid concomitant use of acoramidis with UGT inducers and strong CYP3A inducers.(1)

DISCUSSION: UGT and selected CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, rifapentine, and ritonavir.

Ugt Inducers/Canagliflozin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: UGT inducers may induce the metabolism of canagliflozin, which is glucuronidated by UGT1A9 and UGT2B4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an inducer of UGT may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of canagliflozin.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients who have a eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73m2.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients with a eGFR of 60 ml/min/1.73m2 or more who are currently tolerating canagliflozin 100 mg daily and require therapy with an inducer of UGT, the manufacturer of canagliflozin recommends increasing the dose of canagliflozin to 200 mg daily. Patients currently tolerating canagliflozin 200 mg daily and require additional glycemic control may have their dose increased to 300 mg daily.(1) In patients with a eGFR of less than 60 ml/min/1.73m2 who are currently tolerating canagliflozin 100 mg daily and receiving therapy with a UGT inducer, increase the dose of canagliflozin to 200 mg daily. Consider other antihyperglycemic agents in patients who require additional glycemic control.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with rifampin (600 mg daily for 8 days) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of canagliflozin (300 mg) by 51% and 28%, respectively.(1) Inducers of UGT include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, lorlatinib, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, and ritonavir.(1)

Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

Atazanavir; Lopinavir; Simeprevir/Rosuvastatin (<= 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: How atazanavir and lopinavir increase rosuvastatin levels is not known. Simeprevir may increase the absorption of rosuvastatin by inhibiting OATP1B1.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of atazanavir,(3) lopinavir,(4) or simeprevir(2) may result in elevated levels of rosuvastatin, which could result in rhabdomyolysis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients on rosuvastatin with ABCG2 polymorphisms leading to decreased or poor BCRP transporter function may have increased rosuvastatin concentrations and risk of myopathy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving protease inhibitors, consider the use of fluvastatin. If concurrent rosuvastatin is required, limit the dose of rosuvastatin to 10 mg daily or less with careful monitoring.(1,2) The Australian manufacturer of rosuvastatin states that the starting dose should not exceed 5 mg daily when used with atazanavir, lopinavir, or simeprevir.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 6 healthy subjects, administration of atazanavir/ritonavir increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of rosuvastatin (10 mg) by 213% and 600%, respectively.(6) In a study of healthy subjects, concurrent use of lopinavir/ritonavir (400 mg-100 mg) and rosuvastatin (20 mg) increased the AUC and Cmax of rosuvastatin 2.1-fold and 4.7-fold, respectively. There were no effects on lopinavir/ritonavir levels.(3,7) In an open-label study of 22 HIV-infected patients, concurrent use of lopinavir/ritonavir and rosuvastatin appears to have increased the AUC of rosuvastatin by 1.6-fold when compared to healthy volunteers. There were no effects on lopinavir/ritonavir levels.(8) In a study in 16 subjects, simeprevir (150 mg daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of rosuvastatin (10 mg single dose) by 3.17-fold and 2.81-fold, respectively.(2) In a study, simeprevir (150 mg daily for 7 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of rosuvastatin (10 mg single dose) by 2.8-fold (1.7-2.6) and 3.2-fold (2.6-3.9), respectively. (1)

Atazanavir; Ritonavir/Posaconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Posaconazole may inhibit the metabolism of atazanavir and ritonavir via CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of atazanavir and/or ritonavir with posaconazole may result in increased levels of atazanavir and ritonavir, which may lead to increased clinical effects and toxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of posaconazole states that patients taking the combination of posaconazole and atazanavir and/or ritonavir should be closely and frequently monitored for adverse effects during therapy. Dosage adjustments may be required.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days), increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of atazanavir (300 mg daily for 14 days) by 155% and 268%, respectively.(1) In a clinical study, posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days), increased the Cmax and AUC of atazanavir (atazanavir/ritonavir 300/100 mg daily) for 14 days by 53% and 146%, respectively.(1) In a clinical study, posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days), increased the Cmax and AUC of ritonavir (100 mg daily for 14 days) by 49% and 80%, respectively.(1)

Boceprevir; Ritonavir; Telaprevir/Digoxin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Boceprevir(1), ritonavir, and telaprevir(2) inhibit the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system, which may increase digoxin levels.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of boceprevir, ritonavir, or telaprevir may result in elevated levels and toxicity from digoxin. Symptoms of digoxin toxicity can include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, malaise, drowsiness, generalized muscle weakness, disorientation, hallucinations, visual disturbances, and arrhythmias.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Low body weight, advanced age, impaired renal function, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, and/or hypomagnesemia may increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When initiating digoxin in patients maintained on boceprevir, ritonavir, or telaprevir, use the lowest dose possible.(1,2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for elevated digoxin levels and adjust the dose accordingly.(1,2) The manufacturer of digoxin states to reduce digoxin concentrations by decreasing dose by approximately 30-50% or by modifying the dosing frequency.(3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, boceprevir (800 mg TID for 61 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of digoxin (0.25 mg) by 18% and 19%, respectively.(1) In a study of 12 healthy subjects, ritonavir (200 mg twice daily for 14 days) increased the AUC of digoxin (0.4 mg orally) by 29%.(4) In another study of 12 healthy subjects, ritonavir (300 mg twice daily for 11 days) increased the AUC of digoxin (0.5 mg IV) by 86%.(3-5) In a study in healthy subjects, telaprevir (750 mg every 8 hours for 11 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of digoxin (2 mg) by 50% and 85%, respectively.(2,6)

Cobicistat; Ritonavir/Tenofovir Alafenamide (> 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tenofovir alafenamide (AF) is a substrate of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and BCRP, which may be inhibited by cobicistat or ritonavir.(1-6) Ritonavir coadministered with tipranavir has a net inductive effect on P-gp.(7)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Cobicistat or ritonavir in combination with tenofovir alafenamide (AF) may increase the concentration of tenofovir AF and the risk of renal or other toxicities in some patients.(1-6,8-9) Ritonavir-boosted tipranavir may decrease the levels of tenofovir AF.(4-6,8)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with baseline impairment of renal function and/or receiving commitant nephrotoxic agents are at increased risk of renal-related adverse events.(1-6,8-9)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Regulatory agencies in different countries differ with regard to recommendations for the coadministration of cobicistat or ritonavir and tenofovir alafenamide (AF). The US manufacturer of emtricitabine-tenofovir AF states that coadministration with atazanavir-cobicistat in pediatric patients weighing 14 kg to 35 kg is not recommended.(4) The US manufacturer of emtricitabine-tenofovir AF states that there are no clinically significant interactions with cobicistat or ritonavir boosted atazanavir, darunavir, or lopinavir in patients weighing >=35 kg.(4) The US National Institute of Health HIV guidelines state that no dose adjustment is necessary when using tenofovir AF 25 mg concurrently with cobicistat or ritonavir boosted atazanavir, darunavir, or lopinavir in patients weighing >=35 kg.(8) Coadministration with tipranavir-ritonavir is not recommended.(8) Note that other countries have different recommendations. The Canadian and European manufacturers of emtricitabine-tenofovir alafenamide that that the dose of tenofovir alafenamide should be 10 mg when coadministered with cobicistat or ritonavir boosted atazanavir, darunavir, or lopinavir. Coadministration with tipranavir-ritonavir is not recommended. There are no data to make recommendations for use of tenofovir AF with other protease inhibitors.(5-6) In patients receiving concurrent therapy, check glucose and urine protein at baseline and routinely monitor CrCl, urine glucose, urine protein, and serum phosphorus. Discontinue concurrent therapy if CrCL decreases below 30 ml/min.(4-6)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, cobicistat 150 mg daily increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximal concentration (Cmax) of tenofovir alafenamide (AF) by 2.65-fold and 2.83-fold, respectively. Atazanavir 300 mg daily with ritonavir 100 mg daily increased the AUC and Cmax of tenofovir AF by 1.91-fold and 1.77-fold, respectively, whereas cobicistat-boosted atazanavir caused 1.75-fold and 1.8-fold increases in tenofovir AF AUC and Cmax. Darunavir 800 mg daily with cobicistat 150 mg daily did not affect the pharmacokinetics of tenofovir AF, but increased tenofovir AUC and Cmax by 3.24-fold and 3.16-fold, respectively. Similarly, darunavir 800 mg daily with ritonavir 100 mg daily did not affect the levels of tenofovir AF, but increased AUC and Cmax of tenofovir by 2.05-fold and 2.42-fold, respectively. Lopinavir 800 mg daily with ritonavir 200 mg daily increased AUC and Cmax of tenofovir AF by 1.47-fold and 2.19-fold, respectively.(4,6) Renal toxicity, including proximal renal tubulopathy and Fanconi syndrome, has been documented with coadministration of cobicistat with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (DF) but not tenofovir alafenamide (AF). Monitoring of renal function is prudent and discontinuation is recommended when CrCl decreases below 30 ml/min to avoid renal impairment.(1-6,8-9) In a phase 3 trial of tenofovir AF versus tenofovir DF coformulated with elvitegravir, cobicistat, and emtricitabine, at 48 weeks patients in the tenofovir AF group had significantly smaller mean serum creatinine increases(0.08 vs 0.12 mg/dL; p<0.0001) and significantly less proteinuria (median % change -3 vs 20; p<0.0001).(9) Tenofovir AF strengths less than or equal to 10 mg are excluded from this interaction. In a pre-approval drug-drug interaction study, concurrent cobicistat (150 mg daily) increased tenofovir AF exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) 2.5-fold. Due to this interaction, the tenofovir AF strength in the cobicistat-elvitegravir-emtricitabine-tenofovir AF combination product was reduced from the originally proposed 25 mg to 10 mg.(10)

Cyp3a4; Cyp2c8; P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Loperamide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp may increase loperamide systemic absorption and facilitate entry into central nervous system (CNS).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp may increase levels of loperamide, resulting in respiratory depression.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use loperamide with caution in patients receiving inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp. Consider lower doses of loperamide in these patients and monitor for adverse effects. The manufacturer of lonafarnib recommends starting loperamide at a dose of 1 mg and slowly increasing the dose as needed.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, itraconazole (100 mg twice daily for 5 days - first dose 200 mg), gemfibrozil (600 mg twice daily), and the combination of itraconazole and gemfibrozil (same dosages) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of single doses of loperamide (4 mg) by 2.9-fold, 1.6-fold, and 4.2-fold, respectively.(3) In a study of healthy subjects, lonafarnib (100 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single dose loperamide (2 mg) by 299% and 214%, respectively.(3) In a study in 18 healthy males, quinidine increased the AUC of a single dose of loperamide by 2.2-fold and markedly decreased pupil size.(4) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, subjects experienced respiratory depression when a single dose of loperamide (16 mg) was administered with a single dose of quinidine (600 mg) but not when loperamide was administered alone.(6) Loperamide plasma levels increased 2-fold to 3-fold.(5) Coadministration of trofinetide 12,000 mg twice daily with 4 mg of loperamide increased the AUC of loperamide by 1.73-fold and the Cmax by 1.95-fold. Administration of trofinetide 2 hours prior to loperamide increased the AUC of loperamide by 1.22-fold and the Cmax by 1.44-fold.(7)

Dual Cyp3a4 & P-Gp Inhibitors/Nintedanib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nintedanib is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter and is metabolized to a minor extent by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is both an inhibitor of P-gp and CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of nintedanib.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of nintedanib recommends close monitoring for nintedanib patients receiving drugs which are both P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitors. In an interaction study ketoconazole increased exposure to nintedanib by 60%. Nintedanib therapy may need to be interrupted or the dose may need to be reduced.(1)

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study coadministration with ketoconazole, a P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased nintedanib exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.61-fold and 1.83 fold respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, grapefruit, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, and tucatinib. Moderate CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: conivaptan, diltiazem, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluvoxamine, isavuconazonium, schisandra, and verapamil. Weak CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: amiodarone, azithromycin, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, ivacaftor, lapatinib, mavorixafor, ranolazine, and vepdegestrant.(2)

Dual P-Gp And Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Darolutamide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Combined inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and CYP3A4 may increase the absorption and inhibit the metabolism of darolutamide.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is both an inhibitor of P-gp and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of darolutamide.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of darolutamide recommends increased monitoring if agents that are combined P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are used in patients receiving darolutamide.(1) Darolutamide dosage may need to be adjusted. Monitor absolute neutrophil count (ANC). If patient experiences a greater than or equal to Grade 3 toxicity, dose may need to be withheld or reduced until symptoms improve.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent itraconazole increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of darolutamide by 1.7-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively.(1) P-gp and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph are: adagrasib, cobicistat, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mifepristone, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, tucatinib and telithromycin.

Lapatinib; Ritonavir/Edoxaban (<= 30 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Edoxaban is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption and decrease renal tubular elimination of edoxaban.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of edoxaban which may increase the risk for bleeding.(1,2) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Bleeding risk may be increased in patients with creatinine clearance below 50 mL per minute(1-2). Use of multiple agents which increase edoxaban exposure or affect hemostasis would be expected to increase the risk for bleeding. The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Interaction studies between edoxaban and lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir have not been performed. Concurrent use of these agents were not allowed in edoxaban clinical trials. In the absence of clinical data, different expert opinions have formed regarding concurrent use of these agents. FDA approved prescribing recommendations for edoxaban are indication specific:(2) - For prevention of stroke or embolic events due to nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, no edoxaban dose adjustments are recommended during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. - For treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), the edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily during concomitant use with azithromycin, clarithromycin, oral itraconazole, quinidine or verapamil. No recommendations were made regarding concomitant lapatinib, ritonavir or lopinavir-ritonavir therapy. The Israeli and UK prescribing information for edoxaban also do not make recommendations for concurrent use with lapatinib or ritonavir therapy.(3-4) The Canadian PI recommends using HIV protease inhibitors with caution.(5) The US Department of Health and Human Service HIV treatment guidelines state that concurrent use of edoxaban and darunavir-ritonavir does not require dose adjustment. Concurrent use of edoxaban and atazanavir-ritonavir for non-valvular atrial fibrillation does not require dose adjustment, and when used for DVT/PE, edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily.(6) The European Society of Cardiology's 2024 guidelines for atrial fibrillation state that concurrent use of edoxaban and ritonavir should be avoided when possible.(7) The European Heart Rhythm Association 2021 guidelines for atrial fibrillation state that concurrent use of edoxaban with atazanavir-ritonavir is not advisable, and with lopinavir-ritonavir should be avoided.(8) The American Society of Hematology 2020 guidelines on treatment of DVT and PE recommend considering treatment with a vitamin K antagonist or low molecular weight heparin instead of a DOAC in patients taking medications that inhibit P-gp.(9) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. anti Factor Xa inhibition) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. Discontinue edoxaban in patients with active bleeding.

DISCUSSION: Edoxaban interaction studies have not been performed for lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir(1) and so the magnitude of any interaction with these agents is not known.

Lapatinib; Ritonavir/Edoxaban (> 30 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Edoxaban is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption and decrease renal tubular elimination of edoxaban.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of edoxaban which may increase the risk for bleeding.(1,2) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Bleeding risk may be increased in patients with creatinine clearance below 50 mL per minute(1-2). Use of multiple agents which increase edoxaban exposure or affect hemostasis would be expected to increase the risk for bleeding. The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Interaction studies between edoxaban and lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir have not been performed. Concurrent use of these agents were not allowed in edoxaban clinical trials. In the absence of clinical data, different expert opinions have formed regarding concurrent use of these agents. FDA approved prescribing recommendations for edoxaban are indication specific:(2) - For prevention of stroke or embolic events due to nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, no edoxaban dose adjustments are recommended during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. - For treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), the edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily during concomitant use with azithromycin, clarithromycin, oral itraconazole, quinidine or verapamil. No recommendations were made regarding concomitant lapatinib, ritonavir or lopinavir-ritonavir therapy. The Israeli and UK prescribing information for edoxaban also do not make recommendations for concurrent use with lapatinib or ritonavir therapy.(3-4) The Canadian PI recommends using HIV protease inhibitors with caution.(5) The US Department of Health and Human Service HIV treatment guidelines state that concurrent use of edoxaban and darunavir-ritonavir does not require dose adjustment. Concurrent use of edoxaban and atazanavir-ritonavir for non-valvular atrial fibrillation does not require dose adjustment, and when used for DVT/PE, edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily.(6) The European Society of Cardiology's 2024 guidelines for atrial fibrillation state that concurrent use of edoxaban and ritonavir should be avoided when possible.(7) The European Heart Rhythm Association 2021 guidelines for atrial fibrillation state that concurrent use of edoxaban with atazanavir-ritonavir is not advisable, and with lopinavir-ritonavir should be avoided.(8) The American Society of Hematology 2020 guidelines on treatment of DVT and PE recommend considering treatment with a vitamin K antagonist or low molecular weight heparin instead of a DOAC in patients taking medications that inhibit P-gp.(9) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. anti Factor Xa inhibition) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. Discontinue edoxaban in patients with active bleeding.

DISCUSSION: Edoxaban interaction studies have not been performed for lapatinib, lopinavir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir, ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir-dasabuvir, and ritonavir(1) and so the magnitude of any interaction with these agents is not known.

Lopinavir/Efavirenz; Nevirapine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Efavirenz(1-3) and nevirapine(1,2,4) may induce the metabolism of lopinavir via CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of efavirenz(1-3) or nevirapine(1,2,4) with lopinavir may result in decreased levels and clinical effectiveness of lopinavir.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Lopinavir/ritonavir should not be administered once daily in combination with either efavirenz or nevirapine. Administration of lopinavir/ritonavir with either efavirenz or nevirapine in patients less than 6 months of age is not recommended.(1) The US manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that the dose of lopinavir/ritonavir tablets should be 500/125 mg (two 200/50 mg tablets and one 100/25 mg tablet) twice daily in adults receiving concurrent efavirenz.(1) The US manufacturer of efavirenz states that a dosage increase to 600/150 mg of lopinavir/ritonavir twice daily may be considered in treatment-experienced patients receiving combination therapy in whom decreased susceptibility to lopinavir is suspected.(3) The US manufacturers of lopinavir/ritonavir(1) and nevirapine(4) states that the dose of lopinavir/ritonavir tablets should be 500/125 mg (two 200/50 mg tablets and one 100/25 mg tablet) twice daily in adults receiving concurrent nevirapine. The dose of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution should be 520/130 mg (6.5 ml) twice daily in adults receiving concurrent efavirenz or nevirapine.(1,4) The US manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that pediatric patients aged 6 months to 18 years receiving efavirenz or nevirapine require a dosage increase to 300/75 mg/m2 of oral solution twice daily (not to exceed the recommended adult dose).(1) If weight-based dosing is preferred, patients weighing less than 15 kg should receive 13/3.25 mg/kg of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution twice daily with food and patients weighing 15 kg to 45 kg should receive 11/2.75 mg/kg of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution twice daily with food.(1,4) Refer to the current Kaletra tablet labeling for information on dosing Kaletra tablets in pediatric patients who can swallow tablets.(1)

DISCUSSION: A study in 11 subjects examined the effects of concurrent administration of efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily). When compared to 7 controls, concurrent administration resulted in decreases in the area-under-curve (AUC) and and minimum concentration (Cmin) lopinavir by 19% and 39%, respectively. Efavirenz AUC and Cmin decreased 16% and 16%, respectively.(1-3) There was no effect on ritonavir levels.(3) In a study in 19 subjects, concurrent efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (500/125 mg twice daily) increased lopinavir maximum concentration (Cmax) and AUC by 12% and 6%, respectively, and decreased lopinavir Cmin by 10% when compared to lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily alone.(1) In a study in 23 subjects, concurrent efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (600/150 mg twice daily) increased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 36%, 36%, and 32%, respectively, when compared to lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) without concurrent efavirenz.(1) A study compared 22 subjects taking concurrent nevirapine (200 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) with 19 subjects taking lopinavir/ritonavir alone. Concurrent therapy decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 19%, 27%, and 51%, respectively. Another study compared 12 subjects taking concurrent nevirapine (7 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg daily for 2 weeks, twice daily for 1 week) and lopinavir/ritonavir (300/75 mg/m2) with 15 subjects taking lopinavir/ritonavir alone. Concurrent therapy decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 14%, 22%, and 55%, respectively.(4) Another study compared 5 subjects taking concurrent nevirapine (200 mg daily for 14 days, twice daily for 6 days) with 6 subjects taking lopinavir/ ritonavir alone. Concurrent therapy increased nevirapine Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 5%, 8%, and 15% respectively.(1-3) In pediatric patients aged 6 months to 12 years, administration of 230/57.5 mg/m2 twice daily of lopinavir/ritonavir without nevirapine and 300/73 mg/m2 twice daily of lopinavir/ritonavir with nevirapine provided similar lopinavir plasma concentrations.(1)

Lopinavir/Possible Qt Prolonging Agents

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir has been shown to prolong the QTc interval by 5 msec. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of lopinavir with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lopinavir states that the concurrent administration of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, placebo and active controlled crossover study in 39 healthy subjects designed to evaluated QTc intervals, lopinavir/ritonavir increased QTc by 5.3 msec and 15.2 msec for 400/100 mg twice daily and 800/200 mg twice daily, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Lopinavir/Selected Protease Inhibitors

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir may inhibit the metabolism of amprenavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, and saquinavir. Amprenavir and fosamprenavir may inhibit the metabolism of lopinavir. Nelfinavir may induce the metabolism of lopinavir.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of lopinavir with indinavir, nelfinavir, or saquinavir may result in elevated levels of indinavir, nelfinavir, and saquinavir. Concurrent administration of lopinavir with amprenavir or fosamprenavir may result in decreased levels of amprenavir or fosamprenavir. Concurrent amprenavir, fosamprenavir may result in may result in increased levels of lopinavir. Concurrent nelfinavir may result in decreased levels of lopinavir.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Appropriate doses of fosamprenavir with lopinavir/ritonavir have not been established.(1,4) When used concurrently, the dosage of indinavir should be 600 mg twice daily and the dosage of lopinavir/ritonavir should be 400/100 mg twice daily.(1,2) Lopinavir/ritonavir should not be administered once daily in combination with nelfinavir. Administration of lopinavir/ritonavir with nelfinavir in patients less than 6 months of age is not recommended.(1) The dose of lopinavir/ritonavir tablets should be 500/125 mg (two 200/50 mg tablets and one 100/25 mg tablet) in adults receiving concurrent nelfinavir.(1) The dose of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution should be 520/130 mg (6.5 ml) twice daily in adults receiving concurrent nelfinavir.(1,2) The US manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that pediatric patients aged 6 months to 18 years receiving nelfinavir require a dosage increase to 300/75 mg/m2 of oral solution (not to exceed the recommended adult dose).(1) If weight-based dosing is preferred, patients weighing less than 15 kg should receive 13/3.25 mg/kg of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution twice daily with food and patients weighing 15 kg to 45 kg should receive 11/2.75 mg/kg of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution twice daily with food.(1) Refer to the current Kaletra tablet labeling for information on dosing Kaletra tablets in pediatric patients taking nelfinavir who can swallow tablets.(1) Concurrent use of saquinavir and lopinavir/ritonavir does not require dose adjustment, but should be approached with caution due to additive effects on the QT interval.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 subjects, the concurrent administration of amprenavir (750 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the lopinavir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 28%, 38%, and 57%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of amprenavir increased by 12%, 72%, and 457%, respectively.(1) In a study in 18 subjects, the concurrent administration of fosamprenavir (700 mg twice daily with 100 mg ritonavir twice daily) and lopinavir/ ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 30%, 37%, and 52%, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of amprenavir decreased by 58%, 63%, and 65%, respectively.(1,4) A 3-arm, randomized cross-over study in healthy subjects examined the pharmacokinetics of lopinavir and amprenavir during concurrent therapy. Amprenavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin were 13%, 26%, and 42% lower when administered with lopinavir/ritonavir than with ritonavir.(4) In a study in 13 subjects, concurrent indinavir (600 mg twice daily) and lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased indinavir maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 29% and 9%, respectively. The minimum concentration (Cmin) of indinavir increased by 3.47-fold.(1,2) In a study in 13 subjects, concurrent nelfinavir (1000 mg twice daily) and lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 21%, 27%, and 38%, respectively. The AUC and Cmin of nelfinavir increased by 7% and by 86%, respectively. The Cmax of nelfinavir decreased 7%. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of the M8 metabolite of nelfinavir increased by 2.36-fold, 3.46-fold, and 7.49-fold, respectively.(1,2) In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent saquinavir (800 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of saquinavir by 634%, 962%, and 1674%, respectively. In a study in 10 subjects, concurrent saquinavir (1200 mg twice daily) with lopinavir/ ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of saquinavir by 644%, 991%, and by 1654%, respectively.(1,2) Data from trials indicates that saquinavir concentrations achieved with concurrent saquinavir (1000 mg) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg) twice daily are similar to those seen with saquinavir/ritonavir (1000/100 mg) twice daily.(5)

Lopinavir; Nelfinavir; Nevirapine; Ritonavir/Warfarin Derivs

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir, nelfinavir, nevirapine, and ritonavir may induce the metabolism of acenocoumarol and warfarin. The more potent S-enantiomer of warfarin is metabolized by CYP2C9 while the weaker R-enantiomer of warfarin is metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP1A2. Although protease inhibitors can induce or inhibit multiple CYP450 pathways depending upon the drug and time course of therapy, all antiviral agents linked to this monograph are inducers of CYP2C9.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use warfarin derivatives and lopinavir, nelfinavir, nevirapine, and/or ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of the anticoagulant, which may increase the risk of clotting.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor INR response closely in patients maintained on acenocoumarol or warfarin when initiating or titrating lopinavir, nelfinavir, nevirapine, or ritonavir. Patients maintained on these agents may require higher dosages of the anticoagulant beginning approximately 1-2 weeks after starting the antiviral. If the antiviral is discontinued, enzyme induction will gradually decrease and the anticoagulant concentration is expected to increase over time. Monitor the INR as the anticoagulant dose may need to be lowered. Also monitor INR closely when initiating warfarin in patients on current therapy or titrating doses of lopinavir, nelfinavir, nevirapine, and ritonavir.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 subjects, ritonavir (400mg every 12 hours for 12 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of S-warfarin by 9% and decreased the AUC of R-warfarin by 33%, from a single dose of warfarin (5 mg). The maximum concentration (Cmax) of S-warfarin was decreased 9% and unchanged for R-warfarin. In a case-control study, use of ritonavir (200 mg daily) was associated with an increased warfarin maintenance dose of 3.9 mg. There have been case reports of increased acenocoumarol and warfarin requirements in patients taking lopinavir-ritonavir, nelfinavir, nevirapine, and/or ritonavir. In a retrospective study in 29 patients, INR levels were evaluated with concurrent use of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir and warfarin. In patients treated with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, the first posttreatment INR was lower than baseline (median INR decrease of 0.40). Following completion of the 5-day course of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, the measured INR was lower than the pretreatment nirmatrelvir-ritonavir INR (median INR decrease of 0.50). No thrombotic events occurred during the study period after nirmatrelvir-ritonavir use.

Lopinavir; Ritonavir/Lamotrigine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lopinavir and ritonavir may induce the glucuronidation of lamotrigine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritonavir or lopinavir-ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of lamotrigine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: A dosage increase of lamotrigine may be required in patients receiving concurrent ritonavir or lopinavir-ritonavir. Monitor lamotrigine levels and adjust the dose as necessary. One set of authors suggested doubling the dose of lamotrigine with concurrent lopinavir-ritonavir.(1) The American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) clinical practice guidelines recommend considering a dose increase of lamotrigine of 50% in patients receiving atazanavir-ritonavir or lopinavir-ritonavir.(3,4) The NIH Covid-19 treatment guidelines state when extended-course (>= 10 days of therapy) nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is warranted, lamotrigine levels may decrease. Closely monitor lamotrigine levels and adjust lamotrigine dosing to maintain therapeutic lamotrigine levels. Short-course (5 days of therapy) nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is not expected to cause a clinically significant decrease in lamotrigine levels.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of lopinavir-ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the minimum concentration (Cmin) of lamotrigine (50 mg daily on Days 1-2, then 100 mg twice daily) by 55.4%. Increasing the dose of lamotrigine to 200 mg daily with concurrent lopinavir-ritonavir resulted in bioequivalent levels to those seen with lamotrigine alone at a dosage of 100 mg twice daily.(1) In a study in 21 healthy subjects, atazanavir (400 mg daily) had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of lamotrigine (100 mg). Concurrent atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of lamotrigine (100 mg) by 32% and 6%, respectively.(2)

Moderate Cyp2b6 Inducers/Bupropion

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate CYP2B6 inducers may induce the metabolism of bupropion.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP2B6 inducers may decrease the effectiveness of bupropion.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the use of alternative agents in patients maintained on bupropion for psychiatric indications and inform patients that bupropion may not be effective for smoking cessation during concurrent moderate CYP2B6 inducers. If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients for decreased levels and effectiveness if moderate CYP2B6 inducers are initiated. The dosage of bupropion may need to be increased; however, the maximum recommended dose of bupropion should not be exceeded.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg/day, a moderate CYP2B6 inducer) increased bupropion (150 mg single dose) apparent clearance 2-fold and decreased the bupropion half-life by 48%. In addition, concurrent rifampin increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) of hydroxybupropion by 43% and decreased the hydroxybupropion area-under-curve (AUC) by 38%.(2) In a study with 34 subjects, the effects of 150 mg of bupropion alone and 150 mg of bupropion with carbamazepine (a strong CYP2B6 inducer) were compared. Carbamazepine decreased bupropion AUC by 90% and peak Cmax by 87%. In addition, hydroxybupropion peak concentration Cmax by 71% and AUC by 50%.(3) Moderate CYP2B6 inducers linked include: dipyrone, efavirenz, rifampin, and ritonavir.(4,5)

Moderate Cyp2b6 Inducers/Bupropion Combinations

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate CYP2B6 inducers may induce the metabolism of bupropion.(1,2) For the dextromethorphan/bupropion combination, the metabolism of dextromethorphan may also be increased.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP2B6 inducers may decrease the effectiveness of bupropion.(1,2) For the dextromethorphan/bupropion combination, the levels and effectiveness of dextromethorphan may also be decreased.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the use of alternative agents in patients maintained on bupropion for psychiatric indications and inform patients that bupropion may not be effective for smoking cessation during concurrent moderate CYP2B6 inducers. If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients for decreased levels and effectiveness if moderate CYP2B6 inducers are initiated. The dosage of bupropion may need to be increased; however, the maximum recommended dose of bupropion should not be exceed.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, carbamazepine 200 mg decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of bupropion by 74% and 76%, respectively, and decreased the Cmax and AUC of dextromethorphan by 59% and 64%, respectively.(1) In a study with 34 subjects, the effects of 150 mg of bupropion alone and 150 mg of bupropion with carbamazepine (a strong CYP2B6 inducer) were compared. Carbamazepine decreased bupropion AUC by 90% and peak Cmax by 87%. In addition, carbamazepine increased hydroxybupropion Cmax by 71% and AUC by 50%.(3) In a study in 16 healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg/day, a moderate CYP2B6 inducer) increased bupropion (150 mg single dose) apparent clearance 2-fold and decreased the bupropion half-life by 48%. In addition, concurrent rifampin increased the Cmax of hydroxybupropion by 43% and decreased the hydroxybupropion AUC by 38%.(4) Moderate CYP2B6 inducers linked include: dipyrone, efavirenz, rifampin, and ritonavir.(4,5)

Moderate Cyp3a4 Inducers/Daraxonrasib (>= 400 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Daraxonrasib is a CYP3A4 substrate. Moderate CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of daraxonrasib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of a moderate inducer of CYP3A4 may decrease the levels and effectiveness of daraxonrasib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that concomitant use of moderate CYP3A4 inducers requires a dose increase of daraxonrasib to 400 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, daraxonrasib area-under-curve (AUC) is predicted to decrease by 50-84% with concomitant use of efavirenz 600 mg once daily and modafinil 400 mg once daily (moderate CYP3A4 inducers).(1) Moderate CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belzutifan, bosentan, cenobamate, dabrafenib, dipyrone, efavirenz, elagolix, etravirine, fexinidazole, lesinurad, lopinavir, lorlatinib, mavacamten, mitapivat, modafinil, nafcillin, pacritinib, pexidartinib, repotrectinib, rifabutin, telotristat, thioridazine, and tovorafenib.(2,3)

Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Atogepant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atogepant is a substrate of OATP1B1 and 1B3. Inhibitors of these transporters may increase the GI absorption and/or decrease the hepatic uptake of atogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 or 1B3 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from atogepant, including nausea, constipation and fatigue.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of atogepant states that, when used concurrently with an OATP inhibitor for prevention of episodic migraine, the atogepant dose should be limited to 10 mg or 30 mg once daily. When used concurrently with an OATP inhibitor for prevention of chronic migraines, the atogepant dose should be limited to 30 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial of healthy subjects, single-dose rifampin, an OATP inhibitor, increased the atogepant area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.85-fold and 2.23-fold, respectively.(1) OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, cyclosporine, darunavir, eltrombopag, erythromycin, gemfibrozil, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir, ledipasvir, leflunomide, leniolisib, letermovir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, ritonavir, roxadustat, simeprevir, sofosbuvir, teriflunomide, vadadustat, velpatasvir, and voclosporin.(1,2)

Oatp1b1-3 Inhibitors/Momelotinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors may decrease the hepatic uptake of momelotinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from momelotinib, including myelosuppression and hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of momelotinib with OATP1B1 and 1B3 inhibitors should be approached with caution. Monitor patients closely for adverse reactions and consider dose modifications per momelotinib prescribing recommendations.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of a single dose rifampin, an OATP1B1/1B3 inhibitor, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of momelotinib by 40% and 57%, respectively. The M21 metabolite Cmax increased 6% and AUC increased 12%.(1) OATP1B1 inhibitors include: atazanavir, belumosudil, boceprevir, cobicistat, cyclosporine, darolutamide, darunavir, eltrombopag, enasidenib, encorafenib, erythromycin, fostemsavir, gemfibrozil, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir, ledipasvir, letermovir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, resmetirom, rifampin, roxadustat, saquinavir, simeprevir, telaprevir, tipranavir, vadadustat, velpatasvir, and voclosporin.(1,2)

P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Afatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) may increase the absorption of afatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of afatinib with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of afatinib and signs of toxicity. These signs may include but are not limited to worsening diarrhea, stomatitis, skin rash/exfoliation/bullae or paronychia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of afatinib states the afatinib dose should be reduced by 10 mg if the addition of a P-glycoprotein inhibitor is not tolerated.(1) If afatinib dose was reduced due to addition of a P-gp inhibitor, resume the previous dose after the P-gp inhibitor is discontinued.(1) The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to afatinib.(2) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(4)

DISCUSSION: A drug interaction study evaluated the effects of ritonavir 200 mg twice daily on afatinib exposure. Administration of ritonavir 1 hour before afatinib administration increased systemic exposure by 48%. Afatinib exposure was not changed when ritonavir was administered simultaneously with or 6 hours after afatinib dose.(1) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph are: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, saquinavir, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib and voclosporin.(1-3)

P-Gp Or Bcrp Inhibitors/Ubrogepant (<= 50 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or BCRP may increase the absorption of ubrogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of ubrogepant with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein or BCRP may result in elevated levels of ubrogepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a dosage adjustment of ubrogepant when coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors. The dose of ubrogepant should not exceed 50 mg for initial dose. If a second dose of ubrogepant is needed, the dose should not exceed 50 mg.(1) For patients on concurrent therapy with vimseltinib and ubrogepant: The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to ubrogepant.(3) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(4)

DISCUSSION: Ubrogepant is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP transporters. Use of P-gp or BCRP inhibitors may increase the exposure of ubrogepant. Clinical drug interaction studies with inhibitors of these transporters were not conducted. The US manufacturer of ubrogepant recommends dose adjustment if ubrogepant is coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: belumosudil, clopidogrel, curcumin, eltrombopag, febuxostat, fostemsavir, leniolisib, momelotinib, oteseconazole, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, tafamidis, oral tedizolid, turmeric, vadadustat, and zongertinib.(2,3,5,6) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, imlunestrant, neratinib, osimertinib, propafenone, quinidine, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tepotinib, valbenazine, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2,3,5,6)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Dexmedetomidine Sublingual

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dexmedetomidine sublingual has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of dexmedetomidine sublingual with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of dexmedetomidine sublingual states that concurrent use should be avoided with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a QT study, dexmedetomidine sublingual had a concentration dependent effect on the QT interval. The mean QTc (95% confidence interval) increased from baseline by 6 (7) msec with a 120 mcg single dose, 8 (9) msec with 120 mcg followed by 2 additional doses of 60 mcg (total 3 doses), 8 (11) msec with a single 180 mcg dose, and 11 (14) msec with 180 mcg followed by 2 additional doses of 90 mcg (total 3 doses), respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Firmonertinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Firmonertinib may prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of firmonertinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of firmonertinib states that firmonertinib should be avoided in patients with risk factors that may increase the risk of QTc interval prolongation or arrhythmic events, such as heart failure, hypokalemia, or congenital long QT syndrome.(1) Concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating firmonertinib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated. More frequent ECG monitoring may be necessary. The manufacturer of firmonertinib states patients with at least two independent ECG tests indicating a QTc > 500 ms should temporarily discontinue firmonertinib until QTc < 481 ms or returns to baseline levels (e.g., baseline QTc > or = 481 ms). Patients with QTc prolongation and severe arrhythmic symptoms or signs should permanently discontinue firmonertinib.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, among 446 patients treated with firmonertinib at a dose of 80 mg, 57 (12.8%) experienced QT interval prolongation on an ECG, of which 6 (1.3%) were grade 3 and the rest were grade 1-2. Of these, 7 (1.6%) experienced dose interruption, 5 (1.1%) experienced dose reduction, and 1 (0.2%) experienced permanent discontinuation of treatment.(1) In another study, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 6% of 130 patients (in 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg, and 160 mg groups; n=2 each). All were classified as grade 1 or grade 2 and assessed as possibly related to treatment. Two events (grade 2 at 80 mg, grade 2 at 160 mg) led to dose interruption before resolution. QT prolongation in the remaining patients was resolved without intervention, except for one event (grade 1) reported as worsening.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Gadofosveset

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: QT prolongation has been reported following gadofosveset administration. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of gadofosveset in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients maintained on agents known to prolong the QT interval, consider a baseline ECG prior to administration of gadofosveset to asses the risk/benefit of gadofosveset. If gadofosveset is used, consider ECG monitoring for 72 hours until the majority of gadofosveset is eliminated. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Counsel patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting episodes during this time frame.(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 6% of patients experienced an increase in QTc of 30 msec to 60 msec 45 minutes after the administration of gadofosveset and 0.4% of patients experienced a QTc increase of greater than 60 msec at 45 minutes post-administration.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Givinostat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Givinostat may prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of givinostat with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of givinostat states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating givinostat, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(1) If the QTc interval is greater than 500 ms or the change from baseline is greater than 60 ms, withhold givinostat therapy.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a QT study, the largest mean increase in QTc interval of 13.6 ms (upper confidence interval of 17.1 ms) occurred 5 hours after administration of givinostat 265.8 mg (approximately 5 times the recommended 53.2 mg dose in patients weighing 60 kg or more).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Levomepromazine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Levomepromazine has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of levomepromazine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of levomepromazine states that levomepromazine is not recommended in patients receiving other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Case reports of QTc prolongation associated with levomepromazine have been reported.(1,3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Oxaliplatin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of oxaliplatin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of oxaliplatin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of oxaliplatin in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. ECG monitoring is recommended if oxaliplatin therapy is initiated in patients with congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, drugs known to prolong the QT interval, and electrolyte abnormalities.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Prescribing information for oxaliplatin states post-marketing cases of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including fatal Torsades de Pointes, have been reported.(1) Case reports have documented QT prolongation in patients with varying cancer indications for oxaliplatin.(3-6) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(7)

Protease Inhibitors/Selected Benzodiazepines

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of benzodiazepines that are metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Inhibition of benzodiazepine CYP3A4 metabolism by protease inhibitors may produce increased levels of, as well as increased clinical effects, of benzodiazepines. Toxic effects of increased benzodiazepine levels include profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The NIH Guidelines for Use of Antiretroviral Agents advise considering use of alternative benzodiazepines that do not undergo CYP metabolism, like lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam.(1) The manufacturers of the protease inhibitors recommend close clinical monitoring for respiratory depression and/or prolonged sedation and consideration of dosage adjustment of the benzodiazepine.(2-5) The manufacturers of some benzodiazepines (i.e., diazepam, estazolam, midazolam) advise caution when they are coadministered with inhibitors of CYP3A4 and to consider dose reduction of the benzodiazepine.(6-8) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with protease inhibitors and benzodiazepines carefully for increased effects including unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: The interaction between most benzodiazepines and protease inhibitors has not been studied. Benzodiazepines are primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. Protease inhibitors are moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, and an elevation in benzodiazepine effects and concentrations with concomitant therapy can be expected. Benzodiazepines linked to this monograph include: brotizolam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clorazepic acid, diazepam, estazolam, etizolam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam, halazepam, non-oral midazolam, prazepam, and quazepam. Protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: ensitrelvir, ritonavir-boosted lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, saquinavir, tipranavir; cobicistat- or ritonavir-boosted darunavir; cobicistat-boosted, ritonavir-boosted or unboosted atazanavir; ritonavir-boosted or unboosted amprenavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir; and nelfinavir.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Amisulpride

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Amisulpride has been shown to prolong the QT interval. Concurrent use with QT prolonging agents may result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of amisulpride with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use caution when using amisulpride concurrently with other agents that can prolong the QT interval. Amisulpride may cause a dose and concentration dependent increase in the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. ECG monitoring is recommended in patients with pre-existing arrhythmias or cardiac conduction disorders; electrolyte abnormalities; congestive heart failure; or in patients taking medications or with other medical conditions known to prolong the QT interval. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2)

DISCUSSION: QT prolongation and torsades de pointes have been reported with amisulpride. In a study in 40 patients with post operative nausea and vomiting, amisulpride increased baseline QTcF by 5 msec after a 2-minute intravenous infusion of 5 mg and by 23.4 msec after an 8-minute intravenous infusion of 40 mg. Based on an exposure-response relationship, it is expected that a 10 mg intravenous infusion over 1 minute may increase the QTcF by 13.4 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Bedaquiline

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of bedaquiline with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of bedaquiline patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Bedaquiline should be used with caution in patients receiving therapy with agents that prolong the QT interval. Patients should receive a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) before initiation, 2 weeks after initiation, during treatment as clinically indicated, and at the expected time of maximum increase of the QT interval when receiving concurrent agents that prolong the QT interval. Bedaquiline and other QT prolonging agents should be discontinued if the patient develops a clinically significant ventricular arrhythmia or a QTcF of greater than 500 msec confirmed by repeat ECGs. If a patient develops syncope, perform an ECG.(1) Also consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, mean increases in QTc were greater in patients treated with bedaquiline than with placebo. At Week 1, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 9.9 msec, compared with 2.5 msec for placebo. At Week 24, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 15.7 msec, compared with 6.2 msec for placebo. In another clinical trial in which patients received bedaquiline with other QT prolonging agents, QT prolongation was additive and proportional to the number of QT prolonging drugs used. Patients receiving bedaquiline alone averaged a QTc increase of 23.7 msec over baseline, while patients receiving bedaquiline with at least one other QT prolonging agent averaged a QTc increase of 30.7 msec.(1) In a study, bedaquiline was coadministered with QTc prolonging agents clofazimine and levofloxacin. In the study, 5% of patients had a QTc >= 500 ms and 43% of patients had an increase in QTc >= 60 ms from baseline.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Catequentinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Catequentinib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of catequentinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, the risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of catequentinib with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored closely. Monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly (every 3-6 weeks) if catequentinib is administered with concurrent QTc prolonging drugs.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Catequentinib causes QTc prolongation. In clinical studies, QTc prolongation was reported as a very common adverse effect.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Fingolimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of fingolimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1-3) Fingolimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which fingolimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes. There is no consistent signal of increased incidence of QTc outliers, either absolute or change from baseline, associated with fingolimod treatment.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to fingolimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients with a baseline QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 milliseconds should not be started on fingolimod. Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, or a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation should receive cardiologist consultation to evaluate the risks of fingolimod therapy. In all patients, first dose monitoring is recommended to monitor for bradycardia for the first 6 hours. Check blood pressure and pulse hourly. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period. US monitoring recommendations include additional monitoring for the following patients:(1) If heart rate (HR) is less than 45 beats per minute (bpm), the heart rate 6 hours postdose is at the lowest value postdose, or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. Continuous overnight ECG monitoring is recommended in patients requiring pharmacologic intervention for symptomatic bradycardia, some preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc before dosing or during 6 hours observation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs, or concurrent therapy with drugs that slow heart rate or AV conduction. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. United Kingdom recommendations:(3) Obtain a 12-lead ECG prior to initiating fingolimod therapy. Consult a cardiologist for pretreatment risk-benefit assessment if patient has a resting heart rate less than 55 bpm, history of syncope, second degree or greater AV block, sick-sinus syndrome, concurrent therapy with beta-blockers, Class Ia, or Class III antiarrhythmics, heart failure or other significant cardiovascular disease. Perform continuous ECG monitoring, measure blood pressure and heart rate every hour, and perform a 12-lead ECG 6 hours after the first dose. Monitoring should be extended beyond 6 hours if symptomatic bradycardia or new onset of second degree AV block, Mobitz Type II or third degree AV block has occurred at any time during the monitoring period. If heart rate 6 hours after the first dose is less than 40 bpm, has decreased more than 20 bpm compared with baseline, or if a new onset second degree AV block, Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach) persists, then monitoring should also be continued. If fingolimod treatment is discontinued for more than two weeks, the effects on heart rate and conduction could recur. Thus, first dose monitoring precautions should be followed upon reintroduction of fingolimod. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of fingolimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 6 hours followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. The second dose may further decrease heart rate, but the magnitude of change is smaller than the first dose. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about one month.(1,2) In a thorough QT interval study of doses of 1.25 or 2.5 mg fingolimod at steady-state, when a negative chronotropic effect of fingolimod was still present, fingolimod treatment resulted in a prolongation of QTc, with the upper boundary of the 90% confidence interval (CI) of 14.0 msec. The cause of death in a patient who died within 24 hour after taking the first dose of fingolimod was not conclusive; however a link to fingolimod or a drug interaction with fingolimod could not be ruled out.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Galantamine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Galantamine may reduce heart rate by increasing acetylcholine in the heart and increasing vagal tone. Bradycardia has been associated with increased risk of QTc interval prolongation.(1) Concurrent use of galantamine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of galantamine in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age or when receiving concomitant treatment with an inhibitor of CYP3A4.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of galantamine states that it should be used with caution in patients treated with drugs that affect the QTc interval.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor ECG more frequently and consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Therapeutic doses of galantamine have been reported to cause QTc prolongation in patients.(2) An 85 year old male with dementia was restarted on galantamine 8 mg daily after a 2-week treatment interruption due to a syncopal episode that occurred 3 months previously. During his prior syncopal episode, he was hypotensive and bradycardic, but QTc interval was normal. After restarting galantamine, he was found to be hypotension and bradycardiac again, and QTc interval was significantly prolonged to 503 msec, over 60 msec longer than when he was off galantamine. Galantamine was discontinued and his QTc interval returned to baseline.(4) A 47 year old schizophrenic male experienced prolongation of the QTc interval to 518 msec after galantamine was increased from 8 mg daily to 12 mg daily. Although he was also on quetiapine and metoprolol, he had been stable on his other medications. His QTc interval normalized after galantamine was stopped.(5) The European pharmacovigilance (Eudravigilance) database contains 14 reports of torsades de pointe in patients on galantamine as of October 2019.(1) A pharmacovigilance study based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database found that, of a total of 33,626 cases of TdP/QT prolongation reported between January 2004 and September 2022, 54 cases occurred in patients on galantamine. The disproportionality analysis found a ROR = 5.12, 95% CI (3.92,6.68) and a PRR = 5.11, chi-square = 175.44.(6) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(7)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Norfloxacin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Norfloxacin has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of norfloxacin with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of norfloxacin states that norfloxacin should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ozanimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of ozanimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1,2) Ozanimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which ozanimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The initial heart rate lowering effect of ozanimod usually occurs within 5 hours. With continued up-titration, the maximal heart rate effect of ozanimod occurred on Day 8. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ozanimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ozanimod.(1,2) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Prior to initiation of ozanimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. Patients with preexisting cardiac conditions, significant QT prolongation (QTc >450 msec in males, >470 msec in females), concurrent Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmics, or receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time ozanimod is initiated or resumed should be referred to a cardiologist.(1) The US recommendations state: Dose titration is recommended with initiation of ozanimod due to transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays.(1) United Kingdom recommendations:(2) Due to the risk of transient decreases in HR with the initiation of ozanimod, first dose, 6-hour monitoring for signs and symptoms of symptomatic bradycardia is recommended in patients with resting HR <55 bpm, second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block or a history of myocardial infarction or heart failure. Patients should be monitored with hourly pulse and blood pressure measurement during this 6-hour period. An ECG prior to and at the end of this 6-hour period is recommended. Additional monitoring after 6 hours is recommended in patients with: heart rate less than 45 bpm, heart rate at the lowest value post-dose (suggesting that the maximum decrease in HR may not have occurred yet), evidence of a new onset second-degree or higher AV block at the 6-hour post dose ECG, or QTc interval greater than 500 msec. In these cases, appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the symptoms/findings have resolved. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of ozanimod heart rate decline is usually maximal at approximately 5 hours, returning to baseline at 6 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, maximum heart rate effect occurred on day 8.(1,2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ponesimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor 1 modulator. Initiation of ponesimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 6 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: After a dose of ponesimod, a decrease in heart rate typically begins within an hour and reaches its nadir within 2-4 hours. The heart rate typically recovers to baseline levels 4-5 hours after administration. All patients recovered from bradycardia. The conduction abnormalities typically were transient, asymptomatic, and resolved within 24 hours. Second- and third-degree AV blocks were not reported. With up-titration after Day 1, the post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ponesimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation, or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ponesimod.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Prior to initiation of ponesimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. Ponesimod is generally not recommended in patients who are receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent, anti-arrhythmic drugs, or drugs that may decrease heart rate. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended.(1) In patients with heart rate (HR) less than 55 beats per minute (bpm), first- or second-degree AV block, or history of myocardial infarction or heart failure, monitor patients for 4 hours after the first dose for signs and symptoms of bradycardia with a minimum of hourly pulse and blood pressure measurements. Obtain an ECG in these patients prior to dosing and at the end of the 4-hour observation period.(1) Additional US monitoring recommendations include: If HR is less than 45 bpm, the heart rate 4 hours post-dose is at the lowest value post-dose or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. If patient requires treatment for symptomatic bradycardia, second-degree or higher AV block, or QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 msec, perform continuous overnight ECG monitoring and repeat the first dose monitoring strategy for the second dose of ponesimod. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. If fewer than 4 consecutive doses are missed during titration: resume treatment with the first missed titration dose and resume the titration schedule at that dose and titration day. If fewer than 4 consecutive doses are missed during maintenance: resume treatment with the maintenance dosage. If 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during treatment initiation or maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration (new starter pack) and follow first-dose monitoring recommendations. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of ponesimod, heart rate decrease may begin within the first hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 4-5 hours.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Siponimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of siponimod has a negative chronotropic effect. Siponimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which siponimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown, but may involve reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of siponimod starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. This leads to a mean decrease in heart rate of 5-6 beats per minute after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from Day 1-baseline reached on Day 5-6. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to siponimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to siponimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Prior to initiation of siponimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval before or during the 6 hour observation, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) In patients with heart rate (HR) less than 55 beats per minute (bpm), first- or second-degree AV block, or history of myocardial infarction or heart failure, first dose monitoring is recommended with hourly pulse and blood pressure to monitor for bradycardia for the first 6 hours. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period.(1) Additional US monitoring recommendations include: If HR is less than 45 bpm, the heart rate 6 hours postdose is at the lowest value postdose or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. If patient requires treatment for symptomatic bradycardia, second-degree or higher AV block, or QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 msec, perform continuous overnight ECG monitoring. Repeat the first dose monitoring strategy for the second dose of siponimod. If a titration dose is missed or if 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration and follow titration monitoring recommendations. Patient will need to be observed in the doctor's office or other facility for at least 6 hours after the first dose and after reinitiation if treatment is interrupted or discontinued for certain periods. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. United Kingdom recommendations:(3) In certain patients, it is recommended that an electrocardiogram (ECG) is obtained prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period. If post-dose bradyarrhythmia or conduction-related symptoms occur or if ECG 6 hours post-dose shows new onset second-degree or higher AV block or QTc > 500 msec, appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the symptoms/findings have resolved. If pharmacological treatment is required, monitoring should be continued overnight and 6-hour monitoring should be repeated after the second dose. During the first 6 days of treatment, if a titration dose is missed on one day, treatment needs to be re-initiated with a new titration pack. If there is a missed dose after day 6 the prescribed dose should be taken at the next scheduled time; the next dose should not be doubled. If maintenance treatment is interrupted for 4 or more consecutive daily doses, siponimod needs to be re-initiated with a new titration pack.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of siponimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 10 days.(1,2) A transient, dose-dependent decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of siponimod, which plateaued at doses greater than or equal to 5 mg, and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks and sinus pauses) were detected at a higher incidence under siponimod treatment than placebo. AV blocks and sinus pauses occurred above the recommended dose of 2 mg, with notably higher incidence under non-titrated conditions compared to dose titration conditions.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Triclabendazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Triclabendazole has been observed to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) Triclabendazole is partially metabolized by CYP1A2. Ciprofloxacin, propafenone, and vemurafenib are CYP1A2 inhibitors and may inhibit the CYP1A2 mediated metabolism of triclabendazole.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of triclabendazole with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Hepatic impairment and concurrent use of CYP1A2 inhibitors may raise triclabendazole levels and increase the risk of QT prolongation.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of triclabendazole states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used with caution. Monitor ECG in patients with a history of QTc prolongation, symptoms of long QT interval, electrolyte imbalances, concurrent CYP1A2 inhibitors, or hepatic impairment. If signs of a cardiac arrhythmia develop, stop treatment with triclabendazole and monitor ECG.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, a dose-dependent prolongation in the QTc interval was observed with triclabendazole. The largest placebo-corrected mean increase in QTc was 9.2 msec (upper limit of confidence interval (UCI): 12.2 msec) following oral administration of 10 mg/kg triclabendazole twice daily (at the recommended dose), and the largest placebo-corrected mean increase in QTc was 21.7 msec (UCI: 24.7 msec) following oral administration of 10 mg/kg triclabendazole twice daily for 3 days (3 times the approved recommended dosing duration).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Tucidinostat

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tucidinostat with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of tucidinostat in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of tucidinostat and other agents that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be used with caution. The manufacturer of tucidinostat recommends monitoring ECG and electrolytes every three weeks.(1) If the QTc interval exceeds 500 ms, tucidinostat should be suspended and the ECG should be monitored more frequently. After the QTc interval prolongation has resolved, tucidinostat may be restarted at a reduced dose.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Ritonavir/Cannabidiol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cannabidiol (CBD) is a substrate of CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. The primary metabolic pathway of cannabidiol is via CYP2C19 to two major metabolites, 7-hydroxycannabidiol (7-OH-CBD) and 6alpha-hydroxycannabidiol. Cannabidiol has a minor pathway via CYP3A4 to 6beta-hydroxycannabidiol and 4-hydroxycannabidiol.(1,2) Ritonavir is both a strong inducer of CYP2C19 and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4.(3,4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of cannabidiol with ritonavir may result in decreased or increased levels of CBD.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The overall effect of ritonavir on cannabidiol concentrations may be an increase or decrease and should be monitored closely.(1,2) The US manufacturer of CBD solution recommends considering increasing cannabidiol dosage by up to 2-fold, based on the patient's clinical response and tolerance, when used concurrently with a strong CYP3A4 inducer and/or CYP2C19 inducer. The manufacturer does not have recommendations for concurrent use with CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of CBD-THC spray states that concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may require a dose titration. The manufacturer does not have recommendations for concurrent use with CYP2C19 inducers.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study with itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor), cannabidiol exposure increased <10% and the 7-OH-CBD metabolite exposure increased <20%.(1) In a study of 12 healthy volunteers, rifampin 600 mg (a strong CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 inducer) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of CBD by 52% and 58%, respectively, of THC by 39% and 24%, respectively, and of 11-hydroxy-THC (a primary metabolite of THC) by 86% and 87%, respectively.(5) In a study in 16 healthy volunteers, a single dose of cannabidiol with steady state rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of CBD by 34% and 32%, respectively, of 7-hydroxy-CBD by 67% and 63%, and 7-carboxy-CBD by 3% and 44%.(6) In a study in healthy volunteers, ritonavir (400 mg twice daily for 9 days) decreased the AUC and Cmax by 82% and 66%, receptively, of voriconazole (a CYP2C19 substrate). In a second study, ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 9 days) decreased the AUC and Cmax by 39% and 24%, respectively, of voriconazole.(3)

Ritonavir/Levomethadone; Methadone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritonavir may induce the metabolism of methadone by CYP2B6.(1,2) Levomethadone is an enantiomer of methadone.(3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritonavir may result in decreased levels of methadone, which may result in withdrawal symptoms in some patients.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients maintained on methadone may need dosage adjustments if ritonavir is added to or discontinued from therapy. Patients receiving ritonavir may need higher dosages of methadone than expected. Patients should be monitored for signs of methadone withdrawal.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, an HIV-infected patient maintained on methadone for the treatment of opiate addiction showed a decrease of 44% in steady-state methadone concentration following the addition of ritonavir to his medication regimen. Another two patients showed a decrease of 50.1% and 58.4% in methadone concentrations following the addition of nelfinavir to their regimens. In this same study, six other patients received indinavir and one other patient received saquinavir with no significant change in methadone steady-state concentrations.(4) In a study in HIV-negative subjects, acute (3 days) and steady-state ritonavir increased systemic and apparent oral R-methadone and S-methadone clearances by 1.5-fold and 2-fold, respectively. Methadone renal clearance was increased 40%-50%. Ritonavir stereoselectively (S > R) increased hepatic methadone N-demethylation by 50%-80%, extraction 2-fold, and clearance 2-fold.(5) A case report documents a potential opiate withdrawal syndrome in a patient treated with methadone following ritonavir administration.(6)

Ritonavir/Thyroid Preparations

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Thyroid preparations are substrates for uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). Also, levothyroxine is converted to the thyroid hormone triiodothyronine (T3) which is further metabolized via UGT.(1) Ritonavir may induce UGT and may increase metabolism of levothyroxine and T3.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of ritonavir may result in decreased levels and clinical effects of the thyroid preparation.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients taking thyroid preparations and ritonavir should be monitored for changes in thyroid function. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, sluggishness, constipation, stiffness, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, excessive weight gain, or dry skin. The dosage of the thyroid preparation may need to be adjusted accordingly.

DISCUSSION: A case report of a 29 year old male with auto-immune thyroiditis was stabilized on levothyroxine 125 mcg daily for one year when concurrent therapy with stavudine 40 mg twice daily, lamivudine 150 mg twice daily, ritonavir 600 mg twice daily, and saquinavir 400 mg twice daily was started. One month after concurrent therapy, the patient's thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) increased to 18.47 mIU/L (a 2.7-fold increase) requiring a dose increase of levothyroxine to 250 mcg daily. Subsequently, ritonavir was discontinued with a decrease in levothyroxine dose to 125 mcg daily with stabilization of TSH at 7.32 mIU/L.(2) A case report of a 58 year old female on zidovudine, lamivudine, and lopinavir/ritonavir underwent a total thyroidectomy with subsequent introduction of levothyroxine. Levothyroxine was titrated to 225 mcg daily along with the addition of liothyronine. Due to persistently elevated TSH values (range 47.6 - 85.1 mIU/L), lopinavir/ritonavir was then withdrawn and two months later TSH and T4 levels returned to normal, 4.1 mIU/L and 12.1 pmol/L, respectively. Eight months later lopinavir/ritonavir was reintroduced and 1 month later TSH and T4 increased to 42.9 mIU/L and 10.6 mIU/L, respectively. Again, lopinavir/ritonavir was withdrawn and TSH and T4 values returned to normal, 1.1 mIU/L and 13.4 pmol/L, respectively.(3) A case report of a 37 year old female on abacavir/lamivudine and lopinavir/ritonavir details the management course of hypothyroidism over a six year period, including during 3 pregnancies. After a total thyroidectomy, the patient was started on levothyroxine 75 mcg daily. Post-surgical levels of TSH and T4 (during patient's second pregnancy) increased to 94.3 mIU/L and 6.1 mIU/L, respectively, and peaked at 125.89 mIU/L and 7.7 mIU/L, respectively. Levothyroxine doses were increased to 175 mcg daily over the following year (during the patient's second and third pregnancies) to achieve decreased TSH and T4 values of 8.58 mIU/L and 12.8 mIU/L, respectively. TSH values rose again to 17.23 mIU/L and ritonavir was withdrawn from therapy. The patient was then maintained on levothyroxine 125 mcg daily with a TSH of 0.12 - 0.42 mIU/L over the next 2 years.(1)

Select Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Tadalafil (Pah)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tadalafil.(1-10)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of tadalafil, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.(1-10)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have received a protease inhibitor for at least one week, the initial dosage of tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension should be 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(2-10) The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be discontinued for 24 hours before beginning protease inhibitor therapy other than nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. After one week, tadalafil may be resumed at a dosage of 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(2-10) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be adjusted to 20 mg daily prior to beginning therapy with nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(7) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, maintain tadalafil dose when switching from darunavir/ritonavir to darunavir/cobicistat.(11) The US manufacturers of tadalafil(1) and the protease inhibitors(2-10) state that the recommended dose of as needed tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is 10 mg of tadalafil every 72 hours in patients receiving concurrent therapy. The US manufacturer of tadalafil states that the recommended dose of daily tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients taking potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 is 2.5 mg.(1) Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of tadalafil adverse effects, including hypotension, syncope, visual changes, and priapism. Patients experiencing these effects should report them promptly to their physician.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (500 mg or 600 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil area-under-curve (AUC) by 32% and decreased tadalafil concentration maximum (Cmax) by 30%. Concurrent administration of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily for 17 doses) had no significant effects on the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg). Tadalafil Cmax decreased 30%. Tipranavir Cmax, AUC, and concentration minimum (Cmin) decreased by 10%, 15%, and 19%, respectively. Administration of a single dose of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg) increased the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg) by 2.33-fold. Tadalafil Cmax decreased 22%. Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (200 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil AUC by 124%.

Selected Bcrp Inhibitors/Atorvastatin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atorvastatin is a substrate of the BCRP transporter.(1) Inhibitors of this transporter may increase intestinal absorption and hepatic uptake of BCRP substrates atorvastatin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of atorvastatin with BCRP inhibitors may result in elevated levels of atorvastatin, which could result in rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of atorvastatin with BCRP inhibitors may result in increased risk of side effects associated with atorvastatin. Close monitoring would be prudent for statin related side effects including rhabdomyolysis. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, monitor patients for signs and symptoms of myopathy/rhabdomyolysis, including muscle pain/tenderness/weakness, fever, unusual tiredness, changes in the amount of urine, and/or discolored urine.

DISCUSSION: Atorvastatin is a BCRP substrate.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, clopidogrel, curcumin, danicopan, encorafenib, fostamatinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, momelotinib, oteseconazole, pacritinib, pirtobrutinib, regorafenib, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tafamidis, teriflunomide, tolvaptan, turmeric, vadadustat, velpatasvir, and zongertinib.(2,3)

Selected Bcrp Inhibitors/Rosuvastatin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rosuvastatin is a substrate of the BCRP transporter.(1,2) Inhibitors of this transporter may increase intestinal absorption and hepatic uptake of BCRP substrates rosuvastatin.(1-8)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous use of BCRP inhibitors may result in increased levels and side effects from rosuvastatin, including rhabdomyolysis.(2,4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients on rosuvastatin with ABCG2 polymorphisms leading to decreased or poor BCRP transporter function may have increased rosuvastatin concentrations and risk of myopathy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of rosuvastatin with BCRP inhibitors may result in increased risk of side effects associated with rosuvastatin. If concurrent therapy is warranted, close monitoring would be prudent for statin related side effects including rhabdomyolysis. The Canadian manufacturer of clopidogrel states that the dose of rosuvastatin should not exceed 20 mg daily when used concomitantly with clopidogrel.(5) There is no recommendation for rosuvastatin dose adjustments from the Australian and US manufacturers of clopidogrel.(6,7) The Australian manufacturer of rosuvastatin states that the starting dose of rosuvastatin should not exceed 5 mg daily when used with agents that increase rosuvastatin exposure by 2-fold or more (e.g., clopidogrel, lopinavir-ritonavir, roxadustat). The maximum daily dose should be adjusted so that the expected rosuvastatin exposure does not exceed that obtained with the usual maximum daily dose.(8) Educate the patient of signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.

DISCUSSION: Rosuvastatin is a BCRP substrate.(1,2) In a clinical study of 20 patients with stable coronary heart disease, single-dose clopidogrel 300 mg (a BCRP inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of rosuvastatin by 2-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively. Multiple doses of clopidogrel 75 mg daily for 7 days increased rosuvastatin AUC by 1.4-fold but did not affect the Cmax.(4) In a pharmacokinetic study, concomitant use of lazertinib increased rosuvastatin Cmax by 2.2-fold and AUC by 2-fold.(3) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: clopidogrel, curcumin, encorafenib, lazertinib, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, tolvaptan, turmeric, and zongertinib.(2-9)

Selected Cyp1a2 Inducers/Olanzapine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inducers of CYP1A2 may increase the metabolism of olanzapine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inducer may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of olanzapine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with olanzapine and a CYP1A2 inducer may require increased dosages of olanzapine. The dosage of olanzapine may need to be adjusted if concurrent therapy with a CYP1A2 inducer is initiated or discontinued.(1,2) If a CYP1A2 inducer is initiated in a patient maintained on olanzapine, monitor for decreased effectiveness of olanzapine. If a CYP1A2 inducer is discontinued in a patient maintained on olanzapine, monitor for olanzapine toxicity.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of carbamazepine, a CYP1A2 inducer, increased olanzapine clearance by 50%.(1,2)

Selected Cyp1a2 Inducers/Olanzapine-Samidorphan

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inducers of CYP1A2 may increase the metabolism of olanzapine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inducer may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of olanzapine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with olanzapine and a CYP1A2 inducer may require increased dosages of olanzapine. The dosage of olanzapine may need to be adjusted if concurrent therapy with a CYP1A2 inducer is initiated or discontinued.(1,2) If a CYP1A2 inducer is initiated in a patient maintained on olanzapine, monitor for decreased effectiveness of olanzapine. If a CYP1A2 inducer is discontinued in a patient maintained on olanzapine, monitor for olanzapine toxicity.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of carbamazepine, a CYP1A2 inducer, increased olanzapine clearance by 50%.(1,2) CYP1A2 inducers linked to this monograph include: leflunomide, nelfinavir, ritonavir and teriflunomide.(3,4)

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Bromocriptine; Cabergoline

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Certain azole antifungals (itraconazole(1,6), ketoconazole(2), posaconazole(3,4), and voriconazole(5)), protease inhibitors (amprenavir(7), atazanavir(8), boceprevir(9), darunavir(10), ensitrelvir(11), fosamprenavir(12), indinavir(13), lopinavir(14), nelfinavir(15), nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(16) ritonavir(17), saquinavir(18), telaprevir(19), and tipranavir(20)), and other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (cobicistat, idelalisib, levoketoconazole, mibefradil, nefazodone, relacorilant, and ribociclib(21)) may inhibit the metabolism of bromocriptine and cabergoline by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of bromocriptine or cabergoline with azole antifungals, protease inhibitors, or other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased levels of bromocriptine and cabergoline, which may result in increased side effects of these agents.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use caution with concurrent therapy with bromocriptine and cabergoline with azole antifungals, protease inhibitors, or other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole has been shown to increase cabergoline concentrations with concurrent use. A case report including 2 patients with concurrent therapy of cabergoline and itraconazole noted plasma levels of cabergoline to be increased by 300% in one of the patients. This increase in cabergoline concentrations was noted to increase clinical improvement.(6) Posaconazole has been shown to inhibit the CYP3A4 mediated metabolism of midazolam by 83%.(3) Voriconazole (400 mg every 12 hours for one day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for 8 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of sirolimus (2 mg) by 7-fold and 11-fold, respectively. Ergot alkaloids are metabolized by the same isoenzyme system.(5)

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Felodipine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of felodipine by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of felodipine leading to adverse effects, including severe hypotension and peripheral edema.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of felodipine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be approached with caution.(1) When these agents are used concurrently, the dose of felodipine may need to be decreased and patients should be observed for increased effects.(1) If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the dose of felodipine may need to be increased and patients should be observed for decreased effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of an extended release formulation of felodipine with itraconazole resulted in approximately 8-fold increase in the AUC, more than 6-fold increase in the Cmax, and 2-fold prolongation in the half-life of felodipine.(1) A double-blind, randomized, two-phase crossover study in nine subjects examined the effects of itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, on felodipine. The half-life of felodipine increased by 71% during concurrent itraconazole. In seven of the nine subjects, the maximum concentration (Cmax) of felodipine when administered with placebo was lower than the 32-hour concentration of felodipine when administered with itraconazole. Concurrent use also resulted in significantly greater effects on both blood pressure and heart rate.(1,2) There are two case reports of patients developing edema following the addition of itraconazole to felodipine therapy.(5) In the second report, the patient was rechallenged with concurrent itraconazole and again developed edema.(3) Voriconazole has been shown to inhibit the metabolism of felodipine in vitro.(4) Selected strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph are: adagrasib, cobicistat, conivaptan, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, lopinavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, troleandomycin, and tucatinib.(5)

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Itraconazole; Ketoconazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Atazanavir,(1) cobicistat,(2) darunavir with cobicistat or ritonavir,(3) fosamprenavir,(4) lopinavir/ritonavir,(5) nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(6) saquinavir,(7) and tipranavir/ritonavir(8) may inhibit the metabolism of itraconazole and ketoconazole. Itraconazole and ketoconazole may inhibit the metabolism of the protease inhibitors and elvitegravir/cobicistat.(2,9-11)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in increased levels of and toxicity from itraconazole, ketoconazole, the protease inhibitors, or elvitegravir/cobicistat.(1-11)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of boosted protease inhibitors or elvitegravir/cobicistat with high doses of ketoconazole or itraconazole greater than 200 mg daily is not recommended(1-10) unless dosing is guided by itraconazole concentrations.(11) The US Department of Health and Human Service HIV guidelines state that dosing of itraconazole when used concurrently with unboosted atazanavir should be guided by itraconazole concentrations.(11) The manufacturer of fosamprenavir states that a dose reduction of itraconazole or ketoconazole may be needed for patients receiving more than 400 mg of these agents a day with unboosted fosamprenavir.(4) The manufacturer of saquinavir states that concurrent use with itraconazole should be monitored for saquinavir toxicity due to the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.(7) Monitor for adverse effects from either the antifungal or the protease inhibitor.

DISCUSSION: A study of 14 subjects found that ketoconazole (200 mg daily) used concurrently with atazanavir (400 mg daily) had negligible effects on atazanavir area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax).(1) In a study of 18 subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of elvitegravir by 1.17-fold and 1.48-fold.(2) In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) and darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) increased darunavir Cmax, AUC, and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 1.21-fold, 1.42-fold, and 1.73-fold, respectively. Ketoconazole Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased by 2.11-fold, 3.12-fold, and 9.68-fold, respectively.(3) In a study in 12 subjects, administration of a single dose of ketoconazole (400 mg) with a single dose of amprenavir (1200 mg) decreased the amprenavir Cmax by 16%. Amprenavir AUC was increased by 31%. Ketoconazole Cmax and AUC were increased by 19% and 44%, respectively.(4) In a study in 15 subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (200 mg daily) with fosamprenavir/ritonavir (700/100 mg twice daily) resulted in no changes in amprenavir levels. Ketoconazole Cmax and AUC increased by 25% and 169%, respectively.(4) In a study in 12 subjects, administration of a single dose of ketoconazole (200 mg) after 16 days of lopinavir with ritonavir (400 mg with 100 mg twice daily) decreased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, Cmin levels 11%, 13%, and 25%, respectively. Ketoconazole Cmax and AUC were increased 1.13-fold and 3.04-fold, respectively.(5) A study of 11 subjects found that itraconazole (200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of nirmatrelvir by 119% and 139%, respectively.(6) In a study in 12 subjects, administration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily) and saquinavir (1000 mg twice daily) with ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) resulted in no changes in saquinavir levels. Ketoconazole AUC and Cmax increased by 168% and 45%, respectively.(7) Ketoconazole has been shown to increase the Cmax and AUC of telithromycin by 51% and 95%, respectively.(9) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.

Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Mometasone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of mometasone.(1-14,17)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from mometasone, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression.(1-14,17)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use caution when using concurrent therapy with mometasone and CYP3A4 inhibitors. Alternative corticosteroids that are less affected by CYP3A4 inhibitors should be considered, like beclomethasone and prednisolone.(14) If concurrent therapy is warranted, patients should be closely monitored for systemic effects. The corticosteroid may need to be discontinued.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, inhaled mometasone furoate (400 mcg delivered by a dry powder inhaler twice daily for 9 days) with ketoconazole (200 mg on Days 4 to 9) increased systemic mometasone furoate concentrations from <150 pg/mL on Day 3 prior to coadministration of ketoconazole to a peak plasma concentrations of mometasone furoate >200 pg/mL on Day 9 (211-324 pg/mL).(14) There have been several case reports of Cushing's syndrome in patients treated concurrently with ritonavir and nasal fluticasone and mometasone.(15) A review of corticosteroid use patients on protease inhibitors detailed the interactions that can result in accumulation of corticosteroids, leading to adrenal suppression and Cushing's syndrome.(16) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, lenacapavir, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, telaprevir, tipranavir, and tucatinib.(17)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-Gp) Inhibitors/Betrixaban

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Betrixaban is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Inhibition of intestinal P-gp leads to increased absorption of betrixaban.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use betrixaban with P-gp inhibitors may lead to elevated plasma levels of betrixaban, increasing the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Factors associated with an increased risk for bleeding include renal impairment, concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors, coexisting conditions (e.g. recent trauma) or use of drugs (e.g. NSAIDs) associated with bleeding risk, and patient weight < 50 kg.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Assess renal function and evaluate patient for other pre-existing risk factors for bleeding prior to initiating concurrent therapy. The concurrent use of betrixaban and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 ml/min).(1) The recommended dose for patients receiving or starting concomitant P-gp inhibitors is an initial single dose of 80 mg followed by 40 mg once daily. The recommended duration of treatment is 35 to 42 days.(1) Note that if betrixaban is used with the combination of darunavir and cobicistat, dose adjustment of betrixaban is not necessary.(2) The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to betrixaban.(3) Careful monitoring for signs and symptoms of bleeding is warranted during concurrent therapy. Consider regular monitoring of hemoglobin, platelet levels, and/or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or ecarin clotting time (ECT). Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as bleeding from the eyes, gums or nose; unusual bruising; dark stools; red or dark brown urine; and/or abdominal pain or swelling.(1) The anticoagulant effect of betrixaban is expected to persist for at least 72 hours after the last dose. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(8)

DISCUSSION: In the APEX randomized, double-blind study the incidence of major or clinically relevant non-major bleeds (CRNM) in the betrixaban 40mg and 80 mg group was higher in patients taking concomitant P-gp inhibitors (2.8% vs. 4.1% vs. 4.7%).(4) In a study in 12 subjects, concomitant administration of a single dose of betrixaban (40 mg) following a 5-day regimen of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) resulted in an increase in betrixaban's maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) of 2.3-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively.(5) An open-label study looking at concomitant administration of a single dose of betrixaban with verapamil in 18 subjects found an increase in betrixaban's Cmax and AUC of approximately 4.7-fold and 3-fold, respectively.(5) In a study, concomitant administration of betrixaban (80 mg) with amiodarone resulted in an increase in betrixaban's Cmax by 143%.(5) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with betrixaban and amiodarone, diltiazem, or verapamil concluded that if concurrent use is warranted, the betrixaban dose should be reduced to 80 mg once then 40 mg daily. Use should be avoided if CrCl is less than 30 ml/min.(6) P-gp inhibitors include asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, voclosporin and voxilaprevir.(1,4-7)

Selected Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Intravenous Lefamulin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of lefamulin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of lefamulin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of lefamulin with other medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, intravenous lefamulin increased the QTcF by 13.6 msec (90% CI = 15.5 msec) and oral lefamulin increased the QTcF by 9.3 msec (90% CI = 10.9 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Atorvastatin (<= 20 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of atorvastatin by CYP3A4.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors may result in elevated levels of atorvastatin, which could result in rhabdomyolysis.(1-5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving protease inhibitors, consider the use of fluvastatin. If atorvastatin is used with concurrent darunavir, fosamprenavir, lopinavir, or saquinavir, limit the dose of atorvastatin to 20 mg daily with careful monitoring.(1-5) Monitor for signs and symptoms of myopathy (e.g. muscle weakness, muscle pain, rising creatine kinase).

DISCUSSION: A study in 15 subjects found that darunavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg twice daily) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under curve (AUC) of atorvastatin (10 mg daily) by 64% and 15%, when compared to atorvastatin (40 mg daily) administered alone. Atorvastatin minimum concentration (Cmin) increased by 81% during concurrent therapy.(2) In a study in 16 subjects, concurrent atorvastatin (10 mg daily for 4 days) and fosamprenavir (1400 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) increased atorvastatin Cmax and AUC by 304% and 130%, respectively. Atorvastatin Cmin decreased by 10%.(3) The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of amprenavir decreased by by 18%, 27%, and 12%, respectively.(3) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of atorvastatin (10 mg daily for 4 days) and fosamprenavir (700 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) with ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 2 weeks) increased the atorvastatin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 184%, 153%, and 73%, respectively.(1,4) There were no changes in amprenavir Cmax, AUC, or Cmin.(3) A randomized, controlled trial in healthy subjects examined the effects of a combination of ritonavir and saquinavir on the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, pravastatin, and simvastatin and the effects of pravastatin on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics. The combination of ritonavir and saquinavir decreased pravastatin levels by 50% and increased atorvastatin and simvastatin levels by 79% and 3059%, respectively. Pravastatin had no statistically significant effect on nelfinavir pharmacokinetics.(6) Concurrent administration of atorvastatin (40 mg) with ritonavir-saquinavir (400 mg twice daily) increased atorvastatin AUC and Cmax by 3.9-fold and 4.3-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration of atorvastatin (20 mg) with lopinavir-ritonavir (400-100 mg twice daily) increased atorvastatin by 5.9-fold.(1)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Didanosine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The simultaneous administration of buffered didanosine with atazanavir or indinavir may result in dramatically decreased levels of the protease inhibitor and loss of efficacy.(1-3) The simultaneous administration of enteric-coated didanosine with atazanavir,(2) darunavir,(4) lopinavir/ritonavir(5) or ritonavir(6) may result in decreased levels and efficacy of didanosine.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of atazanavir(2) recommends that enteric-coated didanosine be administered at a different time than atazanavir. Buffered didanosine should be administered 1 hour before or 2 hours after atazanavir. The manufacturers of didanosine(1) and indinavir(3) recommend that the administration of buffered didanosine and indinavir be separated by at least one hour. The US manufacturer of darunavir recommends that didanosine be given one hour before or two hours after darunavir/ritonavir or darunavir/cobicistat.(4,8) The US manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir recommends that didanosine be given one hour before or two hours after lopinavir/ritonavir capsules or oral solution.(5) Lopinavir/ritonavir tablets may be taken concurrently with didanosine.(7)

DISCUSSION: Atazanavir 400 mg daily decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of enteric-coated didanosine 400 mg single dose by 36% and 34%, respectively. Coadministration of enteric-coated didanosine with atazanavir 300 mg daily with ritonavir 100 mg daily resulted in similar decreases in didanosine exposure. Simultaneous administration of single-dose buffered didanosine 200 mg with atazanavir 400 mg decreased atazanavir's Cmax by 89% and AUC by 87%. Administering atazanavir 1 hour after didanosine mitigated the interaction.(2) Concurrent administration of darunavir/ritonavir (600/100 mg twice daily) and didanosine (400 mg daily) decreased darunavir Cmax by 7%. Didanosine Cmax and AUC decreased by 16% and 9%, respectively.(4) The simultaneous administration of didanosine and indinavir decreased the Cmax and AUC of indinavir by 82% and 84%, respectively.(1) The simultaneous administration of didanosine and ritonavir decreased the AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) of didanosine by 13% and 16%, respectively. There were no significant changes in ritonavir pharmacokinetics.(6)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Nirmatrelvir-Ritonavir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir may inhibit the metabolism of amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(1-11)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir with amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir may increase levels and toxicity of the protease inhibitors.(1-11)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir states that no dose adjustment is needed when coadministered with other ritonavir- or cobicistat-containing products. Patients on ritonavir-boosted or cobicistat-boosted HIV regimens should continue their HIV therapy while on nirmatrelvir-ritonavir. Monitor patients closely for adverse effects.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: Nirmatrelvir-ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and may increase the levels of CYP3A4 substrates, including amprenavir, atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nelfinavir, saquinavir, and tipranavir.(1-11)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Selected Antiarrhythmics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Darunavir (coadministered with cobicistat or ritonavir)(1), fosamprenavir (with or without ritonavir),(2) lopinavir-ritonavir(3), and ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir(4) are CYP3A4 inhibitors and may decrease the metabolism of ajmaline, amiodarone, and quinidine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of darunavir (coadministered with cobicistat or ritonavir)(1), fosamprenavir (with or without ritonavir),(2) lopinavir-ritonavir(3), or ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir(4) with ajmaline, amiodarone, or quinidine may result in elevated levels of these antiarrhythmics and serious and/or life-threatening arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Darunavir (coadministered with cobicistat or ritonavir),(1) fosamprenavir (with or without ritonavir),(2) lopinavir-ritonavir,(3) and ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir(4) should be used with caution with ajmaline, amiodarone, and quinidine, along with concentration monitoring of these agents. The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that amiodarone should not be coadministered with darunavir or lopinavir unless benefits outweigh risks, and that quinidine should not be coadministered with protease inhibitors.(12) The Canadian and UK manufacturers of darunavir,(6,7) fosamprenavir,(8,9) and lopinavir-ritonavir(10,11) state that concurrent use of amiodarone is contraindicated. The UK manufacturers of darunavir(7) and fosamprenavir(9) state that concurrent use of quinidine is contraindicated. If used concurrently, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Darunavir and fosamprenavir are moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4. Lopinavir-ritonavir is a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4.(13)

Selected Protease Inhibitors/Vardenafil (<= 2.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of vardenafil by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of vardenafil with protease inhibitors may result in increased levels of and adverse effects from vardenafil, including hypotension, visual changes, and sustained erections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: US guidelines for the use of antiretroviral agents recommends patients receiving protease inhibitors should receive no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 72 hours. US labeling recommendations for concurrent use of vardenafil with protease inhibitors state: -Patients receiving any ritonavir- or cobicistat-containing regimens, including atazanavir, darunavir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, lopinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, saquinavir, and tipranavir should receive no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 72 hours. -Patients receiving unboosted atazanavir, unboosted fosamprenavir, unboosted indinavir, or nelfinavir should take no more than 2.5 mg of vardenafil every 24 hours. Canadian labeling contraindicates concurrent use of atazanavir/ritonavir, lopinavir/ritonavir, and nirmatrelvir/ritonavir with vardenafil.(3,12,14) Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of vardenafil adverse effects, including hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of indinavir (800 mg three times daily) with vardenafil (10 mg) increased the vardenafil area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 16-fold and 7-fold, respectively. Vardenafil half-life increased 2-fold. At 24-hours post-dose, vardenafil levels fell to approximately 4% of vardenafil Cmax. The AUC and Cmax of indinavir decreased by 30% and 40%, respectively. Concurrent use of ritonavir (600 mg twice daily)with vardenafil (5 mg) increased vardenafil AUC and Cmax by 49-fold and 13-fold, respectively. The half-life of vardenafil increased to 26 hours. The ritonavir AUC and Cmax decreased by 20%.

Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Clarithromycin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown. The metabolism of clarithromycin by CYP3A4 may be inhibited.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of clarithromycin(1-11), reduced levels of 14-OH-clarithromycin,(1-5) and QTc prolongation.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with decreased renal function (as shown by a creatinine clearance (CrCL) of 60 ml/min or less are more susceptible to effects of the interaction.(2-4,6-8) The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(12) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(12)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of atazanavir recommends consideration of a 50% reduction in clarithromycin dosage in patients receiving atazanavir. For indications other than Mycobacterium avium complex, consider an alternative to clarithromycin.(1,2) The manufacturer of cobicistat says that alternative antibiotics should be considered with concomitant use of cobicistat coadministered with atazanavir or darunavir.(9) The manufacturers of darunavir,(6) the combination of lopinavir and ritonavir,(7) ritonavir,(4) and tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir(5) recommend that the dose of clarithromycin be reduced by 50% in patients with a CrCl of 30 ml/min to 60 ml/min. For patients with a CrCl of less than 30 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 75%. No adjustment is necessary in patients with normal renal function. The manufacturer of the combination of elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine, and tenofovir disoproxil states that no adjustment is necessary in patients with a CrCl greater than or equal to 60 ml/min. In patients with a CrCl of 50 ml/min to 60 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 50%.(8) The manufacturer of clarithromycin states that in patients receiving ritonavir, the dose of clarithromycin be reduced by 50% in patients with a CrCl of 30 ml/min to 60 ml/min. For patients with a CrCl of less than 30 ml/min, the dose of clarithromycin should be reduced by 75%. No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with normal renal function.(3) Dosages of clarithromycin in excess of 1000 mg per day should not be used in patients taking protease inhibitors.(3) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 29 subjects, clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of atazanavir (400 mg daily) by 6%, 28%, and 91%, respectively. In a study in 21 subjects, atazanavir (400 mg daily) increased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of clarithromycin by 50%, 94%, and 160%, respectively, and decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of OH-clarithromycin by 72%, 70%, and 62%, respectively.(1) In a study in 17 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) and darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of darunavir by 17%, 13%, respectively. Clarithromycin Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased by 1.26-fold, 1.57-fold, and 2.74-fold, respectively.(6) In a study in 22 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin and ritonavir increased clarithromycin AUC,(1,4) Cmax,(4) and Cmin(4) by 77%, 31%, and 2.8-fold, respectively. The AUC,(1,3) Cmax,(3) and Cmin(3) of 14-OH-clarithromycin decreased by 100%, 99%, and 100%, respectively. Ritonavir AUC, Cmax, Cmin increased by 12%, 15%, 14%, respectively.(4) In a study in 24 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) and tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily) increased tipranavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 1.40-fold, 1.66-fold, 2.00-fold, respectively. The AUC and Cmin of clarithromycin increased 1.19-fold and 1.68-fold, respectively. The Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of 14-OH-clarithromycin decreased by 97%, 97%, and 95%, respectively.(5) In a controlled study in 21 healthy volunteers the use of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 for 7 days) concurrently with clarithromycin (500mg twice daily for 14 days) led to increased TPV/r Cmax, AUC, and Cp12h by 40%, 66%, and 100% respectively. The formation of the active metabolite 14-OH-CLR was decreased by 95%, and both AUC and Cmax of 14-OH-CLR were decreased by 97% in the presence of tipranavir. Single dose tipranavir/ritonavir result in no statistical change in clarithromycin AUC or Cmax, but a 50% increase in Cp12h was identified. Multiple dose tipranavir/ritonavir showed a 19% increase in clarithromycin AUC, no change in Cmax, and a 68% increase in Cp12h versus clarithromycin alone.(13) Selected protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, lopinavir, ritonavir, telaprevir, and tipranavir.

Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Lidocaine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Protease inhibitors(1-15) may inhibit the metabolism of lidocaine via CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors(1-15) with antiarrhythmic doses of lidocaine may result in elevated levels and toxicity from lidocaine.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Lidocaine clearance is significantly impaired in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of atazanavir,(1) atazanavir-cobicistat,(2) darunavir,(4) darunavir-cobicistat,(5) fosamprenavir,(8) indinavir,(10) lopinavir-ritonavir,(11) nelfinavir,(12) nirmatrelvir/ritonavir,(13) ombitasvir-paritaprevir-ritonavir,(14) and tipranavir(15) recommend caution and therapeutic concentration monitoring when lidocaine is administered concurrently as an antiarrhythmic. Recommendations differ in other regions. The UK manufacturer of atazanavir-cobicistat(3) and the Canadian manufacturer of darunavir,(6) darunavir-cobicistat,(7) and fosamprenavir(9) state that concurrent use of lidocaine is contraindicated.

DISCUSSION: The protease inhibitors are moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP3A4, one of the metabolic pathways for lidocaine elimination.(16-17)

Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat/Oxcarbazep;Eslicarb

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Oxcarbazepine and eslicarbazepine may induce the metabolism of protease inhibitors and cobicistat via CYP3A4.(1-9) Oxcarbazepine and eslicarbazepine are weak CYP3A4 inducers.(7-9) Selected protease inhibitors that are CYP3A4 substrates include atazanavir, darunavir, and lopinavir.(1-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of selected protease inhibitors including atazanavir, darunavir, or lopinavir, or cobicistat with oxcarbazepine or eslicarbazepine may result decreased levels and/or suboptimal pharmacokinetics of protease inhibitors and cobicistat, resulting in the development of resistance.(1-8)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of protease inhibitors including atazanavir, darunavir, or lopinavir, or cobicistat-containing HIV regimens with oxcarbazepine should be approached with caution.(1-8,10,11) The manufacturer of darunavir-cobicistat states consider an alternative anticonvulsant or antiretroviral therapy. If coadministration is necessary, monitor for lack or loss of virologic response.(12) The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Guidelines for the Use of Antiretroviral Agents recommend the use of alternative anticonvulsants or antiretroviral therapy. If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients closely for virologic response.(10)

DISCUSSION: Atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, and lopinavir are primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Inducers of CYP3A4 are expected to reduce atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, and lopinavir levels, which may lead to loss of response.(1-6) Oxcarbazepine is a weak CYP3A4 inducer.(7-9) In a study in 27 subjects, the administration of atazanavir and efavirenz without ritonavir decreased the atazanavir area-under-curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 74%, 59%, and 93% respectively.(1) In a study in 13 subjects, concurrent atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) with efavirenz (600 mg daily) increased atazanavir AUC, Cmax, and Cmin by 39%, 14%, and 48%, when compared to atazanavir 400 mg daily alone.(1) In a study in 14 subjects, concurrent atazanavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg daily) with efavirenz (600 mg daily) increased atazanavir Cmax by 17%. Atazanavir Cmin decreased by 42%.(1) In a study in 23 subjects, concurrent nevirapine (200 mg twice daily) with atazanavir/ritonavir (300/100 mg daily) decreased atazanavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 28%, 42%, an 72%, respectively.(1,2) Nevirapine Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased 17%, 25%, and 32%, respectively.(1) In a study in 23 subjects, concurrent nevirapine (200 mg twice daily) with atazanavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg daily) decreased atazanavir AUC and Cmin by 19% and 59%, respectively.(1,2) Nevirapine Cmax, AUC, and Cmin increased 21%, 26%, and 35%, respectively.(1) A study in 11 subjects examined the effects of concurrent administration of efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily). When compared to 7 controls, concurrent administration resulted in decreases in the AUC and and Cmin lopinavir by 19% and 39%, respectively. Efavirenz AUC and Cmin decreased 16% and 16%, respectively.(6) In a study in 19 subjects, concurrent efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (500/125 mg twice daily) increased lopinavir Cmax) and AUC by 12% and 6%, respectively, and decreased lopinavir Cmin by 10% when compared to lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily alone.(6) In a study in 23 subjects, concurrent efavirenz (600 mg daily) with lopinavir/ritonavir (600/150 mg twice daily) increased lopinavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 36%, 36%, and 32%, respectively, when compared to lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) without concurrent efavirenz.(6) Another study compared 5 subjects taking concurrent nevirapine (200 mg daily for 14 days, twice daily for 6 days) with 6 subjects taking lopinavir/ritonavir alone. Concurrent therapy increased nevirapine Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 5%, 8%, and 15% respectively.(6)

Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors;Protease Inhib/Iloperidone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of iloperidone.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor or protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from iloperidone.(1,2) Elevated levels of iloperidone may increase the risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age, and with concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP2D6, which metabolizes iloperidone.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of iloperidone should be reduced to one-half of its normal dose when strong CYP3A inhibitors or protease inhibitors are coadministered.(1,2) If the patient is also receiving a CYP2D6 inhibitor, iloperidone should be reduced to one-half of its normal dose but no additional dose reduction is required with both a CYP2D6 inhibitor and CYP3A4 inhibitor. When the inhibitor is discontinued, the dose of iloperidone should be increased.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 4 days) increased the AUC of iloperidone (3 mg single dose) and its P88 and P95 metabolites by 57%, 55%, and 35%, respectively.(1) Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) and iloperidone (12 mg twice daily) was associated with a mean QTcF increase of 19 msec from baseline, compared with an increase of 9 msec with iloperidone alone.(1) Coadministration of ketoconazole and paroxetine (a CYP2D6 inhibitor) did not increase the effects on iloperidone compared with either agent alone.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, boceprevir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, relacorilant, telaprevir, tipranavir, and tucatinib.(2,4)

Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors;Protease Inhib/Mefloquine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of mefloquine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or protease inhibitors with mefloquine may result in elevated levels of mefloquine and toxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of mefloquine states that concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be approached with caution.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines recommend considering alternative therapies to protease inhibitors or monitoring for adverse events and virologic response.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 8 healthy subjects, administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily) for 10 days followed by a single 500 mg dose of mefloquine resulted in an increase in the AUC of mefloquine by 79%. The elimination half-life was increased from 322 hours to 448 hours.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Selected Weak Cyp2d6 Inhibitors/Tamoxifen

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP2D6 may inhibit the conversion of tamoxifen to endoxifen (an active metabolite of tamoxifen).(1-2) The role of endoxifen in tamoxifen's efficacy has been debated and may involve a minimum concentration level.(3-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP2D6 may decrease the effectiveness of tamoxifen in preventing breast cancer recurrence.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of weak CYP2D6 inhibitors in patients who are CYP2D6 intermediate metabolizers should be avoided. Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers lack CYP2D6 function and are not affected by CYP2D6 inhibition.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Although data on this interaction are conflicting, it may be prudent to use alternatives to CYP2D6 inhibitors when possible in patients taking tamoxifen. The US manufacturer of tamoxifen states that the impact on the efficacy of tamoxifen by strong CYP2D6 inhibitors is uncertain and makes no recommendation regarding coadministration with inhibitors of CYP2D6.(12) The manufacturer of paroxetine (a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor) states that alternative agents with little or no CYP2D6 inhibition should be considered.(13) The National Comprehensive Cancer Network's breast cancer guidelines advises caution when coadministering strong CYP2D6 inhibitors with tamoxifen.(14) NCCN states when prescribing a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it is reasonable to avoid SSRIs that are strong and moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors, particularly fluoxetine and paroxetine, if an appropriate alternative exists.(14) Cancer Care Ontario breast cancer guidelines state concurrent use of weak CYP2D6 inhibitors should be closely monitored.(15) The European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) clinical practice guidelines for early breast cancer states patients on tamoxifen should be advised to avoid concurrent use of strong and moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors. Consider alternatives to tamoxifen if CYP2D6 inhibitors cannot be replaced with alternative agents.(16) If concurrent therapy is warranted, the risks versus benefits should be discussed with the patient.

DISCUSSION: Some studies have suggested that administration of fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine with tamoxifen or a CYP2D6 poor metabolizer phenotype may result in a decrease in the formation of endoxifen (an active metabolite of tamoxifen) and a shorter time to breast cancer recurrence.(1-2,9) A retrospective study of 630 breast cancer patients found an increasing risk of breast cancer mortality with increasing durations of coadministration of tamoxifen and paroxetine. In the adjusted analysis, absolute increases of 25%, 50%, and 75% in the proportion of time of overlapping use of tamoxifen with paroxetine was associated with 24%, 54%, and 91% increase in the risk of death from breast cancer, respectively.(18) The CYP2D6 genotype of the patient may have a role in the effects of this interaction. Patients with wild-type CYP2D6 genotype may be affected to a greater extent by this interaction. Patients with a variant CYP2D6 genotype may have lower baseline levels of endoxifen and may be affected to a lesser extent by this interaction.(6-10) In a retrospective review, 1,325 patients treated with tamoxifen for breast cancer were classified as being poor 2D6 metabolizers (lacking functional CYP2D6 enzymes), intermediate metabolizers (heterozygous alleles), or extensive metabolizers (possessing 2 functional alleles). After a mean follow-up period of 6.3 years, the recurrence rates were 14.9%, 20.9%, and 29.0%, in extensive metabolizers, intermediate metabolizers, and poor metabolizers, respectively.(11) In October of 2006, the Advisory Committee Pharmaceutical Science, Clinical Pharmacology Subcommittee of the US Food and Drug Administration recommended that the US tamoxifen labeling be updated to include information about the increased risk of breast cancer recurrence in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers (either by genotype or drug interaction).(19-20) The labeling changes were never made due to ongoing uncertainty about the effects of CYP2D6 genotypes on tamoxifen efficacy. In contrast to the above information, two studies have shown no relationship between CYP2D6 genotype and breast cancer outcome.(21-23) As well, a number of studies found no association between use of CYP2D6 inhibitors and/or antidepressants in patients on tamoxifen and breast cancer recurrence,(24-28) though the studies were limited by problematic selection of CYP2D6 inhibitors and short follow-up. Weak inhibitors of CYP2D6 include: alogliptin, artesunate, celecoxib, chloroquine, cimetidine, clobazam, clomipramine, cobicistat, delavirdine, diltiazem, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, dronabinol, dupilumab, echinacea, enasidenib, fedratinib, felodipine, fluvoxamine, gefitinib, hydralazine, imatinib, labetalol, lorcaserin, nicardipine, osilodrostat, ranitidine, ritonavir, sarpogrelate, sertraline, verapamil and viloxazine.(29)

Slt Protease Inhib;Cobicistat/Sildenafil (Ed);Tadalafil (Ed)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of sildenafil and tadalafil.(1-13)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a protease inhibitor may result in elevated levels of sildenafil or tadalafil, which may result in increased adverse effects such as hypotension, visual changes, and priapism.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of Viagra (sildenafil, 1) and the protease inhibitors (2-11) state that the recommended dose of sildenafil, when used for erectile dysfunction, is 25 mg of sildenafil in a 48 hour period for patients receiving concurrent therapy. Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of sildenafil adverse effects, including hypotension, syncope, visual changes, and priapism. Patients experiencing these effects should report them promptly to their physician. The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that concurrent use of sildenafil when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is contraindicated.(2-11) The US manufacturer of Revatio (sildenafil) states that concurrent use with ritonavir is not recommended.(12) The US manufacturers of tadalafil(12) and the protease inhibitors(2-10) state that the recommended dose of as needed tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction is 10 mg of tadalafil every 72 hours in patients receiving concurrent therapy. The US manufacturer of tadalafil states that the recommended dose of daily tadalafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients taking potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 is 2.5 mg.(13) The US manufacturer of tadalafil chewable tablets (Chewtadzy) states the maximum recommended dose of as needed tadalafil for erectile dysfunction in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is 10 mg every 72 hours. The use of tadalafil chewable tablets (Chewtazdy) for once daily use for erectile dysfunction or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is not recommended in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors due to the lack of a 2.5 mg tablet strength.(14) The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have received a protease inhibitor for at least one week, the initial dosage of tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension should be 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(2-11) The US manufacturers of the protease inhibitors state that in patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be discontinued for 24 hours before beginning protease inhibitor therapy other than nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. After one week, tadalafil may be resumed at a dosage of 20 mg daily. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(2-9) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, tadalafil should be adjusted to 20 mg daily prior to beginning therapy with nelfinavir without concurrent ritonavir. The dosage may be increased to 40 mg daily based upon tolerability.(10) In patients who have been receiving tadalafil for the treatment of primary pulmonary hypertension, maintain tadalafil dose when switching from darunavir/ritonavir to darunavir/cobicistat.(16) Patients should be counseled that they are at an increased risk of tadalafil adverse effects, including hypotension, syncope, visual changes, and priapism. Patients experiencing these effects should report them promptly to their physician.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, administration of darunavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg twice daily) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of sildenafil (25 mg) by 38% and 3%, respectively, when compared to the administration of a 100 mg single dose of sildenafil given alone.(3) In a study in 6 HIV-infected males, indinavir (800 mg every 8 hours) increased the AUC and Cmax of indinavir by 11% and 48%, respectively. Sildenafil AUC increased by 340%.(5) The concurrent administration of ritonavir (400 mg twice daily) at steady state with sildenafil (100 mg single dose) resulted in increases in the sildenafil Cmax and AUC by 300% (4-fold) and 1000% (11-fold), respectively.(1,8) After 24 hours, plasma levels of sildenafil were still approximately 200 ng/ml (normally 5 ng/ml 24 hours post-dose).(1) In a study in 27 healthy volunteers, the concurrent use of saquinavir (1200 mg 3 times daily for 8 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of sildenafil (100 mg) by 210% and 140%, respectively.(9) In a study of 28 healthy male volunteers, the effects of sildenafil when coadministered with ritonavir were determined in 14 of these volunteers. Ritonavir showed increases in sildenafil AUC and Cmax of 11-fold and 3.9-fold respectively.(15) Concurrent administration of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg twice daily for 17 doses) had no significant effects on the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg). Tadalafil Cmax decreased 30%. Tipranavir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin decreased by 10%, 15%, and 19%, respectively. Administration of a single dose of tipranavir/ritonavir (500/200 mg) increased the AUC of a single dose of tadalafil (10 mg) by 2.33-fold. Tadalafil Cmax decreased 22%.(9) Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (200 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil AUC by 124%.(2,7) Concurrent administration of a single dose of tadalafil (20 mg) with ritonavir (500 mg or 600 mg twice daily) increased tadalafil AUC by 32% and decreased tadalafil Cmax by 30%.(13)

Slt Strong & Moderate 3A4 Inhibitors/Cilostazol (<=50Mg Bid)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of cilostazol.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of cilostazol and strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of cilostazol, which may produce increased effects of cilostazol and adverse effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of cilostazol should be limited to 50 mg twice daily in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 healthy males, the administration of a single dose of cilostazol (10 mg) with erythromycin (500 mg every eight hours) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of cilostazol by 47% and 73%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of 4'-trans-hydroxy-cilostazol were increased by 29% and 141%, respectively.(2) Analysis of population pharmacokinetics indicated that the concurrent administration of diltiazem with cilostazol increased cilostazol concentrations by 53%. Concurrent administration of diltiazem and cilostazol decreased cilostazol clearance by 30%, increased the Cmax by 30%, and increased AUC by 40%.(1) In a study, the administration of a single dose of cilostazol (10 mg) with erythromycin (500 mg every eight hours) increased the Cmax and AUC of cilostazol by 47% and 73%, respectively. The AUC of 4'-trans-hydroxy-cilostazol was increased by 141%.(1) In an vitro study in human liver microsomes, ketoconazole inhibited the metabolism of cilostazol.(3)

Slt Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibit/Amlodipine; Levamlodipine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the first-pass and elimination metabolism of calcium channel blockers by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with calcium channel blockers metabolized by CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of the calcium channel blocker and risk of adverse effects, including hypotension and bradycardia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with calcium channel blockers should be approached with caution. When these agents are used concurrently, the dose of the calcium channel blocker may need to be adjusted or an alternative agent considered. Monitor patients for increased calcium channel blocker effects. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the dose of the calcium channel blocker may need to be increased and patients should be observed for decreased effects.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of a 180 mg dose of diltiazem (moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) with 5 mg amlodipine resulted in a 60% increase in amlodipine systemic exposure. Strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may increase plasma concentrations of amlodipine to a greater extent.(1) In a study in 19 healthy subjects, telaprevir (750 mg every 8 hours for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of amlodipine (5mg) by 1.27-fold and 2.79-fold, respectively.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, fluconazole, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Slt Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibit/Selected Calcium Channel Blockers

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the first-pass and elimination metabolism of calcium channel blockers by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with calcium channel blockers metabolized by CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of the calcium channel blocker and risk of adverse effects, including hypotension and bradycardia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with calcium channel blockers should be approached with caution. When these agents are used concurrently, the dose of the calcium channel blocker may need to be adjusted or an alternative agent considered. Monitor patients for increased calcium channel blocker effects. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, the dose of the calcium channel blocker may need to be increased and patients should be observed for decreased effects.

DISCUSSION: A double-blind, randomized, two-phase crossover study in nine subjects examined the effects of itraconazole on felodipine. The half-life of felodipine increased by 71% during concurrent itraconazole. In seven of the nine subjects, the maximum concentration (Cmax) of felodipine when administered with placebo was lower than the 32-hour concentration of felodipine when administered with itraconazole. Concurrent use also resulted in significantly greater effects on both blood pressure and heart rate.(10,11) A randomized cross-over trial in seven subjects examined the effects of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) on nisoldipine (5 mg daily). The concurrent use of ketoconazole increased the nisoldipine area-under-curve (AUC) and Cmax by 24-fold and 11-fold, respectively. Increases in the M9 nisoldipine metabolite were similar.(7) PKPB modeling of nifedipine and ritonavir noted a decreased systolic blood pressure > 40 mmHg.(8) There are several case reports of patients developing increased levels of calcium channel blockers and adverse effects with concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(9-16) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: adagrasib, ceritinib, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(17,18)

Str 3A4 Inhib That Prol Qt/Tolterodine (<=1 Mg Or <=2 Mg Er)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of tolterodine by CYP3A4.(1,2) Tolterodine has been observed to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of tolterodine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of tolterodine and signs of toxicity, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers may be at increased risk.(1,2) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of tolterodine recommends that a maximum tolterodine dosage of 1 mg twice daily of the non extended release dosage form(1) or 2 mg once daily of the extended release dosage form(2) be used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. The manufacturer of tolterodine states concurrent use agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used with caution. Consider close observation in patients with a known history of QT prolongation or patients taking antiarrhythmic medications.(1,2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in eight subjects who were deficient in CYP2D6, the concurrent administration of tolterodine (2 mg) with ketoconazole (200 mg once daily for four days), another inhibitor of CYP3A4, resulted in a 60% decrease in tolterodine clearance.(6) Tolterodine AUC and Cmax increased 2.5-fold and 2-fold, respectively.(2) In a study of the effect of tolterodine immediate release tablets, the effect on the QT interval appeared greater for 8 mg/day (two times the therapeutic dose) compared to 4 mg/day. Tolterodine 2 mg BID and tolterodine 4 mg BID increased the QTcF by 5.01 msec (0.28-9.74 msec) and 11.84 msec (7.11-16.58 msec), respectively. The change in QT interval was more pronounced in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (PM) than extensive metabolizers (EMs).(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(1,7,8)

Str 3A4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Panobinostat (<= 10 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of panobinostat.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from panobinostat, including increased risk of bleeding and prolongation of the QT interval which may result in life-threatening arrhythmia and death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dose of panobinostat to 10 mg when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Limit the starting dose of panobinostat to 10 mg in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, continue standard monitoring of complete blood counts, ECG, and serum electrolytes. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting; nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea; unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, paleness; unusual or unexplained bleeding or bruising; signs of infection such as fever, cough, or flu-like symptoms. If panobinostat toxicity occurs, panobinostat or the CYP3A4 inhibitor may need to be discontinued.(1) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In 14 patients with advanced cancer, ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, 200 mg twice daily for 14 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of panobinostat by 62% and 73%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, ceritinib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Str Cyp3a4 Inhib;Atazan;Darun/Aripiprazole Im Every 2 Months

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of aripiprazole.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from aripiprazole.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of aripiprazole IM every 2 months injection (Abilify Asimtufii) makes the following recommendations for patients who receive a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for greater than 14 days:(1) - if the aripiprazole dose is 960 mg every 2 months and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is started, reduce the aripiprazole dose to 720 mg once every 2 months. - if the patient is taking both a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor AND a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, avoid use of Abilify Asimtufii. - if the patient is a poor CYP2D6 metabolizer and receives treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, avoid use of Abilify Asimtufii.

DISCUSSION: There have been no specific drug-drug interaction studies with aripiprazole long-acting injections. The coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 14 days) with a single oral dose of aripiprazole (15 mg) resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. In simulations, the combination of strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 4.5-fold. The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 3-fold.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Str Cyp3a4 Inhib;Atazanavir;Darunav/Aripiprazole Im Monthly

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of aripiprazole.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from aripiprazole.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1-2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of aripiprazole IM monthly injection (Abilify Maintena) recommends the following dose adjustments for patients who receive a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for longer than 14 days:(1) - if the aripiprazole dose is 400 mg per month and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is started, then decrease aripiprazole dose to 300 mg per month. - if the aripiprazole dose is 400 mg per month and patient receives concomitant treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor AND a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, then decrease dose to 200 mg per month. - if the aripiprazole dose is 300 mg per month and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is started, then decrease aripiprazole dose to 200 mg per month. Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and receive treatment with a strong CYP3A inhibitor should also receive 200 mg per month. - if the aripiprazole dose is 300 mg per month and patient receives concomitant treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor AND a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, then decrease dose to 160 mg per month. The monthly aripiprazole dose may need to be increased if long-term CYP3A4 inhibitor treatment is discontinued.(1)

DISCUSSION: There have been no specific drug-drug interaction studies with aripiprazole long-acting injections. The coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 14 days) with a single oral dose of aripiprazole (15 mg) resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. In simulations, the combination of strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 4.5-fold. The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 3-fold.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong 3A4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Delamanid

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of delamanid and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may result in increased levels of and toxicity from delamanid, including QT prolongation. QT prolongation may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of delamanid and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval should be approached with caution. If concurrent use is necessary, frequently monitor ECGs (more frequently than the standard recommended monthly ECG during delamanid therapy) throughout the full delamanid treatment period. Discontinue delamanid if a QTcF greater than 500 msec is observed. Discontinue delamanid if albumin falls below 2.8 g/DL.(1) If concurrent therapy with either delamanid and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor that prolongs the QTc interval is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, lopinavir/ritonavir (400/100 mg daily) administered with delamanid (100 mg twice daily) increased exposure to delamanid exposed by 30%. There was no effect on delamanid levels.(1) QT prolongation has been observed with delamanid and increases over the first 6-10 weeks of therapy. In a placebo controlled study in healthy subjects, the mean increase in QTcF from baseline during delamanid therapy was 7/6 msec at 1 month and 12.1 msec at 2 months. Three percent of patients experienced an increase of 60 msec or greater at some point during therapy. One patient had a QTcF greater than 500 msec. All patients with a QTcF greater than 60 msec were also taking a fluoroquinolone.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong And Moderate 3A4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Etrasimod

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong and moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may impair the CYP3A4-mediated metabolism of etrasimod. Etrasimod is metabolized by CYP2C8, CYP2C9, and CYP3A4.(1) Initiation of etrasimod has a negative chronotropic effect, which may increase the risk of developing QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: In patients who are poor metabolizers of CYP2C9 or are also taking a strong or moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor, concurrent use of a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects from etrasimod including immunosuppression, decreased lung function, bradycardia, and AV conduction delays. Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate. A mean decrease in heart rate of 7.2 (8.98) beats per minute was seen 2 to 3 hours after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to etrasimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to etrasimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) CYP2C9 poor metabolizers (e.g., *2/*3, *3/*3) may have decreased clearance of etrasimod when etrasimod is used concomitantly with strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4. Patients who are also taking a strong or moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor may also have decreased etrasimod clearance.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of etrasimod with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers is not recommended.(1) Concomitant use of etrasimod with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients who are also taking a strong or moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor is not recommended. (1) If concurrent therapy is unavoidable, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present prior to initiation of etrasimod.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) Monitor blood pressure during treatment.(1)

DISCUSSION: Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate or transient AV conduction delays.(1) A transient decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of etrasimod and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks) were detected at a higher incidence under etrasimod treatment than placebo.(1) CYP2C9 activity is decreased in individuals with genetic variants such as CYP2C9*2 and CYP2C9*3 alleles. The impact of CYP2C9 genetic variants on the pharmacokinetics of etrasimod has not been directly evaluated. Increased exposure of etrasimod in patients who are CYP2C9 poor metabolizers is expected with concomitant use of moderate to strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) Concomitant use of etrasimod with steady-state fluconazole (a moderate CYP2C9 and CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased etrasimod area-under-curve (AUC) by 84%.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(2,3) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors include: clofazimine, dronedarone, erythromycin, and oral lefamulin.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib; Atazanavir; Darunavir/Aripiprazole Ir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of aripiprazole.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from aripiprazole.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1-2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of aripiprazole states that the dose of immediate release oral or injectable aripiprazole should be reduced to one-half of its normal dose when strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are coadministered, unless aripiprazole is being administered as adjunctive therapy for Major Depressive Disorder. If the patient is also receiving a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor or is a known CYP2D6 poor metabolizer, the dose of aripiprazole should be reduced to one-fourth its normal dose. When the inhibitors are discontinued, the dose of aripiprazole should be increased.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that patients on ritonavir- or cobicistat-boosted protease inhibitors should have their dose of aripiprazole decreased to one-fourth of the usual dose. Patients on unboosted atazanavir should have their aripiprazole decreased to one-half of the usual dose.(2)

DISCUSSION: The coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 14 days) with a single oral dose of aripiprazole (15 mg) resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. In simulations, the combination of strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 4.5-fold. The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 3-fold.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib; Protease Inhib/Lumateperone (<=10.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of lumateperone.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lumateperone with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or protease inhibitors increases lumateperone exposure, which may increase the risk of adverse reactions.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B or C) may be at higher risk of increased lumateperone exposure.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of lumateperone recommends decreasing the dosage of lumateperone to 10.5 mg once daily in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines state that protease inhibitors should not be coadministered with lumateperone.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of lumateperone with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 4-fold and 3.5-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax), respectively.(1) Coadministration of lumateperone with diltiazem, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 2.5-fold and 2-fold increase AUC and Cmax, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib;Atazanav;Darunavir/Saxagliptin(<=2.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of saxagliptin.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of saxagliptin.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of saxagliptin states that the dose of saxagliptin should be limited to 2.5 mg daily in patients taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 9 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 62% and 2.5-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 95% and 91%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of ketoconazole decreased 16% and 13%, respectively.(1,2) Pretreatment with ketoconazole (200 mg every 12 hours for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of saxagliptin (100 mg) by 2.4-fold and 3.7-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of saxagliptin decreased 96% and 90%, respectively.(1) Inhibitors of CYP3A4 linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1,3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhib;Atazanavir;Darunav/Aripiprazole Lauroxil

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of aripiprazole.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from aripiprazole.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of aripiprazole lauroxil extended-release injection (Aristada) recommends the following dose adjustments for patients who receive a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for greater than 14 days:(1) - in patients already receiving aripiprazole lauroxil, reduce dose to the next lower strength. For patients receiving 441 mg, no further dose reduction is necessary, if tolerated. - for patients who are known to be poor CYP2D6 metabolizers and are taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor for greater than 14 days, reduce dose to 441 mg per month. For patients receiving 441 mg, no further dose reduction is necessary, if tolerated. - for patients taking both a strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitor for greater than 14 days, avoid 662 mg, 882 mg, and 1,064 mg doses. No dose adjustment is necessary in patients taking the 441 mg dose, if tolerated.

DISCUSSION: The coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg daily for 14 days) with a single oral dose of aripiprazole (15 mg) resulted in increases in the area-under-curve (AUC) of aripiprazole and its active metabolite by 63% and 77%, respectively. In simulations, the combination of strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 4.5-fold. The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers is predicted to increase aripiprazole Cmax and AUC by 3-fold.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, atazanavir, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Gilteritinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of gilteritinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase the levels and effects of gilteritinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of gilteritinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be used with caution. Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients more frequently for adverse reactions. Interrupt and reduce gilteritinib dose if toxicities occur.(1) If coadministration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, monitor for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. Prior to initiation of therapy with gilteritinib, obtain baseline ECG and on days 8 and 15 of cycle 1, and prior to the start of the next two subsequent cycles. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications For a QTc interval greater than 500 msec: ---Interrupt gilteritinib therapy ---Resume gilteritinib therapy at 80 mg when the QTc interval returns to within 30 msec of baseline or <= 480 msec. For QTc interval increased by > 30 msec on ECG on Day 8 of cycle 1: ---Confirm with ECG on Day 9 ---If confirmed, consider dose reduction to 80 mg.(1)

DISCUSSION: Itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of gilteritinib by 20% and 1200%, respectively.(1) In the gilteritinib clinical trial, 1.4% of patients developed a QTc interval greater than 500 msec and 7% of patients had an increase QTc greater than 60 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Mavorixafor

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of mavorixafor and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1) Mavorixafor is also a substrate of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). P-gp inhibitors may increase mavorixafor exposure.(1) Many CYP3A4 inhibitors also inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp), including adagrasib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, saquinavir, and telithromycin.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of mavorixafor including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dose of mavorixafor to 200 mg once daily when used concomitantly with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor ECG prior to initiation, during concurrent therapy, and as clinically indicated.(1) When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QT prolongation occurs, a dose reduction or discontinuation of mavorixafor may be required.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study with healthy subjects, itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) increased the exposure to single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg similar to that from single-dose mavorixafor 400 mg alone. This suggests that itraconazole increased mavorixafor exposure by about 2-fold.(1) A study in healthy volunteers found that ritonavir 100 mg twice daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg by 60% and 39%, respectively.(4) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(2,6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Midostaurin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of midostaurin and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from midostaurin, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of midostaurin states to consider alternative therapies that do not inhibit CYP3A4 whenever possible. Consider interval assessments of QT by electrocardiogram (ECG) if taken concurrently with medications that can prolong the QT interval.(1) Monitor patient for signs of midostaurin toxicity with concurrent use, especially during the first week of concurrent therapy in advanced systemic mastocytosis (SM) population and during the first week of each cycle of chemotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) population.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Midostaurin is a substrate of CYP3A4.(1) Concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 10 days, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with a single 50 mg dose of midostaurin on day 6 increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of midostaurin and the active metabolite, CGP62221, 10.4-fold and 3.5-fold, respectively. The AUC over time to last measurable concentration of CGP62221 increased by 1.2-fold compared to midostaurin alone.(1) Concurrent administration of itraconazole (100 mg twice daily on days 22-28 for 13 doses, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with multiple doses of midostaurin (100 mg twice daily on days 1-2 and 50 mg twice daily on days 3-28) increased day 28 minimum concentration (Cmin) of midostaurin, CGP62221 and CGP52421 by 2.1-fold, 1.2-fold, and 1.3-fold, respectively, compared to day 21 Cmin concentrations with midostaurin alone.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Milsaperidone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may inhibit the metabolism of milsaperidone and may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of milsaperidone with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated milsaperidone levels and toxicities, including the risk for QTc prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age, and with concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP2D6, which metabolizes milsaperidone.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of milsaperidone states that the concurrent administration of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided.(1) If patients have a persistent QTc > 500 msec, discontinue milsaperidone.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, the US manufacturer of milsaperidone states that the maintenance dose of milsaperidone should be reduced to one-half of its normal dose when initiating a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. If starting milsaperidone with a stable dose of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, follow the recommended titration schedule in the labeling.(1) Further dose reduction is not required for concurrent administration of milsaperidone with both a CYP2D6 inhibitor and CYP3A4 inhibitor. The maintenance dose of milsaperidone should be reduced to one-half of its normal dose when initiating a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. If starting milsaperidone with a stable dose of a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, follow the recommended titration schedule in the labeling.(1) When the inhibitor is discontinued milsaperidone exposure will wane and the dose of milsaperidone should be titrated to the recommended dose in the labeling.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Milsaperidone and iloperidone rapidly interconvert in vivo. Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily, an inhibitor of CYP3A4) and iloperidone (12 mg twice daily) was associated with a mean QTcF increase of 19 msec from baseline, compared with an increase of 9 msec with iloperidone alone.(1) Coadministration of paroxetine (20 mg daily, an inhibitor of CYP2D6) and iloperidone (12 mg twice daily) was associated with a mean QTcF increase of 19 msec from baseline, compared with an increase of 9 msec with iloperidone alone.(1) Concomitant administration of ketoconazole (a strong CY3A4 inhibitor) (200 mg twice daily for 4 days) with a 3 mg single dose of iloperidone increased the iloperidone area-under-curve (AUC) by 57%, the milsaperidone AUC by 55%, and the P95 AUC by 35%.(1) Coadministration of ketoconazole (a CYP3A4 inhibitor) and paroxetine (strong CYP2D6 inhibitor) did not increase the effects on iloperidone compared with either agent alone.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval linked to this monograph include: ceritinib, clarithromycin, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Ziftomenib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ziftomenib is a CYP3A4 substrate and has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ziftomenib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of ziftomenib, including differentiation syndrome, neutropenia, and additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ziftomenib states that concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be monitored more closely for adverse reactions.(1) The manufacturer of ziftomenib states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating ziftomenib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated. More frequent ECG monitoring may be necessary. Do not initiate ziftomenib if baseline QTcF > 480 ms.(1) Perform ECG at least once weekly for the first 4 weeks on treatment, then at least monthly thereafter. If the QTc interval is greater than 500 ms or the change from baseline is greater than 60 ms, withhold ziftomenib therapy.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Concomitant use of ziftomenib with itraconazole, voriconazole, and posaconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitors) is predicted to increase ziftomenib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 3-fold and 2-fold, respectively.(1) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (fluconazole, erythromycin, and isavuconazole) are predicted to increase ziftomenib AUC and Cmax by 2-fold and 2-fold, respectively.(1) Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors (cimetidine) are predicted to increase ziftomenib AUC and Cmax by 1.4-fold and 1.4-fold, respectively.(1) In clinical trials, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 12% of 112 patients treated with the recommended dosage of ziftomenib. QTc was >500 ms in 9% of patients and the increase from baseline QTcF was >60 ms in 12% of patients. Ziftomenib increased the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At a dose of 600 mg daily, the largest mean increase in QTc was 7.7 ms (upper bound of confidence interval = 12.6 ms).(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: ceritinib, lopinavir/ritonavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Alitretinoin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of alitretinoin.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in increased levels of and effects from tretinoin including hepatotoxicity and hyperlipidemia.(1) Retinoids, including alitretinoin, have been associated with intracranial hypertension, especially in pediatric patients. Early signs and symptoms include papilledema, headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of alitretinoin recommends a reduction in alitretinoin dose to 10 mg once daily when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) Evaluate patients with symptoms for intracranial hypertension (such as papilledema, headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances), and, if present, institute care in concert with neurological assessment. Consider interruption, dose reduction, or discontinuation of alitretinoin as appropriate.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, ketoconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the concentration max (Cmax) of alitretinoin by around 50% and 4-oxo-alitretinoin (active metabolite) by around 13%. Similar increases were seen with the area-under-curve (AUC) of alitretinoin.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Atogepant

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of atogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from atogepant, including nausea, constipation, and fatigue.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of atogepant recommends that patients on concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors receive atogepant 10 mg once daily for prevention of episodic migraines and for prevention of chronic migraines.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study of healthy subjects, itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the atogepant area-under-curve (AUC) by 5.5-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.15-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Bortezomib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of bortezomib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from bortezomib including peripheral neuropathy, thrombocytopenia, and neutropenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment have increased exposure to bortezomib.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with bortezomib should be approached with caution. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for signs of bortezomib toxicity and consider a dose reduction of bortezomib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a 2-way crossover study, 12 patients were randomized to receive concomitant ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) during one of either 2 cycles of bortezomib. Ketoconazole 400 mg daily for 4 days increased the AUC of bortezomib by 35% and increased blood proteasome inhibitory effect by 24-46%. However, the frequency and grade of adverse events were not increased by ketoconazole.(2) In a retrospective review, 6 patients with relapsed multiple myeloma received bortezomib; 2 patients were also on itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor), 1 patient was on lansoprazole (a CYP2C19 inhibitor), and 1 patient was on itraconazole and lansoprazole. New or worsening peripheral neuropathy and grade 4 thrombocytopenia occurred in all 3 patients on itraconazole, and grade 3 neutropenia occurred in 2 of the patients, compared to none of the patients not on itraconazole.(3) In a case report, two patient with refractory multiple myeloma started on bortezomib with itraconazole or voriconazole and developed paralytic ileus 12 and 15 days later. The authors suggest that these were cases of autonomic neuropathy caused by concomitant use of itraconazole or voriconazole with bortezomib.(4) In a retrospective study of 48 patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma on bortezomib, concomitant use of itraconazole was a risk factor for developing early-onset peripheral neuropathy [OR 19.0 (1.89-190.96, p=0.01)] on multivariate logistic regression analysis.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Buspirone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of buspirone.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and increased effects from buspirone, including lightheadedness, asthenia, dizziness, and somnolence.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Australian,(2) UK,(3) and US(4) manufacturers of buspirone recommend a lower dose of 2.5 mg twice daily of buspirone in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 8 healthy subjects, pretreatment with 4 days of erythromycin (1.5 g/day) increased the area-under curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of buspirone (10 mg) by 6-fold and 5-fold, respectively. The relative increase in buspirone AUC varied by 15-fold. There was a significant difference in scores on the Digit Symbol Substitution test when buspirone was administered with erythromycin.(1) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, pretreatment with itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of buspirone by 13-fold and 19-fold, respectively.(1,2) However, only the Critical Flicker Fusion test showed statistically significant differences when compared to the administration of buspirone alone.(1) In a study in 6 subjects, pretreatment with itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of buspirone by 10.5-fold and 14.5-fold, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of the piperazine metabolite of buspirone increased by 57% and 50%, respectively.(3) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent use of buspirone (2.5 mg or 5 mg twice daily) with nefazodone (250 mg twice daily) resulted in increases in the Cmax and AUC of buspirone, up to 20-fold and up to 50-fold, respectively. The concentration of 1-pyrimidinylpiperazine (a buspirone metabolite) decreased 50%.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cannabidiol-Tetrahydrocannabinol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from CBD and THC, including transaminitis, euphoria, somnolence, sedation, and dizziness.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian and Australian manufacturers of CBD-THC spray state that a new dosage may be required if concomitant therapy with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is started or stopped.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In a study of 12 healthy volunteers who were given CBD-THC buccal spray, ketoconazole 400 mg increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under curve (AUC) of CBD by 2-fold and 1.9-fold, respectively, of THC by 1.25-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively, and of 11-hydroxy-THC (a primary THC metabolite) by 3.1-fold and 3.6-fold, respectively.(3) In a study of 32 healthy volunteers, steady state itraconazole (strong inhibitor) did not affect the Cmax or AUC of oral CBD solution, but increased the Cmax and AUC of 7-hydroxy-CBD by 6% and 17% and increased the AUC of 7-carboxy-CBD by 12%. Steady state fluconazole (moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and CYP2C19 inhibitor) increased the Cmax and AUC of CBD by 24% and 21% and decreased the Cmax and AUC of 7-hydroxy-CBD by 41% and 29% and of 7-carboxy-CBD by 48% and 34%.(3) The manufacturer of oral CBD solution states that these changes are not clinically meaningful.(5) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(6)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Cinacalcet

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of cinacalcet by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from cinacalcet.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: PTH and serum calcium concentrations should be closely monitored if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is initiated or discontinued in patients receiving cinacalcet therapy. The dosage of cinacalcet may need to be adjusted.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, administration of cinacalcet on day 5 of a seven day course of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) increased cinacalcet area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.3-fold and by 2.2-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Eszopiclone; Zopiclone; Zolpidem

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 impair the metabolism of eszopiclone, zopiclone, and zolpidem.(1-5,8)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eszopiclone, zopiclone, or zolpidem with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in an increase in hypnotic levels and clinical effects, as well as toxic effects such as profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Systemic exposure may also be increased in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Elderly and debilitated patients are more likely to have impaired motor or cognitive performance when treated with hypnotics.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eszopiclone states the total dose should not exceed 2 mg in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of zopiclone states the prescribed dose should not exceed 5 mg in patients treated with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(8) Patients should be counseled that concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with eszopiclone, zopiclone, or zolpidem may result in an increase in side effects such as confusion, memory loss, sleep-walking or sleep-driving behaviors, or daytime drowsiness.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 5 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of eszopiclone by 2.2-fold. Eszopiclone maximum concentration (Cmax) and half-life were increased 1.4-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively.(1) An in vitro study in human liver microsomes found that ketoconazole inhibited the metabolism of zopiclone.(2) In a study in 10 subjects, itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) increased the AUC, Cmax, and half-life of zopiclone by 73%, 29%, and 40%, respectively. However, there were no significant differences in clinical effects when compared to placebo.(6) In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, concurrent use of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) and zolpidem (5 mg) decreased zolpidem clearance by 64% and increased its AUC 1.83-fold. In the same study, concurrent use of itraconazole and fluconazole with zolpidem had no clinically significant effects on zolpidem pharmacokinetics.(3,5) In a randomized, cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, concurrent use of itraconazole (200 mg daily for 4 days) with a single dose of zolpidem (10 mg on day 4) increased the AUC of zolpidem by 34% when compared to placebo. However, there were no significant differences in clinical effects when compared to placebo.(5,7) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph are: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, lonafarnib, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Fostamatinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of R406, the active metabolite of fostamatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from R406, the major metabolite of fostamatinib.(1) Elevated levels of fostamatinib may increase the risk of hepatotoxicity, hypertension, diarrhea, and neutropenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for concurrent use of fostamatinib with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors differ in different regions. The US manufacturer of fostamatinib advises monitoring for fostamatinib toxicities that may require a dose reduction.(1) The UK manufacturer of fostamatinib states that a 50% dose reduction of fostamatinib may be warranted for short-term use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (e.g., antifungals, antibacterials). After discontinuation of the CYP3A4 inhibitor for 2-3 days, the original dose of fostamatinib that was used prior to the start of the inhibitor should be resumed. Monitor the patient for fostamatinib toxicities that may require dose reduction.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study of 8 healthy males, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single-dose fostamatinib 80 mg by 102% and 37%, respectively.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ibrexafungerp

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ibrexafungerp.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from ibrexafungerp.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The prescribing information for ibrexafungerp advises that patients on concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should receive a reduced ibrexafungerp dose of 150 mg approximately 12 hours apart, in the morning and in the evening, for one day.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study of healthy subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg once daily for 15 days, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor), increased the ibrexafungerp area-under-curve (AUC) by 5.8-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2.5-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Levomilnacipran (<= 80 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of levomilnacipran.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of levomilnacipran.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of levomilnacipran should not exceed 80 mg daily in patients taking strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pretreatment with ketoconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of levomilnacipran between 1.25 and 1.50-fold and between 1.50 and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib and voriconazole.(1-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Nerandomilast

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that are strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of nerandomilast.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The coadministration of nerandomilast with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase nerandomilast systemic exposure and may result in increased adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of nerandomilast states the dose of nerandomilast should be reduced to 9 mg twice daily with concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, concurrent use of nerandomilast with itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, (200 mg once daily for 4 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) of nerandomilast by 2.2-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Oliceridine

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Oliceridine is metabolized equally by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4. Oliceridine metabolism may be inhibited by inhibitors of CYP2D6 or CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong or moderate CYP2D6 or strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from oliceridine including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with CYP2D6 poor metabolizer phenotype may be affected to a greater extent by CYP3A4 inhibitors. Inhibition of both CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 pathways may result in a greater increase in the levels of and toxcity of oliceridine.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Caution should be used when administering oliceridine to patients taking strong or moderate inhibitors of CYP2D6 or CYP3A4. Dosage adjustments should be made if warranted. Closely monitor these patients for respiratory depression and sedation at frequent intervals and evaluate subsequent doses based on response. If concomitant use of a strong or moderate CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitor is necessary, less frequent dosing of oliceridine may be required. If a strong or moderate CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, increase of the oliceridine dosage may be necessary. Monitor for signs of opioid withdrawal. Patients receiving concurrent therapy with both a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and CYP2D6 inhibitors may be at greater risk of adverse effects. Patient who are CYP2D6 normal metabolizers taking a CYP2D6 inhibitor and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may require less frequent dosing of oliceridine.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: In a study of four healthy subjects who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, itraconazole (200 mg daily for 5 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of single-dose oliceridine (0.25 mg) by 80%.(1) In a study of subjects who were not CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, ketoconazole (200 mg for 2 doses 10 hours apart) did not affect the pharmacokinetics of oliceridine.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Repaglinide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of repaglinide by CYP3A4.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of repaglinide and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and effects from repaglinide, including hypoglycemia.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent administration with a CYP2C8 inhibitor.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients maintained on repaglinide should be closely monitored if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is added to or withdrawn from concurrent therapy. A dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic agent may be required during therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.

DISCUSSION: In a study, concurrent administration of itraconazole (100 mg twice daily for 3 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of repaglinide (0.25 mg) by 1.4 fold and 1.5 fold, respectively. Concurrent administration of itraconazole (100 mg twice daily for 3 days) and gemfibrozil (600 mg twice daily for 3 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of repaglinide (0.25 mg) by 19 fold and 2.8 fold, respectively.(1,5) In a randomized, double-blind, crossover study in nine healthy subjects, clarithromycin (250 mg daily for 5 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of repaglinide (0.25 mg) by 40% and 67%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of insulin increased by 51% and 61%, respectively.(2) In a randomized, cross-over study of 12 healthy volunteers, telithromycin (800 mg for 3 days) raised the mean Cmax and AUC of repaglinide (0.25 mg single dose on day 3) to 138% and 177% respectively. Telithromycin did not effect the elimination half-life of repaglinide. Telithromycin increased the urinary excretion of unchanged repaglinide to 229%. The renal clearance of repaglinide was increased by telithromycin to 138%. Telithromycin also lowered the Cmax of blood glucose by 10% and mean concentration of blood glucose by as much as 12% after repaglinide intake.(3) Severe hypoglycemia has been reported in patients following the addition of clarithromycin to repaglinide therapy.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ruxolitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of ruxolitinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from ruxolitinib, including thrombocytopenia, risk of infection, non-melanoma skin cancer, lipid elevations.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In patients taking ruxolitinib, this interaction may be more severe in patients with a low platelet count.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the dosage of ruxolitinib when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Dose modifications of ruxolitinib in patients on concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors depend on the indication. For myelofibrosis, starting doses of ruxolitinib therapy in patients concurrently taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is based on platelet count: -In patients with a platelet count greater than or equal to 100 X 10x9/L who are receiving a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, the recommended starting dose of ruxolitinib is 10 mg twice daily or ruxolitinib XR 22 mg once daily. -In patients with a platelet count greater than 50 X 10x9/L to less than 100 X 10x9/L who are receiving a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, the recommended starting dose of ruxolitinib is 5 mg once daily. Do not use ruxolitinib XR. For polycythemia vera, the starting dose of ruxolitinib in patients concurrently taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is 5 mg twice daily or ruxolitinib XR 11 mg once daily. In patients with a diagnosis of myelofibrosis or polycythemia vera who are stabilized on ruxolitinib doses of 10 mg twice daily or more or on ruxolitinib XR doses of 22 mg once daily or more, and in whom a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is initiated, reduce the dose of ruxolitinib by 50% (rounded up to the closest available tablet strength). In patients with a diagnosis of myelofibrosis or polycythemia vera who are stabilized on ruxolitinib doses of 5 mg twice daily in whom a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is initiated, reduce the dose of ruxolitinib to 5 mg once daily. Do not use ruxolitinib XR. In patients with a diagnosis of myelofibrosis or polycythemia vera stabilized on ruxolitinib doses of 5 mg once daily or ruxolitinib XR doses of 11 mg once daily, avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or interrupt ruxolitinib therapy for the duration of the CYP3A4 inhibitor treatment. In patients with a diagnosis of acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease, no dose adjustment is recommended for concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients on ruxolitinib. It is recommended to increase the frequency of blood count monitoring when ruxolitinib is used with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors for acute or chronic graft-versus-host disease. The dose should be adjusted based on monitoring of safety and efficacy.(1)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 4 days) increased the concentration maximum (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and half-life of a single dose of ruxolitinib (10 mg) by 33%, 91%, and 62%, respectively. There was also a corresponding increase in pSTAT3 inhibition, a pharmacodynamic marker for ruxolitinib.(1) In healthy subjects, erythromycin (a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, 500 mg twice daily for 4 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of ruxolitinib (10 mg) by 8% and 27%, respectively. Therefore, no dosage adjustment is recommended with moderate or mild inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Slt Low Strength Antimuscarinics

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of darifenacin(1) and fesoterodine.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and signs of toxicity from darifenacin(1) and fesoterodine.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of darifenacin states that the daily dose of darifenacin should not exceed 7.5 mg in patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) The US manufacturer of fesoterodine states that the daily dose of fesoterodine should not exceed 4 mg in adult patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors. In pediatric patients, the daily dose of fesoterodine taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be reduced to 4 mg in patients weighing greater than 35 kilograms. Use of fesoterodine in pediatric patients weighing greater than 25 kilograms and up to 35 kilograms is not recommended.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 10 extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers and 1 poor CYP2D6 metabolizer, concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of darifenacin (7.5 mg daily) by 3.9-fold and 4.6-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 12.9-fold and 12-fold, respectively, in the poor metabolizer, compared to historical controls. The concurrent administration of ketoconazole (400 mg) and darifenacin (15 mg daily) increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 11.5-fold and 10.73-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 4.9-fold and 4.9-fold, respectively, in the poor metabolizer, compared to historical controls.(1) Concurrent administration of darifenacin (30 mg daily) and erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 128% and 95%, respectively. Administration of darifenacin (30 mg daily) and fluconazole, another moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased darifenacin AUC and Cmax by 84% and 88%, respectively. No dosage adjustment is recommended during concurrent therapy with moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) In a study, co-administration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice a day) increased the Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of fesoterodine 2.0 and 2.3-fold in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers and 2.1 and 2.5-fold in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, respectively. Fesoterodine Cmax and AUC were 4.5-fold and 5.7-fold higher in subjects who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and taking ketoconazole when compared to extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers not taking ketoconazole.(2) In another study, ketoconazole (200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of the active metabolite of fesoterodine 2.2-fold in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers and 1.5-fold and 1.9-fold in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, respectively.(1,2) Fesoterodine Cmax and AUC were 3.4-fold and 4.2-fold higher in subjects who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers and taking ketoconazole when compared to extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers not taking ketoconazole.(2) Based on a controlled randomized study in 28 healthy adults, oral fluconazole (200 mg daily) taken with oral fesoterodine (8 mg daily) was generally well tolerated in patients. A slightly non-clinically significant rise in plasma fesoterodine levels did occur. No clinically significant side effects were reported. The most common side effects reported by patients include: dizziness, blurred vision and abdominal distension when fluconazole was taken with fesoterodine.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Solifenacin (<= 5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of solifenacin.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and signs of toxicity from solifenacin.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US and Swedish manufacturers of solifenacin state the daily dose should be limited to 5 mg in adults and should not exceed the starting dose in children and adolescents when administered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. The starting dose of solifenacin is 2 mg for patients weighing up to 15 kg, 3 mg for patients over 15 kg to 45 kg, 4 mg for patients over 45 kg to 60 kg, and 5 mg for patients over 60 kg.(1,2) The Swedish manufacturer of the combination product of tamsulosin-solifenacin states that the daily dose of solifenacin should not exceed 6 mg in patients receiving potent CYP3A4 inhibitors.(3)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 21 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of solifenacin (10 mg) by 1.5-fold and 2.7-fold,respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Tofacitinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of tofacitinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from tofacitinib, including serious infections, thrombosis, gastrointestinal perforation, neutropenia, anemia, elevated liver enzymes, or lipid elevations.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, the starting dose of tofacitinib should be reduced as follows: - Xeljanz for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis: reduce to 5 mg once daily. - Xeljanz XR for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis: switch to Xeljanz 5 mg once daily. - Xeljanz for ulcerative colitis: - Induction: 5 mg twice daily for 8 weeks. If needed continue for maximum of 16 weeks. - Maintenance: 5 mg once daily. May consider 5 mg twice daily if loss of response. - Xeljanz XR for ulcerative colitis: - Induction: 11 mg once daily for 8 weeks. If needed continue for maximum of 16 weeks. - Maintenance: Not recommended. Switch to Xeljanz and follow strong CYP3A4 inhibitor recommendation. - Xeljanz oral solution for polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) or psoriatic arthritis (patients 2 years or older): - >= 10 kg to <20 kg: 3.2 mg once daily - >= 20 kg to <40 kg: 4 mg once daily - >= 40 kg: 5 mg once daily (1)(1) For concurrent treatment with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, dose adjustments should be considered throughout the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment and for 3 days following the last dose of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study, administration of ketoconazole, increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of tofacitinib by more than 2-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, or voriconazole.(3,4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Upadacitinib (<30 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of upadacitinib.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from upadacitinib, including neutropenia, serious infections, thrombosis, myocardial infarction, stroke, GI perforation, and transaminitis.(1,2) Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators, including idelalisib, lonafarnib, and ribociclib, may result in an increased risk of serious infections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of upadacitinib states that upadacitinib requires a dose adjustment with concurrent strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for atopic dermatitis concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 15 mg once daily. Coadministration of upadacitinib 30 mg once daily with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for ulcerative colitis concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 30 mg once daily for 8 weeks during the induction phase and then 15 mg once daily in the maintenance phase.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for Crohn's disease concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the upadacitinib dose to 30 mg once daily for 12 weeks during the induction phase and then 15 mg once daily in the maintenance phase.(1) If upadacitinib is being used for rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis, or giant cell arteritis, no dose adjustment is needed with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Monitor closely for adverse reactions.(1) Concurrent use of upadacitinib 15 mg with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be approached with caution. Patients should be closely monitored for adverse reactions.(1,2) For concurrent treatment with nirmatrelvir-ritonavir, dose adjustments should be considered throughout the nirmatrelvir-ritonavir treatment and for 3 days following the last dose of nirmatrelvir-ritonavir.(3)

DISCUSSION: In a study of 11 subjects, ketoconazole (400 mg daily for 6 days, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of single-dose upadacitinib 3 mg by 1.7-fold and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(4,5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Valbenazine (<= 40 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents which inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme may inhibit the metabolism of valbenazine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase systemic exposure and the risk for valbenazine toxicities such as QT prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may further increase levels of valbenazine.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the valbenazine dose to 40 mg once daily when valbenazine is coadministered with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.(1) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of ketoconazole with valbenazine increased valbenazine maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 2 and 1.5-fold, respectively. Cmax and AUC for the active metabolite of valbenazine (alpha-HTBZ) increased by approximately 2 and 1.6-fold, respectively. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vamorolone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of vamorolone which is metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from vamorolone, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If vamorolone is used concurrently with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce the dose of vamorolone to 4 mg/kg once daily. No dose adjustment is needed with moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, multiple doses of itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased vamorolone concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 8% and 44%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vanzacaftor-Tezacaftor-Deutivacafto

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of vanzacaftor-tezacaftor-deutivacaftor. Vanzacaftor, tezacaftor, and deutivacaftor are CYP3A4 substrates.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from vanzacaftor-tezacaftor-deutivacaftor, such as hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of vanzacaftor-tezacaftor-deutivacaftor states that concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors requires a dose adjustment. If concurrent use is warranted, the following dose adjustments are recommended: -For individuals 12 years and older AND any weight OR children 6 to less than 12 years old AND weight greater than or equal to 40 kg - one tablet of vanzacaftor 10mg/tezacaftor 50 mg/deutivacaftor 125 mg once a week; -For children 6 to less than 12 years old AND weighing less than 40 kg - two tablets of vanzacaftor 4 mg/tezacaftor 20 mg/deutivacaftor 50 mg once a week.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration with itraconazole (200 mg every 12 hours on Day 1, followed by 200 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) with tezacaftor (25 mg daily)-ivacaftor (50 mg daily) increased tezacaftor area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 4-fold and 2.83-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration with itraconazole (200 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) with single-dose elexacaftor 20 mg-tezacaftor 50 mg-deutivacaftor 50 mg increased tezacaftor AUC and Cmax by 4.51-fold and 1.48-fold and deutivacaftor AUC and Cmax by 11.1-fold and 1.96-fold.(1) Concurrent administration with itraconazole (200 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4) with vanzacaftor (5 mg single dose) increased vanzacaftor AUC and Cmax by 6.37-fold and 1.55-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration with fluconazole (200 mg daily, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) with vanzacaftor (20 mg daily)-tezacaftor (100 mg daily)-deutivacaftor (250 mg daily) is predicted to increase vanzacaftor AUC and Cmax by 2.55-fold and 2.48-fold and deutivacaftor by 3.13-fold and 2.27-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration with erythromycin (500 mg four times daily, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) with vanzacaftor (20 mg daily)-tezacaftor (100 mg daily)-deutivacaftor (250 mg daily) is predicted to increase vanzacaftor AUC and Cmax by 3.29-fold and 3.19-fold and deutivacaftor by 4.13-fold and 2.89-fold, respectively.(1) Concurrent administration with verapamil (80 mg three times daily, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4) with vanzacaftor (20 mg daily)-tezacaftor (100 mg daily)-deutivacaftor (250 mg daily) is predicted to increase vanzacaftor AUC and Cmax by 3.93-fold and 3.8-fold and deutivacaftor by 5.11-fold and 3.43-fold, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-4)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Vilazodone (<= 20 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of vilazodone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels and increased effects of vilazodone.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dose of vilazodone should be reduced to 20 mg daily when coadministered with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole increased vilazodone concentrations by 50%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(1-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Zanubrutinib

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of zanubrutinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from zanubrutinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) have elevated zanubrutinib plasma concentrations and may be more susceptible to the effects of this interaction.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The dosage of zanubrutinib should be reduced when coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Interrupt the dose as recommended by prescribing information for adverse reactions.(1) The US manufacturer of zanubrutinib states that when it is coadministered with: -Clarithromycin 250 mg twice daily, limit the dose of zanubrutinib to 80 mg twice daily. -Clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily, limit the dose of zanubrutinib to 80 mg once daily. -Posaconazole suspension 100 mg once daily, limit the dose of zanubrutinib to 80 mg twice daily. -Posaconazole suspension at a dosage higher than 100 mg once daily, or posaconazole delayed-release tablets 300 mg once daily, or posaconazole intravenous 300 mg once daily, limit the dose of zanubrutinib to 80 mg once daily. -Other CYP3A4 inhibitors, limit the dose of zanubrutinib to 80 mg once daily.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of zanubrutinib states that the dosage of zanubrutinib should be reduced to 80 mg once daily when coadministered with all strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(2)

DISCUSSION: Co-administration with itraconazole 200 mg once daily, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased zanubrutinib concentration maximum (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 157% and 278%, respectively.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3-5)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Zilurgisertib (<=50 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Zilurgisertib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of zilurgisertib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of zilurgisertib including headaches, arthralgias, and upper respiratory infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When used concomitantly with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, reduce zilurgisertib dose to 50 mg once daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, itraconazole increased zilurgisertib area-under-curve (AUC) by 2.13-fold and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.28-fold.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, grapefruit, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2-3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Zuranolone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of zuranolone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of zuranolone, including somnolence and CNS depression.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US prescribing information recommends dose adjustment if zuranolone is to be given with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Reduce the zuranolone dose to 30 mg orally once daily in the evening for 14 days when used concurrently with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of zuranolone with itraconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) by 25% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 62%.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, troleandomycin, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(2,3)

Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors/Brexpiprazole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of brexpiprazole.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from brexpiprazole.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: With brexpiprazole(1) this interaction is expected to be more severe in patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers, or who receive concomitant treatment with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. bupropion, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine) in addition to treatment with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors are expected to increase brexpiprazole levels 4.8-fold in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers. Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 inhibitors is expected to increase brexpiprazole levels 5.1-fold in extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6. With brexpiprazole, the interaction may also be more severe in patients taking moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of brexpiprazole recommends the following dose adjustments for patients who are receiving a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor: - in patients taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor without a strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor, administer half the usual dosage of brexpiprazole. - in patients taking a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor who are poor CYP2D6 metabolizers or are receiving a strong or moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6, decrease the dose to one-fourth the usual dose.(1) The dose of brexpiprazole should be adjusted to its original level if the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued.(1) The US Department of Health and Human Services HIV guidelines recommend that patients taking any ritonavir- or cobicistat-boosted protease inhibitor have their dose of brexpiprazole decreased to 25% of the usual dose. Patients on unboosted atazanavir should have their dose of brexpiprazole decreased to 50% of the usual dose.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ketoconazole increased the AUC of brexpiprazole approximately 2-fold.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, amprenavir, atazanavir, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, ribociclib, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3)

Strong Or Mod 3A4 Inh; Dual 3A4 And 1A2 Inhibit/Roflumilast

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that are either strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors or dual inhibitors of CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of roflumilast.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The coadministration of roflumilast with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors or dual inhibitors of CY3A4 and CYP1A2 may increase roflumilast systemic exposure and may result in increased adverse reactions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of roflumilast states concurrent use with CYP3A4 inhibitors or dual inhibitors of CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 should be approached with caution and the risk should be weighed carefully against the benefit. Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition.(1)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, concurrent use of roflumilast (500 mcg single dose) with erythromycin, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, (500 mg three times daily for 15 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) of roflumilast by 70% and 40%, respectively, and decreased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast N-oxide by 4% and 34%, respectively.(1,2) In healthy subjects, concurrent use of roflumilast (500 mcg single dose) with ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, (200 mg twice daily for 13 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast by 99% and 23%, respectively, and decreased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast N-oxide by 3% and 38%, respectively.(1) In healthy subjects, concurrent use of roflumilast (500 mcg single dose) with fluvoxamine, a dual CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor, (50 mg daily for 14 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast by 156% and 12%, respectively, and decreased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast N-oxide by 52% and 210%, respectively.(1) In healthy subjects, concurrent use of roflumilast (500 mcg single dose) with cimetidine, a dual CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor, (400 mg twice daily for 14 days) increased the AUC and Cmax of roflumilast by 85% and 46%, respectively, and increased the AUC and decreased Cmax of roflumilast N-oxide by 27% and 4%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, boceprevir, ceritinib, clarithromycin, cobicistat, ensitrelvir, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, relacorilant, saquinavir, telaprevir, tipranavir, tucatinib, and voriconazole.(3,4) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, darunavir, diltiazem, dronedarone, duvelisib, erythromycin, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazole, lefamulin (oral), lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, nirogacestat, schisandra, stiripentol, tofisopam, treosulfan, and voxelotor.(3,4) Dual CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: belumosudil, cannabidiol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, fluvoxamine, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, grapefruit, osilodrostat, piperine, ribociclib, rucaparib, simeprevir, telithromycin, troleandomycin, verapamil, and viloxazine.(3,4)

Strong Ugt Inducers; Nevirapine/Artesunate

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inducers of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) and nevirapine may increase the metabolism of dihydroartemisinin (DHA, the active metabolite of artesunate).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of carbamazepine, efavirenz, etravirine, fosphenytoin, nevirapine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, or ritonavir may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of DHA.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If coadministration of strong UGT inducers or nevirapine with artesunate is necessary, monitor for possible reduced antimalarial efficacy.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study, nevirapine decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of DHA by 59% and 68%, respectively.(1) In a study of healthy volunteers, ritonavir (100 mg twice daily for 7 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of DHA by 27% and 38%, respectively.(1,2) A study of healthy subjects who were coadministered lopinavir-ritonavir 400 mg-100 mg twice daily for 14 days) and artesunate-mefloquine found that artesunate Cmax and AUC decreased by 37% and 45%, respectively, compared to artesunate-mefloquine alone.(3) Agents linked to this monograph include: carbamazepine, efavirenz, fosphenytoin, nevirapine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, and ritonavir.

*History of clinically important hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., toxic epidermal necrolysis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, urticaria, angioedema) to lopinavir, ritonavir, or any other ingredient in the formulation.

*Concomitant use of lopinavir/ritonavir with drugs that are highly dependent on cytochrome P-450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A for metabolism and for which elevated plasma concentrations are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events: alfuzosin, cisapride, colchicine, dronedarone, fixed combination of elbasvir and grazoprevir (elbasvir/grazoprevir), ergot derivatives (dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, methylergonovine), lomitapide, lovastatin, lurasidone, oral midazolam, pimozide, ranolazine, simvastatin, sildenafil used for treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension, triazolam.

*Concomitant use of lopinavir/ritonavir with drugs that are potent inducers of CYP3A: apalutamide, rifampin, St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum); such use is expected to result in significantly reduced lopinavir plasma concentrations and may be associated with loss of virologic response and development of resistance and cross-resistance.

• Acute pancreatitis
• Lactation

• Congenital long QT syndrome
• Hyperlipidemia
• Hypokalemia
• Hypomagnesemia
• Prolonged QT interval
• Torsades de pointes

• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Cardiomyopathy
• Complete atrioventricular block
• Diabetes mellitus
• Disease of liver
• First degree atrioventricular heart block
• Hemophilia
• Myocardial ischemia
• Second degree atrioventricular heart block
• Structural disorder of heart

The most common adverse effects include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, hypercholesterolemia, and hypertriglyceridemia.

Less Frequent

• Anemia
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Hypertension
• Hyperuricemia
• Night sweats

Rare or Very Rare

• Abnormal hepatic function tests
• Acute myocardial infarction
• Acute pancreatitis
• Angina
• Asthma
• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrioventricular block
• Avascular necrosis of bone
• Cholangitis
• Cholecystitis
• Deep venous thrombosis
• Depression
• Diabetes mellitus
• Dyskinesia
• Dyspnea
• Encephalopathy
• Enterocolitis
• Erythema multiforme
• Extrapyramidal disease
• Facial palsy
• Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• Hepatitis
• Hepatomegaly
• Hypercortisolism
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypertonia
• Hypotension
• Hypothyroidism
• Increased alanine transaminase
• Increased aspartate transaminase
• Infection
• Jaundice
• Kidney stone
• Leukopenia
• Lymphadenopathy
• Neoplasm
• Neutropenic disorder
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Prolonged PR interval
• Prolonged QT interval
• Pulmonary edema
• Renal failure
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Splenomegaly
• Steatosis of liver
• Stevens-johnson syndrome
• Torsades de pointes
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Vasculitis

More Frequent

• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• General weakness
• Hypercholesterolemia
• Hypertriglyceridemia
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Less Frequent

• Acute abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia
• Flatulence
• Headache disorder
• Libido changes
• Menstrual disorder
• Myalgia
• Pain
• Skin rash
• Symptoms of anxiety
• Upper respiratory infection
• Weight loss

Rare or Very Rare

• Abdominal distension
• Acne vulgaris
• Acute cognitive impairment
• Agitation
• Allergic dermatitis
• Alopecia
• Amenorrhea
• Anorexia
• Arthralgia
• Chest pain
• Constipation
• Cough
• Disorder of ejaculation
• Dream disorder
• Dry skin
• Dyschromia
• Dysgeusia
• Eczema
• Edema
• Erectile dysfunction
• Eructation
• Esophagitis
• Facial edema
• Fecal incontinence
• Fever
• Gastritis
• Gynecomastia
• Hematuria
• Hemorrhoids
• Hyperacusis
• Hyperhidrosis
• Indifference
• Insomnia
• Lipodystrophy associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection
• Lipoma
• Malaise
• Menorrhagia
• Muscle spasm
• Nail disorders
• Osteoarthritis
• Palpitations
• Paresthesia
• Rectal bleeding
• Seborrheic dermatitis
• Stomatitis
• Tinnitus
• Tremor
• Vertigo
• Visual changes
• Weight gain
• Xerostomia

No enhanced messaging available.

Safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetic profile of lopinavir/ritonavir have not been established in neonates younger than 14 days of age. Because of possible toxicities, do not use lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution in neonates with a postnatal age less than 14 days or a postmenstrual age less than 42 weeks (i.e., time elapsed since first day of mother's last menstrual period to birth plus time elapsed after birth).

Lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution contains approximately 42% (v/v) alcohol and approximately 15% (w/v) propylene glycol. Inadvertent ingestion of the oral solution or overdosage in an infant or young child may result in significant toxicity and is potentially lethal. There have been postmarketing reports of life-threatening cases of cardiac toxicity, lactic acidosis, acute renal failure, CNS depression, and respiratory complications leading to death, predominantly in preterm neonates receiving lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution. A safe and effective dose of lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution has not been established in this population. If the benefits of the oral solution for treatment of HIV infection in an infant immediately after birth are judged to outweigh potential risks, closely monitor the infant for increases in serum osmolality and serum creatinine and other signs of toxicity related to the oral solution. These toxicities include hyperosmolality with or without lactic acidosis, renal toxicity, CNS depression (including stupor, coma, and apnea), seizures, hypotonia, cardiac arrhythmias, ECG changes, and hemolysis. If lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution is used in preterm neonates or in pediatric patients 14 days to 6 months of age, total amounts of alcohol and propylene glycol from all drugs that the child is receiving should be taken into account to avoid toxicity associated with these excipients.

Once-daily lopinavir/ritonavir regimens are notrecommended in pediatric patients younger than 18 years of age.

For the treatment of HIV-1 infection in pregnant women infected with HIV-1 strains without lopinavir-associated resistance mutations, a dosage of lopinavir 400 mg/ritonavir 100 mg twice daily is recommended. Data are insufficient to make dosage recommendations for pregnant women infected with HIV-1 strains with lopinavir-associated resistance mutations.

Dosage adjustments are not needed in postpartum women.

A once-daily lopinavir/ritonavir regimen is not recommended during pregnancy.

Avoid lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution in pregnant women since it contains alcohol and propylene glycol.

The Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to lopinavir/ritonavir during pregnancy. Clinicians are encouraged to register patients in the APR by calling 800-258-4263 or visiting https://www.apregistry.com/.

Based on prospective reports from the APR that included over 3000 exposures to lopinavir-containing regimens (including over 1000 first trimester exposures), there was no difference in the risk of overall major birth defects for lopinavir compared with the background rate for major birth defects of 2.7% in the United States reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP). Similarly, based on prospective reports from the APR that included over 5000 exposures to ritonavir-containing regimens (including over 2000 first trimester exposures), there was no difference in the risk of overall major birth defects for ritonavir compared with the MACDP background rate.

When lopinavir/ritonavir was administered to pregnant rats or rabbits, no treatment-related malformations were observed; however, embryonic and fetal developmental toxicities occurred in rats administered maternally toxic doses.

The US Department of Health and Human Services Panel on Treatment of HIV-infected Pregnant Women and Prevention of Perinatal Transmission states that initiation of lopinavir/ritonavir in combination with 2 nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) is not recommended, except in special circumstances, for treatment of HIV-1 infection in antiretroviral-naive or antiretroviral-experienced pregnant women.

Once-daily lopinavir/ritonavir regimens are not recommended during pregnancy. Avoid lopinavir/ritonavir oral solution in pregnant women since it contains alcohol and propylene glycol.

Trough plasma concentrations of lopinavir were decreased by approximately 40% during the second and third trimesters compared with postpartum in HIV-infected pregnant women treated with lopinavir 400 mg/ritonavir 100 mg twice daily. The decrease in lopinavir trough plasma concentrations is not considered clinically important when the usual dosage of lopinavir/ritonavir is used in pregnant women infected with HIV-1 strains without lopinavir-associated resistance mutations.

The HHS perinatal HIV transmission guideline provides updated recommendations on infant feeding. The guideline states that patients with HIV should receive evidence-based, patient-centered counseling to support shared decision making about infant feeding. During counseling, patients should be informed that feeding with appropriate formula or pasteurized donor human milk from a milk bank eliminates the risk of postnatal HIV transmission to the infant. Additionally, achieving and maintaining viral suppression with antiretroviral therapy during pregnancy and postpartum reduces the risk of breastfeeding HIV transmission to <1%, but does not completely eliminate the risk. Replacement feeding with formula or banked pasteurized donor milk is recommended when patients with HIV are not on antiretroviral therapy and/or do not have a suppressed viral load during pregnancy (at a minimum throughout the third trimester), as well as at delivery.

The manufacturer makes no specific dosage recommendations for geriatric patients. Select dosage with caution because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.

Experience in those 65 years of age and older is insufficient to determine whether they respond differently from younger adults. Use with caution in geriatric individuals because of age-related decreases in hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and concomitant disease and drug therapy.

Pharmacokinetics of lopinavir/ritonavir have not been studied in geriatric patients.