Mexiletine Hcl (mexiletine HCl)

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

Class I And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Halofantrine

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: Possibly additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of halofantrine and Class I or III antiarrhythmics may pre-dispose patients to development of prolonged QTc interval.(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 halofantrine states under the contraindications section of the prescribing information that unless there are compelling clinical reasons, halofantrine should not be used with Class I and III antiarrhythmics.(1) 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: Because concurrent use may pre-dispose patients to prolongation of the QTc interval, the manufacturer of halofantrine states in the contraindications section of the prescribing information that halofantrine should not be used with Class I or III antiarrhythmics unless compelling clinical reasons exist.(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.

Class Ib, Ii, And Iv Antiarrhythmics/Disopyramide

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: Disopyramide has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that affect the heart rate and rhythm may result in unpredictable effect on heart rhythm.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of disopyramide with other agents that affect the heart rate and rhythm may result in in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of disopyramide states that concurrent use of disopyramide with antiarrhythmic agents should be reserved for patients with life-threatening arrhythmias who are demonstrably unresponsive to single-agent antiarrhythmic therapy.(3) The Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as Class I, II, III, or IV is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of verapamil states that disopyramide should not be administered within 48 hours before or 24 hours after verapamil.(2) The Australian manufacturer of celiprolol states that the concurrent use of antiarrhythmics such as disopyramide is contraindicated during treatment with celiprolol (exception: intensive care).(4) If 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.

DISCUSSION: Because combinations of antiarrhythmics are not well researched and concurrent use may result in unpredictable effects, the Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as Class I, II, III, or IV is contraindicated.(1)

Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Fezolinetant

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 CYP1A2 may inhibit the metabolism of fezolinetant.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inhibitor may increase levels of and adverse effects from fezolinetant.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for concurrent use of fezolinetant with CYP1A2 inhibitors differ in different regions. The US manufacturer of fezolinetant states that concurrent use with strong, moderate, and weak CYP1A2 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) The Australian, Canadian, and UK manufacturers of fezolinetant state that concurrent use with strong and moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors is contraindicated, while weak CYP1A2 inhibitors are not predicted to cause clinically relevant changes in fezolinetant exposure.(2-4)

DISCUSSION: In a study, fluvoxamine, a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor, increased fezolinetant maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 80% and 840%, respectively. Mexiletine (400 mg every 8 hours), a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor, increased fezolinetant Cmax and AUC by 40% and 360%, respectively. Cimetidine (300 mg every 6 hours), a weak CYP1A2 inhibitor, increased fezolinetant Cmax and AUC by 30% and 100%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include angelica root, ciprofloxacin, enasidenib, enoxacin, fluvoxamine, and rofecoxib. Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include capmatinib, centanafadine, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, hormonal contraceptives, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, vemurafenib, and viloxazine. Weak CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include acyclovir, allopurinol, artemisinin, belumosudil, caffeine, cannabidiol, cimetidine, curcumin, dan-shen, deferasirox, disulfiram, Echinacea, famotidine, ginseng, norfloxacin, obeticholic acid, parsley, piperine, propafenone, propranolol, ribociclib, simeprevir, thiabendazole, ticlopidine, triclabendazole, valacyclovir, verapamil, and zileuton.(5-7)

Moderate Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/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 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of vorasidenib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and effects from vorasidenib, including hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer for vorasidenib states concurrent use with moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) If concurrent use of moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors cannot be avoided, monitor for increased risk of adverse reactions and modify the dose of vorasidenib as recommended in the prescribing information.(1)

DISCUSSION: Vorasidenib is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2.(1) Concurrent use of vorasidenib and fluvoxamine (a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor) is predicted to increase vorasidenib maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by greater than 5-fold.(1) In a study, concurrent use of vorasidenib and ciprofloxacin (a moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor) increased vorasidenib Cmax 1.3-fold and AUC 2.5-fold.(1) Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, centanafadine, ciprofloxacin, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, vemurafenib, and viloxazine.(2)

Selected Agents/Mibefradil

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: Mibefradil has been shown to inhibit the activity of CYP P-450-3A4 and CYP P-450-2D6 and may inhibit the metabolism of these agents.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of these agents.(1,2) Withdrawal of mibefradil may result in decreased levels of these agents. Concurrent administration of the mibefradil with the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may result in elevated levels of the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which may result in rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients who received concurrent therapy with mibefradil and these agents should be monitored for decreased levels and effectiveness of these medications during the two weeks following the withdrawal of mibefradil. Dosage adjustments of the medications may be necessary. The manufacturer of mibefradil stated that concurrent administration of mibefradil with either lovastatin or simvastatin was contraindicated and that concurrent administration of mibefradil with either atorvastatin or cerivastatin should have generally been avoided.(1) Fluvastatin or pravastatin, which are not significantly metabolized by CYP P-450-3A4, may have been used as alternatives in patients receiving mibefradil.

DISCUSSION: Mibefradil was shown to inhibit CYP P-450-3A4 and CYP P-450-2D6 thus may inhibit the metabolism of agents metabolized at these sites. Withdrawal of mibefradil may result in decreased levels of these agents as the CYP P-450 system returns to normal. Following the discontinuation of mibefradil, seven to 14 days are required for sufficient elimination of mibefradil metabolites to minimize mibefradil effects on the CYP P-450 system. Dosage adjustments may need to be made during this period.(2) The manufacturer stated that there were seven reports of rhabdomyolysis in patients receiving concurrent therapy with simvastatin and mibefradil. Four patients were also receiving cyclosporine. Because lovastatin follows the same metabolic pathway as simvastatin, a similar interaction would be expected. Atorvastatin and cerivastatin are metabolized by CYP P-450-3A4 to active and inactive metabolites.(1)

Selected Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Rasagiline (> 0.5 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: Inhibitors of CYP1A2 may inhibit the metabolism of rasagiline.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inhibitor may increase levels of and adverse effects from rasagiline.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of rasagiline states that patients receiving concurrent therapy with an inhibitor of CYP1A2 should receive no more than 0.5 mg of rasagiline daily.(1) Concurrent therapy with vemurafenib may require extended monitoring for interaction onset and severity because steady-state levels of vemurafenib are not attained for approximately 15 days.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, ciprofloxacin (500 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of rasagiline (2 mg twice daily) by 83%.(1) Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include angelica root, ciprofloxacin, enasidenib, enoxacin, and rofecoxib. Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include capmatinib, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, hormonal contraceptives, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, and vemurafenib.(3-5)

Selected Cyp2d6 Substrates/Mavorixafor

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: Mavorixafor is a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6 and is expected to inhibit the metabolism of agents through this pathway.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of mavorixafor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from agents metabolized by CYP2D6.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: With tricyclic antidepressants, the risk of seizures may be increased in patients with a history of head trauma or prior seizure; CNS tumor; severe hepatic cirrhosis; excessive use of alcohol or sedatives; addiction to opiates, cocaine, or stimulants; use of over-the-counter stimulants and anorectics; diabetics treated with oral hypoglycemics or insulin; or with concomitant medications known to lower seizure threshold (antipsychotics, theophylline, systemic steroids). With anticholinergic agents, 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.(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mavorixafor states concurrent use with CYP2D6 substrate that are highly dependent on CYP2D6 metabolism is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of doxepin states if concurrent use of doxepin and strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as mavorixafor is warranted, monitor doxepin plasma concentrations and reduce the doxepin dose based on doxepin plasma concentrations.(5)

DISCUSSION: Mavorixafor (400 mg) increased dextromethorphan (CYP2D6 substrate) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 6-fold and 9-fold, respectively.(1) Selected CYP2D6 substrates linked to this monograph include: aripiprazole, atomoxetine, brexpiprazole, desipramine, deutetrabenazine, dextromethorphan, doxepin, encainide, fenfluramine, metoclopramide, methoxyphenamine, metoprolol, mexiletine, nebivolol, paroxetine, perphenazine, risperidone, tetrabenazine, trimipramine, venlafaxine, and yohimbine.

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

Selected Antiarrhythmics/Tizanidine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Amiodarone, mexiletine, propafenone, and verapamil may inhibit the metabolism of tizanidine by CYP1A2.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of amiodarone, mexiletine, propafenone, or verapamil may result in elevated levels of and effects from tizanidine, including hypotension, bradycardia, drowsiness, sedation, and decreased psychomotor function.

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.(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tizanidine states that concurrent use of tizanidine with inhibitors of CYP1A2, such as zileuton, should be avoided. If concurrent use is warranted, tizanidine should be initiated with a 2 mg dose and increased in 2-4 mg steps daily based on patient response to therapy. If adverse reactions such as hypotension, bradycardia, or excessive drowsiness occur, reduce or discontinue tizanidine therapy.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 10 healthy subjects, concurrent fluvoxamine, another inhibitor of CYP1A2, increased tizanidine maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and half-life (T1/2) by 12-fold, 33-fold, and 3-fold, respectively. Significant decreases in blood pressure and increases in drowsiness and psychomotor impairment occurred.(1) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, concurrent ciprofloxacin, another inhibitor of CYP1A2, increased tizanidine Cmax and AUC by 7-fold and 10-fold, respectively. Significant decreases in blood pressure and and increases in drowsiness and psychomotor impairment occurred.(1) In an open label study in 12 healthy subjects, concurrent tizanidine (single 2 mg dose) with mexiletine (50 mg, 3 times a day for one day and then 2 times for one day), increased tizanidine Cmax and AUC by 3.1-fold and 3.6-fold, respectively. Subjects were found to have significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure after concurrent administration as well as drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness.(3) 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.

Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

Disopyramide; Mexiletine; Propafenone/Rifamycins

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rifampin and other rifamycins may increase the hepatic metabolism of disopyramide,(1-2) mexiletine(3) and propafenone(4-6).

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of rifampin may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of disopyramide,(2) mexiletine(3) and propafenone(4-6).

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patient's cardiac function and serum disopyramide, mexiletine or propafenone levels. Adjust the dosage accordingly.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of mexiletine and rifampin have been reported to decrease the elimination half-life and increase the nonrenal clearance of mexiletine.(3) In a study in six elderly subjects, pretreatment with rifampin (600 mg daily for 9 days) decreased the bioavailability of a single dose of oral propafenone (300 mg) by 86%. Maximum QRS prolongation after oral propafenone was decreased by 50%. There were no significant effects on intravenous propafenone.(5) In a study in six extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers and six poor CYP2D6 metabolizers, pretreatment with rifampin (600 mg daily for 9 days) decreased the bioavailability of a single dose of oral propafenone by 67% and by 41% in extensive and poor metabolizers, respectively. Maximum QRS prolongation after oral propafenone decreased by 38% and by 40% in extensive and poor metabolizers, respectively. There were no effects on intravenous propafenone.(6) During concomitant administration of disopyramide and rifampin to patients with tuberculosis, serum disopyramide concentrations decreased by approximately 50% while the concentration of an active metabolite of disopyramide increased.(1) Concurrent administration of disopyramide and rifampin to a 62-year-old patient produced subtherapeutic disopyramide levels and a failure in correcting the patient's arrhythmia. Five days after stopping rifampin, disopyramide levels increased and the arrhythmia was abolished.(2) Rifamycins linked to this monograph are rifabutin, rifampin and rifapentine.

Mexiletine/Cobicistat; Tipranavir

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cobicistat and tipranavir may inhibit the metabolism of mexiletine by CYP2D6.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cobicistat or tipranavir with mexiletine may result in elevated levels of mexiletine, which may lead to serious and/or life-threatening effects.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The combination of cobicistat or tipranavir with mexiletine should be used with caution. Clinical monitoring is recommended with concomitant use.(1-3) 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: Cobicistat is a weak CYP2D6 inhibitor,(1) and tipranavir is a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor.(2) They may inhibit the metabolism and increase levels of mexiletine.(3)

Mexiletine/Phenytoin

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Phenytoin, a moderate CYP1A2 inducer, may induce the metabolism of mexiletine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of mexiletine.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitoring of mexiletine plasma levels is recommended during concurrent use to avoid ineffective therapy.(1) The dose of mexiletine may need to be adjusted when phenytoin therapy is started or discontinued.

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of mexiletine and rifampin (a moderate CYP1A2 inducer) have been reported to decrease the elimination half-life and increase the nonrenal clearance of mexiletine.(2) A pharmacokinetic study in 6 healthy volunteers found a decrease in the mean area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of mexiletine 400 mg when given with a seven day course of phenytoin 300 mg. The mean AUC of a single dose of mexiletine 400 mg alone was 17.2 ng/ml compared to 8.01 ng/ml when given with phenytoin 300 mg.(3)

Mexiletine/Strong Cyp2d6 Inhibitors

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine may inhibit the metabolism of mexiletine at CYP2D6.(1-7)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP2D6 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from mexiletine, including vertigo, insomnia, and abdominal pain.(1-5)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction may be more severe in patients who are ultrarapid metabolizers of CYP2D6.(1-5)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer states coadministration of mexiletine with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor may lead to increased levels and toxicity from mexiletine. Clinical monitoring is recommended during and after concurrent therapy for changes in mexiletine levels.(1) The US manufacturer states if concurrent use is warranted, mexiletine should be slowly titrated to response and closely monitored.(2)

DISCUSSION: Mexiletine is 90% metabolized in the liver, with CYP2D6 as the primary pathway. CYP2D6 phenotypes significantly affect drug levels of mexiletine.(3-5) In an interaction study (8 extensive and 7 poor metabolizers of CYP2D6), coadministration of propafenone did not alter the kinetics of mexiletine in the poor CYP2D6 metabolizer group. However, the metabolic clearance of mexiletine in the extensive metabolizer phenotype decreased by about 70% making the poor and extensive metabolizer groups indistinguishable.(2) In a pharmacokinetic study in CYP2D6 phenotypes, patients with CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers had a decreased extent of the formation of both metabolites by more than 50% and 85% for the microsomes from CYP2D6*1/*10 and 10/*10 livers, respectively.(3) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine.(6-7)

Moderate Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Pirfenidone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pirfenidone is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2 which is responsible for about 50% of its conversion to inactive drug. CYP2C9, 2C19, 2D6 and 2E1 are additional minor contributors to pirfenidone metabolism.(1) Inhibitors of CYP1A2 may inhibit the metabolism of pirfenidone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent pirfenidone use with moderate inhibitors of CYP1A2 may lead to increased systemic concentrations and toxicity from pirfenidone, including serious liver injury.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: A greater risk of adverse events may result from concomitant treatment with strong or moderate inhibitors of one or more other CYP isoenzymes involved in the metabolism of pirfenidone such as CYP2C9 (e.g. amiodarone, fluconazole), CYP2C19 (e.g. fluconazole, fluoxetine, ticlopidine) and CYP2D6 (e.g. fluoxetine, paroxetine).(1) The magnitude of this interaction may be reduced in cigarette smokers. Cigarette smoking induces production of CYP1A2 and, in the absence of a CYP1A2 inhibitor, leads to decreased systemic concentrations of pirfenidone.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pirfenidone states that for concurrent use with moderate inhibitors of CYP1A2, dose reduction is recommended. Reduce the dose of pirfenidone to two-267 mg capsules three times a day (total daily dose of 1602 mg/day).(1) Combinations of strong or moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors with strong or moderate CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and/or CYP2D6 inhibitors should be discontinued prior to and avoided during pirfenidone treatment.(1)

DISCUSSION: Pirfenidone is converted to inactive metabolites prior to elimination. CYP1A2 is responsible for approximately half of this metabolism. In an interaction study conducted in non-smokers and smokers, coadministration of pirfenidone with fluvoxamine (a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor), an agent which inhibits multiple pirfenidone elimination pathways (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19), led to an approximately 4-fold and 7-fold, respectively, increase in pirfenidone exposure.(1) In a single-dose study in 27 healthy subjects, coadministration of 801 mg of pirfenidone and 750 mg of ciprofloxacin on Day 6 (ciprofloxacin was dosed at 750 mg twice daily from Day 2 to Day 7) increased the exposure to pirfenidone by 81%.(1) Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, centanafadine, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, hormonal contraceptives, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, vemurafenib, and viloxazine.(2)

Selected Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Rasagiline (<= 0.5 Mg)

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP1A2 may inhibit the metabolism of rasagiline.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP1A2 inhibitor may increase levels of and adverse effects from rasagiline.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of rasagiline states that patients receiving concurrent therapy with an inhibitor of CYP1A2 should receive no more than 0.5 mg of rasagiline daily.(1) Concurrent therapy with vemurafenib may require extended monitoring for interaction onset and severity because steady-state levels of vemurafenib are not attained for approximately 15 days.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 healthy subjects, ciprofloxacin (500 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of rasagiline (2 mg twice daily) by 83%.(1) Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: angelica root, ciprofloxacin, enasidenib, enoxacin, and rofecoxib. Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, hormonal contraceptives, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, and vemurafenib.(3-5)

Selected Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Theophylline Derivatives

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP1A2 inhibitors may reduce the elimination rate of theophylline derivatives.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of selected CYP1A2 inhibitors and theophylline or their derivatives may result in increased levels and toxicity of theophylline.(1-19)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concomitant therapy with inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g. clarithromycin, itraconazole, ritonavir) which block a secondary metabolic pathway for theophylline, may increase the magnitude of this interaction.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Theophylline levels should be closely monitored in patients receiving concurrent therapy. The dosage of theophylline may need to be decreased after a CYP1A2 inhibitor is initiated. If the CYP1A2 inhibitor is discontinued in a patient stabilized on the combination, the theophylline level may fall. Monitor theophylline levels and adjust dose accordingly.

DISCUSSION: A study in 5 patients with active hepatitis B and 4 healthy subjects examined the effects of a single dose of interferon alpha (9 million units in 8 subjects, 18 million units in 1 subject). There was no effect on theophylline in 1 subject. In the other 8 subjects, interferon increased theophylline half-life by 70% and decreased theophylline clearance by 49% (range 33% to 81%).(1) A study in 11 healthy subjects examined the effects of interferon alpha (3 million International Units daily for 3 days) on a single aminophylline (4 mg/kg) infusion. Interferon increased the half-life, area-under-curve (AUC), and mean residence time by 13.7%, 17.9%, and 16.3%, respectively. Theophylline clearance decreased by 9.1%.(2) In a study in healthy males, peginterferon alfa-2a (180 mcg once weekly for 4 weeks) increased theophylline AUC by 25%.(3,4) Concurrent interferon alfa has been shown to increase theophylline levels by 100%.(5) A study in 7 patients with chronic hepatitis C examined the effects of interferon beta (3 million to 9 million International Units daily for 8 weeks) on theophylline ethylenediamine (single 250 mg infusion). Interferon decreased theophylline clearance by 26.3% and increased theophylline half-life by 39.3%. There was no correlation between interferon dose and effect. The greatest effect was seen in a patient who received 3 million International Units daily, while no effect was seen in a patient who received 9 million International Units daily.(6) Increased serum theophylline levels with signs and symptoms of theophylline toxicity have been reported in patients following the addition of mexiletine to their treatment.(7-15) In a study evaluated the combination of disulfiram and theophylline in 20 recovering alcoholics. Patients received a single IV dose of theophylline while being given either 250 mg or 500 mg of disulfiram daily. Both dosages of disulfiram decreased the clearance of theophylline. However, the effect was greatest in patients receiving disulfiram 500 mg daily.(16) Increases in serum theophylline concentration and half-life have been reported during concurrent administration of theophylline and ticlopidine.(17) In healthy subjects, rofecoxib (12.5 mg/day, 25 mg/day, or 50 mg/day for seven days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of theophylline (300 mg) by 38% to 60%. Therefore, the manufacturer of rofecoxib recommends that theophylline levels be monitored if rofecoxib is initiated or changed in patients receiving theophylline.(18) Selected CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: acyclovir, Angelica dahurica, artemisinin, belumosudil, centanafadine, cannabidiol, curcumin, danshen, dipyrone, disulfiram, echinacea, enasidenib, fexinidazole, genistein, ginseng, interferons, methoxsalen, mexiletine, parsley, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, piperine, propafenone, ribociclib, rofecoxib, rucaparib, simeprevir, ticlopidine, triclabendazole, valacyclovir, and verapamil.(19)

Sodium Channel Blocker; Potassium Channel Blocker/Lacosamide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lacosamide may enhance the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels and may cause dose-dependent bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lacosamide and agents that affect cardiac conduction (sodium channel blockers and potassium channel blockers) may increase the risk of bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Lacosamide should be used with caution in patients on concomitant medications that affect cardiac conduction, including sodium channel blockers and potassium channel blockers.(1) If concurrent use is needed, obtain an ECG before lacosamide therapy and after lacosamide dose is titrated to steady-state.(1) Patients should be monitored closely when lacosamide is given intravenously.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial in patients with partial-onset seizures, asymptomatic first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block occurred in 4/944 (0.4%) of patient who received lacosamide compared to 0/364 (0%) with placebo.(1) In a clinical trial in patients with diabetic neuropathy, asymptomatic first-degree AV block occurred in 5/1023 (0.5%) of patients who received lacosamide compared to 0/291 (0%) with placebo.(1) Second-degree and complete AV block have been reported in patients with seizures.(1) One case of profound bradycardia was observed in a patient during a 15-minute infusion of 150 mg of lacosamide.(1) A case report of a 49 year old male with refractory complex partial and generalized seizures described the development of ventricular tachycardia four months after addition of lacosamide 400 mg/day to the existing regimen of carbamazepine, lamotrigine, clonazepam, and valproate. The patient's ECG showed first-degree AV block, posterior left fascicular block, and severe widening of the QRS complex, all of which resolved upon discontinuation of lacosamide.(2)

Strong And Moderate Cyp1a2 Inhibitors/Ropinirole

SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropinirole is a CYP1A2 substrate. Strong and moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors may decrease the metabolism of ropinirole.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of strong or moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors and ropinirole may result in elevated levels of ropinirole, increased clinical effects, and signs of toxicity.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving strong or moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors who are started on ropinirole, ropinirole may be titrated to effect according to the manufacturer's dosage instructions. If the strong or moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor is started or discontinued in a patient receiving ropinirole, the dosage of ropinirole may need to be adjusted.(1-2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 12 subjects, the concurrent administration of ropinirole with ciprofloxacin resulted in increases in the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of ropinirole by 84% and 60%, respectively. The major pathway for ropinirole metabolism has been shown to be CYP1A2.(1-3) Strong CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: Angelica dahurica, enasidenib, enoxacin, and fluvoxamine. Moderate CYP1A2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: capmatinib, centanafadine, ciprofloxacin, dipyrone, fexinidazole, genistein, estrogen-containing contraceptives, methoxsalen, mexiletine, osilodrostat, phenylpropanolamine, pipemidic acid, rucaparib, troleandomycin, vemurafenib, and viloxazine.(4)

Mexiletine hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with second- or third-degree AV block (unless a cardiac pacemaker is in place) or cardiogenic shock.

• Cardiogenic shock
• Complete atrioventricular block
• Second degree atrioventricular heart block

There are no severe contraindications for this drug.

• Acute myocardial infarction
• Disease of liver
• Hypotension
• Seizure disorder
• Severe chronic heart failure
• Sick sinus syndrome
• Tobacco smoker

Adverse effects occurring in 1% or more of patients receiving mexiletine include nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, constipation, changes in appetite, abdominal pain/discomfort, abdominal cramps, dry mouth, dizziness, lightheadedness, tremor, nervousness, weakness, fatigue, confusion/clouded sensorium, coordination difficulties, changes in sleep pattern, paresthesia or numbness, depression, headache, arthralgia, fever, blurred vision/visual disturbances, tinnitus, dyspnea, chest pain, palpitations, increased ventricular arrhythmia/ventricular premature contractions, angina or angina-like symptoms, rash, and non-specific edema. In controlled clinical trials, 40% of patients have discontinued the drug because of adverse effects.

During postmarketing surveillance, exacerbation of congestive heart failure (in patients with impaired ventricular function), pancreatitis, and pulmonary changes including pulmonary infiltration and pulmonary fibrosis (some patients had preexisting comorbidities and/or were receiving drugs with a potential for pulmonary toxicity), drowsiness, nystagmus, ataxia, dyspepsia, and hypersensitivity reaction have been reported in patients receiving mexiletine.

Less Frequent

• Abnormal hepatic function tests
• Chest pain
• Dyspnea
• Increased aspartate transaminase
• Ventricular premature beats

Rare or Very Rare

• Acute hepatic failure
• Acute pancreatitis
• Agranulocytosis
• DRESS syndrome
• Hepatic necrosis
• Leukopenia
• Neutropenic disorder
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Pulmonary infiltrates
• Seizure disorder
• Thrombocytopenic disorder
• Ventricular arrhythmias

More Frequent

• Dizziness
• Dyskinesia
• Gastrointestinal irritation
• Heartburn
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Tremor
• Vomiting

Less Frequent

• Acute cognitive impairment
• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• General weakness
• Headache disorder
• Insomnia
• Paresthesia
• Skin rash
• Slurred speech
• Tinnitus

Rare or Very Rare

• Abdominal pain with cramps
• Accidental fall
• Arthralgia
• Fever
• Hypotension
• Syncope
• Xerostomia

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Safety and efficacy of mexiletine in children have not been established.

Category C. (See Users Guide)

Mexiletine is distributed into milk at concentrations similar to those achieved in plasma. Discontinue nursing or drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the woman.

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