Gefitinib (gefitinib)
Antineoplastic - Protein-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Oral Tablet
Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
Overview
Gefitinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is an antineoplastic agent.
Gefitinib, a synthetic anilinoquinazoline, inhibits the intracellular phosphorylation of numerous tyrosine kinases associated with transmembrane cell surface receptors, including epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase. EGFR is expressed on the cell surface of many cancer cells, as well as many normal cells; activation of EGFR tyrosine kinase is thought to initiate a cascade of intracellular signaling events leading to cell proliferation and influencing processes critical to cell survival and tumor progression (e.g., angiogenesis, apoptosis, metastasis). Some EGFR-activating mutations, such as exon 19 deletion (del19) and exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutation, contribute to increased cell proliferation and survival in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells harboring these mutations.
Gefitinib has been shown to inhibit phosphorylation and proliferation of cell lines expressing wild-type EGFR and cell lines expressing del19 or L858R mutations. Gefitinib has demonstrated a greater affinity for cell lines expressing del19 or L858R mutations than for wild-type EGFR. Gefitinib also has been shown to inhibit insulin-like growth factor (IGF) and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) at clinically relevant concentrations.
Following oral administration, peak plasma concentrations of gefitinib are achieved within 3-7 hours. Administration of gefitinib (single 250-mg dose) with a high-fat meal increased peak plasma concentrations and AUC of the drug by 32 and 37%, respectively, compared with administration in the fasted state; however, these changes are not considered clinically important and the drug may be administered without regard to food. Gefitinib is extensively metabolized by the cytochrome P-450 (CYP) enzyme system, principally by CYP3A4 and, to a lesser extent, by CYP2D6.
In vitro studies using human hepatic microsomes indicate that gefitinib does not inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2C9, or CYP3A4 but may inhibit CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 at high drug concentrations. CYP2D6 metabolizes gefitinib to its major metabolite, O-desmethyl gefitinib, which has similar activity inhibiting EGFR tyrosine kinase as gefitinib, but is significantly less potent compared with gefitinib in vitro. The mean exposure of gefitinib was twofold higher in healthy poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 than in extensive metabolizers; however, plasma concentrations of O-desmethyl gefitinib were undetectable.
Following administration of gefitinib, 86% of the drug and its metabolites was recovered in feces and less than 4% was recovered in urine. Following IV administration of gefitinib, the elimination half-life was 48 hours.
Analysis of population pharmacokinetic data indicates that age, body weight, and ethnicity have no clinically important effects on exposure to gefitinib. Although a 27% increase in systemic exposure to the drug has been observed in women compared with men in population pharmacokinetic analyses in one clinical study, analyses from other clinical studies did not identify differences in exposure based on gender.
USES: Gefitinib is used to treat lung cancer. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. Gefitinib blocks a certain protein (an enzyme called tyrosine kinase).
Generic name: gefitinib
Pronunciation: (ge-FI-ti-nib)
Drug class: Antineoplastic - Protein-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Therapeutic class: Antineoplastics
Reference product & biosimilars
No reference, biosimilar or interchangeable associated with this drug.
Today’s intelligence on Gefitinib
Indications
The following indications are listed for Gefitinib:
- Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer With Egfr Exon 19 Deletion
- Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer With Egfr Exon 21 L858r Substitution Mutation
Also known as: Egfr Exon 19 Deletion Mutation-Positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (Nsclc), Egfr L858r Substitution Mutation-Positive Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (Nsclc), Metastatic Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer With Egfr Exon 21 Leu858arg Substitution, Metastatic Nsclc With Egfr Ex19del.
Dosing
For the first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC in patients whose tumors harbor EGFR del19 or L858R substitution mutations, the recommended dosage of gefitinib in adults is 250 mg once daily. Therapy should be continued until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. In the principal efficacy study (IPASS), gefitinib therapy was continued for a median duration of 8 months.
If gefitinib is used concomitantly with a potent inducer of CYP3A4, the dosage should be increased to 500 mg once daily in the absence of severe adverse drug reactions. If concomitant use of the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, the usual gefitinib dosage (250 mg once daily) may be resumed 7 days following discontinuance of the CYP3A4 inducer.
No dosing information is available for this tab.
| Drug label | Dosing type | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Gefitinib 250 Mg Tablet | Maintenance | Take 1 tablet (250 mg) by oral route once daily. |
| Drug label | Dosing type | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Gefitinib 250 Mg Tablet | Maintenance | Take 1 tablet (250 mg) by oral route once daily. |
Drug interactions
Gefitinib is metabolized principally by cytochrome P-450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A4 and, to a lesser extent, by CYP2D6. In vitro, gefitinib does not inhibit CYP isoenzymes 1A2, 2C9, and 3A4, but may inhibit 2C19 and 2D6 at high drug concentrations.
Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.
Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme 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(1) may induce the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) ibrutinib,(6) idelalisib,(7) and imatinib.(8)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of apalutamide may decrease the levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) ibrutinib,(6) idelalisib,(7) and imatinib.(8)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of apalutamide in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1-8) If concurrent use of apalutamide cannot be avoided with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 80 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(9) Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib CAPsules by 40 mg (from 140 mg to 180 mg daily or from 100 mg to 140 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose of cabozantinib should not exceed 180 mg. If the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the dosage of cabozantinib to the dose used prior to initiation of the inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(3) Consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib by 50 mg increments as tolerated at two week intervals (to a maximum of 450 mg) while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when the inducer is discontinued.(4) Consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(5) The dose of imatinib should be increased by at least 50% and clinical response should be carefully monitored. Dosages up to 1200 mg/day (600 mg twice daily) have been used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inducers.(8)
DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, rifampin (a strong CYP3A4 inducer) decreased bosutinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 94% and 86%. Bosutinib clearance increased by 13-fold.(2,11) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 31 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of cabozantinib by 77%.(3) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(4) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(4) In a case report, coadministration of phenytoin (180mg daily) and erlotinib (150mg daily) increased the phenytoin concentration from 8.2mcg/ml to 24.2mcg/ml and decreased the erlotinib concentration 12-fold (from 1.77mcg/ml to 0.15mcg/ml) and increased the erlotinib clearance by 10-fold (from 3.53 L/h to 41.7 L/h).(10) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(5) The coadministration of rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(6) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 8 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of idelalisib (150 mg single dose) by 58% and 75%, respectively.(7) Pretreatment of 14 healthy subjects with rifampin (600 mg daily for 10 days) increased the clearance of a single dose of imatinib (400 mg) by 3.8-fold. The area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) decreased by 74% and 54%, respectively.(8,12) The Cmax of the CGP74588 metabolite increased by 88.6%, but the AUC of CGP74588 decreased by 11%.(12)
Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inhibitors/Carbamazepine
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 induce the CYP3A4 isoenzyme, such as carbamazepine, may induce the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(1) cabozantinib,(2,3) dasatinib,(4) erlotinib,(5) gefitinib,(6) ibrutinib,(7) lapatinib,(8) pazopanib,(9) sorafenib,(10) sunitinib,(11) and vandetanib.(12)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers may decrease the levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(1) cabozantinib,(2,3) dasatinib,(4) erlotinib,(5) gefitinib,(6) ibrutinib,(7) lapatinib,(8) pazopanib,(9) sorafenib,(10) sunitinib,(11) and vandetanib.(12)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1-12) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers.(8) If concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inducer cannot be avoided with other antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 80 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(2) Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib CAPsules by 40 mg (from 140 mg to 180 mg daily or from 100 mg to 140 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose of cabozantinib should not exceed 180 mg. If the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the dosage of cabozantinib to the dose used prior to initiation of the inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(3) Consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(4) Consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib by 50 mg increments as tolerated at two week intervals (to a maximum of 450 mg) while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when the inducer is discontinued. If the inducer is dexamethasone, monitor the patient for sign of gastrointestinal perforation. Discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation.(5) Consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(6) The dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If the inducer is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(8) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(11)
DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, rifampin (a strong CYP3A4 inducer) decreased bosutinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 94% and 86%. Bosutinib clearance increased by 13-fold.(1,14) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 31 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of cabozantinib by 77%.(2) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(4) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(5) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(5) In a case report, coadministration of phenytoin (180mg daily) and erlotinib (150mg daily) increased the phenytoin concentration from 8.2mcg/ml to 24.2mcg/ml and decreased the erlotinib concentration 12-fold (from 1.77mcg/ml to 0.15mcg/ml) and increased the erlotinib clearance by 10-fold (from 3.53 L/h to 41.7 L/h).(14) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(6) The coadministration of rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(7) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(8) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(9) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(10) In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(11) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations. The patient developed nystagmus, a sign of phenytoin toxicity.(12)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Efalizumab; Natalizumab
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: Natalizumab,(1-3) efalizumab,(4) immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of natalizumab(1-3) or efalizumab(4) with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Previous JCV infection, longer duration of natalizumab treatment - especially if greater than 2 years, and prior or concomitant treatment with immunosuppressant medication are all independent risk factors which increase the risk for PML.(1,5) The FDA has estimated PML incidence stratified by risk factors: If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence <1/1,000. If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence 2/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 4/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 11/1,000.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of natalizumab states patients with Crohn's disease should not receive concurrent immunosuppressants, with the exception of limited overlap of corticosteroids, due to the increased risk for PML. For new natalizumab patients currently receiving chronic oral corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease, begin corticosteroid taper when therapeutic response to natalizumab has occurred. If corticosteroids cannot be discontinued within six months of starting natalizumab, discontinue natalizumab.(3) The US manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not ordinarily be used in multiple sclerosis patients receiving immunosuppressants or immunomodulators due to the increased risk for PML. Immunosuppressives include, but are not limited to azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, mycophenolate, and corticosteroids.(3,6) The UK manufacturer of natalizumab states that concurrent use with immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents is contraindicated.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not be used with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents.(2) The US manufacturer of certolizumab states that concurrent therapy with natalizumab is not recommended.(7)
DISCUSSION: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy has been reported in patients receiving concurrent natalizumab were recently or concomitantly taking immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-5,8,9) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(10)
Selected Immunosuppressants/Nadofaragene Firadenovec
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: Nadofaragene firadenovec may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of nadofaragene firadenovec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause disseminated adenovirus infection.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not receive nadofaragene firadenovec.(1)
DISCUSSION: Nadofaragene firadenovec is a non-replicating adenoviral vector-based gene therapy but may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus. Immunocompromised persons, including those receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may be at risk for disseminated adenovirus infection.(1)
Selected Immunosuppressants/Talimogene Laherparepvec
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: Talimogene laherparepvec is a live, attenuated herpes simplex virus.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Talimogene laherparepvec is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(1) The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks due to immunosuppressant drugs should be determined by a physician.
DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1)
Selected Immunosuppressive Agents/Live Vaccines; Live Bcg
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: A variety of disease modifying agents suppress the immune system. Immunocompromised patients may be at increased risk for uninhibited replication after administration of live, attenuated vaccines or intravesicular BCG. Immune response to vaccines may be decreased during periods of immunocompromise.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1) After instillation of intravesicular BCG, immunosuppression may interfere with local immune response, or increase the severity of mycobacterial infection following inadvertent systemic exposure.(2)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. hematologic malignancies, HIV disease), treatments (e.g. radiation) and drugs may all increase the magnitude of immunodeficiency.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are immunocompromised. The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks should be determined by a physician.(1) For patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy, vaccination should ideally precede the initiation of chemotherapy by 14 days. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy.(1) Patients who receive anti-B cell therapies should not receive live vaccines for at least 6 months after such therapies due to a prolonged duration of immunosuppression. An exception is the Zoster vaccine, which can be given at least 1 month after receipt of anti-B cell therapies.(1) The US manufacturer of abatacept states live vaccines should not be given during or for up to 3 months after discontinuation of abatacept.(2) The US manufacturer of live BCG for intravesicular treatment of bladder cancer states use is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(3) The US manufacturer of daclizumab states live vaccines are not recommended during and for up to 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.(4) The US manufacturer of guselkumab states that live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with guselkumab.(5) The US manufacturer of inebilizumab-cdon states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion. Administer all live vaccinations at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of inebilizumab-cdon.(6) The US manufacturer of ocrelizumab states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell repletion occurs after discontinuation of therapy. Administer all live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ocrelizumab.(7) The US manufacturer of ozanimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for up to 3 months after discontinuation of ozanimod.(8) The US manufacturer of siponimod states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.(9) The US manufacturer of ustekinumab states BCG vaccines should not be given in the year prior to, during, or the year after ustekinumab therapy.(10) The US manufacturer of satralizumab-mwge states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and should be administered at least four weeks prior to initiation of satralizumab-mwge.(11) The US manufacturer of ublituximab-xiiy states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ublituximab-xiiy.(12) The US manufacturer of etrasimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for 5 weeks after treatment. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of etrasimod.(13) The US manufacturer of emapalumab-lzsg states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving emapalumab-lzsg and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of emapalumab-lzsg. The safety of immunization with live vaccines during or following emapalumab-lzsg therapy has not been studied.(14) The US manufacturer of sibeprenlimab-szsi states live vaccines should not be given within 30 days prior to initiation or during treatment with sibeprenlimab-szsi.(15)
DISCUSSION: Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1) Patients with a history of leukemia who are in remission and have not received chemotherapy for at least 3 months are not considered to be immunocompromised.(1)
Selected Kinase Inhibitors/Vonoprazan
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 solubility of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) and pazopanib(8) is pH dependent. Changes in gastric pH from vonoprazan(9) may decrease the absorption of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) and pazopanib.(8)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of vonoprazan may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) and pazopanib.(8)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of vonoprazan(9) in patients receiving treatment with bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) and pazopanib.(8) Consider the use of short-acting antacids in these patients.(1-8) If antacids are used, separate the administration times by several hours(1-8) but at least 2 hours for bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(3) and nilotinib,(7) 6 hours for gefitinib,(5) and 3 hours for neratinib.(6) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with dacomitinib, dacomitinib must be given once daily 10 hours after the H2 blocker and 6 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(2) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with gefitinib, administer gefitinib 6 hours before or after H2-antagonists or antacids.(5) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with erlotinib, neratinib, or nilotinib, the kinase inhibitor must be given 10 hours after the H2 blocker and at least 2 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(4,6,7) The manufacturer of Phyrago states that it can be administered with gastric acid reducing agents. Administration times should be separated with antacids.(14)
DISCUSSION: Vonoprazan decreases gastric acidity by suppressing gastric acid secretion and is characterized as a type of gastric proton-pump inhibitor.(9) In a pharmacodynamic study, a single 20 mg dose of vonoprazan, elevated the intragastric pH compared to placebo and was sustained for over 24-hours after dosing. The inhibitory effect of vonoprazan on acid secretion increased with repeated daily dosing and antisecretory effect reached steady state by Day 4 with a mean 24-hour intragastric pH of 6.0 following 20 mg once daily dose.(9) In a study, concurrent rabeprazole decreased the Cmax and AUC of dacomitinib by 51% and 39%, respectively.(2) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of dasatinib (50 mg) 10 hours after famotidine decreased dasatinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 61% and 63%, respectively.(3) In a study in 14 healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of dasatinib (100 mg) 22 hours after omeprazole (40 mg at steady state) decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 43% and 42%, respectively.(3) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration of dasatinib (50 mg) with aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (30 ml) decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 55% and 58%, respectively. In the same subjects, administration of the antacid 2 hours before dasatinib decreased dasatinib Cmax by 26%, but had no effect on dasatinib AUC.(3) In a study, concurrent omeprazole decreased the AUC and Cmax of erlotinib by 46% and 61%, respectively.(4) In a study, administration of erlotinib two hours after a dose of ranitidine (300 mg), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 33% and 54%, respectively. Administration of erlotinib 10 hours after and two hours before ranitidine (150 mg twice daily), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 15% and 17%, respectively.(4) In a case report, a patient that was given erlotinib (150 mg daily,) with algeldrate/magnesium hydroxide (800/400 mg four times daily 4 hours before or 2 hours after erlotinib) did not see a significant reduction in serum trough concentrations of erlotinib. When the patient was switched to intravenous pantoprazole via continuous infusion (8 mg per hour), serum erlotinib levels decreased significantly below minimal trough concentrations for effective tyrosine kinase inhibition. When the patient was switched to oral pantoprazole (40 mg twice daily), serum trough levels of erlotinib returned to therapeutic levels.(10) In a study in healthy subjects, high dose ranitidine with sodium carbonate was administered to maintain gastric pH above 5.0 and gefitinib AUC decreased 47%.(5) In a study in 15 healthy subjects, lansoprazole (30 mg at steady state) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of neratinib (240 mg) by 71% and 65%, respectively.(6) In a study in 22 healthy subjects, pretreatment with esomeprazole (40 mg daily), decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of nilotinib (400 mg) by 27% and 34%, respectively.(7,11) Increasing the dosage of nilotinib or separating the administration time of nilotinib and the proton pump inhibitor is not expected to eliminate the interaction.(7) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when famotidine was administered 10 hours before or 2 hours after nilotinib.(7) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when an antacid (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) was administered 2 hours before or after nilotinib.(7) In a study in 13 patients, esomeprazole (40 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of pazopanib (400 mg daily) by 42% and 40%, respectively, when compared to the administration of pazopanib alone.(12) In an open-label, crossover study in 17 evaluable patients, omeprazole (40 mg daily) had no significant effects on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, or safety of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2).(13) Phyrago is not sensitive to increased gastric pH due to its polymer formulation. No clinically significant pharmacokinetic changes were seen with concurrent administration of Phyrago with omeprazole (proton pump inhibitor) or famotidine (H2 receptor antagonist).(14)
Selected Kinase Inhibitors/Vonoprazan-Clarithromycin
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 solubility of dacomitinib(1) and gefitinib(2) is pH dependent. Changes in gastric pH from proton pump inhibitors may decrease the absorption of dacomitinib(1) and gefitinib.(2)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of proton pump inhibitors may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of dacomitinib(1) and gefitinib.(2)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients receiving treatment with dacomitinib(1) and gefitinib.(2) Consider the use of short-acting antacids in these patients.(1,2) If antacids are used, separate the administration times by several hours(1,2) but at least 6 hours for gefitinib.(2) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with dacomitinib, dacomitinib must be given once daily 10 hours after the H2 blocker and 6 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(1) If PPIs are required with gefitinib, administer gefitinib 12 hours after the last dose or 12 hours before the next dose of the PPI. Administer gefitinib 6 hours before or after H2-antagonists or antacids.(2)
DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, high dose ranitidine with sodium carbonate was administered to maintain gastric pH above 5.0 and gefitinib AUC decreased 47%.(2)
Slt Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inh/Lumacaftor-Ivacaftor
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: Lumacaftor-ivacaftor(1) may induce the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) nilotinib,(11) pazopanib,(12) sorafenib,(13) sunitinib,(14) and vandetanib.(15)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lumacaftor-ivacaftor may decrease the levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) nilotinib,(11) pazopanib,(12) sorafenib,(13) sunitinib,(14) and vandetanib.(15)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of lumacaftor-ivacaftor in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(2-15) Because of the nonlinear pharmacokinetic profile of nilotinib, increasing its dose is unlikely to compensate for enzyme induction.(11) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers.(12) If concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inducer cannot be avoided with other antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 80 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(16) Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib CAPsules by 40 mg (from 140 mg to 180 mg daily or from 100 mg to 140 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose of cabozantinib should not exceed 180 mg. If the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the dosage of cabozantinib to the dose used prior to initiation of the inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(2) Consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(5) Consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib by 50 mg increments as tolerated at two week intervals (to a maximum of 450 mg) while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when the inducer is discontinued. If the inducer is dexamethasone, monitor the patient for sign of gastrointestinal perforation. Discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation.(6) Consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(7) The dose of imatinib should be increased by at least 50% and clinical response should be carefully monitored. Dosages up to 1200 mg/day (600 mg twice daily) have been used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inducers.(9) The dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If the inducer is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(10) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(14)
DISCUSSION: In a study, 24 healthy subjects received a single dose of bosutinib 500 mg (days 1 and 14) and rifampin 600 mg (days 8-17). Bosutinib Cmax and AUC decreased by 86% and 92%, respectively. Bosutinib clearance increased by 13-fold.(2,17) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 31 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of cabozantinib by 77%.(3) Rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of crizotinib (250 mg) by 69% and 82%, respectively.(4) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(5) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(6) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(6) In a case report, coadministration of phenytoin (180mg daily) and erlotinib (150mg daily) increased the phenytoin concentration from 8.2mcg/ml to 24.2mcg/ml and decreased the erlotinib concentration 12-fold (from 1.77mcg/ml to 0.15mcg/ml) and increased the erlotinib clearance by 10-fold (from 3.53 L/h to 41.7 L/h).(18) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(7) The coadministration of rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(8) Pretreatment of 14 healthy subjects with rifampin (600 mg daily for 10 days) increased the clearance of a single dose of imatinib (400 mg) by 3.8-fold. The area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) decreased by 74% and 54%, respectively.(9,19) The Cmax of the CGP74588 metabolite increased by 88.6%, but the AUC of CGP74588 decreased by 11%.(19) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(10) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 12 days) decreased nilotinib AUC by 80%.(11) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(12) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(13) In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(14) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations. The patient developed nystagmus, a sign of phenytoin toxicity.(15)
Slt Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inhib/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 the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bortezomib,(1) bosutinib,(2) ceritinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(15) idelalisib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) pazopanib,(11) sorafenib,(12) and vandetanib(13) by CYP3A4.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of St. John's wort may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bortezomib,(1) bosutinib,(2) ceritinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(15) idelalisib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) pazopanib,(11) sorafenib,(12) and vandetanib.(13)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers such as St. John's wort in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1-13,15) If concurrent use of dasatinib is warranted, consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(5) If concurrent therapy with erlotinib cannot be avoided, consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib as tolerated at two week intervals while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when St. John's wort is discontinued.(6) In patients receiving a potent CYP3A4 inducer, a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib should be considered in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(7) If concurrent therapy with imatinib is warranted, the dose of imatinib should be increased by at least 50% and clinical response should be carefully monitored. Dosages up to 1200 mg/day (600 mg twice daily) have been used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inducers.(9) If concurrent therapy with lapatinib is warranted, the dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If St. John's wort is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(10) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers.(11)
DISCUSSION: Rifampin (600 mg daily), a strong CYP3A4 inducer, decreased bortezomib area-under-curve (AUC) by 45%.(1) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, rifampin decreased bosutinib AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 94% and 86%.(2) In a study in 19 healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 14 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of ceritinib by 44% and 70%, respectively.(3) Rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of crizotinib (250 mg) by 69% and 82%, respectively.(4) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(5) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(6) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(6) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased the AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(7) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 8 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of idelalisib (150 mg single dose) by 58% and 75%, respectively.(8) Concurrent St. John's wort decreased the AUC of imatinib by 30%.(9) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(10) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(11) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(12) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations.(13) Rifampin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, decreased ibrutinib's Cmax and AUC by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(15)
Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
Gefitinib/Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inducers of CYP3A4 may induce the metabolism of gefitinib.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of a strong inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of gefitinib.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients receiving therapy with gefitinib. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1) If concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inducer cannot be avoided, consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(1)
DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased area-under-curve (AUC) of gefitinib by 85%.(1) Strong inducers of CYP3A4 include: barbiturates, encorafenib, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, mitotane, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, and rifapentine.(2,3)
Immunosuppres;Immunomodul/Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ocrelizumab or ofatumumab in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ocrelizumab or ofatumumab with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ocrelizumab US prescribing information states: - Ocrelizumab and other immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies, (including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with ocrelizumab. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as daclizumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ocrelizumab.(1) The ofatumumab US prescribing information states: - Ofatumumab and other immunosuppressive therapies (including systemic corticosteroids) may have the potential for increased immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. When switching between therapies, the duration and mechanism of action of each therapy should be considered due to the potential for additive immunosuppressive effects. Ofatumumab for MS therapy has not been studied in combination with other MS agents that suppress the immune system.(2)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(3)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Baricitinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of baricitinib states that concurrent use of baricitinib with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1)
DISCUSSION: Most patients who developed serious infections while being treated with baricitinib were on concomitant immunosuppressants like methotrexate and corticosteroids. The combination of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs has not been studied.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Deuruxolitinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deuruxolitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deuruxolitinib and potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states that concurrent use of deuruxolitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection. If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt deuruxolitinib treatment until the infection is controlled.
DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving treatment with deuruxolitinib.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Etrasimod
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications increases the risk of adverse effects.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Filgotinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or other Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic DMARDs, or other JAK inhibitors may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of filgotinib states that concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic DMARDs, or other JAK inhibitors is not recommended.(1)
DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving filgotinib. Caution should be used in patients with a higher incidence of serious infection, including elderly patients aged 75 years and older.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Fingolimod
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for fingolimod regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The fingolimod US prescribing information states: - Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies, (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with fingolimod. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating fingolimod.(1) The fingolimod Canadian prescribing information states: - Concurrent use with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents is contraindicated due to the risk of additive immune system effects. However, co-administration of a short course of corticosteroids (up to 5 days) did not increase the overall rate of infection in patients participating Phase III clinical trials.(2) The fingolimod UK specific product characteristics states: - Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients currently receiving immunosuppressive therapies or those immunocompromised by prior therapies. When switching patients from another disease modifying therapy to Gilenya, the half-life and mode of action of the other therapy must be considered in order to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimizing the risk of disease activation.(3)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Inebilizumab
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inebilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in myelosuppression including neutropenia resulting in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of inebilizumab states that the concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive agents, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)
DISCUSSION: Inebilizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents. The most common infections reported by inebilizumab treated patients in the randomized and open-label clinical trial periods included urinary tract infections (20%), nasopharyngitis (13%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), and influenza (7%). Although there been no cases of Hepatitis B virus reactivation or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy reported in patients taking inebilizumab, these infections have been observed in patients taking other B-cell-depleting antibodies.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ozanimod
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ozanimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ponesimod
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ponesimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ritlecitinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritlecitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritlecitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections.
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ritlecitinib states that concurrent use of ritlecitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1)
DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving ritlecitinib. Reported infections included appendicitis, COVID-19 infection (including pneumonia), and sepsis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation was reported in clinical studies with ritlecitinib.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Siponimod
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of siponimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)
DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Tofacitinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants use may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Tofacitinib should not be used concurrently with azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or cyclosporine.(1) Patient should be monitored for decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils. Therapy should be adjusted based on the indication. - For all indications: If absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or lymphocyte count is less than 500 cells/mm3, discontinue tofacitinib. - For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily or Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily. - For ulcerative colitis and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: -If taking Xeljanz 10 mg twice daily, decrease to 5 mg twice daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 10 mg twice daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 5 mg twice daily. -If taking Xeljanz XR 22 mg once daily, decrease to 11 mg once daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 22 mg once daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 11 mg once daily. - For polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3.(1)
DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.(1) Serious infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, or other opportunistic pathogens have been reported in patients receiving tofacitinib. Some patients presented with disseminated disease and were often taking concomitant immunomodulating agents. In the ulcerative colitis population, a greater risk of serious infections was seen with a higher tofacitinib dose. In 7 placebo-controlled rheumatoid arthritis trials (0-3 months exposure), the overall frequency of infections was 20% in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily group and 22% in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily group compared to 18% in the placebo group. Serious infections were reported in 11 patients (1.7 events per 100 patient-years) with a rate difference between treatment groups of 1.1 (-0.4, 2.5) events per 100 patient-years for both tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily and 10 mg twice daily. During 0-12 months exposure, serious infections were reported in 34 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient years) in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily group and 33 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient years) in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily group.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Upadacitinib
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Upadacitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections.
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of upadacitinib states that concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators is not recommended.
DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. Reported infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, tuberculosis, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcosis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation and hepatitis B reactivation, were reported in clinical studies with upadacitinib.(1)
Myelosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Sodium Iodide I 131
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium iodide I 131 can cause depression of the hematopoetic system. Myelosuppressives and immunomodulators also suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium iodide I 131 with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives or immunomodulators, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sodium iodide I 131 states that concurrent use with bone marrow depressants may enhance the depression of the hematopoetic system caused by large doses of sodium iodide I 131.(1) Sodium iodide I 131 causes a dose-dependent bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, in the 3 to 5 weeks following administration. Patients may be at increased risk of infections or bleeding during this time. Monitor complete blood counts within one month of therapy. If results indicate leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, dosimetry should be used to determine a safe sodium iodide I 131 activity.(1)
DISCUSSION: Hematologic disorders including death have been reported with sodium iodide I 131. The most common hematologic disorders reported include anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.(1)
Selected Immunosuppressants/Leflunomide; Teriflunomide
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide and potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1,2) Leflunomide is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite teriflunomide.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide with immunosuppressants may result in an increased risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis (including extra-pulmonary tuberculosis), and aspergillosis.
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If leflunomide or teriflunomide is used concurrently with immunosuppressive agents, chronic CBC monitoring should be performed more frequently, every month instead of every 6 to 8 weeks. If bone marrow suppression or a serious infection occurs, leflunomide or teriflunomide should be stopped and rapid drug elimination procedure should be performed.(1,2)
DISCUSSION: Pancytopenia, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide alone, but most frequently in patients taking concurrent immunosuppressants.(1,2) Severe and potentially fatal infections, including sepsis, have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and aspergillosis. Tuberculosis has also been reported.(1,2)
Selected Kinase Inhibitors/Proton Pump Inhibitors
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: The solubility of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) pazopanib(8), and pexidartinib (9) is pH dependent. Changes in gastric pH from proton pump inhibitors may decrease the absorption of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) pazopanib,(8) and pexidartinib.(9)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of proton pump inhibitors may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) pazopanib,(8) and pexidartinib.(9)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients receiving treatment with bosutinib,(1) dacomitinib,(2) dasatinib,(3) erlotinib,(4) gefitinib,(5) neratinib,(6) nilotinib,(7) pazopanib,(8) and pexidartinib.(9) Consider the use of short-acting antacids in these patients.(1-9) If antacids are used, separate the administration times by several hours(1-9) but at least 2 hours for bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(3) nilotinib,(7) and pexidartinib(9), 6 hours for gefitinib,(5) and 3 hours for neratinib.(6) If PPIs are required with gefitinib, administer gefitinib 12 hours after the last dose or 12 hours before the next dose of the PPI. Administer gefitinib 6 hours before or after H2-antagonists or antacids.(5) If H2 antagonist therapy is used with bosutinib, separate administration by at least 2 hours.(1) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with dacomitinib, dacomitinib must be given once daily 10 hours after the H2 blocker and 6 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(2) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with erlotinib, neratinib, nilotinib, or pexidartinib, the kinase inhibitor must be given 10 hours after the H2 blocker and at least 2 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(4,6,7,9) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with gefitinib, gefitinib should be given at least 6 hours before or after the H2 antagonist.(5) The manufacturer of Phyrago states that it can be administered with gastric acid reducing agents. Administration times should be separated with antacids.
DISCUSSION: In a study, concurrent rabeprazole decreased the Cmax and AUC of dacomitinib by 51% and 39%, respectively.(2) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of dasatinib (50 mg) 10 hours after famotidine decreased dasatinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 61% and 63%, respectively.(3) In a study in 14 healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of dasatinib (100 mg) 22 hours after omeprazole (40 mg at steady state) decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 43% and 42%, respectively.(3) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration of dasatinib (50 mg) with aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (30 ml) decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 55% and 58%, respectively. In the same subjects, administration of the antacid 2 hours before dasatinib decreased dasatinib Cmax by 26%, but had no effect on dasatinib AUC.(3) In a study, concurrent omeprazole decreased the AUC and Cmax of erlotinib by 46% and 61%, respectively.(4) In a study, administration of erlotinib two hours after a dose of ranitidine (300 mg), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 33% and 54%, respectively. Administration of erlotinib 10 hours after and two hours before ranitidine (150 mg twice daily), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 15% and 17%, respectively.(4) In a case report, a patient that was given erlotinib (150 mg daily,) with algeldrate/magnesium hydroxide (800/400 mg four times daily 4 hours before or 2 hours after erlotinib) did not see a significant reduction in serum trough concentrations of erlotinib. When the patient was switched to intravenous pantoprazole via continuous infusion (8 mg per hour), serum erlotinib levels decreased significantly below minimal trough concentrations for effective tyrosine kinase inhibition. When the patient was switched to oral pantoprazole (40 mg twice daily), serum trough levels of erlotinib returned to therapeutic levels.(9) In a study in healthy subjects, high dose ranitidine with sodium carbonate was administered to maintain gastric pH above 5.0 and gefitinib AUC decreased 47%.(5) In a study in 15 healthy subjects, lansoprazole (30 mg at steady state) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of neratinib (240 mg) by 71% and 65%, respectively.(6) In a study in 22 healthy subjects, pretreatment with esomeprazole (40 mg daily), decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of nilotinib (400 mg) by 27% and 34%, respectively.(7,10) Increasing the dosage of nilotinib or separating the administration time of nilotinib and the proton pump inhibitor is not expected to eliminate the interaction.(7) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when famotidine was administered 10 hours before or 2 hours after nilotinib.(7) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when an antacid (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) was administered 2 hours before or after nilotinib.(7) In a study in 13 patients, esomeprazole (40 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of pazopanib (400 mg daily) by 42% and 40%, respectively, when compared to the administration of pazopanib alone.(11) In an open-label, crossover study in 17 evaluable patients, omeprazole (40 mg daily) had no significant effects on the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, or safety of bortezomib (1.3 mg/m2).(12) Coadministration of esomeprazole decreased pexidartinib Cmax and AUC by 55% and 50%. (13) Phyrago is not sensitive to increased gastric pH due to its polymer formulation. No clinically significant dasatinib pharmacokinetic changes were seen with concurrent administration of Phyrago with omeprazole (proton pump inhibitor) or famotidine (H2 receptor antagonist).(14)
Slt Immunosuppress; Immunomodulator/Ropeginterferon Alfa-2B
SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropeginterferon alfa-2b and immunosuppressives both suppress the immune system.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b with immunosuppressives may result in an increased risk of serious infections.
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of myelosuppressive agents.(1-2) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor for effects of excessive immunosuppression.
DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 20% of patients experienced leukopenia. Interferon alfa products may cause fatal or life-threatening infections.(1-2)
Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
Erlotinib; Gefitinib; Sorafenib/Slt Anticoag (Vit K Antag)
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Bleeding has been reported with the use of erlotinib,(1) gefitinib,(2) and sorafenib(3) alone. Concurrent use of vitamin K antagonists may result in additive effects.
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of erlotinib,(1) gefitinib,(2) or sorafenib(3) and vitamin K antagonists may increase the 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: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with erlotinib, gefitinib, or sorafenib and vitamin K antagonists should be closely monitored for changes in International Normalized Ratio (INR) and signs of bleeding. Permanent discontinuation of erlotinib, gefitinib, and sorafenib should be considered in patients who experience a bleeding event that requires medical intervention. 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. The time of highest risk for a coumarin-type drug interaction is when the precipitant drug is initiated or discontinued. Contact the prescriber before initiating, altering the dose or discontinuing either drug.
DISCUSSION: Increased INR and bleeding events, including gastrointestinal and non-gastrointestinal (including fatalities) have been reported with concurrent erlotinib and warfarin.(1,4) Elevated INR and bleeding events have also been reported with gefitinib(2,5,6) and sorafenib(3,7,8) Bleeding has been reported with erlotinib,(1) gefitinib,(2) and sorafenib(3) alone.(3)
Gefitinib; Imatinib/Slt Azole Antifungals; Levoketoconazole
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Azole antifungals such as itraconazole,(1-3) ketoconazole,(1-2,4,5) and voriconazole(1,3,7) may inhibit the metabolism of gefitinib and imatinib by CYP3A4. Levoketoconazole may inhibit the metabolism of gefitinib and imatinib by CYP3A4.(7)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of itraconazole,(1-3) ketoconazole,(1-2,4,5) voriconazole(2,6), or levoketoconazole(7) may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from gefitinib or imatinib.
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of gefitinib(1) or imatinib(2) with itraconazole, ketoconazole, or voriconazole should be approached with caution. Patients receiving concurrent therapy with gefitinib or imatinib should be monitored closely for increased levels of and toxicity from these agents if one of these azole antifungals is initiated. The dosage of gefitinib or imatinib may need to be adjusted if one of these azole antifungals is initiated or discontinued. The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states that concurrent administration with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates is not recommended.(7)
DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, itraconazole (200 mg daily for 12 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of gefitinib (250 mg) by 88%.(1) In a study in healthy male subjects, itraconazole increased the AUC of 250 mg of gefitinib by 78% and the AUC of 500 mg of gefitinib by 61%.(3) An in vitro study in human liver microsomes found that ketoconazole was a potent inhibitor of gefitinib metabolism.(4) In a study in 14 healthy subjects, a single oral dose of ketoconazole (400 mg) increased the AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single oral dose of imatinib (200 mg) by 40% and 26%, respectively.(2,5) In a case report, a patient developed elevated imatinib levels and a pustular eruption following the addition of voriconazole.(6)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Covid-19 Vaccines
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators may prevent the immune system from properly responding to the COVID-19 vaccine.(1-3)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators may interfere with vaccine-induced immune response and impair the efficacy of the vaccine. However, patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1-3)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),(1) Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA),(2) and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)(3) have published guidances for COVID-19 vaccination in patients on immunosuppressants. The CDC states that all immunocompromised patients over 6 months of age should receive at least 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine if eligible. See the CDC's Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for specific recommendations based on age, vaccination history, and vaccine manufacturer.(1) The CDC advises planning for vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or resuming immunosuppressive therapy.(1) IDSA recommends timing COVID-19 vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or at least 3 months after completing immunosuppressive therapy.(2) The ACR states that in general, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators should be held for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose.(3) Patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted, though the immune response will likely be blunted. COVID-19 vaccines should not be delayed in patients taking immunosuppressive therapies.(1-2) See below for specific recommendations for certain agents. B-cell depleting agents, including rituximab: The CDC states that the utility of B-cell quantification to guide clinical care is not known and is not recommended. Patients who receive B-cell depleting therapy on a continuing basis should receive COVID-19 vaccines about 4 weeks before the next scheduled dose. For patients who received 1 or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine during treatment with B-cell-depleting therapies that were administered over a limited period (e.g., as part of a treatment regimen for certain malignancies), revaccination may be considered according to the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. The suggested interval to start revaccination is about 6 months after completion of the B-cell-depleting therapy.(1) IDSA recommends waiting for at least 3-6 months after the last infusion of B-cell depleting therapy before administering COVID-19 vaccines.(2) The ACR recommends consulting with the rheumatologist to determine optimal timing of COVID-19 vaccination. Measuring CD19 B cells may be considered to determine need for a booster vaccine dose. If B cell levels are not measured, a supplemental vaccine dose 2-4 weeks before the next scheduled dose of rituximab is recommended.(3) Recipients of hematopoietic cell transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy who received one or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine prior to or during treatment should undergo revaccination following the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. Revaccination should start at least 3 months (12 weeks) after transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy.(1,2) The CDC includes abatacept, cyclophosphamide, and TNF-alpha and cytokine inhibitors in their general recommendation to hold therapy for at least 2 weeks following vaccination (1) while the ACR provides different recommendations:(3) *Abatacept: - Subcutaneous abatacept should be withheld for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose, as disease activity allows. - For intravenous abatacept, time administration so that vaccination will occur 1 week before the next abatacept infusion. *Cyclophosphamide: When feasible, administer cyclophosphamide 1 week after each COVID-19 vaccine dose. *TNF-alpha inhibitors and cytokine inhibitors: The ACR was not able to reach consensus on whether to modify dosing or timing of these agents with COVID-19 vaccination.
DISCUSSION: IDSA recommendations are based on cohort and case control studies in immunocompromised patients that found low to modest vaccine effectiveness (37-61%) but lower risks of COVID-19 association hospitalization, COVID-19 related mortality, and critical illness.(2) The ACR convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance Task Force to provide guidance on optimal use of COVID-19 vaccines in rheumatology patients. These recommendations are based on limited clinical evidence of COVID-19 vaccines in patients without rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders and evidence of other vaccines in this patient population.(3) The ACR recommendation for rituximab is based on studies of humoral immunity following receipt of other vaccines. These studies have uncertain generalizability to vaccination against COVID-19, as it is unknown if efficacy is attributable to induction of host T cells versus B cell (antibody-based) immunity.(3) The ACR recommendation for mycophenolate is based on preexisting data of mycophenolate on non-COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity. Emerging data suggests that mycophenolate may impair SARS-CoV-2 vaccine response in rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease and transplant patients.(3) The ACR recommendation for methotrexate is based on data from influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines with methotrexate.(3) The ACR recommendation for JAK inhibitors is based on concerns related to the effects of JAK inhibitors on interferon signaling that may result in a diminished vaccine response.(3) The ACR recommendation for subcutaneous abatacept is based on several studies suggesting a negative effect of abatacept on vaccine immunogenicity. The first vaccine dose primes naive T cells, naive T cell priming is inhibited by CTLA-4, and abatacept is a CTLA-4Ig construct. CTLA-4 should not inhibit boosts of already primed T cells at the time of the second vaccine dose.(3)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Sarilumab
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sarilumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sarilumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)
DISCUSSION: Sarilumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis studies. Sarilumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by sarilumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia and cellulitis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving sarilumab. Cases of tuberculosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystis with sarilumab have been reported.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Tocilizumab
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tocilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tocilizumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)
DISCUSSION: Tocilizumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate, non-biologic DMARDs or corticosteroids, depending on the indication. Tocilizumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by tocilizumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, sepsis and bacterial arthritis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving tocilizumab. Cases of tuberculosis, cryptococcus, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystosis have been reported.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ublituximab
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ublituximab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ublituximab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ublituximab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ublituximab with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive agents, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents. When switching from agents with immune effects, the half-life and mechanism of action of these drugs must be taken into consideration in order to prevent additive immunosuppressive effects.(1)
DISCUSSION: The most common infections reported by ublituximab-treated patients in the clinical trial periods included upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Serious, including life-threatening or fatal, bacterial and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ublituximab.(1) Serious and/or fatal bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections have been associated with other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. There were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported during the clinical trials; however, there have been reports of PML during or following completion of other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies.(1)
Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ustekinumab
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ustekinumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ustekinumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)
DISCUSSION: Ustekinumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants in psoriasis studies. In psoriatic arthritis studies, concomitant methotrexate use did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis studies, concomitant use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by ustekinumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included nasopharyngitis(8%) and upper respiratory tract infection(5%). Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ustekinumab. Cases of interstitial pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia resulting in respiratory failure or prolonged hospitalization have been reported in patients receiving ustekinumab.(1)
Selected Kinase Inhibitors/Antacids
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: The solubility of bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) erlotinib,(3) gefitinib,(4) neratinib,(5) nilotinib(6), pazopanib,(7) and pexidartinib(8) is pH dependent. Antacid-induced changes in gastric pH may decrease the absorption of these agents.(1-8)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of antacids may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) erlotinib,(3) gefitinib,(4) neratinib,(5) nilotinib(6), pazopanib,(7) and pexidartinib.(8)
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Antacid use should be considered in place of H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors in patients receiving bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) erlotinib,(3) gefitinib,(4) neratinib,(5) nilotinib(6), pazopanib,(7) and pexidartinib;(8) however, separation of administration times is required. If antacids are used, separate the administration times by several hours(1-8) but at least 2 hours for bosutinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) nilotinib,(6) and pexidartinib(8), 6 hours for gefitinib,(4) and 3 hours for neratinib.(5) Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of calcium and/or magnesium salts with antacid properties to interact as well.
DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, lansoprazole (60 mg) decreased bosutinib (400 mg single dose) area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 26% and 46%, respectively.(1) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration of dasatinib (50 mg) with aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide (30 ml) decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 55% and 58%, respectively. In the same subjects, administration of the antacid 2 hours before dasatinib decreased dasatinib Cmax by 26%, but had no effect on dasatinib AUC.(2) In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of dasatinib (50 mg) 10 hours after famotidine decreased dasatinib AUC and Cmax by 61% and 63%, respectively.(2) In a study, concurrent omeprazole decreased the AUC and Cmax of erlotinib by 46% and 61%, respectively.3) In a study, concurrent esomeprazole decreased the AUC of nilotinib by 34%.(6) In a study in 15 healthy subjects, lansoprazole (30 mg at steady state) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of neratinib (240 mg) by 71% and 65%, respectively.(5) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when famotidine was administered 10 hours before or 2 hours after nilotinib.(6) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when an antacid (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) was administered 2 hours before or after nilotinib.(6) Coadministration of esomeprazole decreased pexidartinib Cmax and AUC by 55% and 50%, respectively.(8)
Selected Kinase Inhibitors/H2 Antagonists
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: The solubility of dacomitinib,(1) erlotinib,(2) gefitinib,(3) and nilotinib(4) is pH dependent. Changes in gastric pH from H2 antagonists may decrease the absorption of dacomitinib,(1) erlotinib,(2) gefitinib,(3) and nilotinib(4).
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of H2 antagonists may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of dacomitinib,(1) erlotinib,(2) gefitinib,(3) and nilotinib(4).
PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.
PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the use of short-acting antacids in patients taking dacomitinib,(1) erlotinib,(2) gefitinib,(3) and nilotinib(4). If antacids are used, separate the administration times by several hours(1-7) but at least 2 hours for bosutinib,(1) and nilotinib,(4) and 6 hours for gefitinib.(3) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with dacomitinib, dacomitinib must be given once daily 10 hours after the H2 blocker and 6 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(1) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with erlotinib or nilotinib, the kinase inhibitor must be given 10 hours after the H2 blocker and at least 2 hours before the next dose of the H2 blocker.(2-4) If H2 antagonist therapy is required with gefitinib, gefitinib should be given at least 6 hours before or after the H2 antagonist.(3) Avoid the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in patients receiving treatment dacomitinib,(1) erlotinib,(2) gefitinib,(3) and nilotinib(4).
DISCUSSION: In a study, concurrent rabeprazole decreased the Cmax and AUC of dacomitinib by 51% and 39%, respectively.(1) In a study, concurrent omeprazole decreased the AUC and Cmax of erlotinib by 46% and 61%, respectively.(2) In a study, administration of erlotinib two hours after a dose of ranitidine (300 mg), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 33% and 54%, respectively. Administration of erlotinib 10 hours after and two hours before ranitidine (150 mg twice daily), erlotinib AUC and Cmax decreased by 15% and 17%, respectively.(2) In a case report, a patient that was given erlotinib (150 mg daily,) with algeldrate/magnesium hydroxide (800/400 mg four times daily 4 hours before or 2 hours after erlotinib) did not see a significant reduction in serum trough concentrations of erlotinib. When the patient was switched to intravenous pantoprazole via continuous infusion (8 mg per hour), serum erlotinib levels decreased significantly below minimal trough concentrations for effective tyrosine kinase inhibition. When the patient was switched to oral pantoprazole (40 mg twice daily), serum trough levels of erlotinib returned to therapeutic levels.(5) In a study in 22 healthy subjects, pretreatment with esomeprazole (40 mg daily), decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of nilotinib (400 mg) by 27% and 34%, respectively.(4,7) Increasing the dosage of nilotinib or separating the administration time of nilotinib and the proton pump inhibitor is not expected to eliminate the interaction.(4) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when famotidine was administered 10 hours before or 2 hours after nilotinib.(4) There were no significant changes in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when an antacid (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) was administered 2 hours before or after nilotinib.(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)
Weak Cyp2d6 Inhibitors/Eliglustat
SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed.
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak inhibitors of CYP2D6 may inhibit the metabolism of eliglustat. If the patient is also taking an inhibitor of CYP3A4, eliglustat metabolism can be further inhibited.(1)
CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is a weak inhibitor of CYP2D6 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 is also taking an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and/or has hepatic impairment, 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 dosage of eliglustat with weak inhibitors of CYP2D6 in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers should be limited to 84 mg daily.(1) The dosage of eliglustat with weak inhibitors of CYP2D6 in extensive CYP2D6 metabolizers with mild (Child-Pugh Class A) hepatic impairment should be limited to 84 mg daily.(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: Paroxetine (30 mg daily), a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6, increased eliglustat (84 mg BID) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 7-fold and 8.4-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PKPB) models suggested paroxetine would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 2.1-fold and 2.3-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 terbinafine, a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6, would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 3.8-fold and 4.5-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 1.6-fold and 1.6-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) A single dose of rolapitant increased dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate, about 3-fold on days 8 and day 22 following administration. Dextromethorphan levels remained elevated by 2.3-fold on day 28 after single dose rolapitant. The inhibitory effects of rolapitant on CYP2D6 are expected to persist beyond 28 days.(5) Weak inhibitors of CYP2D6 include: alogliptin, artesunate, celecoxib, chloroquine, chlorpromazine, clobazam, clomipramine, desvenlafaxine, dimenhydrinate, diphenhydramine, dronabinol, dupilumab, echinacea, enasidenib, felodipine, gefitinib, hydralazine, hydroxychloroquine, lorcaserin, methadone, panobinostat, propafenone, sarpogrelate, sertraline, vemurafenib, and venlafaxine.(3,4)
Contraindications
*The manufacturer states there are no known contraindications to the use of gefitinib.
- Lactation
- Interstitial pneumonitis
- Pregnancy
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Disease of liver
Adverse reactions
Adverse effects reported in >=20%of patients receiving gefitinib include skin reactions/rash (e.g., acne, maculopapular rash, erythema, generalized rash, papular rash, pruritic rash, macular rash, dry skin) and diarrhea.
Less Frequent
- Dehydration
- Dyspnea
- Hemorrhage
- Hyperbilirubinemia
- Increased alanine transaminase
- Increased aspartate transaminase
- Peripheral edema
- Toxic amblyopia
Rare or Very Rare
- Acute pancreatitis
- Acute respiratory failure
- Alveolitis
- Angioedema
- Corneal erosion
- Corneal ulcer
- Cutaneous vasculitis
- Cystitis
- Epistaxis
- Erythema multiforme
- Gastrointestinal perforation
- Hematuria
- Hemorrhagic cystitis
- Interstitial lung disease
- Interstitial pneumonitis
- Keratitis
- Ocular inflammation
- Ocular pain
- Pancreatitis
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Pulmonary thromboembolism
- Stevens-johnson syndrome
- Toxic epidermal necrolysis
- Urticaria
More Frequent
- Acne vulgaris
- Anorexia
- Diarrhea
- Dry skin
- General weakness
- Nausea
- Pruritus of skin
- Skin rash
- Vomiting
- Weight loss
Less Frequent
- Alopecia
- Aphthous stomatitis
- Bullous dermatitis
- Conjunctivitis
- Dry eye
- Fever
- Nail disorders
- Xerostomia
Rare or Very Rare
- Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia
Precautions
No enhanced messaging available.
Safety and efficacy of gefitinib have not been established in pediatric patients.
Gefitinib may cause fetal harm if administered to pregnant women based on its mechanism of action and animal findings. (See Fetal/Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality under Cautions.)
Gefitinib and its metabolites are distributed into milk in rats. It is not known whether gefitinib is distributed into human milk. Because of the potential risk in nursing infants, advise women not to breast-feed while receiving gefitinib.
The manufacturer makes no specific dosage recommendations for gefitinib in geriatric patients.
In 2 controlled clinical studies, 45% of patients were 65 years of age or older and 11% were >=75 years of age. No overall differences in safety were observed between geriatric and younger adults. The manufacturer states that insufficient data are available to determine differences in efficacy between geriatric patients and younger adults.
ICD codes
| Code | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR exon 19 deletion | ||
| C34 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of bronchus and lung |
| C34.0 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of main bronchus |
| C34.00 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified main bronchus |
| C34.01 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of right main bronchus |
| C34.02 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of left main bronchus |
| C34.1 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.10 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.11 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, right bronchus or lung |
| C34.12 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, left bronchus or lung |
| C34.2 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of middle lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.3 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.30 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.31 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, right bronchus or lung |
| C34.32 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, left bronchus or lung |
| C34.8 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of bronchus and lung |
| C34.80 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of unspecified bronchus and lung |
| C34.81 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of right bronchus and lung |
| C34.82 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of left bronchus and lung |
| C34.9 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of bronchus or lung |
| C34.90 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.91 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of right bronchus or lung |
| C34.92 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of left bronchus or lung |
| C39.9 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower respiratory tract, part unspecified |
| Metastatic non-small cell lung cancer with EGFR exon 21 l858R substitution mutation | ||
| C34 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of bronchus and lung |
| C34.0 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of main bronchus |
| C34.00 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified main bronchus |
| C34.01 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of right main bronchus |
| C34.02 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of left main bronchus |
| C34.1 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.10 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.11 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, right bronchus or lung |
| C34.12 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of upper lobe, left bronchus or lung |
| C34.2 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of middle lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.3 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, bronchus or lung |
| C34.30 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.31 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, right bronchus or lung |
| C34.32 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower lobe, left bronchus or lung |
| C34.8 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of bronchus and lung |
| C34.80 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of unspecified bronchus and lung |
| C34.81 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of right bronchus and lung |
| C34.82 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of left bronchus and lung |
| C34.9 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of bronchus or lung |
| C34.90 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of unspecified bronchus or lung |
| C34.91 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of right bronchus or lung |
| C34.92 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified part of left bronchus or lung |
| C39.9 | ICD10CM | Malignant neoplasm of lower respiratory tract, part unspecified |
ICD code information from First Databank (FDB).
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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data
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