Ferro-Sequels (ferrous fumarate/ascorbic acid)

Dosage of oral iron preparations should be expressed in terms of elemental iron. The elemental iron content of the various preparations is approximately:

Table 1.

Drug Elemental Iron ferric pyrophosphate 120 mg/g ferrous gluconate 120 mg/g ferrous sulfate 200 mg/g ferrous sulfate, dried 300 mg/g ferrous fumarate 330 mg/g ferrous carbonate, anhydrous 480 mg/g carbonyl iron 1000 mg/g

carbonyl iron is elemental iron, not an iron salt.

Ascorbic acid is usually administered orally. When oral administration is not feasible or when malabsorption is suspected, the drug may be administered IM, IV, or subcutaneously. When given parenterally, utilization of the vitamin reportedly is best after IM administration and that is the preferred parenteral route.

Oral iron preparations generally should be taken between meals (e.g., 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal) for maximum absorption but may be taken with or after meals, if necessary, to minimize adverse GI effects. Patients who have difficulty tolerating oral iron supplements also may benefit from smaller, more frequent doses, starting with a lower dose and increasing slowly to the target dose, trying a different form or preparation, or taking the supplement at bedtime.

No dosing information is available for this tab.

No dosing information is available for this tab.

Concurrent administration of more than 200 mg of ascorbic acid per 30 mg of elemental iron increases absorption of iron from the GI tract; however, most individuals are able to absorb orally ingested iron adequately without concurrent administration of ascorbic acid.

Increased urinary excretion of ascorbic acid and decreased excretion of aspirin occur when the drugs are administered concurrently.

Salicylates inhibit uptake of ascorbic acid by leukocytes and platelets. As a result, leukocyte and plasma concentrations of ascorbic acid are decreased to concentrations slightly higher than those associated with tissue depletion of the vitamin; however, there is no evidence to date that salicylate therapy precipitates ascorbic acid deficiency. Although concomitant administration of ascorbic acid supplements in patients receiving salicylates increases plasma ascorbic acid concentrations, leukocyte ascorbic acid concentrations are not increased and tissue stores of the vitamin may not be increased. Therefore, routine administration of ascorbic acid supplements to patients receiving salicylates is not warranted; however, patients receiving high dosages of salicylates who exhibit any signs or symptoms of ascorbic acid deficiency should be evaluated for such a deficiency.

Ascorbic acid has reportedly decreased the anticoagulant effect of warfarin; however, other investigators have failed to show this effect. Concurrent administration of ascorbic acid and fluphenazine reportedly resulted in decreased fluphenazine plasma concentration. Acidification of the urine following administration of ascorbic acid may result in altered excretion of other drugs.

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

Iron/Dimercaprol

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: Dimercaprol can complex with iron, forming a chelation compound that is more toxic than iron alone.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of dimercaprol and iron may result in toxicity, especially renal toxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Medicinal iron should not be administered to patients receiving dimercaprol.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because the dimercaprol-iron complex is more toxic than iron alone, especially to the kidneys, medicinal iron should not be administered to patients receiving dimercaprol.(1)

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

Aluminum & Magnesium Antacids;Polyvalent Cations/Raltegravir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids may alter raltegravir absorption by altering gastric pH. Magnesium antacids and supplements containing polyvalent cations may bind to raltegravir in the GI tract, preventing its absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids and supplements containing polyvalent cations may reduce levels and clinical effectiveness of raltegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of any formulation of raltegravir and aluminum and/or magnesium antacids is not recommended. Instruct patients not to use aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids. Calcium carbonate may be used in place of aluminum and/or magnesium containing antacids in patients receiving raltegravir twice daily. Calcium carbonate is not recommended for patients receiving once daily raltegravir (1,200 mg daily).(1,2) The US HIV treatment guidelines state that if coadministration of other medications that contain polyvalent cations (e.g., Mg, Al, Fe, Ca, Zn, sucralfate) is necessary, administer raltegravir at least 2 hours before or at least 6 hours after polyvalent cations. Monitor for virologic response.(2)

DISCUSSION: Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) with raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 44%, 49%, and 63%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours before raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 51%, 51%, and 56%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 22%, 30%, and 57%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 4 hours before after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 22%, 19%, and 60%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 4 hours after after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 30%, 32%, and 62%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 6 hours before after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 10%, 13%, and 50%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 6 hours after after raltegravir (400 mg BID) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 10%, 11%, and 49%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 12 hours after after raltegravir (1200 mg single dose) decreased raltegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 14%, 14%, and 58%, respectively.(1,3) Data from in vitro(3) and in vivo simulations(5) suggest that magnesium's effect on raltegravir may involve chelation as well as changes in pH.

Iron Salts, Oral/Levodopa

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Iron salts appear to decrease the absorption of levodopa by chelate formation.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The therapeutic effect of levodopa may be decreased.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Separate the administration times of levodopa and iron by as much as possible. Observe the patient for a decrease in clinical response and adjust the dose of levodopa as necessary.

DISCUSSION: Ferrous sulfate administration produced decreases in the serum concentration of levodopa and area-under-curve (AUC). Patients receiving levodopa plus carbidopa also experienced a reduction in the serum concentration and AUC for carbidopa during concurrent administration of ferrous sulfate. In addition, a loss in therapeutic response was demonstrated.

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

Aluminum, Iron, Zinc/Deferiprone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deferiprone chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, iron, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Deferiprone chelation with oral aluminum, iron or zinc containing products in the gastrointestinal tract may decrease the amount of free deferiprone available for systemic iron chelation. Zinc supplements prescribed to counteract deferiprone-induced zinc deficiency may not be effective if taken near time of deferiprone administration.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer recommends at least a four hour interval between deferiprone dose and administration of aluminum, iron or zinc containing medications or supplements.(1) Avoid use of iron-containing vitamins or nutritional supplements in patients who require chelation therapy for iron overload.

DISCUSSION: The US manufacturer has not studied this interaction. The recommendation to separate deferiprone and polyvalent cation doses by at least four hours is based upon the deferiprone mechanism of action.(1)

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)/Deferoxamine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: It is believed that ascorbic acid increases the iron available for chelation from an labile intracellular iron pool. Ascorbic acid may then facilitate iron-induced oxidative tissue damage.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Dietary ascorbic acid may increase the absorption of dietary iron. Supplemental ascorbic acid therapy given during chelation therapy may improve iron output;(1-9) however, excessive dosages may result in cardiac toxicity from iron-induced oxidative tissue damage.(1,2,11-13)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Ascorbic acid intake is often restricted in patients with iron overload; however, it has been used in conjunction with deferoxamine to increase iron excretion.(2) Supplemental ascorbic acid therapy should only be initiated after one month of deferoxamine therapy. Ascorbic acid therapy should only be given in patients receiving deferoxamine regularly and the dose should be given after the infusion has started. The dosage of ascorbic acid should be limited to 50 mg daily in children under 10 years of age; 100 mg daily in older children; and 200 mg daily, in divided doses, in adults.(2) Cardiac function should be monitored in patients receiving concurrent therapy. Discontinue ascorbic acid therapy in patients who develop cardiac dysfunction.(2)

DISCUSSION: Supplemental ascorbic acid therapy given during chelation therapy has been shown to improve iron output,(1-9) possibly by increasing iron available for chelation from an labile intracellular iron pool.(1) However, dosages in excess of 500 mg daily have been associated with cardiac dysfunction.(1,2,11-13)

Calcium & Iron Containing Supplements/Bictegravir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Calcium or iron containing supplements may bind to bictegravir in the GI tract, preventing its absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Calcium or iron containing supplements may reduce levels and clinical effectiveness of bictegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Bictegravir and calcium or iron containing supplements may be taken together with food. Routine administration of bictegravir under fasting conditions simultaneously with, or within 2 hours after, calcium or iron containing supplements is not recommended.(1) In pregnant patients, if bictegravir is taken on an empty stomach, take bictegravir at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after calcium or iron containing supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 80% and 79%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours after bictegravir (50 mg single dose) in a fasted state decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 7% and 13%, respectively.(1) Administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) 2 hours before bictegravir (50 mg single dose) in a fasted state decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 58% and 52%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of aluminum and magnesium hydroxide (20 ml) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 49% and 47%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate (1200 mg single dose) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 42% and 33%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate (1200 mg single dose) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax by 10% and increased AUC 3%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of ferrous fumarate (324 mg single dose) in a fasted state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 71% and 63%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of ferrous fumarate (324 mg single dose) in a fed state with bictegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased bictegravir Cmax and AUC by 25% and 16%, respectively.(1)

Calcium; Iron; Sucralfate/Thyroid Preparations

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism by which malabsorption of thyroid preparations occurs from calcium-containing products is presumed to be a binding of the medication to the thyroid hormone, forming an insoluble or nonabsorbable complex.(1-3) Iron may form a ferric-thyroxine complex with thyroid agents, preventing their absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.(1,4) Sucralfate binds to other agents in the gastrointestinal tract and alters absorption of other drugs, including thyroid agents.(1,5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The simultaneous administration of thyroid preparations with calcium, iron, or sucralfate may result in decreased levels and clinical effects of thyroid preparations.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Instruct patients to separate the administration time of thyroid preparations from calcium or iron by as much time as possible, preferably by at least four hours.(1) Administer thyroid preparations at least 2 hours before sucralfate.(5) Patients taking thyroid preparations and calcium- or iron-containing products or sucralfate should be monitored for changes in thyroid function. The dosage of the thyroid preparation may need to be increased. Separating the administration times of the thyroid preparation and the calcium- or iron-containing products or sucralfate may decrease the effects of the interaction.(1-5)

DISCUSSION: In a pharmacokinetic study 8 healthy, euthyroid adults were given levothyroxine alone and levothyroxine coadministered with calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, or calcium acetate in doses containing 500 mg elemental calcium. The coadministration of each of the three calcium preparations significantly reduced levothyroxine absorption by about 20%-25% compared with levothyroxine given alone.(3) In a study in 14 subjects, the simultaneous administration of thyroxine with ferrous sulfate for 12 weeks resulted in an increase in the mean level of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) from 1.6+/-0.4 mU/L to 5.4+/-2.8 mU/L. Mixing thyroxine with ferrous sulfate in vitro resulted in a poorly soluble complex.(4) In a study in 20 hypothyroid patients, the simultaneous administration of levothyroxine and calcium carbonate (1200 mg) daily for three months resulted in reductions in the mean free T4 and total T4 levels. These values increased in most patients following the discontinuation of calcium carbonate. A concurrent in-vitro study found that calcium carbonate adsorbed levothyroxine in solution at a pH of 2, gastric pH, but not at a pH of 7.4.(6) One author reported three cases of decreased levothyroxine efficacy following the addition of calcium carbonate to therapy.(7) In a study in 5 healthy subjects, levothyroxine (five 200 mcg tablets) was administered in 3 different dosing regimens: after an overnight fast, with the fifth and final dose of sucralfate (1 gram every 6 hours) and 8 hours after the second and final dose of sucralfate (2 grams every 12 hours). When administered alone, 80% of levothyroxine was absorbed within 6 hours of administration, compared to 23% when administered concurrently with sucralfate. There was no difference in levothyroxine absorption when administered alone or 8 hours after sucralfate.(8) There are several case reports documenting decreased effects of thyroid supplementation as the result of simultaneous administration of sucralfate.(9,10) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Calcium; Iron; Sucralfate/Tiratricol

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism by which malabsorption of thyroid preparations such as tiratricol occurs from calcium-containing products is presumed to be a binding of the medication to the thyroid hormone, forming an insoluble or nonabsorbable complex.(1,2) Iron may form a ferric-thyroxine complex with thyroid agents such as tiratricol, preventing their absorption from the gastrointestinal tract.(1,2) Sucralfate binds to other agents in the gastrointestinal tract and alters absorption of other drugs, including thyroid agents such as tiratricol.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The simultaneous administration of thyroid preparations with calcium, iron, or sucralfate may result in decreased levels and clinical effects of thyroid preparations.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Instruct patients to take iron and calcium supplements at the same time every day relative to tiratricol dosing.(6,7) Patients taking thyroid preparations and calcium- or iron-containing products or sucralfate should be monitored for changes in thyroid function. The dosage of the thyroid preparation may need to be increased. Separating the administration times of the thyroid preparation and the calcium- or iron-containing products or sucralfate may decrease the effects of the interaction.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: Iron and calcium may interfere with the absorption of tiratricol.(1,2)

Divalent & Trivalent Cations/Tetracyclines

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Di- and trivalent cations may form chelation complexes with tetracyclines, preventing their absorption.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of di- or trivalent cations may result in decreased levels of and therapeutics effects from tetracyclines.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Administer tetracyclines at least two hours before or after the di- or trivalent cations. When used for the treatment of H. pylori infection, tetracyclines and bismuth should be given simultaneously. The US manufacturer of omadacycline states to fast for at least four hours, administer omadacycline, and then wait four hours before taking di- or trivalent cations.(21) The US manufacturer of ferric maltose recommends separation of ferric maltose by at least 4 hours.(22)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of aluminum hydroxide or divalent cations (such as calcium, magnesium, or zinc) has been shown to significantly decrease the gastrointestinal absorption of tetracycline.(3-5) Concurrent administration of tetracycline and magnesium-aluminum hydroxide gel has been shown to decrease the tetracycline area-under-curve (AUC) by 90%.(6) Magnesium-aluminum silicate has been shown to decrease the AUC of tetracycline by 27%.(7) Demeclocycline(8,9) methacycline,(10) chlortetracycline,(11) and oxytetracycline(10,12) have been shown to interact with aluminum hydroxide and/or dairy products. Doxycycline has been reported to interact with aluminum hydroxide gel.(13) Aluminum magnesium hydroxide has been shown to decrease doxycycline absorption by 84%.(14) Minocycline absorption has been shown to be impaired by aluminum, calcium, and magnesium.(15) Bismuth subsalicylate has been shown to decrease absorption of doxycycline and tetracycline by 37%(16) and 34%,(17) respectively. Since sucralfate is an aluminum salt of a sulfated disaccharide, it may also prevent absorption of tetracyclines. This complex has been used to provide site-specific delivery of tetracycline to gastric ulcers in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori gastric ulcer disease and may be useful in some indications.(18) Quinapril tablets contain a high percentage of magnesium and have been shown to decrease the absorption of tetracycline by 28-37%.(19) Lanthanum is expected to interact with tetracyclines as well.(20)

Iron Salts, Oral/Trientine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Trientine is a chelating agent. Concurrent administration with iron may reduce the absorption of both trientine and iron.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Iron may decrease the levels and clinical effects of trientine, and trientine may reduce serum iron levels.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid use of iron salts within 2 hours of trientine dose. Monitor clinical status for decreased effectiveness and adjust the trientine dose if necessary.

DISCUSSION: Multivitamins with low doses of iron may decrease trientine absorption so ensure patient is aware of the risks. Also, as patients may be unaware which foods contain iron, instruct patients to take trientine on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals or two hours after food or milk.

Oral Iron Supplements/Antacids And Selected Minerals

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Some antacids may bind to iron, preventing its absorption. Alterations in gastric pH by antacids may also play a role. Iron may bind to other minerals such as calcium, manganese, tin, and zinc in the GI tract.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of an antacid or minerals may decrease the absorption of orally administered iron.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction with some combinations may be affected by the presence or absence of food.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Iron supplements should not be taken within 1 hour before or 2 hours after antacids, calcium, manganese, or zinc.(1) Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of calcium and/or magnesium salts with antacid properties to interact as well.

DISCUSSION: Magnesium hydroxide has been shown to inhibit the absorption of elemental iron,(2) although other studies have shown conflicting results.(3,4) Sodium bicarbonate has been shown to decrease the absorption of iron by 50%.(3) In a study in 61 healthy subjects, calcium citrate, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate inhibited iron absorption when taken with food. However, in the fasted state, calcium carbonate had no effect on iron absorption. In the fasted state, calcium citrate and calcium phosphate decreased iron absorption by 49% and 62%, respectively,(6) In a study in 23 healthy subjects, calcium acetate and calcium carbonate decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of elemental iron (65 mg) by 27% and 19%, respectively.(7) In a study, manganese decreased iron absorption. A ratio of 5:1 of zinc:iron decreased iron absorption by 56%.(8) In a study, inorganic iron decreased zinc absorption.(9) In another study, ferrous sulfate decreased the absorption of zinc sulfate in a concentration dependent manner; however, heme chloride had no effect on zinc sulfate.(10) In a study in premature infants, administration of liquid zinc and iron supplements between feedings decreased iron uptake; however, no effect was seen when the supplements were mixed with feedings.(11) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Oral Iron Supplements/Entacapone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Entacapone may chelate with iron within the gastrointestinal tract, reducing the absorption of both drugs.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of entacapone and orally administered iron may decrease the clinical effects of both medications.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Iron supplements should not be taken within 2-3 hours before or after entacapone to minimize the effects of this interaction.(1) Some multivitamin preparations that contain sufficient quantities of iron may interact and not be properly absorbed as well.

DISCUSSION: Entacapone may form chelates with iron in the gastrointestinal tract, and preparations should be taken at least 2-3 hours apart.(1) Although the impact on the body's iron stores is unknown, clinical studies showed decreasing serum iron concentrations with coadministration of entacapone.(2) In repeated dose toxicity studies, anemia was observed most likely due to the iron chelating properties of entacapone.(1) Prescribing information of entacapone/levodopa/carbidopa states chelation of entacapone with iron may decrease bioavailability of entacapone/levodopa/carbidopa.(3)

Oral Iron/Cefdinir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Iron may form a chelation complex with cefdinir, preventing its absorption.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of cefdinir with iron may result in decreased levels and clinical effectiveness of cefdinir.(1,2) Concurrent use may also result in a reddish color of stools.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after iron supplements, including multivitamins containing iron.(1) Patients should be counseled that their stool may turn reddish during treatment with cefdinir. Cefdinir may be administered simultaneously with iron-fortified infant formula.(1)

DISCUSSION: Simultaneous administration of cefdinir with a therapeutic iron supplement containing 60 mg of elemental iron as ferrous sulfate or vitamins containing 10 mg of elemental iron decreased cefdinir absorption by 80% and 31%, respectively.(1) Simultaneous administration of iron with cefdinir (200 mg) decreased cefdinir area-under-curve (AUC) by 93%.(2) There have been reports of reddish stools in patients taking cefdinir, most of these patients were taking iron-containing products.(1)

Oral Iron/Oral Methyldopa

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Iron, in several forms, binds strongly to methyldopa, producing iron complexes thereby reducing methyldopa absorption.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concomitant use of methyldopa with iron supplementation may decrease the clinical efficacy of methyldopa.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients requiring iron supplementation should be advised to take methyldopa two hours prior to any iron products.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized crossover trial with 12 subjects, concurrent use of methyldopa (500 mg daily) and ferrous sulfate (325 mg daily) showed a 28.4% decrease in the proportion of "free" methyldopa (p<0.01), a 28% increase in the proportion excreted as methyldopa sulfate (p<0.01), and a 21.2% decrease in total absorbed methyldopa (p<0.01). Similar results were found when administering ferrous gluconate (600 mg daily). Antihypertensive effects of methyldopa while taking ferrous sulfate were also assessed in five patients chronically taking methyldopa. All participants showed an increase in systolic blood pressure (p=0.03) after two weeks of ferrous sulfate administration. Diastolic blood pressure increased in four patients (p>0.05). After 14 days, three patients had an increase in systolic pressure greater than 15 mm Hg and two patients had an increase of greater than 10 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressures. Both systolic and diastolic pressures decreased after ferrous sulfate was discontinued.(2)

Oral Multivalent Cations/Oral Bisphosphonates

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Multivalent cations may bind to and inhibit the absorption of oral bisphosphonates.(1-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of products containing multivalent cations may result in decreased levels of and clinical effects from oral bisphosphonates.(1-6)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Instruct patients to separate the administration times of products containing multivalent cations and oral bisphosphonates. Manufacturer recommendations regarding the separation of administration times of oral bisphosphonates and multivalent cations vary. Do NOT give multivalent cation-containing products: - until at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate(1) - within 2 hours of etidronate(2) - until at least 1 hour after taking ibandronate(3) - until at least 30 minutes after taking risedronate(4) - within 2 hours of tiludronate(5)

DISCUSSION: Multivalent cations may bind to and inhibit the absorption of oral bisphosphonates, resulting in decreased levels of and clinical effects from these agents.(1-6) Administration of aluminum- or magnesium-containing antacids 1 hour before tiludronate decreased the bioavailability of tiludronate by 60%.(5)

Polyvalent Cations And Phosphate Binders/Vadadustat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Vadadustat may form a chelate with iron supplements, phosphate binders, and other medicinal products whose primary component consists of polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of vadadustat and polyvalent cations and phosphate binders decreases the exposure and effectiveness of vadadustat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vadadustat states that it should be administered at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after any medications or products whose primary component consists of iron, phosphate binders and polyvalent cations.(1)

DISCUSSION: Two studies evaluating the pharmacokinetics, safety, and tolerability of a single oral dose of vadadustat coadministered with a phosphate binder or iron supplement were conducted in healthy adult participants. Vadadustat exposure was reduced by coadministration with sevelamer carbonate, calcium acetate, ferric citrate, and ferrous sulfate. Geometric least squares mean ratios for area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) were reduced 37% to 55% by phosphate binders and 46% by ferrous sulfate. However, when vadadustat was administered 1 hour before phosphate binders, 90% confidence intervals for vadadustat exposure were within the no-effect boundaries of +50% to -33%, indicating that drug-drug interactions can be reduced by administering vadadustat 1 hour before phosphate binders.(2)

Polyvalent Cations/Baloxavir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc may form chelation compounds with baloxavir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc may result in decreased levels of and clinical effects from baloxavir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent administration of baloxavir with cation-containing products.(1)

DISCUSSION: A significant decrease in baloxavir exposure was observed when baloxavir was coadministered with calcium, aluminum, magnesium, or iron in monkeys. No studies have been conducted in humans.(1)

Polyvalent Cations/Cabotegravir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cabotegravir chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of cabotegravir and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of cabotegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cabotegravir states that it should be administered at least 4 hours before or 2 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies have not been conducted. Prescribing information states cabotegravir levels may be decreased when coadministered with antacids containing polyvalent cations (examples include aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate) suggesting cabotegravir is susceptible to chelation.(1)

Polyvalent Cations/Eltrombopag

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Eltrombopag chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of eltrombopag and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of eltrombopag.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eltrombopag states that it should be administered at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a crossover study in 25 healthy subjects, administration of eltrombopag with an antacid (1524 mg aluminum hydroxide/1425 mg magnesium carbonate/sodium alginate) decreased eltrombopag levels by 70%.(1,2)

Polyvalent Cations/Penicillamine, Oral

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Penicillamine chelates with polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc in the GI tract reducing the absorption of the penicillamine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Reduced (to 30% of fasting) bioavailability of penicillamine with decreased pharmacologic response.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In order to assure systemic absorption and maximal effectiveness from penicillamine, counsel patient to separate penicillamine by at least 1 hour before or 1 hours after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements. Monitor clinical status for decreased effectiveness and adjust the penicillamine dose if necessary.

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies with polyvalent cations have not been conducted. Multivitamins with low doses of cations including iron and zinc may decrease penicillamine absorption so insure patient is aware of the risks.

Polyvalent Cations/Roxadustat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Roxadustat chelates polyvalent cations such as aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, and zinc.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration of roxadustat and polyvalent cations may decrease the absorption and clinical effects of roxadustat.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of roxadustat states that it should be administered at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after any medications or products containing polyvalent cations such as antacids or mineral supplements.(1)

DISCUSSION: Clinical studies with polyvalent cations have not been conducted. In a study in health subjects, concurrent use of roxadustat with sevelamer carbonate or calcium acetate decreased roxadustat area-under-curve (AUC) by 67% and 46% and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 66% and 52%, respectively.(1)

Sel Oral Cations; Antacids; H2 Antag/Dolutegravir-Rilpivirin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, sucralfate, and zinc may form chelation compounds with dolutegravir.(1) Rilpivirine requires an acidic medium for absorption. Antacid or H2 antagonist induced decrease in gastric pH may result in decrease in rilpivirine absorption.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or sucralfate close to the administration time of dolutegravir may result in decreased absorption and clinical effectiveness of dolutegravir.(1) Simultaneous administration of an antacid or a H2 antagonist may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of rilpivirine, as well as the development of resistance.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy with dolutegravir-rilpivirine and cation-containing products. If it is necessary to use these agents concurrently, dolutegravir-rilpivirine should be administered 4 hours before or 6 hours after taking these medications.(1) Alternatively, dolutegravir-rilpivirine and supplements containing calcium or iron can be taken together with food.(1) In patients maintained on dolutegravir-rilpivirine, administer dolutegravir-rilpivirine at least 4 hours before or 6 hours after antacids .(1) In patients maintained on dolutegravir-rilpivirine, administer dolutegravir-rilpivirine at least 4 hours before or 12 hours after H2 antagonists.(1) Concurrent use of proton pump inhibitors will dolutegravir-rilpivirine is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of dolutegravir by 72%, 74%, and 74%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) 2 hours after dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 18%, 26%, and 30%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of a multiple vitamin (One-A-Day) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 35%, 33%, and 32%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, omeprazole (20 mg daily) decreased the Cmax, AUC, and Cmin of rilpivirine (150 mg daily) by 40%, 40%, and 33%, respectively. The Cmax and AUC of omeprazole decreased by 14% and 14%, respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 12 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) had no significant effect on rilpivirine Cmax or AUC.(1) In a study in 23 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 2 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) decreased the rilpivirine Cmax and AUC by 85% and 76%, respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, famotidine (40 mg single dose) administered 4 hours before a single dose of rilpivirine (150 mg) increased the rilpivirine Cmax and AUC by 21% and 13%, respectively.(1)

Selected Oral Cations/Dolutegravir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, sucralfate, and zinc may form chelation compounds with dolutegravir.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or sucralfate close to the administration time of dolutegravir may result in decreased absorption and clinical effectiveness of dolutegravir.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy with dolutegravir and cation-containing products. If it is necessary to use these agents concurrently, dolutegravir should be administered 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking these medications.(1) Alternatively, dolutegravir and supplements containing calcium or iron can be taken together with food.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), and minimum concentration (Cmin) of dolutegravir by 72%, 74%, and 74%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of an antacid (Maalox - aluminum and magnesium hydroxide) 2 hours after dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 18%, 26%, and 30%, respectively.(1) In a study in 16 subjects, the administration of a multiple vitamin (One-A-Day) simultaneously with dolutegravir (50 mg single dose) decreased dolutegravir Cmax, AUC, and Cmin by 35%, 33%, and 32%, respectively.(1)

Selected Oral Cations/Elvitegravir

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown, but aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, sucralfate, and zinc may bind to elvitegravir in GI tract.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or sucralfate may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of elvitegravir, as well as the development of resistance.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Separate the administration of elvitegravir and products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or sucralfate by at least 2 hours.(1) Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of calcium and/or magnesium salts with antacid properties to interact as well.

DISCUSSION: Administration of an antacid (exact formulation not stated) 2 hours before elvitegravir (50 mg) decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax), area-under-curve (AUC), or minimum concentration (Cmin) of elvitegravir by 18%, 15%, and 10%, respectively.(1) Administration of an antacid 2 hours after elvitegravir (50 mg) decreased the Cmax, AUC, or Cmin of elvitegravir by 21%, 20%, and 20%, respectively.(1) Administration of an antacid 4 hours before elvitegravir (50 mg) decreased the Cmax and AUC of elvitegravir by 5%, and 4%, respectively.(1) Administration of an antacid 4 hours before elvitegravir (50 mg) decreased both the Cmax and AUC of elvitegravir by 2%.(1)

Selected Oral Cations/Selected Oral Quinolones

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and zinc may form chelation compounds with the quinolones.(1-40) MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and zinc may form chelation compounds with the quinolones.(1-23)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or zinc close to the administration time of an oral quinolone may result in decreased absorption and clinical effectiveness of the quinolone. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Simultaneous administration or administration of products containing aluminum, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or zinc close to the administration time of an oral quinolone may result in decreased absorption and clinical effectiveness of the quinolone

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy with quinolones and cation-containing products. If it is necessary to administer these agents concurrently, follow the manufacturers' recommendations regarding timing of administration of the quinolone and cation-containing products. Manufacturer recommendations regarding the separation of administration times of quinolones and products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or zinc vary: ---Do not give ciprofloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after oral cations.(1) ---Do not give delafloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after oral cations.(2) ---Do not give enoxacin for at least 2 hours before or 8 hours after oral cations.(3) ---Do not give levofloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after oral cations.(4) ---Do not give nalidixic acid for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after oral cations.(5) ---Do not give norfloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after oral cations.(6) ---Do not give ofloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after oral cations.(7) ---Do not give sparfloxacin for at least 4 hours before oral cations.(8) ---Do not give sitafloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after oral cations.(9) The US manufacturer of lanthanum recommends that quinolones be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after lanthanum;(10) however, it would be prudent to follow the specific quinolone manufacturers' recommendations regarding concurrent administration of cations. The US manufacturer of ferric maltose recommends separation of ferric maltose by at least 4 hours. For quinolones not listed above, separate their administration from oral cations by as much time as feasible. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid concurrent therapy with quinolones and cation-containing products. If it is necessary to administer these agents concurrently, follow the manufacturers' recommendations regarding timing of administration of the quinolone and cation-containing products. Manufacturer recommendations regarding the separation of administration times of quinolones and products containing aluminum, iron, lanthanum, magnesium, and/or zinc vary: ---Do not give gatifloxacin for at least 4 hours before oral cations(1) ---Do not give gemifloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 3 hours after oral cations.(2) ---Do not give lomefloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after oral cations.(3) ---Do not give moxifloxacin for at least 4 hours before or 8 hours after oral cations.(4) ---Do not give trovafloxacin for at least 2 hours before or after oral cations.(5) ---Do not give prulifloxacin for at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after oral cations.(23) The US manufacturer of lanthanum recommends that quinolones be taken at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after lanthanum;(6) however, it would be prudent to follow the specific quinolone manufacturers' recommendations regarding concurrent administration of cations. The US manufacturer of ferric maltose recommends separation of ferric maltose by at least 4 hours. For quinolones not listed above, separate their administration from oral cations by as much time as feasible.

DISCUSSION: Aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc products have been shown to form chelation compounds with quinolone antibiotics, resulting in decreased absorption of the quinolone.(1-40) Treatment failures have been reported.(11-12) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration of didanosine chewable tablets, which contain aluminum and magnesium, decreased ciprofloxacin area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 92% and 98%, respectively.(14) The administration of ciprofloxacin 2 hours prior to Videx chewable/dispersible tablets decreased ciprofloxacin concentrations by 26%.(15,16) In a study in healthy subjects, pretreatment with an antacid containing aluminum-magnesium hydroxide at 5-10 minutes, 2 hours, and 4 hours before a single dose of ciprofloxacin decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 84.9%, 76.8%, and 30%, respectively. There was no effect when the antacid was administered 6 hours before or 2 hours after.(17) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, aluminum hydroxide decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 85%.(18) In a study in patients on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, peak levels of ciprofloxacin were decreased by 67% to 92% in patients receiving aluminum-containing antacids.(19) In a study in 15 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration of calcium acetate decreased the bioavailability of ciprofloxacin by 51%.(20) In a study in 6 healthy males, simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate decreased ciprofloxacin Cmax and AUC by 40% and 43%, respectively.(21) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, calcium carbonate decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 40%.(18) In a study in 13 healthy males, calcium carbonate had no effect on ciprofloxacin bioavailability when administered 2 hours prior to the antibiotic.(22,23) In a study in healthy males, simultaneous administration of calcium polycarbophil decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 50%.(24) In a study in 8 healthy males, simultaneous administration of ferrous fumarate (200 mg) decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 70%.(25) In a study in healthy subjects, ferrous gluconate decreased ciprofloxacin bioavailability by 50%; however, no significant effects were seen with iron-ovotransferrin.(26) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, ferrous sulfate decreased the Cmax and AUC of simultaneously administered ciprofloxacin by 54% and 57%, respectively.(27) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, administration of ferrous sulfate decreased the Cmax and AUC of ciprofloxacin by 33% and 46%, respectively. Administration of ferrous gluconate decreased the Cmax and AUC of ciprofloxacin by 57% and 67%, respectively. Administration of a multivitamin product containing calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and zinc decreased the Cmax and AUC of ciprofloxacin by 53% and 56%, respectively.(28) In a study in 12 healthy males, ferrous sulfate decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 63%.(29) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, lanthanum carbonate decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of concurrently administered ciprofloxacin by 54% and 56%, respectively.(30) In a study in 12 healthy males, a multivitamin containing zinc decreased ciprofloxacin AUC by 22%.(29) In a study in 12 healthy subjects, an antacid containing aluminum-magnesium hydroxide had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of intravenous enoxacin.(31) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, administration of an aluminum-magnesium hydroxide antacid 0.5 hours or 2 hours before oral enoxacin (400 mg single dose) decreased the AUC of enoxacin by 73% and 43%, respectively. There were no significant effects on enoxacin AUC when the antacid was administered 8 hours before or 2 hours after enoxacin.(32) In a study in 9 healthy subjects, colloidal aluminum phosphate had no effect on the amount of enoxacin absorbed; however, ferrous sulfate (1050 mg) decreased the amount of enoxacin absorption by 10%.(33) In a study in 5 healthy subjects and 5 patients with cystic fibrosis, separation of levofloxacin (750 mg) and calcium carbonate (500 mg 3 times daily with meals) by 2 hours resulted in no interaction in healthy subjects; however, levofloxacin levels were not bioequivalent in patients with cystic fibrosis.(34) Concurrent magnesium-aluminum hydroxide or calcium have been shown to decrease the bioavailability of norfloxacin by 91.0% and 63.5%, respectively.(35) Concurrent zinc has been shown to decrease the bioavailability of norfloxacin.(36) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, ferrous sulfate decreased the Cmax and AUC of simultaneously administered norfloxacin by 75% and 73%, respectively.(27) Simultaneous aluminum phosphate was found to decrease the rate, but not the extent, of absorption of ofloxacin.(37) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, ferrous sulfate decreased the Cmax and AUC of simultaneously administered norfloxacin by 36% and 25%, respectively.(27) In an in vitro study, ferrous sulfate, aluminum hydroxide, and calcium carbonate decreased ofloxacin availability by 32.6%, 30.7%, and 26.2%, respectively. However, in vivo tests showed a significant effect with only aluminum hydroxide.(38) In a study in 9 healthy subjects, simultaneous administration colloidal aluminum phosphate had no effect on ofloxacin (200 mg) absorption; however, ferrous sulfate (1050 mg) decreased the ofloxacin fraction of dose absorbed by 10.85%.(33) In a study in 16 subjects, administration of either aluminum-magnesium hydroxide or calcium carbonate at least 2 hours before or after ofloxacin administration had no significant effects on ofloxacin levels.(39) The administration of an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide 2 hours before, 2 hours after, and 4 hours after sparfloxacin decreased sparfloxacin levels by 23%, 17%, and 5%, respectively.(40) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology. DISCUSSION: Magnesium and aluminum compounds have been shown to form chelation compounds with quinolone antibiotics, resulting in decreased absorption of the quinolone.(1-22) Treatment failures during concurrent use of cations and gatifloxacin(7) and pefloxacin(8) have been reported. In a study in 24 healthy subjects, administration of an aluminum-magnesium hydroxide antacid simultaneously, 2 hours before, or 2 hours after decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of gatifloxacin (400 mg) by 42%, 64%, or 18%, respectively. There were no affects on gatifloxacin AUC when the antacid was administered 4 hours after gatifloxacin.(9) In a study in 16 healthy males, administration of an aluminum-magnesium hydroxide antacid 10 minutes before or 3 hours after a single dose of gemifloxacin (320 mg) decreased the gemifloxacin AUC by 85% and 15%, respectively. There was no affect when the antacid was administered 2 hours after gemifloxacin.(10) In a study in 16 subjects, simultaneous administration of calcium carbonate decreased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and AUC of a single dose of gemifloxacin (320 mg) by 17% and 21%, respectively. There was no effect of calcium carbonate when administered either 2 hours before or after gemifloxacin.(11) In a study in 27 healthy males, the administration of ferrous sulfate (325 mg) 3 hours before a single dose of gemifloxacin (320 mg) decreased the Cmax and AUC of gemifloxacin by 20% and 11%, respectively. There were no effects when ferrous sulfate was administered 2 hours after gemifloxacin.(12) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, ferrous sulfate (100 mg elemental iron) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of lomefloxacin by 26% and 13%, respectively. There were no effects with concurrent calcium carbonate (500 mg calcium).(13) Magnesium- and aluminum-containing antacids have been shown to decrease the bioavailability of lomefloxacin by 40%.(14) Administration of moxifloxacin 2 hours before, simultaneously, or 4 hours after a magnesium- and aluminum-containing antacid decreased moxifloxacin AUC by 26%, 60%, and 23%, respectively.(15) Simultaneous administration of moxifloxacin and ferrous sulfate (100 mg) decreased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of moxifloxacin by 39% and 59%, respectively.(16) Concurrent administration of calcium had no affect on moxifloxacin pharmacokinetics.(17) In a study in 10 healthy subjects, an aluminum-magnesium hydroxide antacid decreased the bioavailability of pefloxacin (400 mg) by 44.4%.(18) The administration of an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide 5 minutes before rufloxacin decreased rufloxacin levels by 36%. Administration of the antacid 4 hours after rufloxacin decreased rufloxacin levels by 13%.(19) Magnesium- and aluminum-containing antacids have been shown to decrease the bioavailability of temafloxacin by 40%.(20) Aluminum hydroxide has been shown to decrease the bioavailability of tosufloxacin by 31.6%.(21) Administration of an antacid containing aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide 30 minutes before trovafloxacin decreased trovafloxacin levels by 66%.(22) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

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• Hemochromatosis

• Chronic iron overload due to repeated blood transfusions
• Diverticular disease
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hemosiderosis
• Ulcerative colitis

• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcer

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There are no severe adverse reactions for this drug.

More Frequent

• Black stools
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Flatulence
• Nausea

Less Frequent

• Abdominal distension
• Acute abdominal pain
• Vomiting

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During the first and second trimester of pregnancy, iron-deficiency anemia is associated with a twofold increased risk of premature delivery and a threefold increased risk of a low-birthweight delivery. Although iron supplementation during pregnancy has been shown to decrease the incidence of anemia, evidence on the effect of routine iron supplementation during pregnancy on adverse maternal and infant outcomes is inconclusive. Blood volume expands by about 35% during pregnancy, and growth of the fetus, placenta, and other maternal tissues increases the iron requirement threefold during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy to about 5 mg of iron daily. Although menstruation ceases and iron absorption increases during pregnancy, most pregnant women who do not use iron supplements to meet increased iron requirements cannot maintain adequate iron stores, particularly during the last 2 trimesters. Following delivery, iron in the fetus and placenta are lost to the woman, although some of the iron in the expanded blood volume may return to blood stores. Among low-income pregnant women enrolled in health programs in the US, the prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia is 9, 14, and 37% during the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. While similar data currently are not available for all pregnant women in the US, the low dietary iron intake among US women of childbearing age, the high prevalence of iron deficiency and associated anemia among such women, and the increased iron requirements during pregnancy suggest that anemia during pregnancy may extend beyond low-income women. In addition, use of prenatal multivitamin and mineral supplements among African-Americans, native American and Alaskan Indians, women younger than 20 years of age, and those having less than a high school education is substantially lower than in the general US pregnant population.

The principal reasons for the current lack of widespread adoption of a recommended iron supplementation regimen during pregnancy in US women may include lack of health-care provider and patient perceptions that iron supplements improve maternal and infant outcomes, complicated dose schedules, and adverse effects (e.g., constipation, nausea, vomiting). However, adequate dietary iron intake and iron supplementation generally are recommended for primary prevention of iron deficiency during pregnancy. By employing low-dose (i.e., 30 mg of iron daily) regimens with simplified dose schedules (i.e., once-daily dosing), patient compliance may be improved; low-dose regimens have been shown to increase patient tolerance and are as effective as higher dosages (e.g., 60-120 mg iron daily) in preventing iron-deficiency anemia.

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