Bisoprolol Fumarate

Drug overview for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Generic name: BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (BIS-oh-PROE-lol)
Drug class: Beta-Blockers (Systemic)
Therapeutic class: Cardiovascular Therapy Agents

Bisoprolol is a beta1-selective adrenergic blocking agent (beta-blocker).

Bisoprolol is used in the management of hypertension. The drug also has been used in the management of heart failure+. The choice of a beta-adrenergic blocking agent (beta-blocker) depends on numerous factors, including pharmacologic properties (e.g., relative beta-selectivity, intrinsic sympathomimetic activity, membrane-stabilizing activity, lipophilicity), pharmacokinetics, intended use, and adverse effect profile, as well as the patient's coexisting disease states or conditions, response, and tolerance.

While specific pharmacologic properties and other factors may appropriately influence the choice of a beta-blocker in individual patients, evidence of clinically important differences among the agents in terms of overall efficacy and/or safety is limited. Patients who do not respond to or cannot tolerate one beta-blocker may be successfully treated with a different agent.

DRUG IMAGES

BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 5 MG TAB
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 10 MG TAB

The following indications for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate) have been approved by the FDA:

Indications:
Hypertension

Professional Synonyms:
Elevated blood pressure
Essential hypertension
Hyperpiesia
Hyperpiesis
Hypertensive disorder
Systemic arterial hypertension

The following dosing information is available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Dosing
Administration
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE

Adjustment of dosage of bisoprolol-containing therapy based solely on age does not appear to be necessary in geriatric patients, unless appreciable renal or hepatic impairment is present. (See Dosage and Administration: Dosage in Renal and Hepatic Impairment.)

Since pharmacokinetics of bisoprolol may be altered in patients with renal impairment (i.e., creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/minute) or hepatic impairment, the manufacturer states that bisoprolol fumarate should be initiated at 2.5 mg daily in such patients. If needed, dosage of bisoprolol fumarate should be increased with caution.

Limited data indicate that patients with severe renal impairment (i.e., creatinine clearances less than 20 mL/minute per 1.73 m2) generally should not receive bisoprolol fumarate dosages exceeding 10 mg once daily. Since limited data suggest that the drug is not removed by dialysis, the manufacturer states that patients undergoing dialysis do not require a supplemental dose afterward. If progressive renal impairment develops in any patient receiving bisoprolol fumarate in fixed combination with hydrochlorothiazide, the manufacturer recommends that the combination be discontinued.

Bisoprolol fumarate is administered orally. GI absorption of the drug does not appear to be affected by food.

Dosing information for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE
DRUG LABEL	DOSING TYPE	DOSING INSTRUCTIONS
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 5 MG TAB	Maintenance	Adults take 1 tablet (5 mg) by oral route once daily
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 10 MG TAB	Maintenance	Adults take 1 tablet (10 mg) by oral route once daily

Generic dosing information for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE
DRUG LABEL	DOSING TYPE	DOSING INSTRUCTIONS
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 5 MG TAB	Maintenance	Adults take 1 tablet (5 mg) by oral route once daily
BISOPROLOL FUMARATE 10 MG TAB	Maintenance	Adults take 1 tablet (10 mg) by oral route once daily

The following drug interaction information is available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Contraindicated
Severe
Moderate

There are 0 contraindications.

There are 7 severe interactions. These drug interactions can produce serious consequences in most patients. Actions required for severe interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration scheduling, and providing additional patient monitoring. Review the full interaction monograph for more information.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Clonidine/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Withdrawal of clonidine triggers increased catecholamine release. Beta-blockers inhibit the vasodilation mediated by the beta 2 receptor, leaving the vasoconstriction mediated by the alpha 2 receptor unopposed. In addition, concurrent use is expected to produce additive effects on blood pressure and heart rate requiring standard monitoring precautions. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Severe hypertension may occur upon abrupt discontinuation of clonidine in patients receiving both clonidine and beta-blockers. In addition, concurrent use is expected to produce additive effects on blood pressure and heart rate requiring standard monitoring precautions. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In a patient receiving both drugs, discontinuation of the beta-blocker prior to clonidine may decrease the occurrence of rebound hypertension. If clonidine is discontinued first, rebound hypertension can be treated by restarting the clonidine or by the IV administration of phentolamine, phenoxybenzamine or prazosin. When adding either of these agents to the drug regimen of the patient, monitor blood pressure. Since labetalol has both alpha and beta activity, administration of labetalol may prevent rebound hypertension in patients undergoing clonidine withdrawal, although conflicting reports exist. In addition, concurrent use is expected to produce additive effects on blood pressure and heart rate requiring standard monitoring precautions. DISCUSSION: Increased blood pressure has been observed in patients following: 1) the discontinuation of clonidine in patients receiving beta-blockers, 2) the replacement of clonidine therapy with beta-blockers, 3) the simultaneous discontinuation of both drugs. Conflicting reports exist on the development of increased blood pressure after clonidine withdrawal in patients receiving labetalol. Patients receiving labetalol who are being withdrawn from clonidine should still be closely monitored.	CATAPRES-TTS 1, CATAPRES-TTS 2, CATAPRES-TTS 3, CLONIDINE, CLONIDINE HCL, CLONIDINE HCL ER, DURACLON, NEXICLON XR, ONYDA XR, R.E.C.K.(ROPIV-EPI-CLON-KETOR), ROPIVACAINE-CLONIDINE-KETOROLC
Fingolimod/Beta-Blockers; AV Node Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Initiation of fingolimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Beta-blockers or agents which slow AV node conduction further increase the risk for symptomatic bradycardia or heart block. CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes. The cause of death in a patient who died within 24 hour after taking the first dose of fingolimod was not conclusive; however a link to fingolimod or a drug interaction with fingolimod could not be ruled out. Beta-Blockers linked to this monograph are: atenolol, betaxolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, esmolol, landiolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, nebivolol, propranolol and timolol. AV Node Blocking agents are:digoxin, diltiazem, flecainide, ivabradine, propafenone and verapamil. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, history of torsades de pointes, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation, or factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age) may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to fingolimod. Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients with Class III/IV heart failure or in patients who have experienced myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA) or decompensated heart failure within the past six months.(1) Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, or a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation should receive cardiologist consultation to evaluate the risks of fingolimod therapy. Patients receiving agents linked to this monograph should have their physician evaluate the possibility of a switch to agents which do not slow heart rate or cardiac conduction. If fingolimod is initiated, the patient should stay overnight in a medical facility with continuous ECG monitoring after the first dose. Correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia prior to starting fingolimod. US monitoring recommendations in addition to continuous ECG with overnight monitoring: Check blood pressure hourly. If heart rate (HR) is < 45 beats per minute (BPM) or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. If patient requires treatment for symptomatic bradycardia, the first dose monitoring strategy should be repeated for the second dose of fingolimod. If, within the first two weeks of treatment one or more fingolimod doses is missed, then first dose procedures are recommended upon resumption. If during weeks 3 and 4 of fingolimod treatment dose is interrupted more than 7 days, then first dose procedures are recommended upon resumption. United Kingdom recommendations(3): Obtain a 12-lead ECG prior to initiating fingolimod therapy. Consult a cardiologist for pretreatment risk-benefit assessment if patient has a resting heart rate less than 55 bpm, history of syncope, second degree or greater AV block, sick-sinus syndrome, concurrent therapy with beta-blockers, Class Ia, or Class III antiarrhythmics, heart failure or other significant cardiovascular disease. Perform continuous ECG monitoring, measure blood pressure and heart rate every hour, and perform a 12-lead ECG 6 hours after the first dose. Monitoring should be extended beyond 6 hours if symptomatic bradycardia or new onset of second degree AV block, Mobitz Type II or third degree AV block has occurred at any time during the monitoring period. If heart rate 6 hours after the first dose is less than 40 bpm, has decreased more than 20 bpm compared with baseline, or if a new onset second degree AV block, Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach) persists, then monitoring should also be continued. If fingolimod treatment is discontinued for more than two weeks, the effects on heart rate and conduction could recur. Thus, first dose monitoring precautions should be followed upon reintroduction of fingolimod. DISCUSSION: After the first dose of fingolimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 6 hours followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. The second dose may further decrease heart rate, but the magnitude of change is smaller than the first dose. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about one month.(1,2) Diurnal variation in heart rate and response to exercise are not affected by fingolimod treatment.(2) In a manufacturer sponsored study, fingolimod and atenolol 50 mg daily lowered heart rate 15% more than fingolimod alone. However, additional heart rate lowering was not seen with the combination of extended release diltiazem and fingolimod compared with fingolimod alone.(1)	FINGOLIMOD, GILENYA, TASCENSO ODT
Allergen Immunotherapy/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Beta-blockers may mask early signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis, make the treatment of anaphylaxis more difficult, and increase the severity of the reaction. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Beta-blockers may reduce a patient's ability to survive a systemic allergic reaction to allergen immunotherapy. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis may be masked. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of epinephrine with beta-blockers may result in hypertension with reflex bradycardia. Epinephrine resistance in patients with anaphylaxis has been reported. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concomitant administration of immunotherapy and beta-blockers if possible. If patients cannot safely discontinue beta-blockers but have a history of moderate to severe sting-induced anaphylaxis, venom immunotherapy is indicated because the risk of anaphylaxis related to a venom sting is greater than the risk of an immunotherapy-related systemic reaction. In patients taking beta-blockers for whom an acceptable alternative is not available, withholding allergen immunotherapy may be the best option. If both drugs are administered, monitor closely for signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis. Use caution when treating anaphylaxis with epinephrine since response may be poor. Epinephrine administration may worsen anaphylaxis because beta-blockers block the beta effects of epinephrine, which results in predomination of alpha effects. The plasma clearance of epinephrine is decreased. Glucagon may help in the treatment of refractory anaphylaxis in patients receiving beta-blockers. DISCUSSION: In a case report, a patient taking propranolol was administered pollen extract immunotherapy and immediately developed anaphylaxis. Treatment with epinephrine did not improve symptoms and patient was subsequently intubated.(2) In another case report, a patient taking propranolol was given pollen immunotherapy and developed anaphylaxis. Difficulty in maintaining an adequate blood pressure and pulse continued for several hours despite epinephrine and other supportive measures.(3) There are other case reports of patients taking propranolol with venom immunotherapy that were refractory to treatment.(6-7)	9 TREE MIX EXTRACT, ACACIA, ALDER, ALFALFA EXTRACT, ALTERNARIA ALTERNATA, AMERICAN BEECH, AMERICAN COCKROACH EXTRACT, AMERICAN ELM, AMERICAN SYCAMORE, ARIZONA CYPRESS, ASPERGILLUS FUMIGATUS, AUREOBASIDIUM PULLULANS, BAHIA, BALD CYPRESS, BAYBERRY, BLACK WALNUT POLLEN, BOTRYTIS CINEREA, BOX ELDER, BROME, CALIFORNIA PEPPER TREE, CANDIDA ALBICANS, CARELESSWEED, CATTLE EPITHELIUM, CEDAR ELM, CLADOSPORIUM CLADOSPORIOIDES, COCKLEBUR, CORN POLLEN, CORN SMUT, D.FARINAE MITE EXTRACT, D.PTERONYSSINUS MITE EXTRACT, DOG EPITHELIUM EXTRACT, DOG FENNEL, EASTERN COTTONWOOD, ENGLISH PLANTAIN, EPICOCCUM NIGRUM, FIRE ANT, GERMAN COCKROACH, GOLDENROD, GRASTEK, GUINEA PIG EPITHELIUM EXTRACT, HACKBERRY, HONEY BEE VENOM PROTEIN, HORSE EPITHELIUM, JOHNSON GRASS, KOCHIA, LAMB'S QUARTERS, MELALEUCA, MESQUITE, MIXED COCKROACH, MIXED FEATHERS, MIXED RAGWEED EXTRACT, MIXED VESPID VENOM PROTEIN, MOSQUITO, MOUNTAIN CEDAR, MOUSE EPITHELIUM, MUCOR PLUMBEUS, MUGWORT, ODACTRA, OLIVE TREE, ORALAIR, PALFORZIA, PECAN POLLEN, PENICILLIUM NOTATUM, PRIVET, QUACK GRASS, QUEEN PALM, RABBIT EPITHELIUM, RAGWITEK, RED BIRCH, RED CEDAR, RED MAPLE, RED MULBERRY, RED OAK, ROUGH MARSH ELDER, ROUGH PIGWEED, RUSSIAN THISTLE, SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE, SAGEBRUSH, SAROCLADIUM STRICTUM, SHAGBARK HICKORY, SHEEP SORREL, SHEEP SORREL-YELLOW DOCK, SHORT RAGWEED, SPINY PIGWEED, STANDARD BERMUDA GRASS POLLEN, STANDARD MIXED GRASS POLLEN, STANDARD MIXED MITE EXTRACT, STANDARD RYE GRASS POLLEN, STANDARD SWEET VERNAL GRASS, STANDARDIZED CAT HAIR, STANDARDIZED JUNE GRASS POLLEN, STANDARDIZED MEADOW FESCUE, STANDARDIZED ORCHARD GRASS, STANDARDIZED RED TOP GRASS, STANDARDIZED TIMOTHY GRASS, SWEETGUM, TALL RAGWEED, TRICHOPHYTON MENTAGROPHYTES, VIRGINIA LIVE OAK, WASP VENOM PROTEIN, WEED MIX NO.7B EXTRACT, WESTERN JUNIPER, WESTERN RAGWEED, WHITE ASH, WHITE BIRCH, WHITE MULBERRY, WHITE OAK EXTRACT, WHITE PINE, WHITE-FACED HORNET VENOM, YELLOW DOCK, YELLOW HORNET VENOM PROTEIN, YELLOW JACKET VENOM PROTEIN
Siponimod/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Initiation of siponimod has caused transient decreases in heart rate and atrioventricular conduction delays after the first dose. Decreases in heart rate start within the first hour and maximal decrease in heart rate was seen at approximately 3-4 hours. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Beta-blockers further increase the risk for symptomatic bradycardia or heart block.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of siponimod is transient and is usually seen with the first dose. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, history of torsades de pointes, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to siponimod initiation, or factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age) may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to siponimod. 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 prescribing information states temporary interruption in beta-blocker therapy may be needed before initiation of siponimod. Beta-blocker therapy can be initiated in patients receiving stable doses of siponimod.(1) Treatment initiation recommendations include: - Obtain an ECG in all patients to determine whether preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. - In all patients, a dose titration is recommended for initiation of siponimod treatment to help reduce cardiac effects. - In patients with sinus bradycardia (HR less than 55 bpm), first- or second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block, or a history of myocardial infarction or heart failure with onset > 6 months prior to initiation, ECG testing and first dose monitoring is recommended. - Since significant bradycardia may be poorly tolerated in patients with history of cardiac arrest, cerebrovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or severe untreated sleep apnea, siponimod is not recommended in these patients. If treatment is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought prior to initiation of treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring strategy. - Use of siponimod in patients with a history of recurrent syncope or symptomatic bradycardia should be based on an overall benefit-risk assessment. If treatment is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought prior to initiation of treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring. - For patients receiving a stable dose of a beta-blocker, the resting heart rate should be considered before introducing siponimod treatment. If the resting heart rate is greater than 50 bpm under chronic beta-blocker treatment, siponimod can be introduced. If resting heart rate is less than or equal to 50 bpm, beta-blocker treatment should be interrupted until the baseline heart-rate is greater than 50 bpm. Treatment with siponimod can then be initiated and treatment with a beta-blocker can be reinitiated after siponimod has been up-titrated to the target maintenance dosage. - If a titration dose is missed or if 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration and follow titration monitoring recommendations.(1) DISCUSSION: After the first titration dose of siponimod, the heart rate decrease starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from Day 1-baseline reached on Day 5-6. The highest daily post-dose decrease in absolute hourly mean heart rate is observed on Day 1, with the pulse declining on average 5-6 bpm. Post-dose declines on the following days are less pronounced. With continued dosing, heart rate starts increasing after Day 6 and reaches placebo levels within 10 days after treatment initiation. In Study 1, bradycardia occurred in 4.4% of siponimod-treated patients compared to 2.9% of patients receiving placebo. Patients who experienced bradycardia were generally asymptomatic. Few patients experienced symptoms, including dizziness or fatigue, and these symptoms resolved within 24 hours without intervention.(1) Beta-Blockers linked to this monograph are: atenolol, betaxolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, esmolol, landiolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, nebivolol, propranolol and timolol.	MAYZENT
Crizotinib/Agents That Cause Bradycardia SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Crizotinib may cause symptomatic bradycardia. Additional agents that cause bradycardia further increase the risk for symptomatic bradycardia.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of crizotinib recommends avoiding concurrent use of crizotinib and other agents known to cause bradycardia to the extent possible. If combination therapy is required, monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly. If bradycardia occurs, withhold crizotinib until heart rate recovers to 60 bpm or above, or patient is asymptomatic. Re-evaluate the use of the concomitant medication. If the concomitant medication is discontinued or its dose is reduced, resume crizotinib at the previous dose upon patient's recovery. If the concomitant medication is not discontinued or dose adjusted, resume crizotinib at a reduced dose upon patient's recovery. If life-threatening bradycardia occurs, discontinue or reduce the dose of the concomitant medication. Upon the patient's recovery, lower the dose of crizotinib to 250 mg daily. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate frequently.(1) DISCUSSION: Across clinical trials, bradycardia occurred in 13 % of patients on crizotinib, and grade 3 syncope occurred in 2.4 % of patients on crizotinib compared with 0.6 % on chemotherapy.(1) Agents that may cause bradycardia and linked to this monograph include: beta-blockers, non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, clonidine, and digoxin.(1)	XALKORI
Ponesimod/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Initiation of ponesimod has caused transient decreases in heart rate and atrioventricular conduction delays after the first dose. Decreases in heart rate start within the first hour and maximal decrease in heart rate was seen at approximately 2-4 hours. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Beta-blockers further increase the risk for symptomatic bradycardia or heart block.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of ponesimod is transient and is usually seen with the first dose. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, history of torsades de pointes, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to siponimod initiation, or factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age) may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to siponimod. 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 prescribing information states temporary interruption in beta-blocker therapy may be needed before initiation of ponesimod. Beta-blocker therapy can be initiated in patients receiving stable doses of ponesimod.(1) Treatment initiation recommendations include: - Obtain an ECG in all patients to determine whether preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. - In all patients, a dose titration is recommended for initiation of ponesimod treatment to help reduce cardiac effects. - In patients with sinus bradycardia (HR less than 55 bpm), first- or second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block, or a history of myocardial infarction or heart failure with onset > 6 months prior to initiation, ECG testing and first dose monitoring is recommended. - Since significant bradycardia may be poorly tolerated in patients with history of cardiac arrest, cerebrovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or severe untreated sleep apnea, ponesimod is not recommended in these patients. If treatment is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought prior to initiation of treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring strategy. - Use of ponesimod in patients with a history of recurrent syncope or symptomatic bradycardia should be based on an overall benefit-risk assessment. If treatment is considered, advice from a cardiologist should be sought prior to initiation of treatment in order to determine the most appropriate monitoring. - For patients receiving a stable dose of a beta-blocker, the resting heart rate should be considered before introducing ponesimod treatment. If the resting heart rate is greater than 55 bpm under chronic beta-blocker treatment, ponesimod can be introduced. If resting heart rate is less than or equal to 55 bpm, beta-blocker treatment should be interrupted until the baseline heart-rate is greater than 55 bpm. Treatment with ponesimod can then be initiated and treatment with a beta-blocker can be reinitiated after ponesimod has been up-titrated to the target maintenance dosage. - If a titration dose is missed or if 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration and follow titration monitoring recommendations.(1) DISCUSSION: After the first titration dose of ponesimod the heart rate decrease starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 2-4 hours. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from Day 1-baseline reached on Day 4-5. The highest daily post-dose decrease in absolute hourly mean heart rate is observed on Day 1, with the pulse declining on average 6 bpm. Post-dose declines on the following days are less pronounced. With continued dosing, heart rate starts increasing after Day 6 and reaches placebo levels within 10 days after treatment initiation. In a study, bradycardia occurred in 5.8% of ponesimod-treated patients compared to 1.6% of patients receiving placebo. Patients who experienced bradycardia were generally asymptomatic. Few patients experienced symptoms, including dizziness or fatigue, and these symptoms resolved within 24 hours without intervention.(1) Beta-Blockers linked to this monograph are: atenolol, betaxolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, esmolol, landiolol, labetalol, metoprolol, nadolol, nebivolol, propranolol and timolol.	PONVORY
Etrasimod/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Initiation of etrasimod has caused transient decreases in heart rate and atrioventricular conduction delays after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Beta-blockers further increase the risk for symptomatic bradycardia or heart block.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of etrasimod is transient and is usually seen with the first dose. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, history of torsades de pointes, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to etrasimod initiation, or factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age) may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to etrasimod. 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 prescribing information states etrasimod therapy can be initiated in patients receiving stable doses of beta blocker therapy. Cardiology consultation is recommended before initiating a beta blocker in a patient receiving stable etrasimod treatment.(1) DISCUSSION: Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays. In two studies, after the first dose of etrasimod 2 mg, ulcerative colitis patients saw a mean decrease from baseline in heart rate of 7.2 bpm at hour 3 in UC-1 an hour 2 in UC-2.(1) In UC-1, bradycardia was reported on Day 1 in 1% of etrasimod patients, 0.3% on Day 2 compared to no patients receiving placebo.In UC-2 and UC-3, bradycardia was reported on Day 1 in 2.9% of etrasimod patients, 0.3% on Day 2 compared to no patients receiving placebo. Patients experiencing bradycardia were generally asymptomatic. The few patients with symptomatic bradycardia reported dizziness that resolved without intervention.(1) Beta-Blockers linked to this monograph are: atenolol, betaxolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, esmolol, labetalol, landiolol, metoprolol, nadolol, nebivolol, propranolol and timolol.	VELSIPITY

There are 10 moderate interactions. The clinician should assess the patient’s characteristics and take action as needed. Actions required for moderate interactions include, but are not limited to, discontinuing one or both agents, adjusting dosage, altering administration.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Selected Beta-blockers/Selected Calcium Channel Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Synergistic pharmacologic activity. CLINICAL EFFECTS: May see an increase in the therapeutic and toxic effects of both drugs. Concurrent use in patients with low heart rates may unmask sick sinus syndrome. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Preexisting left ventricular dysfunction and high doses of the beta-blocking agent may predispose patients to adverse responses to this drug combination. Other possible factors include parenteral administration and concurrent administration of other cardio-depressant drugs such as antiarrhythmics. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor the patient for signs of increased cardio-depressant effects and hypotension. Adjust the dose accordingly. DISCUSSION: Coadministration of these classes of drugs may be effective in the treatment of angina pectoris and hypertension. Patients should be screened in order to determine who should receive this combination of agents. The concurrent use of mibefradil and beta-blockers in patients with low heart rates may unmask underlying sick sinus syndrome. 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.	CARDIZEM, CARDIZEM CD, CARDIZEM LA, CARTIA XT, DILT-XR, DILTIAZEM 12HR ER, DILTIAZEM 24HR ER, DILTIAZEM 24HR ER (CD), DILTIAZEM 24HR ER (LA), DILTIAZEM 24HR ER (XR), DILTIAZEM HCL, DILTIAZEM HCL-0.7% NACL, DILTIAZEM HCL-0.9% NACL, DILTIAZEM HCL-NACL, DILTIAZEM-D5W, MATZIM LA, NIFEDIPINE, NIFEDIPINE ER, NIFEDIPINE MICRONIZED, PROCARDIA XL, TIADYLT ER, TIAZAC, TRANDOLAPRIL-VERAPAMIL ER, VERAPAMIL ER, VERAPAMIL ER PM, VERAPAMIL HCL, VERAPAMIL SR
NSAIDs; Aspirin (Non-Cardioprotective)/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Unknown; however, possibly related to inhibition of prostaglandin by NSAIDs. CLINICAL EFFECTS: The antihypertensive action of beta-blockers may be decreased. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patient's blood pressure and adjust the dose of the beta-blocker as needed. DISCUSSION: Concurrent administration of beta-blockers and NSAIDs has been associated with a clinically significant loss in antihypertensive response. The magnitude of the effect of NSAIDs on control of blood pressure by beta-blockers needs to be determined for each anti-inflammatory agent. 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.	ACETYL SALICYLIC ACID, ANAPROX DS, ANJESO, ARTHROTEC 50, ARTHROTEC 75, ASA-BUTALB-CAFFEINE-CODEINE, ASCOMP WITH CODEINE, ASPIRIN, BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE, BROMFENAC SODIUM, BUPIVACAINE-KETOROLAC-KETAMINE, BUTALBITAL-ASPIRIN-CAFFEINE, CALDOLOR, CAMBIA, CARISOPRODOL-ASPIRIN, CARISOPRODOL-ASPIRIN-CODEINE, CELEBREX, CELECOXIB, CHOLINE MAGNESIUM TRISALICYLAT, COMBOGESIC, COMBOGESIC IV, CONSENSI, COXANTO, DAYPRO, DICLOFENAC, DICLOFENAC POTASSIUM, DICLOFENAC SODIUM, DICLOFENAC SODIUM ER, DICLOFENAC SODIUM MICRONIZED, DICLOFENAC SODIUM-MISOPROSTOL, DIFLUNISAL, DISALCID, DOLOBID, EC-NAPROSYN, ELYXYB, ETODOLAC, ETODOLAC ER, FELDENE, FENOPROFEN CALCIUM, FENOPRON, FLURBIPROFEN, HYDROCODONE-IBUPROFEN, IBU, IBUPAK, IBUPROFEN, IBUPROFEN LYSINE, IBUPROFEN-FAMOTIDINE, INDOCIN, INDOMETHACIN, INDOMETHACIN ER, INFLAMMACIN, INFLATHERM(DICLOFENAC-MENTHOL), KETOPROFEN, KETOPROFEN MICRONIZED, KETOROLAC TROMETHAMINE, KIPROFEN, LODINE, LOFENA, LURBIPR, MB CAPS, MECLOFENAMATE SODIUM, MEFENAMIC ACID, MELOXICAM, NABUMETONE, NABUMETONE MICRONIZED, NALFON, NAPRELAN, NAPROSYN, NAPROTIN, NAPROXEN, NAPROXEN SODIUM, NAPROXEN SODIUM CR, NAPROXEN SODIUM ER, NAPROXEN-ESOMEPRAZOLE MAG, NEOPROFEN, NORGESIC, NORGESIC FORTE, ORPHENADRINE-ASPIRIN-CAFFEINE, ORPHENGESIC FORTE, OXAPROZIN, PHENYL SALICYLATE, PHENYLBUTAZONE, PIROXICAM, R.E.C.K.(ROPIV-EPI-CLON-KETOR), RELAFEN DS, ROPIVACAINE-CLONIDINE-KETOROLC, ROPIVACAINE-KETOROLAC-KETAMINE, SALSALATE, SODIUM SALICYLATE, SPRIX, SULINDAC, SUMATRIPTAN SUCC-NAPROXEN SOD, SYMBRAVO, TOLECTIN 600, TOLMETIN SODIUM, TORONOVA II SUIK, TORONOVA SUIK, TOXICOLOGY SALIVA COLLECTION, TRESNI, TREXIMET, URIMAR-T, URNEVA, VIMOVO, VIVLODEX, ZIPSOR, ZORVOLEX, ZYNRELEF
Selected MAOIs/Selected Antihypertensive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Both MAOIs and antihypertensive agents may increase the risk of postural hypotension.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Postural hypotension may occur with concurrent therapy of MAOIs and antihypertensive agents.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of phenelzine states all patients should be followed closely for symptoms of postural hypotension. Hypotensive side effects have occurred in patients who have been hypertensive and normotensive, as well as hypotensive at initiation of phenelzine.(1) The manufacturer of tranylcypromine states hypotension has been observed most commonly but not exclusively in patients with pre-existing hypertension. Tranylcypromine doses greater than 30 mg daily have a major side effect of postural hypotension and can lead to syncope. Gradual dose titration is recommended to decrease risk of postural hypotension. Combined use with other agents known to cause hypotension have shown to have additive side effects and should be monitored closely.(2) Monitor the patient for signs and symptoms of postural hypotension including dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness, especially upon standing. Monitor blood pressure as well as orthostatic vitals and adjust antihypertensive therapy, including decreasing the dose, dividing doses, or scheduling doses at bedtime, as needed to maintain goal blood pressure. If blood pressure remains hypotensive, consider decreasing the dose of phenelzine or tranylcypromine. In some cases, discontinuation of one or both agents may be necessary.(3) Normotensive patients on stable antihypertensive therapy who are started on either phenelzine or tranylcypromine may be at increased risk for hypotension. Hypertensive patients on stable phenelzine or tranylcypromine who require antihypertensive therapy would be at decreased risk for hypotension. DISCUSSION: A review article describes the pharmacology of phenelzine and tranylcypromine as non-selective MAOIs which inhibit both type A and type B substrates. Orthostatic hypotension is described as the most common MAOI side effect and usually occurs between initiation and the first 3-4 weeks of therapy.(3) In a double-blind study, 71 patients were randomized to receive a 4-week trial of either tranylcypromine, amitriptyline, or the combination. The number of patients reporting dizziness at 4 weeks was not different between the three treatment groups (tranylcypromine 52.4%; amitriptyline 65%; combination 66.7%). Blood pressure (BP) assessment noted a significant drop in standing BP in the tranylcypromine group compared to baseline (systolic BP change = -10 mmHg; p<0.02 and diastolic BP change = -9 mmHg; p<0.02). Combination therapy also had a significant drop in standing BP compared to baseline (systolic BP change = -9 mmHg; p<0.02). Patients receiving amitriptyline had no significant change in BP from baseline at 4 weeks. All three groups had a trend toward increasing orthostatic hypotension in BP changes from lying to standing. The change in orthostatic hypotension was significant in the amitriptyline group with an average systolic BP orthostatic drop of -9 mmHg (p<0.05).(4) A randomized, double-blind study of 16 inpatients with major depressive disorder were treated with either phenelzine or tranylcypromine. Cardiovascular assessments were completed at baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment. After 6 weeks, 5/7 patients (71%) who received phenelzine had a decrease in standing systolic BP greater than 20 mmHg from baseline. Head-up tilt systolic and diastolic BP decreased from baseline in patients on phenelzine (98/61 mmHg v. 127/65 mmHg, respectively; systolic change p=0.02 and diastolic change p=0.02). After 6 weeks, 6/9 patients (67%) who received tranylcypromine had a decrease in standing systolic BP greater than 20 mmHg from baseline. Head-up tilt systolic and diastolic BP decreased from baseline in patients on tranylcypromine (113/71 mmHg v. 133/69 mmHg, respectively; systolic change p=0.09 and diastolic change p=0.07).(5) Selected MAOIs linked to this monograph include: phenelzine and tranylcypromine. Selected antihypertensive agents include: ACE inhibitors, alpha blockers, ARBs, beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, aprocitentan, clonidine, hydralazine and sparsentan.	NARDIL, PARNATE, PHENELZINE SULFATE, TRANYLCYPROMINE SULFATE
Tizanidine/Selected Antihypertensives SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tizanidine is an alpha-2 agonist. Concurrent use with antihypertensive agents may result in additive effects on blood pressure.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of antihypertensives and tizanidine may result in hypotension.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be monitored for hypotension. The risk of hypotension may be decreased by careful titration of tizanidine dosages and monitoring for hypotension prior to dose advancement. Counsel patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension.(1) DISCUSSION: Severe hypotension has been reported following the addition of tizanidine to existing lisinopril therapy.(2-4)	TIZANIDINE HCL, ZANAFLEX
Lacosamide/Beta-Blockers; Calcium Channel Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lacosamide may enhance the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels and may cause dose-dependent bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lacosamide and agents that affect cardiac conduction (beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) may increase the risk of bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Lacosamide should be used with caution in patients on concomitant medications that affect cardiac conduction, including beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers.(1) If concurrent use is needed, obtain an ECG before lacosamide therapy and after lacosamide dose is titrated to steady-state.(1) Patients should be monitored closely when lacosamide is given intravenously.(1) DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial in patients with partial-onset seizures, asymptomatic first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block occurred in 4/944 (0.4%) of patient who received lacosamide compared to 0/364 (0%) with placebo.(1) In a clinical trial in patients with diabetic neuropathy, asymptomatic first-degree AV block occurred in 5/1023 (0.5%) of patients who received lacosamide compared to 0/291 (0%) with placebo.(1) Second-degree and complete AV block have been reported in patients with seizures.(1) One case of profound bradycardia was observed in a patient during a 15-minute infusion of 150 mg of lacosamide.(1) Two postmarketing reports of third-degree AV block in patients with significant cardiac history and also receiving metoprolol and amlodipine during infusion of lacosamide injection at doses higher than recommended have been reported.(1) A case report of an 88 year old female taking bisoprolol documented complete AV block after initiation of lacosamide. The patient required pacemaker implementation.(2)	LACOSAMIDE, MOTPOLY XR, VIMPAT
Anticholinesterases/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Anticholinesterases inhibit plasma cholinesterases and increase cholinergic activity. Use of anticholinesterases may have vagotonic effects on heart rate (e.g. bradycardia). Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers may have additive effects on bradycardia.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers may have additive effects on bradycardia.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers is not recommended. Additive effects may be increased with cardioselective beta-blockers (e.g. atenolol). Monitor patients closely if concurrent use is warranted.(1) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers may have additive effects on cardiac conduction and increase the risk of bradycardia.(1) A case report of a 65 year old African American female had a witnessed a presyncopal episode followed by a true syncopal episode with concurrent use of rivastigmine and atenolol. On day 2 of the hospital stay, the patient developed bradycardia with a heart rate in the 40s and sinus pauses greater than 2 seconds. Atenolol was discontinued yet bradycardia persisted. Following discontinuation of rivastigmine, sinus pauses resolved and heart rate returned to normal.(2) A population-based cohort study in Ontario, Canada reviewed the relationship between cholinesterase inhibitor use and syncope-related outcomes over a two year period. Hospital visits for syncope were more frequent in patients receiving cholinesterase inhibitors than controls (31.5 vs 18.6 events per 1000 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.76; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57-1.98). Other syncope-related events were also more common in patients receiving cholinesterase inhibitors than controls: hospital visits for bradycardia (6.9 vs 4.4 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.69; 95% CI 1.32-2.15); permanent pacemaker insertion (4.7 vs 3.3 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.49; 95% CI 1.12-2.00); and hip fracture (22.4 vs 19.8 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.18; 95% CI 1.04-1.34).(3) A population based case-time-control study of 1,009 patients hospitalized for bradycardia within 9 months of using a cholinesterase inhibitor were reviewed for outcomes. Of these patients, 11% required pacemaker insertion during hospitalization and 4% died prior to discharge. With adjustment for temporal changes in drug utilization, hospitalization for bradycardia was associated with recent initiation of a cholinesterase inhibitor drug (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.13; 95% CI 1.29-3.51). Risk was similar in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease (adjusted OR 2.25; 95% CI 1.18-4.28) and those receiving negative chronotropic drugs (adjusted OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.16-4.71).(4)	ANTICHOLIUM, BLOXIVERZ, DEMECARIUM BROMIDE, EDROPHONIUM CHLORIDE, EXELON, MESTINON, NEOSTIGMINE METHYLSULFATE, NEOSTIGMINE-STERILE WATER, PREVDUO, PYRIDOSTIGMINE BROMIDE, PYRIDOSTIGMINE BROMIDE ER, REGONOL, RIVASTIGMINE
Apomorphine/Selected Antihypertensives and Vasodilators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apomorphine causes dose-dependent decreases in blood pressure. Concurrent use with antihypertensive agents may result in additive effects on blood pressure.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of antihypertensives and apomorphine may result in orthostatic hypotension with or without dizziness, nausea, or syncope.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of orthostatic hypotension may be increased during dose escalation of apomorphine and in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be monitored for hypotension. Counsel patients about the risk of orthostatic hypotension.(1) DISCUSSION: Healthy volunteers who took sublingual nitroglycerin (0.4 mg) concomitantly with apomorphine experienced a mean largest decrease in supine systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 9.7 mm Hg and in supine diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 9.3 mm Hg, and a mean largest decrease in standing SBP and DBP of 14.3 mm Hg and 13.5 mm Hg, respectively. The maximum decrease in SBP and DBP was 65 mm Hg and 43 mm Hg, respectively. When apomorphine was taken alone, the mean largest decrease in supine SBP and DBP was 6.1 mm Hg and 7.3 mm Hg, respectively, and in standing SBP and DBP was 6.7 mm Hg and 8.4 mm Hg, respectively.(1)	APOKYN, APOMORPHINE HCL, ONAPGO
Donepezil; Galantamine/Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Anticholinesterases like donepezil and galantamine inhibit plasma cholinesterases and increase cholinergic activity. Use of anticholinesterases may have vagotonic effects on heart rate (e.g. bradycardia). Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers may have additive effects on bradycardia.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of donepezil or galantamine with beta-blockers may have additive effects on bradycardia.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of anticholinesterases like donepezil or galantamine with beta-blockers is not recommended. Additive effects may be increased with cardioselective beta-blockers (e.g. atenolol). Monitor patients closely if concurrent use is warranted.(1,2) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of anticholinesterases and beta-blockers may have additive effects on cardiac conduction and increase the risk of bradycardia.(1,2) A case report of a 65 year old African American female had a witnessed a presyncopal episode followed by a true syncopal episode with concurrent use of rivastigmine and atenolol. On day 2 of the hospital stay, the patient developed bradycardia with a heart rate in the 40s and sinus pauses greater than 2 seconds. Atenolol was discontinued yet bradycardia persisted. Following discontinuation of rivastigmine, sinus pauses resolved and heart rate returned to normal.(3) A population-based cohort study in Ontario, Canada reviewed the relationship between cholinesterase inhibitor use and syncope-related outcomes over a two year period. Hospital visits for syncope were more frequent in patients receiving cholinesterase inhibitors than controls (31.5 vs 18.6 events per 1000 person-years; adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 1.76; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.57-1.98). Other syncope-related events were also more common in patients receiving cholinesterase inhibitors than controls: hospital visits for bradycardia (6.9 vs 4.4 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.69; 95% CI 1.32-2.15); permanent pacemaker insertion (4.7 vs 3.3 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.49; 95% CI 1.12-2.00); and hip fracture (22.4 vs 19.8 events per 1000 person-years; HR 1.18; 95% CI 1.04-1.34).(4) A population based case-time-control study of 1,009 patients hospitalized for bradycardia within 9 months of using a cholinesterase inhibitor were reviewed for outcomes. Of these patients, 11% required pacemaker insertion during hospitalization and 4% died prior to discharge. With adjustment for temporal changes in drug utilization, hospitalization for bradycardia was associated with recent initiation of a cholinesterase inhibitor drug (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 2.13; 95% CI 1.29-3.51). Risk was similar in patients with pre-existing cardiac disease (adjusted OR 2.25; 95% CI 1.18-4.28) and those receiving negative chronotropic drugs (adjusted OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.16-4.71).(5)	ADLARITY, ARICEPT, DONEPEZIL HCL, DONEPEZIL HCL ODT, GALANTAMINE ER, GALANTAMINE HBR, GALANTAMINE HYDROBROMIDE, MEMANTINE HCL-DONEPEZIL HCL ER, NAMZARIC, ZUNVEYL
Epinephrine/Cardioselective Beta-Blockers SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of beta-blockers also block the beta effects of epinephrine, which results in predomination of alpha effects. The plasma clearance of epinephrine is decreased. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of epinephrine with beta-blockers may result in hypertension with reflex bradycardia. Epinephrine resistance in patients with anaphylaxis has been reported. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Hypertension and bradycardia are less likely to occur with cardioselective beta-blockers. If both drugs are administered, monitor blood pressure carefully. Use caution when treating anaphylaxis with epinephrine since response may be poor. DISCUSSION: A 29-year-old male undergoing elective nasal septoplasty developed severe hypertension with a blood pressure of 207/123 mmHg after topical epinephrine (1:1000) was applied to the nasal mucosa. Intravenous metoprolol was administered but the patient went into cardiogenic shock thought to be a result of unopposed alpha stimulation by the combination of epinephrine and metoprolol.(1) A study observed the differences in cardiovascular responses to subcutaneous epinephrine (given to provide hemostasis during scalp incision for craniotomy) between patients who received propranolol vs. metoprolol vs. no pretreatment. While metoprolol prevented the cardiovascular effects of epinephrine infiltration, propranolol pretreatment was associated with a highly significant increase (P less than 0.01) in mean arterial pressure and a significant decrease (P less than 0.05) in heart rate.(2) A double-blind cross-over trial studied the effects of epinephrine infusion during treatment with propranolol vs. metoprolol in 8 hypertensive patients. Patients on propranolol experienced significant increases in blood pressure and systemic vascular resistance (SVR), whereas patients on metoprolol had less increase in systolic blood pressure while the diastolic pressure remained unchanged and SVR decreased.(3) In spontaneously hypertensive rats, epinephrine in combination with pindolol induced remarkable hemodynamic changes (in particular, increase in diastolic blood pressure), which were prevented by phentolamine pretreatment, whereas epinephrine with acebutolol pretreatment induced no significant hemodynamic changes.(4)	ADRENALIN, ARTICADENT DENTAL, ARTICAINE-EPINEPHRINE, ARTICAINE-EPINEPHRINE BIT, BUFFERED LIDOCAINE-EPINEPHRINE, BUPIVACAINE HCL-EPINEPHRINE, BUPIVACAINE-DEXAMETH-EPINEPHRN, CITANEST FORTE DENTAL, EPINEPHRINE, EPINEPHRINE BITARTR-0.9% NACL, EPINEPHRINE BITARTRATE, EPINEPHRINE BITARTRATE-NACL, EPINEPHRINE CONVENIENCE KIT, EPINEPHRINE HCL-0.9% NACL, EPINEPHRINE HCL-D5W, EPINEPHRINE-0.9% NACL, EPINEPHRINE-D5W, EPINEPHRINE-NACL, L.E.T. (LIDO-EPINEPH-TETRA), LIDOCAINE HCL-EPINEPHRINE, LIDOCAINE HCL-EPINEPHRINE-NACL, LIDOCAINE-EPINEPHRINE, LIGNOSPAN STANDARD, MARCAINE-EPINEPHRINE, ORABLOC, R.E.C.K.(ROPIV-EPI-CLON-KETOR), RACEPINEPHRINE HCL, SENSORCAINE-EPINEPHRINE, SENSORCAINE-MPF EPINEPHRINE, SEPTOCAINE, VIVACAINE, XYLOCAINE DENTAL-EPINEPHRINE, XYLOCAINE WITH EPINEPHRINE, XYLOCAINE-MPF WITH EPINEPHRINE
Patiromer/Bisoprolol; Carvedilol; Nebivolol SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Patiromer may bind to bisoprolol, carvedilol, and nebivolol.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in decreased gastrointestinal absorption and loss of efficacy of bisoprolol, carvedilol, and nebivolol.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of patiromer recommends administering patiromer at least 3 hours before or 3 hours after bisoprolol, carvedilol, or nebivolol.(1) DISCUSSION: An in vitro binding study found potentially clinically significant binding of bisoprolol, carvedilol, and nebivolol by patiromer. It is recommended to take these drugs 3 hours apart.(1)	VELTASSA

The following contraindication information is available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Overview
Contraindicated
Severe
Moderate

Drug contraindication overview.

No enhanced Contraindications information available for this drug.

There are 3 contraindications. Absolute contraindication.

Contraindication List
Cardiogenic shock
Complete atrioventricular block
Second degree atrioventricular heart block

There are 9 severe contraindications. Adequate patient monitoring is recommended for safer drug use.

Severe List
Acute asthma attack
Acute decompensated heart failure
Chronic kidney disease stage 3B (moderate) GFR 30-44 ml/min
Chronic kidney disease stage 4 (severe) GFR 15-29 ml/min
Chronic kidney disease stage 5 (failure) GFr<15 ml/min
Hypotension
Pheochromocytoma
Pregnancy
Sinus bradycardia

There are 10 moderate contraindications. Clinically significant contraindication, where the condition can be managed or treated before the drug may be given safely.

Moderate List
Asthma
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Depression
Diabetes mellitus
Disease of liver
Kidney disease with likely reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)
Myasthenia gravis
Peripheral vascular disease
Psoriasis
Raynaud's phenomenon

The following adverse reaction information is available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Overview
Severe
Less Severe

Adverse reaction overview.

No enhanced Common Adverse Effects information available for this drug.

There are 17 severe adverse reactions.

More Frequent	Less Frequent
None.	Asthma exacerbation Bronchospastic pulmonary disease Chest pain

Rare/Very Rare
Agranulocytosis Bradycardia Cardiac arrhythmia Chronic heart failure Gastritis Gout Ischemic colitis Laryngismus Leukopenia Mesenteric artery thrombosis Myocardial ischemia Peptic ulcer Renal colic Thrombocytopenic disorder

There are 51 less severe adverse reactions.

More Frequent	Less Frequent
Fatigue General weakness Headache disorder	Arthralgia Cramps Diarrhea Drowsy Dyspepsia Dyspnea Erectile dysfunction Insomnia Nasal congestion Nausea Nervousness Peripheral edema Rhinitis Sinusitis Upper respiratory infection Vomiting Xerostomia

Rare/Very Rare
Abdominal pain with cramps Abnormal hepatic function tests Acute cognitive impairment Constipation Cystitis Dizziness Dream disorder Dry eye Dysgeusia Hallucinations Hearing loss Hypoesthesia Hypoglycemic disorder Libido changes Mastalgia Mood changes Myalgia Ocular irritation Ocular pain Orthostatic hypotension Paresthesia Peripheral vasoconstriction Peyronie's disease Polyuria Pruritus of skin Psoriasiform eruption Purpura Symptoms of anxiety Tinnitus Vertigo Visual changes

Rare/Very Rare

Abdominal pain with cramps
Abnormal hepatic function tests
Acute cognitive impairment
Constipation
Cystitis
Dizziness
Dream disorder
Dry eye
Dysgeusia
Hallucinations
Hearing loss
Hypoesthesia
Hypoglycemic disorder
Libido changes
Mastalgia
Mood changes
Myalgia
Ocular irritation
Ocular pain
Orthostatic hypotension
Paresthesia
Peripheral vasoconstriction
Peyronie's disease
Polyuria
Pruritus of skin
Psoriasiform eruption
Purpura
Symptoms of anxiety
Tinnitus
Vertigo
Visual changes

The following precautions are available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate):

Pediatric
Pregnant
Lactation
Geriatric

No enhanced Pediatric Use information available for this drug.

Contraindicated

None

Severe Precaution

None

Management or Monitoring Precaution

None

No enhanced Pregnancy information available for this drug.

No enhanced Lactation information available for this drug.

No enhanced Geriatric Use information available for this drug.

The following icd codes are available for BISOPROLOL FUMARATE (bisoprolol fumarate)'s list of indications:

Hypertension
I10	Essential (primary) hypertension
I11	Hypertensive heart disease
I11.0	Hypertensive heart disease with heart failure
I11.9	Hypertensive heart disease without heart failure
I12	Hypertensive chronic kidney disease
I12.0	Hypertensive chronic kidney disease with stage 5 chronic kidney disease or end stage renal disease
I12.9	Hypertensive chronic kidney disease with stage 1 through stage 4 chronic kidney disease, or unspecified chronic kidney disease
I13	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease
I13.0	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease with heart failure and stage 1 through stage 4 chronic kidney disease, or unspecified chronic kidney disease
I13.1	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease without heart failure
I13.10	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease without heart failure, with stage 1 through stage 4 chronic kidney disease, or unspecified chronic kidney disease
I13.11	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease without heart failure, with stage 5 chronic kidney disease, or end stage renal disease
I13.2	Hypertensive heart and chronic kidney disease with heart failure and with stage 5 chronic kidney disease, or end stage renal disease
I15.1	Hypertension secondary to other renal disorders