NUEDEXTA (dextromethorphan hbr/quinidine sulfate)

There are 29 contraindications. These drug combinations generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. A manufacturer label warning that indicates the contraindication warrants inclusion of a drug combination in this category, regardless of clinical evidence or lack of clinical evidence to support the contraindication.

Drug Interaction	Drug Names
Selected Antiarrhythmics/Quinidine 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: Amiodarone inhibits quinidine metabolism via CYP3A4, leading to increased serum levels of quinidine.(2) In addition to additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval, quinidine may inhibit CYP2D6-mediated hydroxylation of propafenone, which results in decreased propafenone clearance.(16,17) Concurrent use may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QT interval. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent amiodarone may result in an increase in the pharmacologic effects of quinidine due to elevated serum levels. The QTc interval may be prolonged and result in life-threatening arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes. Concurrent quinidine may result in elevated levels and effects of propafenone.(16,17) Concurrent use of quinidine and other antiarrhythmics may result in unpredictable and/or additive effects, including QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(10) 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 increased 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).(10) The effects of quinidine on propafenone levels may not be clinically significant in poor metabolizers(17) because poor metabolizers have a genetically-determined lack of the isoenzyme inhibited by quinidine.(18) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Australian manufacturer of amiodarone states that concurrent use of agents known to cause torsades de pointes, such as quinidine, is contraindicated.(3) The US manufacturer of amiodarone states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging drugs should be avoided.(4) If concurrent therapy is warranted, patients should be monitored for increased quinidine levels and signs of quinidine toxicity. Cardiac function should also be monitored. The dosage of quinidine may need to be adjusted. The US manufacturer of amiodarone recommends that the dosage of quinidine be reduced by one-third during concurrent amiodarone.(4) One study recommends that the dosage of quinidine be reduced by 30-50% when amiodarone is added to therapy.(2) The Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as Class I, II, III, or IV is contraindicated.(11) The manufacturer of dofetilide states that Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be withheld for at least three half-lives prior to initiating dofetilide. Dofetilide has been administered to patients previously treated with amiodarone when amiodarone levels were below 0.3 mg/L or amiodarone had been withdrawn for at least 3 months.(12) The manufacturer of ibutilide states that Class IA or III antiarrhythmics should not be used concomitantly with ibutilide or within 4 hours post-infusion.(13) The manufacturer of propafenone states that concurrent use of Class IA and III Antiarrhythmics is not recommended and these agents should be withheld for at least 5 half-lives prior to dosing with propafenone.(16) If alternatives are not available and concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In patients receiving concurrent amiodarone and quinidine, elevated serum levels and prolonged QT interval have been reported.(1,5-9) In a study in 11 patients, the addition of amiodarone to quinidine therapy resulted in an increase in quinidine levels by 32% and quinidine toxicity in seven patients. The increase in quinidine levels was seen as early as 24 hours after the addition of amiodarone.(2) Because combinations of antiarrhythmics are not well researched and concurrent use may result in unpredictable effects, the Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as quinidine, is contraindicated.(11) Because of the risk of adverse effects, the manufacturer of dofetilide states that Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be withheld for at least three half-lives prior to initiating dofetilide.(12) In clinical trials, Class IA and III antiarrhythmics were withheld for 5 half-lives prior to the administration of ibutilide and for 4 hours after.(13) In separate clinical trials, concomitant use of ibutilide with amiodarone resulted in significantly prolonged QTc intervals.(14,15) In a study in 11 patients with frequent ventricular arrhythmias who had not responded to treatment with quinidine sulfate alone, the addition of propafenone resulted in a significantly greater mean suppression suppression of baseline premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) than quinidine alone. Patients on propafenone alone required a higher dose to achieve significant suppression of PVCs when compared to concurrent quinidine and propafenone. It was not determined if this suppression was a result of changes in the propafenone plasma concentration or a synergistic effect of the two antiarrhythmics.(19) In another study in seven extensive metabolizer prototypes, the addition quinidine to propafenone resulted in a more than 2-fold increase in the steady-state propafenone plasma concentration, a decrease in the 5-hydroxypropafenone concentration and a reduction in the oral clearance of propafenone. In the same study, two patients who were found to be poor metabolizer phenotypes showed no change in the plasma concentrations of propafenone or its active metabolite with concomitant quinidine administration.(17) Quinidine, at a low dose, may improve efficacy of propafenone by inhibition of CYP P-450-2D6 isozyme. Propafenone 300 mg to 450 mg/day was administered to 60 patients with history of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation for a period of eight weeks resulting in 62% symptomatically controlled. Nineteen refractory patients were randomized in a double-blind fashion to receive either a higher dose of propafenone (450 to 675 mg/d) or standard propafenone dose plus low-dose quinidine (150 mg/d). After the eight week study period, serum levels recorded propafenone levels at 259 and 336 mg/d, respectively, not found to be significantly different. However, the higher dose of propafenone resulted in greater gastrointestinal side effects compared to the addition of low-dose quinidine combination.(20) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	AMIODARONE HCL, AMIODARONE HCL-D5W, CORVERT, DISOPYRAMIDE PHOSPHATE, DOFETILIDE, IBUTILIDE FUMARATE, NEXTERONE, NORPACE, NORPACE CR, PACERONE, PROPAFENONE HCL, PROPAFENONE HCL ER, TIKOSYN
Selected Opioids; Dextromethorphan/Selected MAOIs 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: Selected opioids inhibit neural reuptake of serotonin. MAOIs may increase neuronal serotonin concentrations via inhibition of MAO-A.(26) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of selected opioids with MAOIs has resulted in hypotension, hyperpyrexia, sedation, somnolence, and death. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include tremor, agitation, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, clonus, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and muscle rigidity.(26) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Higher opioid concentrations as may occur due to inhibition of opioid clearance, patient specific genomic factors (e.g. poor metabolizer status for a P450 enzyme), or high opioid dosage may increase the risk for a severe interaction. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Dextromethorphan, diamorphine, meperidine, and tapentadol should not be used in patients taking MAOIs. Use alternative agents for cough or pain. The US manufacturer of Nuedexta(dextromethorphan-quinidine) states Nuedexta is contraindicated within 14 days of MAOI administration.(28) Quinidine increases systemic dextromethorphan concentrations 10 to 20-fold. Other strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as bupropion, fluoxetine and paroxetine could similarly increase dextromethorphan levels. The US manufacturer of selegiline states that concurrent use with dextromethorphan or meperidine is contraindicated. The US manufacturers of meperidine and tapentadol and the UK manufacturer of diamorphine state that they should not be used concurrently with or within 14 days of taking an MAOI. DISCUSSION: The interaction between meperidine and MAOIs has been well documented. There are at least two reports of potential interactions between MAOIs and dextromethorphan. Concomitant use of quinidine, a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, increases systemic dextromethorphan concentrations 10 to 20-fold. Other strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as bupropion, fluoxetine and paroxetine could similarly increase dextromethorphan levels and risk for serotonin toxicity in patients also receiving MAOIs. Furazolidone is known to be a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. Methylene blue, when administered intravenously, has been shown to reach sufficient concentrations to be a potent inhibitor of MAO-A. One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	AZILECT, EMSAM, FURAZOLIDONE, MARPLAN, MATULANE, METHYLENE BLUE, NARDIL, PARNATE, PHENELZINE SULFATE, PROCARBAZINE HCL, PROVAYBLUE, RASAGILINE MESYLATE, SELEGILINE HCL, TRANYLCYPROMINE SULFATE, XADAGO, ZELAPAR
Mefloquine/Chloroquine; Hydroxychloroquine; Quinidine; Quinine SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown, but may involve additive effects between mefloquine and antimalarials including chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine or quinine. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of mefloquine with chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine or quinine may result in electrocardiographic abnormalities, cardiac arrest, and/or an increased risk of convulsions.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of mefloquine with chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine, or quinine is contraindicated. If these agents are used in the initial treatment of malaria, the administration of mefloquine should be delayed until 12 hours after the last dose of chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine, or quinine.(1) DISCUSSION: There is little clinical information to support this interaction. An in vitro study in human liver microsomes showed that quinine inhibits the metabolism of mefloquine.(2) The manufacturer of mefloquine states that concurrent administration of mefloquine with quinine or quinidine may produce electrocardiographic abnormalities or cardiac arrest and that the concurrent administration of mefloquine and quinine or chloroquine may increase the risk of convulsions.(1) The manufacturer of mefloquine states that if quinine or quinidine are used in the treatment of malaria, 12 hours should elapse between the their last dose and the first dose of mefloquine.(1)	MEFLOQUINE HCL
Selected Protease Inhibitors/Quinidine 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: Boceprevir; nelfinavir; and ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir and tipranavir are strong inhibitors of CYP3A4. Quinidine, an antiarrhythmic with a narrow therapeutic range, is metabolized by CYP3A4.(1-5) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Quinidine causes dose-dependent QTc prolongation. Concurrent use with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 are expected to increase systemic exposure to quinidine, increasing risk for an abnormally long QT interval. Prolongation of the QT interval may lead to life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(6) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(6) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. co-administration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(6) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent administration of quinidine with either boceprevir; nelfinavir; or ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir or tipranavir is contraindicated.(2-5) The manufacturer of a low-dose quinidine combination product(dextromethorphan 20 mg/quinidine 10 mg) makes the following recommendations for patients receiving concomitant treatment with strong-moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4: - Correct hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia prior to initiating therapy and monitor during treatment. - Perform a baseline ECG evaluation, then repeat ECG 3 to 4 hours after the first dose. Product is contraindicated in patients with a prolonged QT interval. - reevaluate ECG if risk factors for arrhythmia change during treatment - Instruct patients to report symptoms consistent with cardiac arrhythmia, e.g. syncope or palpitations. If reported, discontinue treatment and evaluate patient.(7) DISCUSSION: Boceprevir; nelfinavir; and ritonavir-boosted nirmatrelvir and tipranavir(2-5) inhibit CYP3A4 at clinically relevant concentrations. Selected protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: boceprevir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, and tipranavir. Ritonavir is always used with another protease inhibitor as a pharmacokinetic booster and is captured as part of the protease inhibitor regimen.	APTIVUS, PAXLOVID, VIRACEPT
Disopyramide; Quinidine/Selected Azole Antifungals 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: Fluconazole,(1) itraconazole,(2) ketoconazole,(3) posaconazole,(4,5) and voriconazole (6) may inhibit the metabolism of disopyramide and quinidine by CYP3A4. Fluconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole may also have additive effects on the QT interval. CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of fluconazole,(1) itraconazole,(2) ketoconazole,(3) posaconazole,(4,5) or voriconazole(6) with disopyramide or quinidine may result in elevated plasma levels of these antiarrhythmics, which may result in potentially serious or life-threatening adverse effects, including QT prolongation. Concurrent use of itraconazole and quinidine may also result in transient or permanent hearing loss.(2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal and hepatic impairment decrease elimination of disopyramide and quinidine and may increase risk for excessive QTc prolongation. To prevent increased serum levels and risk for ventricular arrhythmias, disopyramide and quinidine must be dose adjusted in renal and hepatic insufficiency. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(7) 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).(7) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of fluconazole(1) and posaconazole(4,5) state that administration with agents metabolized by CYP3A4 that are known QT prolonging agents is contraindicated. The manufacturer of itraconazole(2) and ketoconazole(3) state that administration with disopyramide is contraindicated. The manufacturers of fluconazole,(1) itraconazole,(2) ketoconazole,(3) posaconazole,(4,5) and voriconazole(6) state that the concurrent use of quinidine is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that disopyramide or quinidine should not be administered until at least 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Azole antifungals that inhibit CYP3A4 would be expected to increase levels of disopyramide.(1-5) Life threatening reactions have been reported with other CYP3A4 inhibitors such as clarithromycin and erythromycin.(8) Serious cardiovascular events, including QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest, and/or sudden death have been reported in patients taking quinidine in combination with itraconazole and/or other CYP3A4 inhibitors. Transient or permanent hearing loss has been reported with itraconazole use, several of these reports involved concurrent quinidine.(2) Posaconazole has been shown to inhibit CYP3A4.(4) Voriconazole has been shown to increase levels of sirolimus, which is metabolized by the same isoenzyme that quinidine is. Therefore, the manufacturer of voriconazole states that the concurrent use of voriconazole and quinidine is contraindicated.(6) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	DIFLUCAN, FLUCONAZOLE, FLUCONAZOLE-NACL, ITRACONAZOLE, ITRACONAZOLE MICRONIZED, KETOCONAZOLE, NOXAFIL, POSACONAZOLE, SPORANOX, TOLSURA, VFEND, VFEND IV, VORICONAZOLE, VORICONAZOLE (HPBCD)
Ziprasidone/Selected Antiarrhythmics 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: Dofetilide, quinidine, sotalol and ziprasidone have been shown to prolong the QTc interval. The concurrent use of ziprasidone with these agents may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of ziprasidone with dofetilide, quinidine, or sotalol may result in additive prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of ziprasidone states under contraindications that ziprasidone should not be used with other drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including dofetilide, quinidine, or sotalol.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Ziprasidone has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related fashion. Therefore, the manufacturer of ziprasidone states under contraindications that ziprasidone should not be used with other drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including dofetilide, quinidine, or sotalol.(1)	GEODON, ZIPRASIDONE HCL, ZIPRASIDONE MESYLATE
Droperidol/QT Prolonging Agents 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: Droperidol has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of droperidol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Congestive heart failure, bradycardia, use of a diuretic, cardiac hypertrophy, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, age over 65 years, alcohol abuse, and the use of agents such as benzodiazepines, volatile anesthetics, and intravenous opiate may predispose patients to the development of prolonged QT syndrome.(1) Risk may also be increased in patients with other cardiovascular diseases (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypocalcemia, or female gender.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of droperidol states under precautions drug interactions that drugs known to have the potential to prolong the QT interval should not be used together with droperidol.(1) DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	DROPERIDOL
Topotecan/P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein may increase the absorption of topotecan.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of topotecan with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of topotecan and signs of toxicity. These signs may include but are not limited to anemia, diarrhea, and thrombocytopenia.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of topotecan states that the use of topotecan and P-glycoprotein inhibitors should be avoided. If concurrent use is warranted, carefully monitor patients for adverse effects.(1) DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, the combined use of elacridar (100 mg to 1000 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of topotecan approximately 2.5-fold.(1) Oral cyclosporine (15 mg/kg) increased the AUC of topotecan lactone and total topotecan to 2-fold to 3-fold of the control group, respectively.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, azithromycin, belumosudil, bosutinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, ginseng, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir/glecaprevir, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sotorasib, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2,3)	HYCAMTIN
Aliskiren/Quinidine SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aliskiren is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Quinidine is a potent inhibitor of P-gp.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of aliskiren and quinidine may result in elevated levels of aliskiren. This may result in increased effect and toxicity of aliskiren including hypotension.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer states the use of aliskiren and potent P-glycoprotein inhibitors are contraindicated.(1) DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent cyclosporine (200 mg and 600 mg), another potent inhibitor of P-glycoprotein, increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of aliskiren (75 mg) by 2.5-fold and 5-fold, respectively.(1)	ALISKIREN, TEKTURNA
Quinidine; Quinine/Selected Macrolides 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: Clarithromycin, erythromycin and troleandomycin may inhibit the metabolism of quinidine(1) and quinine(2) by CYP3A4. Azithromycin, clarithromycin and erythromycin have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval.(3,4) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, or troleandomycin may result in elevated levels and effects from quinidine and quinine, including torsades de pointes.(3,4) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. co-administration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of quinidine with azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin or troleandomycin should be avoided when possible. If combination therapy is required evaluate patient-specific predisposing risk factors, baseline QTc interval, and monitor as appropriate. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. The dosage of quinidine may need to be adjusted in patients receiving erythromycin or troleandomycin. The US manufacturer of quinine states that concurrent use of erythromycin or troleandomycin should be avoided.(2) DISCUSSION: In a study in 30 healthy males, pretreatment with erythromycin (250 mg 4 times daily) decreased the total clearance, partial clearance by 3-hydroxylation, and partial clearance by N-oxidation of a single oral dose of quinidine (200 mg) by 34%, 50%, and 33%, respectively. Quinidine maximum concentration (Cmax) increased by 39%.(6) QT prolongation(7) and quinidine toxicity(8) have been reported following erythromycin administration. In a cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, troleandomycin (500 mg every 8 hours) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single oral dose of quinine sulfate (600 mg) by 87%. Quinine clearance was 45% lower and the formation clearance of 3-hydroxyquinine, quinine's main metabolite, decreased 81%.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	AZITHROMYCIN, CLARITHROMYCIN, CLARITHROMYCIN ER, E.E.S. 200, E.E.S. 400, ERY-TAB, ERYPED 200, ERYPED 400, ERYTHROCIN LACTOBIONATE, ERYTHROCIN STEARATE, ERYTHROMYCIN, ERYTHROMYCIN ESTOLATE, ERYTHROMYCIN ETHYLSUCCINATE, ERYTHROMYCIN LACTOBIONATE, LANSOPRAZOL-AMOXICIL-CLARITHRO, OMECLAMOX-PAK, VOQUEZNA TRIPLE PAK, ZITHROMAX, ZITHROMAX TRI-PAK
Artemether-Lumefantrine/QT Prolonging Agents 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: Concurrent use of artemether-lumefantrine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the use of artemether-lumefantrine in patients taking drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated. These agents include class IA and III antiarrhythmics; neuroleptics; antidepressive agents; some macrolides, fluoroquinolones, imidazole and triazole antifungals; terfenadine; astemizole; and cisapride.(1) The US manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the use of artemether-lumefantrine should be avoided in patients taking drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval. These agents include class IA and III antiarrhythmics; neuroleptics; antidepressive agents; some macrolides, fluoroquinolones, imidazole and triazole antifungals; terfenadine; astemizole; and cisapride.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)	COARTEM
Dronedarone/QT Prolonging Agents 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: Concurrent use of dronedarone and agents known to prolong the QT interval may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of dronedarone states that the use of drugs or herbal products that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated. These agents include phenothiazine anti-psychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, certain oral macrolide antibiotics, and Class IA and III antiarrhythmics.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	MULTAQ
Selected CYP3A4 Substrates/Mifepristone 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: Mifepristone is an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and may increase levels and effects of drugs metabolized by this enzyme.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Lovastatin, simvastatin and CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic window such as alprazolam, cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, pimozide, quinidine, sirolimus, and tacrolimus or CYP3A4 substrates with a high first pass effect such as oral midazolam, sildenafil, and triazolam are particularly susceptible to significant toxicity.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Due to the need for continuous therapy and mifepristone's long half-life of 85 hours(1) which leads to accumulation, patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome may be at an increased risk for toxicity. With pimozide, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mifepristone for hypercortisolism due to endogenous Cushing's syndrome states use with lovastatin, simvastatin, CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic range, or CYP3A4 substrates with a high first pass effect is contraindicated.(1) DISCUSSION: Administration of mifepristone 1200 mg daily for 10 days followed by a single dose of simvastatin 80 mg led to an increase of simvastatin and simvastatin acid (active metabolite) area-under-curve (AUC) of 10.4-fold and 15.7-fold, respectively.	KORLYM, MIFEPREX, MIFEPRISTONE
Fingolimod/Class IA and III Antiarrhythmic Agents 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: Initiation of fingolimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1-4) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes. 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 could not be ruled out. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age), or concomitant treatment with Class IA or III agents 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: US, Canada and UK manufacturer information states Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmics are contraindicated and should not be co-administered with fingolimod.(1-4) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. 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) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: After the first dose of fingolimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 6 hours followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. The second dose may further decrease heart rate, but the magnitude of change is smaller than the first dose. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about one month.(1,2) Antiarrhythmic agents linked to this monograph are disopyramide, procainamide, quinidine, amiodarone, dofetilide, dronedarone, ibutilide and sotalol.	FINGOLIMOD, GILENYA, TASCENSO ODT
Anagrelide/QT Prolonging Agents 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: Concurrent use of anagrelide with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-4) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of anagrelide with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-4) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of anagrelide states that anagrelide should not be used in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.(1) The Australian, Canadian, and UK manufacturers of anagrelide state use of anagrelide should be approached with caution in patients taking medications that can prolong the QTc interval.(2-4) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, dose-related QT changes were observed with anagrelide. The maximum mean change in QTcI (95% CI) in comparison to placebo was 7.0 (9.8) ms and 13.0 (15.7) msec following doses of 0.5 mg and 2.5mg, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(6) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	AGRYLIN, ANAGRELIDE HCL
Thioridazine/Selected Strong & Moderate CYP2D6 Inhibitors that Prolong QT 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: Dronedarone, escitalopram and quinidine may inhibit the metabolism of thioridazine by CYP2D6. Dronedarone, escitalopram, and quinidine may also result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of dronedarone, escitalopram, or quinidine may result in thioridazine toxicity, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 ultrarapid metabolizers may be affected to a greater extent by CYP2D6 inhibitors. Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers lack CYP2D6 function and are not affected by CYP2D6 inhibition. The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of thioridazine and strong or moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors such as dronedarone, escitalopram, or quinidine is contraindicated.(1,2) Consider the use of alternative antipsychotics with less QT prolongation potential, or an alternative to dronedarone, escitalopram, or quinidine containing products. If concurrent use is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The manufacturer of Nuedexta states that if concurrent use with QT prolonging agents cannot be avoided, ECG monitoring should be done at initiation of concurrent therapy and at 3-4 hours after the first dose.(2) DISCUSSION: Quinidine is a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor and would be expected to increase thioridazine levels by more than 5-fold. Dronedarone and escitalopram are moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors and would be excepted to increase thioridazine by 2-fold to 5-fold.(2,5-6) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	THIORIDAZINE HCL, THIORIDAZINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Sotalol/Selected Class I & Class III Antiarrhythmic Agents 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: Sotalol has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of sotalol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation may be increased by reduced creatinine clearance, female gender, larger doses of sotalol, and a history of cardiomegaly or congestive heart failure.(1-2) Risk may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of sotalol state Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents which have the potential to prolong refractoriness may cause prolongation of the QT interval and so are not recommended.(1-2) These agents should be withheld for at least 3 half-lives prior to initiation of sotalol.(2) Selected Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents linked to this monograph are: ajmaline, amiodarone, bretylium, dronedarone, encainide, flecainide, hydroquinidine, indecainide, moricizine, procainamide and quinidine. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	BETAPACE, BETAPACE AF, SOTALOL, SOTALOL AF, SOTALOL HCL, SOTYLIZE
Oral Lefamulin/P-gp Inhibitors that Prolong QT 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: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may increase the absorption of lefamulin and may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of oral lefamulin with P-gp inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may result in elevated levels of and effects from lefamulin, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of oral lefamulin with medications that prolong the QT interval and inhibit P-gp.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, intravenous lefamulin increased the QTcF 13.6 msec (90% CI = 15.5 msec) and oral lefamulin increased the QTcF by 9.3 msec (90% CI = 10.9 msec).(1) Coadministration of ketoconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with lefamulin tablets increased lefamulin maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 165% and 58%.(1) In a study, oral lefamulin tablets administered concomitantly with and at 2 or 4 hours before oral midazolam (a CYP3A4 substrate) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of midazolam by 200% and 100%, respectively. No clinically significant effect on midazolam pharmacokinetics was observed when co-administered with lefamulin injection.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, azithromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, osimertinib, quinidine, ranolazine, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(4)	XENLETA
Pazopanib/P-gp or BCRP Inhibitors that Prolong QT 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: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval and inhibit P-gp or BCRP may result in increased absorption and higher levels of pazopanib and additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of pazopanib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval and inhibit P-gp or BCRP may result in elevated levels of pazopanib, signs of toxicity, and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pazopanib states concurrent use of strong P-gp or BCRP inhibitors should be avoided. Use caution when pazopanib is coadministered with other drugs known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Administration of 1,500 mg lapatinib, a substrate and weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, P-gp, and BCRP, with 800 mg pazopanib resulted in an approximately 50% to 60% increase in mean pazopanib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) compared with administration of 800 mg pazopanib alone.(1) In clinical studies, 2% (11/558) of patients receiving pazopanib experienced QT prolongation. Torsades de pointes occurred in less than 1% (2/977) of patients who received pazopanib in monotherapy studies. In a randomized clinical trial, 3 of 290 patients who received pazopanib had post-baseline QTc values between 500 and 549 msec. None of the patients receiving placebo had post-baseline QTc values greater than or equal to 500 msec.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received pazopanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 32 (19.4%) with 18 (56.3%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 4 (12.5%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 3 (9.3%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 4 (12.5%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 2 (6.3%) of patients and 1 (3.1%) patient experienced sudden cardiac death.(4) Agents that are P-gp or BCRP inhibitors that may cause QT prolongation include: amiodarone, azithromycin, dronedarone, erythromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, mavorixafor, osimertinib, pacritinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(3, 5-6)	PAZOPANIB HCL, VOTRIENT
Doxorubicin/P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors 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: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibition may increase doxorubicin cellular concentration, as well as decrease biliary or renal elimination.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased cellular or systemic levels of doxorubicin may result in doxorubicin toxicity, including cardiomyopathy, myelosuppression, or hepatic impairment.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction magnitude may be greater in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with doxorubicin.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal inhibition. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor the patient closely for signs and symptoms of doxorubicin toxicity. DISCUSSION: Doxorubicin is a substrate of P-gp.(1) Clinical studies have identified and evaluated the concurrent use of doxorubicin and P-gp inhibitors as a target to overcome P-gp mediated multidrug resistance.(2,3) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, paroxetine, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, sarecycline, schisandra, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(4,5)	ADRIAMYCIN, CAELYX, DOXIL, DOXORUBICIN HCL, DOXORUBICIN HCL LIPOSOME
Levoketoconazole/QT Prolonging Agents 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: Levoketoconazole has been observed to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-dependent manner. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of levoketoconazole with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states that levoketoconazole is contraindicated with other agents that prolong the QT interval.(1) Levoketoconazole is also contraindicated in patients with a prolonged QTcF interval of greater than 470 msec at baseline, history of torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or long QT syndrome (including first-degree family history). Use caution in patients with other risk factors for QT prolongation including congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, and uncorrected electrolyte abnormalities. Consider more frequent ECG monitoring. Prior to starting levoketoconazole, obtain a baseline ECG and correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. If a patient develops QT prolongation with a QTc interval greater than 500 msec, temporarily discontinue levoketoconazole. After resolution of prolonged QTc interval, levoketoconazole may be resumed at a lower dose. If QTc interval prolongation recurs, permanently discontinue levoketoconazole.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: During phase 1 and 2 studies, which excluded patients with baseline QTcF interval greater than 470 msec, 4 (2.4%) patients experienced QTcF > 500 msec, and 23 (14.7%) patients experienced change-from-baseline QTcF > 60 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)	RECORLEV
Dextromethorphan/Metaxalone 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: Dextromethorphan inhibits neural reuptake of serotonin. Metaxalone, a weak inhibitor of MAO, may increase neuronal serotonin concentrations.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of dextromethorphan with MAOIs may result in hypotension, hyperpyrexia, sedation, somnolence, and death. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include tremor, agitation, diaphoresis, hyperreflexia, clonus, tachycardia, hyperthermia, and muscle rigidity.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Higher opioid concentrations as may occur due to inhibition of opioid clearance, patient specific genomic factors (e.g. poor metabolizer status for a P450 enzyme), or high opioid dosage may increase the risk for a severe interaction. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Dextromethorphan should not be used in patients taking MAOIs such as metaxalone. Use alternative agents for cough. The US manufacturer of Nuedexta (dextromethorphan-quinidine) states Nuedexta is contraindicated within 14 days of MAOI administration.(1) Quinidine increases systemic dextromethorphan concentrations 10 to 20-fold. DISCUSSION: Metaxalone is a weak inhibitor of MAO.(2,3) There are at least two reports of potential interactions between MAOIs and dextromethorphan. Concomitant use of quinidine, a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, increases systemic dextromethorphan concentrations 10 to 20-fold. Other strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as bupropion, fluoxetine and paroxetine could similarly increase dextromethorphan levels and risk for serotonin toxicity in patients also receiving MAOIs.(4,5)	METAXALONE
Colchicine (for Cardioprotection)/P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors 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: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors may affect the transport of colchicine, a P-gp substrate.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a P-gp inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from colchicine. Symptoms of colchicine toxicity include abdominal pain; nausea or vomiting; severe diarrhea; muscle weakness or pain; numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes; myelosuppression; feeling weak or tired; increased infections; and pale or gray color of the lips, tongue, or palms of hands.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1,2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of colchicine used for cardiovascular risk reduction states that concurrent use of colchicine with P-gp inhibitors is contraindicated.(1) DISCUSSION: There are several reports of colchicine toxicity(3-5) and death(6,7) following the addition of clarithromycin to therapy. In a retrospective review of 116 patients who received clarithromycin and colchicine during the same hospitalization, 10.2% (9/88) of patients who received simultaneous therapy died, compared to 3.6% (1/28) of patients who received sequential therapy.(8) An FDA review of 117 colchicine-related deaths that were not attributable to overdose found that 60 deaths (51%) involved concurrent use of clarithromycin.(2) There is one case report of colchicine toxicity with concurrent erythromycin.(9) In a study in 20 subjects, pretreatment with diltiazem (240 mg daily for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 44.2% (range -46.6% to 318.3%) and by 93.4% (range -30.2% to 338.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, pretreatment with verapamil (240 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 40.1% (range -47.1% to 149.5%) and by 103.3% (range -9.8% to 217.2%), respectively.(1) Colchicine toxicity has been reported with concurrent use of CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors such as clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1,2) P-gp inhibitors include abrocitinib, amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, danicopan, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, schisandra, selpercatinib, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(1,10,11)	LODOCO
Selected CYP2D6 Substrates/Mavorixafor SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mavorixafor is a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6 and is expected to inhibit the metabolism of agents through this pathway.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of mavorixafor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from agents metabolized by CYP2D6.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: With tricyclic antidepressants, the risk of seizures may be increased in patients with a history of head trauma or prior seizure; CNS tumor; severe hepatic cirrhosis; excessive use of alcohol or sedatives; addiction to opiates, cocaine, or stimulants; use of over-the-counter stimulants and anorectics; diabetics treated with oral hypoglycemics or insulin; or with concomitant medications known to lower seizure threshold (antipsychotics, theophylline, systemic steroids). With anticholinergic agents, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mavorixafor states concurrent use with CYP2D6 substrate that are highly dependent on CYP2D6 metabolism is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of doxepin states if concurrent use of doxepin and strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as mavorixafor is warranted, monitor doxepin plasma concentrations and reduce the doxepin dose based on doxepin plasma concentrations.(5) DISCUSSION: Mavorixafor (400 mg) increased dextromethorphan (CYP2D6 substrate) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 6-fold and 9-fold, respectively.(1) Selected CYP2D6 substrates linked to this monograph include: aripiprazole, atomoxetine, brexpiprazole, desipramine, deutetrabenazine, dextromethorphan, doxepin, encainide, fenfluramine, metoclopramide, methoxyphenamine, metoprolol, mexiletine, nebivolol, paroxetine, perphenazine, risperidone, tetrabenazine, trimipramine, venlafaxine, and yohimbine.	XOLREMDI
Valbenazine (Greater Than 40 mg)/Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors 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: Valbenazine's active metabolite (alpha-HTBZ) is metabolized by CYP2D6 and CYP3A4.(1) Bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, and terbinafine are strong inhibitors of CYP2D6.(2,3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine or terbinafine may result in elevated levels and adverse effects of valbenazine such as somnolence and QT prolongation. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its own metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction.(2) Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may further increase levels of valbenazine.(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reduce the valbenazine dose to 40 mg once daily when valbenazine is coadministered with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor.(1) During concomitant therapy with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of paroxetine (a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor) with valbenazine did not affect valbenazine maximum concentration (Cmax) or area-under-the-curve (AUC). However, Cmax and AUC for the active metabolite of valbenazine (alpha-HTBZ) increased by approximately 1.9- and 1.5-fold, respectively. Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors linked to this monograph include bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, and terbinafine.	INGREZZA, INGREZZA INITIATION PK(TARDIV), INGREZZA SPRINKLE
Pimozide/Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide with strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a controlled study in healthy subjects, steady-state paroxetine (60 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) by 151% and 62%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong QT linked include: hydroquinidine, mavorixafor, and quinidine.(5,6) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.	PIMOZIDE
Sofpironium/Strong CYP2D6 Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 may inhibit the metabolism of sofpironium.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may result in elevated levels and adverse effects of sofpironium, including increased risk of anticholinergic side effects. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of sofpironium and strong CYP2D6 inhibitors should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted with a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor, monitor patients closely for anticholinergic side effects. DISCUSSION: In a drug interaction study in healthy subjects, coadministration of paroxetine (a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor) with sofpironium increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by approximately 2-fold compared to sofpironium administration alone.(1) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors linked to this monograph include bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, quinidine, and terbinafine.(2,3)	SOFDRA
Ensartinib/Selected P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ensartinib is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrate. P-gp inhibitors may increase the levels of ensartinib.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ensartinib.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ensartinib states that concurrent use of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors should be avoided.(1) DISCUSSION: Ensartinib is a substrate of P-gp. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase toxicity of ensartinib.(1) Inhibitors of P-gp linked to this monograph include: abrocitinib, amiodarone, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), asunaprevir, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, danicopan, daridorexant, diosmin, eliglustat, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginkgo biloba, glecaprevir and pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, ivacaftor, lapatinib, mavorixafor, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), neratinib, osimertinib, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, ranolazine, rolapitant, silibinin, silymarin, sotagliflozin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, vilazodone, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2,3)	ENSACOVE
Ubrogepant (Greater Than 50 mg)/P-gp or BCRP Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) or BCRP may increase the absorption of ubrogepant.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of ubrogepant with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein or BCRP may result in elevated levels of ubrogepant.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a dosage adjustment of ubrogepant when coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors. The dose of ubrogepant should not exceed 50 mg for initial dose. If a second dose of ubrogepant is needed, the dose should not exceed 50 mg.(1) For patients on concurrent therapy with vimseltinib and ubrogepant: the manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to ubrogepant.(3) DISCUSSION: Ubrogepant is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP transporters. Use of P-gp or BCRP inhibitors may increase the exposure of ubrogepant. Clinical drug interaction studies with inhibitors of these transporters were not conducted. The US manufacturer of ubrogepant recommends dose adjustment if ubrogepant is coadministered with P-gp or BCRP inhibitors.(1) BCRP inhibitors linked to this monograph include: belumosudil, clopidogrel, curcumin, eltrombopag, febuxostat, fostemsavir, leniolisib, momelotinib, oteseconazole, regorafenib, resmetirom, ritonavir, rolapitant, roxadustat, tafamidis, oral tedizolid, turmeric, vadadustat, and zongertinib.(2-5) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph include: asunaprevir, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, danicopan, daridorexant, imlunestrant, neratinib, osimertinib, propafenone, quinidine, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tepotinib, valbenazine, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2-5)	UBRELVY

Drug contraindication overview.

Because Nuedexta(R) contains quinidine, it should not be used concomitantly with other drugs containing quinidine, quinine, or mefloquine. Dextromethorphan/quinidine is contraindicated in patients with a history of dextromethorphan/quinidine-, quinine-, mefloquine-, or quinidine-induced thrombocytopenia, hepatitis, bone marrow depression, or systemic lupus erythematosus-like syndrome. (See Thrombocytopenia and Other Hypersensitivity Reactions under Cautions: Warnings/Precautions.) Dextromethorphan/quinidine also is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to dextromethorphan (e.g., rash, urticaria).

Dextromethorphan/quinidine is contraindicated in patients receiving monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors and in patients who have received MAO inhibitors within the preceding 14 days because of the risk of serious and possibly fatal drug interactions, including serotonin syndrome. At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuance of dextromethorphan/quinidine and initiation of MAO inhibitor therapy. (See Serotonin Syndrome under Cautions: Warnings/Precautions and also see Drug Interactions: Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors.) Dextromethorphan/quinidine is contraindicated in patients with a prolonged QT interval, congenital long QT syndrome, history suggestive of torsades de pointes, or heart failure.

Dextromethorphan/quinidine is contraindicated in patients with complete atrioventricular (AV) block without implanted pacemakers and in patients at high risk of complete AV block. Dextromethorphan/quinidine is contraindicated in patients concomitantly receiving drugs that both prolong the QT interval and are metabolized by cytochrome P-450 (CYP) 2D6 (e.g., pimozide, thioridazine), since effects on the QT interval may be increased. (See Cardiac Effects under Cautions: Warnings/Precautions and also see Drug Interactions.)

Adverse reaction overview.

Adverse effects occurring in at least 3% of patients receiving dextromethorphan/quinidine and with an incidence of at least twice that reported with placebo in short-term clinical studies in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or multiple sclerosis include diarrhea, dizziness, cough, vomiting, asthenia, peripheral edema, urinary tract infection, influenza, increased serum gamma-glutamyltransferase (gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase, GT, GGTP) concentrations, and flatulence. The most common adverse effects leading to discontinuance of dextromethorphan/quinidine include muscle spasticity, respiratory failure, abdominal pain, asthenia, dizziness, falls, and muscle spasms.

Safety and efficacy of dextromethorphan/quinidine have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 18 years of age. In addition, the pharmacokinetics of dextromethorphan/quinidine have not been studied in pediatric patients.

Contraindicated

None

Severe Precaution

None

Management or Monitoring Precaution

None