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Drug overview for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
Generic name: SUNITINIB MALATE (soo-NI-ti-nib)
Drug class: Antineoplastic - Protein-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Therapeutic class: Antineoplastics
Sunitinib malate, an inhibitor of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, is an antineoplastic agent.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
Generic name: SUNITINIB MALATE (soo-NI-ti-nib)
Drug class: Antineoplastic - Protein-Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Therapeutic class: Antineoplastics
Sunitinib malate, an inhibitor of multiple receptor tyrosine kinases, is an antineoplastic agent.
No enhanced Uses information available for this drug.
DRUG IMAGES
SUTENT 50 MG CAPSULE
SUTENT 12.5 MG CAPSULE
SUTENT 25 MG CAPSULE
SUTENT 37.5 MG CAPSULE
The following indications for SUTENT (sunitinib malate) have been approved by the FDA:
Indications:
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor
Renal cell carcinoma adjuvant therapy following nephrectomy
Renal cell carcinoma
Professional Synonyms:
Carcinoma of kidney
Gastrointestinal autonomic nerve tumor
Gastrointestinal pacemaker cell tumor
Gastrointestinal stromal neoplasm
Grawitz tumor
Hypernephroid carcinoma
Hypernephroma
Kidney adenocarcinoma
Malignant tumor of islets of Langerhans
Nephroid carcinoma
Renal adenocarcinoma
Renal carcinoma
Renal cell adenocarcinoma
Indications:
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor
Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor
Renal cell carcinoma adjuvant therapy following nephrectomy
Renal cell carcinoma
Professional Synonyms:
Carcinoma of kidney
Gastrointestinal autonomic nerve tumor
Gastrointestinal pacemaker cell tumor
Gastrointestinal stromal neoplasm
Grawitz tumor
Hypernephroid carcinoma
Hypernephroma
Kidney adenocarcinoma
Malignant tumor of islets of Langerhans
Nephroid carcinoma
Renal adenocarcinoma
Renal carcinoma
Renal cell adenocarcinoma
The following dosing information is available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
Dosage of sunitinib malate is expressed in terms of sunitinib.
Dosage of sunitinib should be adjusted in increments or decrements of 12.5 mg daily (i.e., 1 dose level), depending on individual patient safety and tolerability.
If dosage modification is required, the dosage of sunitinib should be reduced as described in Table 1 in patients with GIST, renal cell carcinoma, or NET of pancreatic origin.
Table 1. Recommended Dosage Reduction for Sunitinib Toxicity in Patients with GIST, Renal Cell Carcinoma, or NET of Pancreatic Origin.
Dosage GIST (Starting Advanced Renal Adjuvant NET of Reduction Dosage = 50 mg Cell Carcinoma Treatment of Pancreatic Level daily) (Starting Renal Cell Origin Dosage = 50 mg Carcinoma (Starting daily) (Starting Dosage = 37.5 Dosage = 50 mg mg daily) daily) First Restart at Restart at Restart at Restart at 25 37.5 mg once 37.5 mg once 37.5 mg once mg once daily daily daily daily Second Restart at 25 Restart at 25 Not applicable Not applicable mg once daily mg once daily
Dosage of sunitinib should be adjusted in increments or decrements of 12.5 mg daily (i.e., 1 dose level), depending on individual patient safety and tolerability.
If dosage modification is required, the dosage of sunitinib should be reduced as described in Table 1 in patients with GIST, renal cell carcinoma, or NET of pancreatic origin.
Table 1. Recommended Dosage Reduction for Sunitinib Toxicity in Patients with GIST, Renal Cell Carcinoma, or NET of Pancreatic Origin.
Dosage GIST (Starting Advanced Renal Adjuvant NET of Reduction Dosage = 50 mg Cell Carcinoma Treatment of Pancreatic Level daily) (Starting Renal Cell Origin Dosage = 50 mg Carcinoma (Starting daily) (Starting Dosage = 37.5 Dosage = 50 mg mg daily) daily) First Restart at Restart at Restart at Restart at 25 37.5 mg once 37.5 mg once 37.5 mg once mg once daily daily daily daily Second Restart at 25 Restart at 25 Not applicable Not applicable mg once daily mg once daily
Sunitinib malate is administered orally without regard to meals. Store sunitinib at 20-25oC; excursions are permitted between 15-30oC.
| DRUG LABEL | DOSING TYPE | DOSING INSTRUCTIONS |
|---|---|---|
| SUTENT 12.5 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (12.5 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUTENT 25 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (25 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUTENT 37.5 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (37.5 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUTENT 50 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (50 mg) by oral route once daily |
| DRUG LABEL | DOSING TYPE | DOSING INSTRUCTIONS |
|---|---|---|
| SUNITINIB MALATE 12.5 MG CAP | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (12.5 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUNITINIB MALATE 25 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (25 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUNITINIB MALATE 37.5 MG CAP | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (37.5 mg) by oral route once daily |
| SUNITINIB MALATE 50 MG CAPSULE | Maintenance | Adults take 1 capsule (50 mg) by oral route once daily |
The following drug interaction information is available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
There are 4 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 |
|---|---|
| Efalizumab; Natalizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Natalizumab,(1-3) efalizumab,(4) immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of natalizumab(1-3) or efalizumab(4) with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV). PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Previous JCV infection, longer duration of natalizumab treatment - especially if greater than 2 years, and prior or concomitant treatment with immunosuppressant medication are all independent risk factors which increase the risk for PML.(1,5) The FDA has estimated PML incidence stratified by risk factors: If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence <1/1,000. If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence 2/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 4/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 11/1,000. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of natalizumab states patients with Crohn's disease should not receive concurrent immunosuppressants, with the exception of limited overlap of corticosteroids, due to the increased risk for PML. For new natalizumab patients currently receiving chronic oral corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease, begin corticosteroid taper when therapeutic response to natalizumab has occurred. If corticosteroids cannot be discontinued within six months of starting natalizumab, discontinue natalizumab.(3) The US manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not ordinarily be used in multiple sclerosis patients receiving immunosuppressants or immunomodulators due to the increased risk for PML. Immunosuppressives include, but are not limited to azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, mycophenolate, and corticosteroids.(3,6) The UK manufacturer of natalizumab states that concurrent use with immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents is contraindicated.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not be used with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents.(2) The US manufacturer of certolizumab states that concurrent therapy with natalizumab is not recommended.(7) DISCUSSION: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy has been reported in patients receiving concurrent natalizumab were recently or concomitantly taking immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-5,8,9) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(10) |
TYSABRI |
| Live Vaccines; Live BCG/Selected Immunosuppressive 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: A variety of disease modifying agents suppress the immune system. Immunocompromised patients may be at increased risk for uninhibited replication after administration of live, attenuated vaccines or intravesicular BCG. Immune response to vaccines may be decreased during periods of immunocompromise.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1) After instillation of intravesicular BCG, immunosuppression may interfere with local immune response, or increase the severity of mycobacterial infection following inadvertent systemic exposure.(2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. hematologic malignancies, HIV disease), treatments (e.g. radiation) and drugs may all increase the magnitude of immunodeficiency. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are immunocompromised. The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks should be determined by a physician.(1) For patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy, vaccination should ideally precede the initiation of chemotherapy by 14 days. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy.(1) Patients who receive anti-B cell therapies should not receive live vaccines for at least 6 months after such therapies due to a prolonged duration of immunosuppression. An exception is the Zoster vaccine, which can be given at least 1 month after receipt of anti-B cell therapies.(1) The US manufacturer of abatacept states live vaccines should not be given during or for up to 3 months after discontinuation of abatacept.(2) The US manufacturer of live BCG for intravesicular treatment of bladder cancer states use is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(3) The US manufacturer of daclizumab states live vaccines are not recommended during and for up to 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.(4) The US manufacturer of guselkumab states that live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with guselkumab.(5) The US manufacturer of inebilizumab-cdon states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion. Administer all live vaccinations at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of inebilizumab-cdon.(6) The US manufacturer of ocrelizumab states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell repletion occurs after discontinuation of therapy. Administer all live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ocrelizumab.(7) The US manufacturer of ozanimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for up to 3 months after discontinuation of ozanimod.(8) The US manufacturer of siponimod states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.(9) The US manufacturer of ustekinumab states BCG vaccines should not be given in the year prior to, during, or the year after ustekinumab therapy.(10) The US manufacturer of satralizumab-mwge states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and should be administered at least four weeks prior to initiation of satralizumab-mwge.(11) The US manufacturer of ublituximab-xiiy states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ublituximab-xiiy.(12) The US manufacturer of etrasimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for 5 weeks after treatment. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of etrasimod.(13) The US manufacturer of emapalumab-lzsg states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving emapalumab-lzsg and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of emapalumab-lzsg. The safety of immunization with live vaccines during or following emapalumab-lzsg therapy has not been studied.(14) DISCUSSION: Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1) Patients with a history of leukemia who are in remission and have not received chemotherapy for at least 3 months are not considered to be immunocompromised.(1) |
ACAM2000 (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 4 AND TYPE 7, ADENOVIRUS TYPE 7, BCG (TICE STRAIN), BCG VACCINE (TICE STRAIN), DENGVAXIA, ERVEBO (NATIONAL STOCKPILE), FLUMIST 2025-2026, FLUMIST HOME 2025-2026, IXCHIQ, M-M-R II VACCINE, PRIORIX, PROQUAD, ROTARIX, ROTATEQ, STAMARIL, VARIVAX VACCINE, VAXCHORA ACTIVE COMPONENT, VAXCHORA VACCINE, VIVOTIF, YF-VAX |
| Talimogene laherparepvec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Talimogene laherparepvec is a live, attenuated herpes simplex virus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Talimogene laherparepvec is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(1) The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks due to immunosuppressant drugs should be determined by a physician. DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1) |
IMLYGIC |
| Nadofaragene Firadenovec/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nadofaragene firadenovec may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of nadofaragene firadenovec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause disseminated adenovirus infection.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not receive nadofaragene firadenovec.(1) DISCUSSION: Nadofaragene firadenovec is a non-replicating adenoviral vector-based gene therapy but may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus. Immunocompromised persons, including those receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may be at risk for disseminated adenovirus infection.(1) |
ADSTILADRIN |
There are 34 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 |
|---|---|
| Pimozide/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pimozide has 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 pimozide 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.(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 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pimozide states that the use of pimozide is contraindicated in patients taking other drugs which prolong the QT 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: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(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. |
PIMOZIDE |
| Droperidol/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. 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 opiates may predispose patients to the development of prolonged QT syndrome.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (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) 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: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(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 |
| Ziprasidone/Selected QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ziprasidone 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 ziprasidone 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 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.(1,3) 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 ziprasidone states under contraindications that ziprasidone should not be used with other drugs that prolong the QT interval such as dofetilide, sotalol, quinidine, other Class Ia and III anti-arrhythmics, mesoridazine, thioridazine, chlorpromazine, droperidol, pimozide, sparfloxacin, gatifloxacin, moxifloxacin, halofantrine, mefloquine, pentamidine, arsenic trioxide, levomethadyl acetate, dolasetron mesylate, probucol or tacrolimus.(1) It would be prudent to avoid the use of ziprasidone with medicines suspected of prolonging the QT interval. 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: 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) |
GEODON, ZIPRASIDONE HCL, ZIPRASIDONE MESYLATE |
| Bevacizumab/Sunitinib SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism of this interaction is not known at this time. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sunitinib and bevacizumab may result in the development microangiopathic hemolytic anemia.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use sunitinib with bevacizumab may result in microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Bevacizumab is not approved for use in combination with sunitinib malate and this combination is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Twenty-five patients were enrolled in a Phase I dose-escalation study combining Avastin and sunitinib malate. The study consisted of 3 cohorts using a fixed dose of Avastin at 10mg/kg/IV every 2 weeks and escalating doses of sunitinib that included 25, 37.5, and 50 mg orally daily given in a 4 weeks on/ 2 weeks off schedule. Two of these cases were considered severe with evidence of thrombocytopenia, anemia, reticulocytosis, reductions in serum haptoglobin, schistocytes on peripheral smear, modest increases in serum creatinine levels, and severe hypertension, reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome, and proteinuria. The findings in these two cases were reversible within three weeks upon discontinuation of both drugs without additional interventions. These drugs are not recommended to be administered together.(1) |
ALYMSYS, AVASTIN, MVASI, VEGZELMA, ZIRABEV |
| Artemether-Lumefantrine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. 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 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: 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/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. 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 of dronedarone and QT prolonging agents 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) When concurrent therapy of dronedarone and possible QT prolonging agents 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: 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 |
| Deferiprone/Selected Myelosuppressive Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of deferiprone with other drugs known to be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis may increase the frequency or risk for severe toxicity.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents may result in severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis, which may be fatal. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Agranulocytosis may be less common in patients receiving deferiprone for thalassemia, and more common in patients treated for other systemic iron overload conditions (e.g. myelodysplastic syndromes, sickle cell disease).(2,3) Inadequate monitoring appears to increase the risk for severe outcomes. Manufacturer post market surveillance found that in all fatal cases of agranulocytosis reported between 1999 and 2005, data on weekly white blood count (WBC) monitoring was missing. In three fatal cases, deferiprone was continued for two to seven days after the detection of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, discontinue one of the drugs associated with risk for neutropenia or agranulocytosis. If alternative therapy is not available, documentation and adherence to the deferiprone monitoring protocol is essential. Baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) must be at least 1,500/uL prior to starting deferiprone. Monitor ANC weekly during therapy. If infection develops, interrupt deferiprone therapy and monitor ANC more frequently. If ANC is less than 1,500/uL but greater than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone and any other drugs possibly associated with neutropenia. Initiate ANC and platelet counts daily until recovery (i.e. ANC at least 1,500/uL). If ANC is less than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone, evaluate patient and hospitalize if appropriate. Do not resume deferiprone unless potential benefits outweigh potential risks.(1) DISCUSSION: Drugs linked to this monograph have an FDA Boxed Warning for risk of neutropenia, agranulocytosis, or pancytopenia, or have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(1-25) In pooled clinical studies submitted to the FDA, 6.1% of deferiprone patients met criteria for neutropenia and 1.7% of patients developed agranulocytosis.(1) The time to onset of agranulocytosis was highly variable with a range of 65 days to 9.2 years (median, 161 days).(3) |
DEFERIPRONE, DEFERIPRONE (3 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX, FERRIPROX (2 TIMES A DAY), FERRIPROX (3 TIMES A DAY) |
| Tofacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants use may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Tofacitinib should not be used concurrently with azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or cyclosporine.(1) Patient should be monitored for decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils. Therapy should be adjusted based on the indication. - For all indications: If absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or lymphocyte count is less than 500 cells/mm3, discontinue tofacitinib. - For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily or Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily. - For ulcerative colitis and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: -If taking Xeljanz 10 mg twice daily, decrease to 5 mg twice daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 10 mg twice daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 5 mg twice daily. -If taking Xeljanz XR 22 mg once daily, decrease to 11 mg once daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 22 mg once daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 11 mg once daily. - For polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3.(1) DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.(1) |
TOFACITINIB CITRATE, XELJANZ, XELJANZ XR |
| Select Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inhibitors/Fluconazole SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fluconazole may inhibit the metabolism of crizotinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) lapatinib,(3) nilotinib,(4-5) pazopanib,(6) and sunitinib.(7) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from crizotinib,(1) dasatinib,(2) lapatinib,(3) nilotinib,(4-5) pazopanib,(6) and sunitinib.(7) In addition, elevated levels of these agents may result in prolongation of the QTc interval, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including 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.(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).(8) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of fluconazole states that it is contraindicated with agents that prolong the QT interval and are metabolized by CYP3A4;(9) however, the manufacturers of the antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors recommend avoiding concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1-7) Given that fluconazole is a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4,(10) it may be prudent to consider the manufacturer recommendations for concurrent use of strong inhibitors and monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for QTc prolongation. 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. Specific recommendations: In Adults: If concurrent use of crizotinib for metastatic non-small cell lung cancer or inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor in adults and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, a dose reduction of crizotinib to 250 mg daily is recommended. In Pediatrics or Young Adults: If concurrent use of crizotinib for systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (in pediatrics), inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (in pediatrics) or systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (in young adults) and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is unavoidable, dose reductions of crizotinib based on body surface area (BSA) are recommended for both capsule and pellet formulations. See prescribing information for dose reductions. If the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued and not replaced with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, resume the dose of crizotinib that was taken prior to initiating the inhibitor.(1) If concurrent use of dasatinib and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 is warranted, consider decreasing the dose of dasatinib to 20 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 70 mg daily or 100 mg daily, and to 40 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 140 mg daily. If this dose is not tolerated, either the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be discontinued or dasatinib should be stopped until therapy with the 3A4 inhibitor has been completed. When the 3A4 inhibitor has been discontinued, a one-week elimination period should be allowed before the dosage of dasatinib is increased.(2) If concurrent use of lapatinib and a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4 is warranted, a dose reduction to 500 mg/day should be considered. If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, at least 1 week should elapse before the lapatinib dose is adjusted upward.(3) Consider interrupting nilotinib therapy if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is needed. If concurrent use is warranted with nilotinib hydrochloride, a dose reduction to 300 mg once daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+CML or to 200 mg once daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML-CP should be considered.(4) If concurrent use is warranted with nilotinib tartrate, a dose reduction to 142 mg once daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+CML or to 95 mg once daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+CML-CP should be considered.(5) If the CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued, an elimination period should occur before the nilotinib dose is adjusted upward.(4-5) If concurrent administration of pazopanib and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is warranted, the dosage of pazopanib should be reduced to 400 mg. Additional dosage reductions may be required if adverse events occur.(6) If concurrent therapy with sunitinib and a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is warranted, a dosage reduction of sunitinib to a minimum of 37.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a minimum of 25 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered. Monitor the QT interval more frequently.(7) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole, a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, (200 mg twice daily) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of crizotinib (150 mg) by 44% and 216%, respectively. Itraconazole, another strong inhibitor of CYP3A, (200 mg twice daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of crizotinib (250 mg daily) by 33% and 57%, respectively.(1) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) with dasatinib (20 mg) increased dasatinib Cmax and AUC by 4-fold and 5-fold, respectively. Recommended dosage adjustments are expected to adjust the dasatinib AUC to ranges observed without CYP3A4 inhibitors; however, there are no clinical data available.(2) In a study in healthy subjects, ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased lapatinib AUC and half-life (T1/2) by 3.6-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively. The dosage adjustment to 500 mg/day is based on pharmacokinetic studies and is predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without inhibitors; however, there are no clinical data with this dosage adjustment in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors.(3) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole (400 mg daily) increased nilotinib AUC 3-fold.(4-5) Administration of multiple doses of oral pazopanib (400 mg) with multiple doses of oral ketoconazole (400 mg) increased the AUC and Cmax of pazopanib by 1.7-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively. Administration of a single dose of pazopanib ophthalmic drops and ketoconazole, an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and Pgp, increase the AUC and Cmax of pazopanib by 220% and 150%, respectively. Administration of lapatinib (1500 mg), a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, Pgp, and BCRP, increased the AUC and Cmax of pazopanib (800 mg) by 50% and 60%, respectively. Decreasing the dosage of pazopanib to 400 mg in patients receiving strong CYP P3A4 inhibitors is expected to adjust the AUC of pazopanib to the normal range; however, there are no clinical data available to support this.(6) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole increased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 49% and 51%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(7) |
DIFLUCAN, FLUCONAZOLE, FLUCONAZOLE-NACL |
| Anagrelide/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of anagrelide with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) 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) 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: The US manufacturer of anagrelide states that anagrelide should not be used in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT 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: 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.(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. |
AGRYLIN, ANAGRELIDE HCL |
| Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents/Immunosuppressants; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ocrelizumab or ofatumumab in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ocrelizumab or ofatumumab with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ocrelizumab US prescribing information states: - Ocrelizumab and other immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies, (including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with ocrelizumab. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as daclizumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ocrelizumab.(1) The ofatumumab US prescribing information states: - Ofatumumab and other immunosuppressive therapies (including systemic corticosteroids) may have the potential for increased immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. When switching between therapies, the duration and mechanism of action of each therapy should be considered due to the potential for additive immunosuppressive effects. Ofatumumab for MS therapy has not been studied in combination with other MS agents that suppress the immune system.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(3) |
KESIMPTA PEN, OCREVUS, OCREVUS ZUNOVO |
| Temsirolimus/Sunitinib SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Possible additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of temsirolimus and sunitinib may increase the risk of dose-limiting toxicity without providing any clinical benefit.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent therapy with temsirolimus and sunitinib.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of toxicity. Dose reduction or discontinuation of therapy may be required. DISCUSSION: In a phase I study with temsirolimus and sunitinib utilizing a 3+3 dose escalation design, six patients required dose reduction due to grade 3 stomatitis or grade 3 thrombocytopenia and four patients required removal from the trial because of unacceptable toxicity. A total of 21 grade 3 or 4 adverse events occurred. At 50% of the FDA-approved doses of sunitinib (25 mg) and temsirolimus (12.5 mg), significant mucositis requiring dose reduction occurred.(2) In the first cohort of a phase I study with temsirolimus (15 mg intravenously once weekly) and sunitinib (25 mg by mouth daily on days 1 through 28, followed by a 2-week rest), dose-limiting toxicities (grade 3 rash, grade 3 thrombocytopenia/cellulitis/gout) were observed in 2 of 3 patients. The study was terminated because of the dose-limiting toxicity observed at low starting doses of both agents.(3) |
TEMSIROLIMUS, TORISEL |
| Upadacitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Upadacitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of upadacitinib states that concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators is not recommended. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. Reported infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, tuberculosis, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcosis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation and hepatitis B reactivation, were reported in clinical studies with upadacitinib.(1) |
RINVOQ, RINVOQ LQ |
| Clozapine/Myelosuppressive Agents that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of clozapine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) Clozapine and concurrent use with other myelosuppressive agents may be associated with additive risk of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(4) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of clozapine in patients maintained on other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) Moderate neutropenia, even if due to combination therapy, may require abrupt discontinuation of clozapine resulting in decompensation of the patient's psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia). The disease treated by other agents may be compromised if myelosuppression requires dose reduction, delay, or discontinuation of the myelosuppressive agent. Undetected severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis may be fatal. 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.(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 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).(3) Low white blood counts prior to initiation of the myelosuppressive agent may increase risk for clinically significant neutropenia.(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Approach the concurrent use of clozapine and other agents that prolong the QTc interval with caution.(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. If a patient stabilized on clozapine therapy requires treatment with other myelosuppressive agents the clozapine prescriber should consult with the prescriber of the myelosuppressive agent to discuss treatment and monitoring options. More frequent ANC monitoring or treatment alternatives secondary to neutropenic episodes may need to be considered. Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) prior to dispensing. For most clozapine patients, clozapine treatment must be interrupted for a suspected clozapine-induced ANC < 1000 cells/microliter. For patients with benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN), treatment must be interrupted for suspected clozapine-induced neutropenia < 500 cells/microliter.(1) DISCUSSION: Treatment with clozapine has been associated with QT prolongation as well as ventricular arrhythmia, torsades de pointes, cardiac arrest, and sudden death.(1) Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the ANC prior to dispensing.(1) Myelosuppressive agents that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: arsenic, crizotinib, dasatinib, encorafenib, entrectinib, epirubicin, eribulin, fexinidazole, glasdegib, inotuzumab, lenvatinib, midostaurin, nilotinib, osimertinib, oxaliplatin, pacritinib, panobinostat, pazopanib, pentamidine, quinine, quizartinib, revumenib, ribociclib, romidepsin, rucaparib, sorafenib, tacrolimus, and vinflunine. |
CLOZAPINE, CLOZAPINE ODT, CLOZARIL, VERSACLOZ |
| Inebilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inebilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in myelosuppression including neutropenia resulting in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of inebilizumab states that the concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive agents, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Inebilizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents. The most common infections reported by inebilizumab treated patients in the randomized and open-label clinical trial periods included urinary tract infections (20%), nasopharyngitis (13%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), and influenza (7%). Although there been no cases of Hepatitis B virus reactivation or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy reported in patients taking inebilizumab, these infections have been observed in patients taking other B-cell-depleting antibodies.(1) |
UPLIZNA |
| Baricitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of baricitinib states that concurrent use of baricitinib with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Most patients who developed serious infections while being treated with baricitinib were on concomitant immunosuppressants like methotrexate and corticosteroids. The combination of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs has not been studied.(1) |
OLUMIANT |
| Sunitinib/Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may inhibit the metabolism of sunitinib.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase levels of and effects from sunitinib.(1) Elevated levels of sunitinib may result in QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP). Other toxicities include neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, cardiotoxicity, hemorrhagic events, thrombotic microangiopathy, proteinuria, severe dermatological reactions, thyroid dysfunction, hypoglycemia, and osteonecrosis of the jaw.(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: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with sunitinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition. If concurrent therapy with sunitinib is warranted, a dosage reduction of sunitinib to a minimum of 37.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a minimum of 25 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered. Monitor QT interval more frequently.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and sunitinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole increased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 49% and 51%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(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 sunitinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 26 patients(19.4%) with 16 patients(61.5%) having Grade 1 and 6 patients(23.1%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. VT was seen in 1 (3.8%) patient and 1 (3.8%) patient experienced SCD.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: boceprevir, cobicistat, idelalisib, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, paritaprevir, telaprevir, tipranavir, troleandomycin, and tucatinib.(4,5) |
APTIVUS, EVOTAZ, GENVOYA, ITRACONAZOLE, ITRACONAZOLE MICRONIZED, KETOCONAZOLE, KORLYM, MIFEPREX, MIFEPRISTONE, NEFAZODONE HCL, PAXLOVID, PREZCOBIX, SPORANOX, STRIBILD, SYMTUZA, TOLSURA, TUKYSA, TYBOST, VIRACEPT, ZYDELIG |
| Sunitinib/Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of sunitinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from sunitinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) Other toxicities include neutropenia, hepatotoxicity, hypertension, cardiotoxicity, hemorrhagic events, thrombotic microangiopathy, proteinuria, severe dermatological reactions, thyroid dysfunction, hypoglycemia, and osteonecrosis of the jaw.(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: Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT in patients undergoing therapy with sunitinib.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal enzyme inhibition and with no effect on the QTc interval. If concurrent therapy with sunitinib is warranted, a dosage reduction of sunitinib to a minimum of 37.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a minimum of 25 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered. Monitor QT interval more frequently.(1) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and sunitinib should be monitored for prolongation of the QTc interval. When concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring EKG at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent ketoconazole increased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 49% and 51%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(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 sunitinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 26 patients(19.4%) with 16 patients(61.5%) having Grade 1 and 6 patients(23.1%) having Grade 2 events. Grade 3 events occurred in 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 patient(3.8%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. VT was seen in 1 (3.8%) patient and 1 (3.8%) patient experienced SCD.(3) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(4,5) |
CLARITHROMYCIN, CLARITHROMYCIN ER, KALETRA, KISQALI, KRAZATI, LANSOPRAZOL-AMOXICIL-CLARITHRO, LOPINAVIR-RITONAVIR, NOXAFIL, OMECLAMOX-PAK, POSACONAZOLE, RECORLEV, VFEND, VFEND IV, VOQUEZNA TRIPLE PAK, VORICONAZOLE, ZOKINVY, ZYKADIA |
| Leflunomide; Teriflunomide/Selected Immunosuppressants SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide and potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1,2) Leflunomide is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite teriflunomide.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide with immunosuppressants may result in an increased risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis (including extra-pulmonary tuberculosis), and aspergillosis. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If leflunomide or teriflunomide is used concurrently with immunosuppressive agents, chronic CBC monitoring should be performed more frequently, every month instead of every 6 to 8 weeks. If bone marrow suppression or a serious infection occurs, leflunomide or teriflunomide should be stopped and rapid drug elimination procedure should be performed.(1,2) DISCUSSION: Pancytopenia, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide alone, but most frequently in patients taking concurrent immunosuppressants.(1,2) Severe and potentially fatal infections, including sepsis, have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and aspergillosis. Tuberculosis has also been reported.(1,2) |
ARAVA, AUBAGIO, LEFLUNICLO, LEFLUNOMIDE, TERIFLUNOMIDE |
| Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inhibitors/Carbamazepine SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that induce the CYP3A4 isoenzyme, such as carbamazepine, may induce the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(1) cabozantinib,(2,3) dasatinib,(4) erlotinib,(5) gefitinib,(6) ibrutinib,(7) lapatinib,(8) pazopanib,(9) sorafenib,(10) sunitinib,(11) and vandetanib.(12) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers may decrease the levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(1) cabozantinib,(2,3) dasatinib,(4) erlotinib,(5) gefitinib,(6) ibrutinib,(7) lapatinib,(8) pazopanib,(9) sorafenib,(10) sunitinib,(11) and vandetanib.(12) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1-12) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers.(8) If concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inducer cannot be avoided with other antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 80 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(2) Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib CAPsules by 40 mg (from 140 mg to 180 mg daily or from 100 mg to 140 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose of cabozantinib should not exceed 180 mg. If the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the dosage of cabozantinib to the dose used prior to initiation of the inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(3) Consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(4) Consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib by 50 mg increments as tolerated at two week intervals (to a maximum of 450 mg) while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when the inducer is discontinued. If the inducer is dexamethasone, monitor the patient for sign of gastrointestinal perforation. Discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation.(5) Consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(6) The dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If the inducer is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(8) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(11) DISCUSSION: In a study in 24 healthy subjects, rifampin (a strong CYP3A4 inducer) decreased bosutinib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 94% and 86%. Bosutinib clearance increased by 13-fold.(1,14) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 31 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of cabozantinib by 77%.(2) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(4) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(5) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(5) In a case report, coadministration of phenytoin (180mg daily) and erlotinib (150mg daily) increased the phenytoin concentration from 8.2mcg/ml to 24.2mcg/ml and decreased the erlotinib concentration 12-fold (from 1.77mcg/ml to 0.15mcg/ml) and increased the erlotinib clearance by 10-fold (from 3.53 L/h to 41.7 L/h).(14) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(6) The coadministration of rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(7) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(8) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(9) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(10) In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(11) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations. The patient developed nystagmus, a sign of phenytoin toxicity.(12) |
CARBAMAZEPINE, CARBAMAZEPINE ER, CARBATROL, EPITOL, EQUETRO, TEGRETOL, TEGRETOL XR |
| Antineoplastic Syst Enzyme Inhibitors/Apalutamide SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apalutamide(1) may induce the metabolism of certain antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including ceritinib,(2) crizotinib,(3) dasatinib,(4) lapatinib,(5) nilotinib,(6) pazopanib,(7) sorafenib,(8) sunitinib,(9) and vandetanib.(10) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of apalutamide(1) may decrease the levels and effectiveness of certain antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including ceritinib,(2) crizotinib,(3) dasatinib,(4) lapatinib,(5) nilotinib,(6) pazopanib,(7) sorafenib,(8) sunitinib,(9) and vandetanib.(10) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of apalutamide in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1-10) Because of the nonlinear pharmacokinetic profile of nilotinib, increasing its dose is unlikely to compensate for enzyme induction.(6) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers like apalutamide.(7) If concurrent use of apalutamide cannot be avoided with other antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(4) The dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If the inducer is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(5) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(9) DISCUSSION: In a study in 19 healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 14 days) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of ceritinib by 44% and 70%, respectively.(2) Rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of crizotinib (250 mg) by 69% and 82%, respectively.(3) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(4) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(5) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 12 days) decreased nilotinib AUC by 80%.(6) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(7) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(8) In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(9) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations. The patient developed nystagmus, a sign of phenytoin toxicity.(10) In an open-label, uncontrolled study of 45 patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, the maximum mean QTcF change from baseline caused by apalutamide was 12.4 ms (2-sided 90% upper CI: 16.0 ms).(1) |
ERLEADA |
| Slt Antineoplastic Systemic Enzyme Inh/Lumacaftor-Ivacaftor SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lumacaftor-ivacaftor(1) may induce the metabolism of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) nilotinib,(11) pazopanib,(12) sorafenib,(13) sunitinib,(14) and vandetanib.(15) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lumacaftor-ivacaftor may decrease the levels and effectiveness of antineoplastic systemic enzyme inhibitors, including bosutinib,(2) cabozantinib,(3) crizotinib,(4) dasatinib,(5) erlotinib,(6) gefitinib,(7) ibrutinib,(8) imatinib,(9) lapatinib,(10) nilotinib,(11) pazopanib,(12) sorafenib,(13) sunitinib,(14) and vandetanib.(15) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of lumacaftor-ivacaftor in patients receiving therapy with antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(2-15) Because of the nonlinear pharmacokinetic profile of nilotinib, increasing its dose is unlikely to compensate for enzyme induction.(11) Pazopanib should not be administered to patients who cannot avoid chronic use of strong CYP3A4 inducers.(12) If concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inducer cannot be avoided with other antineoplastic enzyme inhibitors: Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib TABlets by 20 mg (e.g. from 60 mg to 80 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose should not exceed 80 mg. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4 inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(16) Increase the daily dose of cabozantinib CAPsules by 40 mg (from 140 mg to 180 mg daily or from 100 mg to 140 mg daily) as tolerated. The daily dose of cabozantinib should not exceed 180 mg. If the CYP3A4 inducer is discontinued, reduce the dosage of cabozantinib to the dose used prior to initiation of the inducer 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the strong inducer.(2) Consider increasing the dose of dasatinib.(5) Consider increasing the dosage of erlotinib by 50 mg increments as tolerated at two week intervals (to a maximum of 450 mg) while closely monitoring the patient. The highest dosage studied with concurrent rifampin is 450 mg. If the dosage of erlotinib is increased, it will need to be decreased when the inducer is discontinued. If the inducer is dexamethasone, monitor the patient for sign of gastrointestinal perforation. Discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation.(6) Consider a dose increase to 500 mg daily of gefitinib in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction. Clinical response and adverse events should be closely monitored.(7) The dose of imatinib should be increased by at least 50% and clinical response should be carefully monitored. Dosages up to 1200 mg/day (600 mg twice daily) have been used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with strong CYP3A4 inducers.(9) The dose of lapatinib should be gradually titrated from 1,250 mg/day up to 4,500 mg/day (HER2 positive metastatic breast cancer indication) or from 1,500 mg/day up to 5,500 mg/day (hormone receptor positive, HER2 positive breast cancer indication) based on patient tolerability. If the inducer is discontinued, the dose of lapatinib should be adjusted to the normal dose.(10) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(14) DISCUSSION: In a study, 24 healthy subjects received a single dose of bosutinib 500 mg (days 1 and 14) and rifampin 600 mg (days 8-17). Bosutinib Cmax and AUC decreased by 86% and 92%, respectively. Bosutinib clearance increased by 13-fold.(2,17) In a study in healthy subjects, rifampin (600 mg daily for 31 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of cabozantinib by 77%.(3) Rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of crizotinib (250 mg) by 69% and 82%, respectively.(4) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dasatinib by 81% and 82%, respectively.(5) Pretreatment and concurrent therapy with rifampin increased erlotinib clearance by 3-fold and decreased the erlotinib area-under-curve (AUC) by 66% to 80%. This is equivalent to a dose of about 30 mg to 50 mg in NSCLC.(6) In a study, pretreatment with rifampin for 11 days decreased the AUC of a single 450 mg dose of erlotinib to 57.6% of the AUC observed with a single 150 mg dose of erlotinib.(6) In a case report, coadministration of phenytoin (180mg daily) and erlotinib (150mg daily) increased the phenytoin concentration from 8.2mcg/ml to 24.2mcg/ml and decreased the erlotinib concentration 12-fold (from 1.77mcg/ml to 0.15mcg/ml) and increased the erlotinib clearance by 10-fold (from 3.53 L/h to 41.7 L/h).(18) In a study in healthy male volunteers, rifampicin decreased AUC of gefitinib by 85%.(7) The coadministration of rifampin decreased the Cmax and AUC of ibrutinib by more than 13-fold and 10-fold.(8) Pretreatment of 14 healthy subjects with rifampin (600 mg daily for 10 days) increased the clearance of a single dose of imatinib (400 mg) by 3.8-fold. The area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) decreased by 74% and 54%, respectively.(9,19) The Cmax of the CGP74588 metabolite increased by 88.6%, but the AUC of CGP74588 decreased by 11%.(19) In healthy subjects, carbamazepine (100 mg twice daily for 3 days and 200 mg twice daily for 17 days), another CYP3A4 inducer, decreased the AUC of lapatinib by 72%. The dose adjustment recommendations are based on pharmacokinetic studies and are predicted to adjust lapatinib AUC to the range observed without concurrent CYP3A4 inducers; however, there are no clinical data with these doses in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inducers.(10) In a study in healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 12 days) decreased nilotinib AUC by 80%.(11) Pazopanib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4.(12) Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily for 5 days) decreased the AUC of a single dose of sorafenib (400 mg) by 37%.(13) In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(14) Strong CYP3A4 inducers are expected to alter vandetanib concentrations. The patient developed nystagmus, a sign of phenytoin toxicity.(15) |
ORKAMBI |
| Sodium Iodide I 131/Myelosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium iodide I 131 can cause depression of the hematopoetic system. Myelosuppressives and immunomodulators also suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium iodide I 131 with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives or immunomodulators, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sodium iodide I 131 states that concurrent use with bone marrow depressants may enhance the depression of the hematopoetic system caused by large doses of sodium iodide I 131.(1) Sodium iodide I 131 causes a dose-dependent bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, in the 3 to 5 weeks following administration. Patients may be at increased risk of infections or bleeding during this time. Monitor complete blood counts within one month of therapy. If results indicate leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, dosimetry should be used to determine a safe sodium iodide I 131 activity.(1) DISCUSSION: Hematologic disorders including death have been reported with sodium iodide I 131. The most common hematologic disorders reported include anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.(1) |
HICON, SODIUM IODIDE I-131 |
| Ponesimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) Initiation of ponesimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 6 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ponesimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) The heart rate lowering effect of ponesimod reaches an initial decrease within an hour and reaches its nadir within 2-4 hours. The heart rate typically recovers to baseline levels 4-5 hours after administration. All patients recovered from bradycardia. The conduction abnormalities typically were transient, asymptomatic, resolved within 24 hours. Second- and third-degree AV blocks were not reported. With up-titration after Day 1, the post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. 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, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ponesimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation, or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ponesimod.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, 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 the 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 ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) Ponesimod is generally not recommended in patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent, anti-arrhythmic drugs, or drugs that may decrease heart rate. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1) After the first dose of ponesimod, heart rate decrease may begin within the first hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 4-5 hours.(1) |
PONVORY |
| Fingolimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3) 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.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3) 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. There is no consistent signal of increased incidence of QTc outliers, either absolute or change from baseline, associated with fingolimod treatment.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. 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, a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to fingolimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, 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 the 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: Recommendations for managing this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The fingolimod US prescribing information states: - Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with fingolimod. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating fingolimod.(1) The fingolimod Canadian prescribing information states: - Concurrent use with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents is contraindicated due to the risk of additive immune system effects. However, co-administration of a short course of corticosteroids (up to 5 days) did not increase the overall rate of infection in patients participating Phase III clinical trials.(2) The fingolimod UK summary of product characteristics states: - Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients currently receiving immunosuppressive therapies or those immunocompromised by prior therapies. When switching patients from another disease modifying therapy to fingolimod, the half-life and mode of action of the other therapy must be considered in order to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimizing the risk of disease activation.(3) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time fingolimod is initiated or resumed should be monitored overnight with continuous ECG monitoring in a medical facility. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1) Correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia prior to starting fingolimod. DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3) 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) In a thorough QT interval study of doses of 1.25 or 2.5 mg fingolimod at steady-state, when a negative chronotropic effect of fingolimod was still present, fingolimod treatment resulted in a prolongation of QTc, with the upper boundary of the 90% confidence interval (CI) of 14.0 msec. The cause of death in a patient who died within 24 hours 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.(1) |
FINGOLIMOD, GILENYA, TASCENSO ODT |
| Ozanimod/Immunosuppressives;Immunomodulators that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) Initiation of ozanimod 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.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ozanimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) The initial heart rate lowering effect of ozanimod usually occurs within 5 hours. With continued up-titration, the maximal heart rate effect of ozanimod occurred on Day 8. 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.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. 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, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ozanimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ozanimod.(1,2) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, 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 the 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information includes this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1,2) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time ozanimod is initiated or resumed should receive consultation with a cardiologist. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) After the first dose of ozanimod heart rate decline is usually maximal at approximately 5 hours, returning to baseline at 6 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, max heart rate effect occurred on day 8.(1,2) |
ZEPOSIA |
| Siponimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) Initiation of siponimod has a negative chronotropic effect and can cause bradycardia.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of siponimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) The heart rate lowering effect of siponimod starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. This leads to a mean decrease in heart rate of 5-6 beats per minute after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. 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. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. 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, a prolonged QTc interval prior to siponimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to siponimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, 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 the 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information includes this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1,2) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time siponimod is initiated or resumed should be referred to a cardiologist. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) After the first dose of siponimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 10 days.(1,2) A transient, dose-dependent decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of siponimod, which plateaued at doses greater than or equal to 5 mg, and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks and sinus pauses) were detected at a higher incidence under siponimod treatment than placebo. AV blocks and sinus pauses occurred above the recommended dose of 2 mg, with notably higher incidence under non-titrated conditions compared to dose titration conditions.(1) |
MAYZENT |
| Cladribine/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The cladribine US prescribing information states: -Concomitant use with myelosuppressive or other immunosuppressive drugs is not recommended. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered. In patients who have previously been treated with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs, consider potential additive effect, the mode of action, and duration of effect of the other drugs prior to initiation of cladribine.(1) The cladribine Canadian prescribing information states: -Use of cladribine in immunocompromised patients is contraindicated because of a risk of additive effects on the immune system. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered during cladribine treatment.(2) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-2) |
CLADRIBINE, MAVENCLAD |
| Ritlecitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritlecitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritlecitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ritlecitinib states that concurrent use of ritlecitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving ritlecitinib. Reported infections included appendicitis, COVID-19 infection (including pneumonia), and sepsis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation was reported in clinical studies with ritlecitinib.(1) |
LITFULO |
| Sunitinib/Strong CYP3A4 Inducers SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inducers of CYP3A4 may induce the metabolism of sunitinib.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of a strong inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of sunitinib.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients receiving therapy with sunitinib. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(1) DISCUSSION: In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined sunitinib plus primary active metabolite maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(1) Strong inducers of CYP3A4 include: barbiturates, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, mitotane, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifampin, and rifapentine.(2,3) |
ASA-BUTALB-CAFFEINE-CODEINE, ASCOMP WITH CODEINE, BUTALB-ACETAMINOPH-CAFF-CODEIN, BUTALBITAL, BUTALBITAL-ACETAMINOPHEN, BUTALBITAL-ACETAMINOPHEN-CAFFE, BUTALBITAL-ASPIRIN-CAFFEINE, CEREBYX, DILANTIN, DILANTIN-125, DONNATAL, FIORICET, FIORICET WITH CODEINE, FOSPHENYTOIN SODIUM, LYSODREN, MITOTANE, MYSOLINE, PENTOBARBITAL SODIUM, PHENOBARBITAL, PHENOBARBITAL SODIUM, PHENOBARBITAL-BELLADONNA, PHENOBARBITAL-HYOSC-ATROP-SCOP, PHENOHYTRO, PHENYTEK, PHENYTOIN, PHENYTOIN SODIUM, PHENYTOIN SODIUM EXTENDED, PRIFTIN, PRIMIDONE, RIFADIN, RIFAMPIN, SEZABY, TENCON, XTANDI |
| Sunitinib/Strong CYP3A4 Inducers that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that induce the CYP3A4 isoenzyme may induce the metabolism of sunitinib. Also, an additive risk of QT prolongation may result from concurrent use of two agents that prolong the QT interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inducer of CYP3A4 that prolongs QT may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of sunitinib and increase the risk of potentially life-threatening arrythmia, including torsade 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) Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers in patients receiving therapy with sunitinib. Consider the use of alternative agents with less enzyme induction potential.(1) A dosage increase of sunitinib to a maximum of 87.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a maximum of 62.5 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, consider electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrolyte monitoring (calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels) at baseline and regular intervals.(1) Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a study with healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin decreased the combined (sunitinib plus primary active metabolite) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 23% and 46%, respectively, of a single dose of sunitinib.(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) Strong CYP3A4 inducers that prolong QT include: encorafenib and ivosidenib.(4,5) |
BRAFTOVI, TIBSOVO |
| Etrasimod/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators that Prolong QT SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system. Initiation of etrasimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 7 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose.(1) This may increase the risk of QT prolongation. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1) Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate. A mean decrease in heart rate of 7.2 (8.98) beats per minute was seen 2 to 3 hours after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk of infection. 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, a prolonged QTc interval prior to etrasimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation, or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to etrasimod.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, 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 the 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 etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) If concurrent therapy is unavoidable, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present prior to initiation of etrasimod.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) Monitor blood pressure during treatment.(1) DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1) Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate or transient AV conduction delays.(1) A transient decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of etrasimod and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks) were detected at a higher incidence under etrasimod treatment than placebo.(1) |
VELSIPITY |
| Ropeginterferon alfa-2b/Slt Immunosuppress; Immunomodulator SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropeginterferon alfa-2b and immunosuppressives both suppress the immune system. CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b with immunosuppressives may result in an increased risk of serious infections. PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of myelosuppressive agents.(1-2) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor for effects of excessive immunosuppression. DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 20% of patients experienced leukopenia. Interferon alfa products may cause fatal or life-threatening infections.(1-2) |
BESREMI |
| Deuruxolitinib/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 2-Severe Interaction: Action is required to reduce the risk of severe adverse interaction. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deuruxolitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deuruxolitinib and potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states that concurrent use of deuruxolitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection. If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt deuruxolitinib treatment until the infection is controlled. DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving treatment with deuruxolitinib.(1) |
LEQSELVI |
There are 80 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 |
|---|---|
| Arsenic/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Arsenic 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 arsenic 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 torsade de pointes is related to the extent of QT prolongation, concomitant administration of QT prolonging drugs, a history of torsade de pointes, preexisting QT interval prolongation, congestive heart failure, use of potassium-wasting diuretics, or other conditions that result in hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia.(1) Risk may also be increased in patients with other cardiovascular disease (e.g. myocardial infarction, congenital long QT syndrome), hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) 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).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of arsenic trioxide states that, if possible, drugs that are known to prolong the QT interval should be discontinued prior to therapy and caution is advised during coadministration.(1) In patients who reach a QTc interval value > 450 msec in men or >460 msec in women, withhold arsenic and any other QT prolonging agents. Monitor electrolytes and correct abnormalities. After the QTc normalizes, follow manufacturer instructions concerning restarting arsenic and escalation of dosing.(1) 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) |
ARSENIC TRIOXIDE, TRISENOX |
| Gatifloxacin/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Gatifloxacin 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 gatifloxacin 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of gatifloxacin states that gatifloxacin should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval, including erythromycin, phenothiazines, and tricyclics.(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: 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) |
GATIFLOXACIN SESQUIHYDRATE |
| Moxifloxacin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moxifloxacin 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 moxifloxacin 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of moxifloxacin states that moxifloxacin should be avoided in patients taking agents known to prolong the QT 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: 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) |
AVELOX IV, MOXIFLOXACIN, MOXIFLOXACIN HCL |
| Propafenone/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Propafenone 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 propafenone 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of propafenone states that the use of propafenone with other agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(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: 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) |
PROPAFENONE HCL, PROPAFENONE HCL ER |
| Apomorphine/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Apomorphine 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 apomorphine 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 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 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 apomorphine states that the use of apomorphine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval should be done with caution.(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: 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) |
APOKYN, APOMORPHINE HCL, ONAPGO |
| Levomethadone; Methadone/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Levomethadone and methadone have 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 levomethadone or methadone 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of levomethadone or methadone with other agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with extreme caution.(1,2) 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: 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) Most cases of methadone-induced QT prolongation are associated with, but not limited to, higher dose treatment (greater than 200 mg daily) and most involve patients being treated for pain with large, multiple daily doses. Cases have been reported in patients treated with doses commonly used for maintenance treatment of opioid addiction.(2) Levomethadone should be used with caution in patients with a history of QT prolongation, advanced heart disease, concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors, or electrolyte abnormalities. Cases of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes have been reported, most commonly with high doses.(1) |
DISKETS, METHADONE HCL, METHADONE HCL-0.9% NACL, METHADONE HCL-NACL, METHADONE INTENSOL, METHADOSE |
| Haloperidol/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Torsades de pointes has been reported with haloperidol. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of haloperidol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation may be increased by: hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, use of multiple medications, intravenous haloperidol, or higher than recommended dosages of haloperidol. The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), bradycardia, 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. 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: The Australian,(1) UK(2) and US(3) manufacturers of haloperidol state that haloperidol should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: Sudden death, QT-prolongation, and torsades de pointes have been reported with haloperidol.(3) 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.(4) 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. |
HALDOL DECANOATE 100, HALOPERIDOL, HALOPERIDOL DECANOATE, HALOPERIDOL DECANOATE 100, HALOPERIDOL LACTATE |
| Levofloxacin/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of levofloxacin 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 know 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 U.S. manufacturer of levofloxacin states that levofloxacin should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT 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: 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. |
LEVOFLOXACIN, LEVOFLOXACIN HEMIHYDRATE, LEVOFLOXACIN-D5W |
| Thioridazine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Thioridazine 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 thioridazine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Hypokalemia, bradycardia, the presence of congenital prolongation of the QT interval, or use of thioridazine in patients with reduced CYP2D6 activity (either through genetic predisposition or use of drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 activity) may increase the risk of torsades de pointes and/or sudden death in patients taking thioridazine.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes), hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, 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 manufacturer of thioridazine states under contraindications that the use of thioridazine should be avoided in combination with other drugs that are 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: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with Torsades de Pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing Torsades de Pointes.(4) 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 |
| Ivabradine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: QT prolongation may be exacerbated by ivabradine-induced reduction in heart rate.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ivabradine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may exacerbate QT prolongation.(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.(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 UK, AU, and Canadian manufacturer of ivabradine states that concurrent use with cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular QT prolonging agents should be avoided.(1) The Canadian manufacturer states that if concurrent therapy is deemed necessary, close cardiac monitoring (12-lead ECG) is required. Depending on the ECG results, ivabradine dosing may need to be decreased or stopped.(4) 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: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(2) |
CORLANOR, IVABRADINE HCL |
| Ranolazine/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine prolongs the QTc interval in a dose-related manner. Use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ranolazine and agents known to prolong the QTc interval may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and 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.(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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with caution.(1) Patients should be instructed to inform their physician if they are receiving any drugs that prolong the QTc interval.(2) 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: Ranolazine has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related manner.(1,2) 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) |
ASPRUZYO SPRINKLE, RANOLAZINE ER |
| Dasatinib/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of dasatinib 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 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of dasatinib states that dasatinib should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT 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: 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 dasatinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 48 (41.7%) with 8 (16.7%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 15 (31.3%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 8 (16.7%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 14 (29.2%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 2 (4.2%) of patients and 1 (2.1%) patient experienced TdP.(4) 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) |
DASATINIB, SPRYCEL |
| Paliperidone/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Paliperidone has been shown to cause a modest increase in 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 paliperidone 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of paliperidone states that the use of paliperidone should be avoided with other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval, including Class IA and Class III antiarrhythmics, antipsychotics, antibiotics such as gatifloxacin and moxifloxacin, or any other class of medications known to prolong the QTc interval.(1,2) 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: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(3) |
ERZOFRI, INVEGA, INVEGA HAFYERA, INVEGA SUSTENNA, INVEGA TRINZA, PALIPERIDONE ER |
| Lapatinib/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of lapatinib 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of lapatinib states that lapatinib should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, 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: Lapatinib is associated with concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In a single-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study with lapatinib 2,000 mg every 12 hours for 3 doses, a maximum mean double delta QTcF of 8.75 ms was observed. 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) |
LAPATINIB, TYKERB |
| Sunitinib/Class IA & III Antiarrhythmics SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of sunitinib and Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sunitinib and Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in QTc prolongation and 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, advanced age, use of multiple medications, and/or in patients who are taking strong CYP P-450-3A4 inhibitors.(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: Use sunitinib with caution in patients maintained on Class IA or III antiarrhythmics.(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: Sunitinib has been shown to prolong the QT interval in a dose dependent manner. Torsade de Pointes has been observed in less than 0.1% of patients receiving sunitinib.(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 sunitinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 26 (19.4%) with 16 (61.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 6 (23.1%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (3.8%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 (3.8%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 1 (3.8%) of patients and 1 (3.8%) patient experienced sudden cardiac death.(3) |
AMIODARONE HCL, AMIODARONE HCL-D5W, BETAPACE, BETAPACE AF, CORVERT, DISOPYRAMIDE PHOSPHATE, DOFETILIDE, IBUTILIDE FUMARATE, NEXTERONE, NORPACE, NORPACE CR, PACERONE, PROCAINAMIDE HCL, SOTALOL, SOTALOL AF, SOTALOL HCL, SOTYLIZE, TIKOSYN |
| Nilotinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nilotinib prolongs the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of nilotinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,3) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of nilotinib states that the use of nilotinib should be avoided with other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval. Should treatment with a QT prolonging agent be required, interruption of nilotinib therapy should be considered. The UK manufacturer of nilotinib states that the use of nilotinib should be used with caution with other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval.(3) Patient monitoring recommendations: If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval and follow recommended nilotinib dosage adjustments for QT prolongation.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: 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 nilotinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 29 (38.7%) with 1 (3.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 2 (7%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 9 (31%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 17 (58.6%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients developed ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(5) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(2) |
DANZITEN, NILOTINIB HCL, NILOTINIB TARTRATE, TASIGNA |
| Quinine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Quinine 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 quinine 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 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 quinine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(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: 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. |
QUALAQUIN, QUININE HCL, QUININE SULFATE |
| Toremifene/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Toremifene has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related and concentration-related manner.(1) Concurrent use of toremifene and agents known to prolong the QT interval may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,2) 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 US manufacturer of toremifene states that concurrent use should be avoided. If treatment with an agent known to prolong the QT interval is required, toremifene therapy should be interrupted. If it is not possible to interrupt toremifene therapy, electrocardiograms (ECGs) should be obtained and patients should be closely monitored for QT prolongation.(1) Additional monitoring when concurrent therapy is warranted: consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The UK manufacturer of toremifene states that the use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated. These agents include class IA and III antiarrhythmics, astemizole, bepridil, cisapride, diphemanil, erythromycin IV, halofantrine, haloperidol, mizolastine, moxifloxacin, pentamidine, phenothiazines, pimozide, sertindole, terfenadine, and vincamine IV.(2) 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) |
FARESTON, TOREMIFENE CITRATE |
| Telavancin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Telavancin 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 telavancin 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 telavancin recommends against the use of telavancin with other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(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: In a randomized, double-blind, multiple-dose, positive-controlled, placebo-controlled, parallel study in healthy subjects, the mean maximum baseline-corrected, placebo-corrected QTc prolongation was 11.6 msec and 15.1 msec for telavancin at dosages of 7.5 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg, respectively. The estimated mean maximum baseline-corrected, placebo-corrected QTc prolongation for a telavancin dosage of 10 mg/kg is 12-15 msec.(1) In studies in patients, 21% of patients receiving telavancin (214 of 1029, 10 mg/kg) and 16% of patients receiving vancomycin (164 of 1033) received concurrent QT prolonging agents. The rate of QTc prolongation greater than 60 msec was 1.5% (15 patients) in the telavancin group and 0.6% (6 patients) in the vancomycin group. Nine of the 15 telavancin subjects with QTc prolongation received concurrent QT prolongers, compared with 1 of the vancomycin patients.(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) |
VIBATIV |
| Pazopanib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pazopanib 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 pazopanib 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 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 pazopanib states that pazopanib should be avoided in patients receiving other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(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: 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 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.(2) |
PAZOPANIB HCL, VOTRIENT |
| Iloperidone/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Iloperidone has been shown to prolong the QTc interval by 9 msec at dosages of 12 mg twice daily. 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 iloperidone 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 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, advanced age or with concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP3A4 or CYP2D6, which metabolize iloperidone.(1,3) 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. co-administration 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 US manufacturer of iloperidone states that the concurrent administration of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided.(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: 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) Coadministration of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily, an inhibitor of CYP P-450-3A4) and iloperidone (12 mg twice daily) was associated with a mean QTcF increase of 19 msec from baseline, compared with an increase of 9 msec with iloperidone alone.(1) Coadministration of paroxetine (20 mg daily, an inhibitor of CYP P-450-2D6) and iloperidone (12 mg twice daily) was associated with a mean QTcF increase of 19 msec from baseline, compared with an increase of 9 msec with iloperidone alone.(1) |
FANAPT |
| Romidepsin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Romidepsin 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 romidepsin 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 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 romidepsin states that appropriate cardiovascular monitoring, such as baseline and regular monitoring of ECG and obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels, should be performed if concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the ECG is warranted.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In two clinical trials, discontinuation of romidepsin secondary to QT prolongation occurred in at least 2% of patients.(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) |
ISTODAX, ROMIDEPSIN |
| Ciprofloxacin/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ciprofloxacin 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 ciprofloxacin 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 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 US manufacturer of ciprofloxacin states that ciprofloxacin should be used with caution with other agents known to prolong the QT interval, especially in the elderly.(1) The UK manufacturer of ciprofloxacin states that ciprofloxacin should be used with caution in patients at risk for torsades.(2) 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: 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) 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. |
CIPRO, CIPROFLOXACIN, CIPROFLOXACIN HCL, CIPROFLOXACIN-D5W |
| Eribulin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Eribulin 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 eribulin 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 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 eribulin states that patients receiving concurrent therapy with eribulin and other agents known to prolong the QT interval should receive ECG monitoring.(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: QT prolongation, independent of eribulin concentration, was observed on Day 8 of therapy but not on Day 1 in an uncontrolled open-label ECG study in 26 patients.(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) |
ERIBULIN MESYLATE, HALAVEN |
| Vandetanib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Vandetanib 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 vandetanib 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vandetanib states that the use of vandetanib with other agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of vandetanib states therapy should be interrupted if Corrected QT interval, Frederica (QTcF) is greater than 500 ms; resume at a reduced dose when the QTcF returns to less than 450 ms. Consult current prescribing information for further details.(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: Vandetanib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-dependent manner. Vandetanib has a long half-life (19 days) and effects on the QTc interval may not resolve quickly following vandetanib discontinuation.(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 vandetanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 4 (80%) with 0 (0%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 1 (25%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (25%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 2 (50%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients had ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(4) 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. |
CAPRELSA |
| Vemurafenib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of vemurafenib in patients maintained on 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: Vemurafenib should not be initiated in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT interval, patients with a baseline QTc greater than 500 msec, uncorrectable electrolyte abnormalities, or known long QT syndrome is not recommended.(1) All patients receiving vemurafenib should undergo ECG testing at baseline, after 15 days of treatment, monthly during the first 3 months of treatment, and then every 3 months. If a patient's QTc exceeds 500 msec during treatment, vemurafenib should be discontinued and cardiac risk factors for QT prolongation should be controlled. Consider discontinuing other medications known to prolong the QT interval at this time. If the patient's QTc decreases below 500 msec, vemurafenib may be introduced at a lower dosage according to the current labeling recommendations. If the patient's QTc remains greater than 500 msec and increased >60 msec from pre-treatment values after controlling cardiac risk factors for prolongation, permanently discontinue vemurafenib.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Vemurafenib is associated with concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In the first month of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 12.8 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 14.9 msec). In the first 6 months of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 15.1 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 17.7 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) |
ZELBORAF |
| Citalopram/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of citalopram in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Higher doses of citalopram, especially doses greater than 40 mg, may increase the risk of QT prolongation. 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.(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: Concurrent use of citalopram with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided. Due to the risk of QT prolongation, citalopram doses greater than 40 mg once daily are not recommended. Citalopram doses should be limited to 20 mg once daily in patients who are CYP2C19 poor metabolizers or patients receiving CYP2C19 inhibitors. If patients have a persistent QTc measurement > 500 ms, discontinue citalopram. If a patient develops symptoms including dizziness, palpitations, or syncope, further evaluation is warranted included cardiac monitoring. The manufacturer recommends ECG monitoring in patients for whom citalopram is not recommended, including those receiving concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the QT interval. Citalopram should be discontinued in patients with persistent QTc measurements greater than 500 ms.(1-2) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Citalopram has been associated with dose-depended increases in the QTc interval. In healthy subjects, the maximum mean difference in QTc interval seen with 20 mg of citalopram and 60 mg of citalopram were 8.5 msec (90% CI = 6.2-10.8 msec) and 18.5 msec (90% CI = 16.0-21.0 msec), respectively. Based on extrapolation, a 40 mg dose of citalopram is expected to produce a mean increase in the QTc interval of 12.6 msec (90% CI = 10.9-14.3 msec).(1) In a clinical trial of use of citalopram for agitation in Alzheimer's disease, citalopram (30 mg daily) was associated with a mean increase in QTc of 18.1 msec.(5) 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.(6) |
CELEXA, CITALOPRAM HBR |
| Quetiapine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of quetiapine in patients maintained on 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.(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 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quetiapine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(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: Although quetiapine was not associated with QT or QTc changes in clinical trials, QT prolongation has been reported in post-marketing reports in conjunction with the use of other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(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.(2) |
QUETIAPINE FUMARATE, QUETIAPINE FUMARATE ER, SEROQUEL, SEROQUEL XR |
| Ondansetron/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of ondansetron in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) 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 in the elderly (> or = 75 years of 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 risk for QT prolongation due to ondansetron is dose and route related. Intravenous (IV) doses lead to higher peak concentrations and systemic exposure and so have a greater risk for QT prolongation compared with the same dose given orally. Faster rates of IV infusion are also associated with a greater risk for QT prolongation.(5) If concomitant therapy is needed, correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to starting therapy. Monitor closely, particularly in patients with predisposing risk factors for QT prolongation (e.g. cardiac disease, female, elderly). Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring should be performed in patients receiving concurrent therapy.(1-3) The Canadian manufacturer of Zofran injection has specific recommendations for use of IV ondansetron in oncology patients greater than or equal to 75 years of age (5): - all IV doses must be diluted in 50 - 100 mL of compatible fluid and infused over at least 15 minutes - initial and repeat IV doses must not exceed 8 mg. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a double-blind, randomized, placebo and positive controlled cross-over study, an ondansetron intravenous (IV) dose of 32 mg increased the maximum mean QTcF by 19.6 msec (upper limit of 90% CI: 21.5). A dose of 8mg increased the QTcF by a maximum mean of 5.8 (upper limit of 90% CI: 7.8). A dose of 16 mg was predicted to have a mean increase in QTcF of 9.1 msec (upper limit of 90% CI: 11.2).(1) QT prolongation and torsades de pointes have been reported in post-marketing reports in patients receiving ondansetron.(2-3) In a review of published reports of QT prolongation associated with ondansetron administration, 67% of patients were also receiving another medication known to prolong the QT interval.(6) In a prospective, observational study, administration of a single ondansetron IV dose of 4 mg in the emergency department increased the mean and median QTc interval by 16.2 msec (95% CI 4.2-28.2 msec; p=0.01) and 12 msec (IQR 5.5-18 msec; p<0.01), respectively. Three patients had extreme QTc prolongation. With exclusion of those 3 patients, the median QTc prolongation was 10 msec (IQR 5-15 msec; p<0.01).(7) 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.(8) |
ONDANSETRON HCL, ONDANSETRON HCL-0.9% NACL |
| Alfuzosin/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of alfuzosin with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of alfuzosin in patients maintained on 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Approach the concurrent use of alfuzosin and other agents that are known to prolong the QTc interval with caution.(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: 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.(2) |
ALFUZOSIN HCL ER, UROXATRAL |
| Sorafenib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of sorafenib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of sorafenib in patients maintained on 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: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored with electrocardiograms during treatment with sorafenib. Electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, and potassium) should also be monitored.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a non-randomized trial in 53 patients, sorafenib resulted in a mean change in QTc of 8.5 msec (upper bound of 90% CI: 13.3 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 sorafenib, QTc prolongation was identified in 13 (31.7%) with 5 (38.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 4 (30.7%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 2 (15.4%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 2 (15.4%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients developed ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(3) 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.(4) |
NEXAVAR, SORAFENIB |
| Pasireotide/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of pasireotide with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of pasireotide patients maintained on 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.(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 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).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Pasireotide should be used with caution in patients receiving therapy with agents that prolong the QT interval. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals.(1) Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In randomized, blinded, crossover study in healthy subjects, pasireotide (0.6 mg BID) increased the placebo-subtracted QTcI by 12.7 msec (95 upper CI: 14.7 msec). Supra-therapeutic doses of 1.95 mg BID increased the placebo-subtracted QTcI by 16.6 msec (95 upper CI: 18.6 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.(2) |
SIGNIFOR, SIGNIFOR LAR |
| Bedaquiline/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of bedaquiline with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of bedaquiline patients maintained on 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: Bedaquiline should be used with caution in patients receiving therapy with agents that prolong the QT interval. Patients should receive a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) before initiation, 2 weeks after initiation, during treatment as clinically indicated, and at the expected time of maximum increase of the QT interval when receiving concurrent agents that prolong the QT interval. Bedaquiline and other QT prolonging agents should be discontinued if the patient develops a clinically significant ventricular arrhythmia or a QTcF of greater than 500 msec confirmed by repeat ECGs. If a patient develops syncope, perform an ECG.(1) Also consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, mean increases in QTc were greater in patients treated with bedaquiline than with placebo. At Week 1, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 9.9 msec, compared with 2.5 msec for placebo. At Week 24, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 15.7 msec, compared with 6.2 msec for placebo. In another clinical trial in which patients received bedaquiline with other QT prolonging agents, QT prolongation was additive and proportional to the number of QT prolonging drugs used. Patients receiving bedaquiline alone averaged a QTc increase of 23.7 msec over baseline, while patients receiving bedaquiline with at least one other QT prolonging agent averaged a QTc increase of 30.7 msec.(1) In a study, bedaquiline was coadministered with QTc prolonging agents clofazimine and levofloxacin. In the study, 5% of patients had a QTc >= 500 ms and 43% of patients had an increase in QTc >= 60 ms from baseline.(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) |
SIRTURO |
| Escitalopram/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of multiple agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of multiple 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 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: While the US FDA and manufacturer recommend no special precautions when escitalopram is used with QT prolonging agents,(2,3) Health Canada and the Canadian manufacturer of escitalopram discourage the concurrent use of agents known to prolong the QT interval(4,5) and the UK manufacturer states that concurrent use is contraindicated.(6) 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: 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.(7) 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. |
ESCITALOPRAM OXALATE, LEXAPRO |
| Thyroid Preparations/Imatinib;Sunitinib SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: The suspected mechanism responsible for this phenomenon is an induction of non-deiodination clearance. The induction of uridine diphosphate-glucuronyl transferases (UGTs) by imatinib and sunitinib decreases levels of the thyroid preparations.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The coadministration of thyroid preparations and imatinib and sunitinib may result in decreased levels and clinical effects of thyroid hormones.(1-3) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients taking thyroid preparations and imatinib or sunitinib should be monitored for changes in thyroid function. The dosage of the thyroid preparation may need to be increased.(1-3) DISCUSSION: In a case report, 8 patients had undergone thyroidectomy and used levothyroxine and imatinib. These patients had an increase need for levothyroxine levels and were monitored for elevations in thyrotropin indicating worsening hypothyroidism.(2) A case report of a 73 year old man who was treated with imatinib and levothyroxine developed worsening hypothyroidism. An increase in levothyroxine dosage was needed.(3) In a case report, a 59 year old woman was taking levothyroxine therapy for hypothyroidism secondary to subtotal thyroidectomy and was recently started on imatinib for chronic myeloid leukemia. The patient developed clinical signs of hypothyroidism and required an increased dose of levothyroxine.(4) In a case report, a 73 year old woman was taking levothyroxine and developed fatigue, nausea, cold-intolerance, hair-loss, brittle nails, progressive weakness, and impressive facial oedema 6 months after starting imatinib. The patient levothyroxine was increased and she remained euthyroid, but the imatinib was discontinued due to extreme fatigue and periorbital oedema. Five months later the patient was stared on sunitinib and her levothyroxine dose was increased. The patient developed similar symptoms to imatinib reaction.(5) In a case report, a patient receiving sunitinib for metastatic papillary renal cell cancer developed high thyroid stimulating hormone levels and severe symptoms despite receiving L-thyroxine.(6) |
ADTHYZA, ARMOUR THYROID, CYTOMEL, ERMEZA, EUTHYROX, LEVO-T, LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM, LEVOTHYROXINE SODIUM DILUTION, LEVOXYL, LIOTHYRONINE SODIUM, NIVA THYROID, NP THYROID, PCCA T3 SODIUM DILUTION, PCCA T4 SODIUM DILUTION, RENTHYROID, SYNTHROID, THYQUIDITY, THYROID, TIROSINT, TIROSINT-SOL, UNITHROID |
| Trazodone (Greater Than or Equal To 100 mg)/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of trazodone with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of trazodone in patients maintained on 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 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 trazodone states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(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: Trazodone has been reported to prolong the QT interval.(1) A thorough QT study in 20 subjects evaluated the effects of trazodone at doses of 20 mg, 60 mg and 140 mg. There was no evidence of QTc prolongation at the lowest trazodone dose of 20mg (mean effect on QTc of 4.5 ms 95% CI 3.7-5.3 ms), but at 60 mg and 140 mg, there was a significant effect that exceeds the E14 FDA Guidelines threshold of prolonging the QT/QTc interval by more than 5 ms. The study found a dose-dependent effect on QTc prolongation starting at 60 mg with a mean effect on QTc of 12.3 ms (95% CI 11-13.6 ms) and increasing with a 140 mg dose to a mean effect on QTc of 19.8 ms (95% CI 17.6-22.1).(3) 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.(4) |
RALDESY, TRAZODONE HCL |
| Sevoflurane/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of multiple agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of multiple 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 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Sevoflurane should be used with caution in patients taking agents known to prolong the QT interval.(2) 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: 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) 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. |
SEVOFLURANE, ULTANE |
| Lenvatinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lenvatinib in patients taking other medications that prolong the QT interval may result in additive QT prolongation. QT prolongation 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, hypoalbuminemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(1,2) 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: Monitor electrocardiograms during concurrent therapy with lenvatinib and agents that prolong the QT interval. In a clinical trial of patients with refractory, progressive thyroid cancer, QT prolongation was reported in 9% of lenvatinib patients. Monitor and correct electrolyte abnormalities in all patients.(1) This is particularly important in lenvatinib patients as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite are common side effects which may increase the risk for electrolyte disturbances. Monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Lenvatinib dose must be withheld if the QTc exceeds 500 msec until QTc resolves to less than 480 msec or baseline. Lenvatinib must be resumed at reduced dose when QTc prolongation resolves to less than 480 msec or to baseline. Dose adjustments below are indication specific and are for patients with normal hepatic and renal function:(1) Dose Modifications in Differentiated Thyroid Cancer(DTC): - First occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 20 mg once daily - Second occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 14 mg once daily - Third occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose 10 mg once daily Dose Modifications in Renal Cell Cancer (RCC): - First occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 14 mg once daily - Second occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 10 mg once daily - Third occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose 8 mg once daily Dose Modifications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) for Actual weight 60 kg or greater: - First occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 8 mg once daily - Second occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 4 mg once daily - Third occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose 4 mg every other day Dose Modifications in Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC) for Actual weight less than 60 kg: - First occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 4 mg once daily - Second occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline then decrease dose to 4 mg every other day - Third occurrence of QTc > 500 msec or onset of another Grade 2 or Grade 3 Adverse Reaction or Grade 4 Laboratory Abnormality: Interrupt therapy until resolved to Grade 0-1 or baseline and discontinue lenvatinib (1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial of patients with refractory, progressive thyroid cancer, QT prolongation was reported in 9% of lenvatinib patients and 2% of placebo patients. The incidence of Grade 3 QT prolongation of > 500 msec was reported in 2% of lenvatinib patients compared with no reports in placebo patients.(1) In contrast, a single lenvatinib dose of 32 mg (1.3 times the recommended daily dose) did not prolong the QT/QTc interval in a thorough QT study performed in healthy subjects.(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 lenvatinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 9 (42.9%) with 4 (44.4%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 3 (33.3%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 0 (0%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 (11.1%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 1 (11.1%) patient.(3) |
LENVIMA |
| Flecainide/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Flecainide 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 flecainide with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of flecainide with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
FLECAINIDE ACETATE |
| Hydroquinidine; Quinidine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Hydroquinidine and quinidine have 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 hydroquinidine or quinidine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of hydroquinidine or quinidine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
NUEDEXTA, QUINIDINE GLUCONATE, QUINIDINE SULFATE |
| Azithromycin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Azithromycin 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 azithromycin with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of azithromycin with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
AZITHROMYCIN, ZITHROMAX, ZITHROMAX TRI-PAK |
| Chloroquine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Chloroquine 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 chloroquine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of chloroquine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
CHLOROQUINE PHOSPHATE |
| Chlorpromazine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Chlorpromazine 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 chlorpromazine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of chlorpromazine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
CHLORPROMAZINE HCL |
| Cilostazol/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cilostazol 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 cilostazol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of cilostazol with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
CILOSTAZOL |
| Donepezil/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Donepezil 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 donepezil with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of donepezil with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: A pharmacovigilance study based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database found that, of a total of 33,626 cases of TdP/QT prolongation reported between January 2004 and September 2022, 430 cases occurred in patients on donepezil. The disproportionality analysis found a ROR = 8.98, 95% CI (8.16, 9.89) and a PRR = 8.88, chi-square = 2944.95.(2) 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) |
ADLARITY, ARICEPT, DONEPEZIL HCL, DONEPEZIL HCL ODT, MEMANTINE HCL-DONEPEZIL HCL ER, NAMZARIC |
| Erythromycin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Erythromycin 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 erythromycin with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of erythromycin with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
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 |
| Pentamidine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pentamidine 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 pentamidine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of pentamidine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
PENTAM 300, PENTAMIDINE ISETHIONATE |
| Propofol/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Propofol 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 propofol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of propofol with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: 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.(2) |
DIPRIVAN, PROPOFOL |
| Osimertinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Osimertinib prolongs the QTc interval.(1) Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2,3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of osimertinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2,3) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Osimertinib prolongs the QT interval. Premarket clinical trials excluded patients with a baseline QTc > or = 470 msec. In these trials 11 patients (2.7%) had increase in QTc greater than 60 msec.(1) Manufacturer recommendations: when feasible, avoid concurrent administrations of osimertinib with drugs known to prolong the QTc interval. Conduct baseline and periodic monitoring with ECGs in patients with congenital long QTc syndrome, congestive heart failure, electrolyte abnormalities (e.g. serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium), or those taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.(1) Dose adjustments (1): - If QTc is greater than 500 msec on at least 2 separate ECGs, withhold osimertinib until QTc is < 481 msec or recovery to baseline (if baseline QTc was greater than or equal to 481 msec), then resume osimertinib at 40 mg per day. - For QTc prolongation with signs or symptoms of life threatening arrhythmia, permanently discontinue osimertinib. During concomitant therapy with another QT prolonging agent, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval.(1) Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: 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 osimertinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 4 (25%) with 1 (25%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 1 (25%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (25%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 (25%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients had ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(4) In clinical studies of 1813 patients treated with osimertinib monotherapy, 1.1% of patients were found to have a QTc interval greater than 500 ms and 4.3% of patients had an increase from baseline QTc > 60 ms.(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.(2) |
TAGRISSO |
| Pimavanserin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pimavanserin prolongs the QTc interval.(1) Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2,3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of pimavanserin with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2,3) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of pimavanserin in patients receiving QT prolonging agents.(1) During concomitant therapy with another QT prolonging agent, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval.(1) Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In thorough-QT study, pimavanserin (at twice the therapeutic dose) found that the maximum mean change was 13.5 (16.6) msec. In placebo-controlled effectiveness studies, mean increases of 5-8 msec were observed with normal dosages of 37 mg daily. Sporadic QTcF values of equal to or greater than 500 msec and change from baseline values equal to or greater than 60 msec were observed at this dose as well.(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.(2) |
NUPLAZID |
| Hydroxyzine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of hydroxyzine with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-4) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of hydroxyzine 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) Doses of hydroxyzine greater than 100 mg/day may also increase the risk.(1,2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of hydroxyzine with agents known to prolong the QT interval is contraindicated in Canada(1,2) and the UK.(3) The US manufacturer states that concurrent use should be approached with caution.(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 vitro data indicates that hydroxyzine blocks the hERG channel, which results in the potential risk of QT interval prolongation.(6) In a placebo controlled, non-thorough QT study, 10 patients in the placebo group (n=152) had a change in QT interval from baseline between 30 ms and 60 ms and one patient presented a change from baseline higher than 60 ms. In the hydroxyzine group (n=148), 14 subjects had a change in QT interval from baseline between 30 and 60 ms and were considered to have a potential risk factor for risk of QT interval prolongation and TdP due to relevant medical history, concomitant medication potentially associated with the induction of prolongation of QT interval, and/or polymedication.(6) Health Canada reviewed 61 cases of QT interval prolongation or torsades de pointes with hydroxyzine. In a majority of cases, patients had additional risk factors for QT prolongation. Three reports provided enough data for a more detailed review. Hydroxyzine was found to be either "possible" or "probably" contribution to QT prolongation/torsades in these reports.(1) The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) reviewed 190 case reports found in a search of "torsade de pointes/QT prolongation with hydroxyzine". Forty-two non-fatality cases were subdivided into torsades (n=16), QT prolongation (n=21), and ventricular tachycardia (n=5). All included risk factors for QT interval prolongation and TdP (cardiac disorders, hypokalemia, long QT syndrome, bradycardia, concomitant drugs which are known to prolong the QT interval). Dosages ranged from <= 100 mg/day (n=10), > 100 mg/day to <=300 mg/day (n=4), > 300 mg/day (n=8), overdosages (n=11), and premedication (n=9). Twenty-one cases involving fatalities had at least one risk factor for QT prolongation. The PRAC concluded that post-marketing cases of QT interval prolongation, TdP and ventricular tachycardia confirm the findings of the hERG studies suggesting that hydroxyzine blocks hERG channels. No difference in the risk of QT interval prolongation could be observed based on the indication, age of the subject, or dose.(6) 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.(7) |
HYDROXYZINE HCL, HYDROXYZINE PAMOATE |
| Efavirenz/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Efavirenz has been observed 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 efavirenz 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) CYP2B6 genotype may also increase the risk of this interaction. Patients who are most susceptible to this interaction are patients who are CYP2B6 poor metabolizers with CYP2B6 *6/*6 allele.(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of efavirenz states alternatives should be considered when concurrent administration with a drug with a known risk of Torsade de Pointes or when administered to patients at higher risk of Torsade de Pointes. Limited information is available on the potential pharmacodynamic interaction between efavirenz and drugs that prolong the QT interval; however, QT prolongation has been observed with efavirenz.(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: A thorough QT study was conducted in the general population in 120 healthy subjects receiving efavirenz 600 mg daily. Time-matched differences in QTc with efavirenz compared to placebo was evaluated on day 11, at 6 hours post dose. The mean change in QTc was 5.2 msec and no change in QTc was greater than 10 msec.(4) In addition to the thorough QT study, the effect of efavirenz on the QTc interval was evaluated in 58 healthy subjects based on CYP2B6 genotype. CYP2B6 polymorphism was evaluated for each patient and results were the following: 65% with *1/*1 or *1/*4 allele (wild-type metabolizers), 26% with *1/*6 allele (intermediate metabolizers) and 9% with *6/*6 allele (slow metabolizers). Subjects with 2 copies of the CYP2B6*6 allele had significantly higher efavirenz exposure at steady-state (p<0.05). At steady-state concentrations of efavirenz, patients with CYP2B6 *1/*1 or *1/*6 alleles had no change in the QTc interval (p>0.05). However, patients with CYP2B6 *6/*6 allele had an increase in QTc mean +/- SD from 406 +/- 16.4 to 423 +/- 11.8 msec (p=0.02).(3) 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.(5) |
EFAVIRENZ, EFAVIRENZ-EMTRIC-TENOFOV DISOP, EFAVIRENZ-LAMIVU-TENOFOV DISOP, SYMFI |
| Inotuzumab Ozogamicin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of inotuzumab ozogamicin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of inotuzumab ozogamicin with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible, discontinue QT prolonging agents prior to therapy with inotuzumab ozogamicin or use alternative agents during inotuzumab ozogamicin therapy.(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.(1) Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(1) DISCUSSION: Inotuzumab ozogamicin was shown to prolong the QT interval in clinical trials. In the INO-VATE trial, 3% (4/162) of patients experienced an increase in QTc equal to or greater than 60 msec. No patients has QTc values greater than 500 msec. Grade 2 QT prolongation was reported in 1% (2/164) patients. There were no reports of Grade 3 QT prolongation or Torsade de Pointes.(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) |
BESPONSA |
| Lofexidine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lofexidine 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: Concurrent use of lofexidine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may exacerbate QT prolongation.(1,2) 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, advanced age,(3) renal impairment, and/or hepatic impairment.(1,2) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of lofexidine states that concurrent use of lofexidine and QT prolonging agents should be avoided.(1) The US manufacturer states that ECGs should be monitored in patients receiving concurrent therapy with lofexidine and agents that are known to prolong the QT interval.(2) 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. DISCUSSION: In a study of healthy volunteers, lofexidine 1.44 mg to 1.8 mg had a change from baseline in QTc of 14.4 msec and 13.6 msec, respectively.(2) In a dose response study, lofexidine had a mean QTc prolongation of 7.3 msec and 9.3 msec at doses of 2.16 mg/day and 2.88 mg/day, respectively.(2) 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.(4) |
LOFEXIDINE HCL, LUCEMYRA |
| Trazodone (Less Than 100 mg)/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of trazodone with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of trazodone in patients maintained on 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 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 trazodone states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(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: Trazodone has been reported to prolong the QT interval.(1) A thorough QT study in 20 subjects evaluated the effects of trazodone at doses of 20 mg, 60 mg and 140 mg. There was no evidence of QTc prolongation at the lowest trazodone dose of 20mg (mean effect on QTc of 4.5 ms 95% CI 3.7-5.3 ms), but at 60 mg and 140 mg, there was a significant effect that exceeds the E14 FDA Guidelines threshold of prolonging the QT/QTc interval by more than 5 ms. The study found a dose-dependent effect on QTc prolongation starting at 60 mg with a mean effect on QTc of 12.3 ms (95% CI 11-13.6 ms) and increasing with a 140 mg dose to a mean effect on QTc of 19.8 ms (95% CI 17.6-22.1).(3) 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.(4) |
TRAZODONE HCL |
| Glasdegib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of glasdegib with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of glasdegib with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of glasdegib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications ---Interrupt glasdegib therapy for QTc interval greater than 500 ms. ---Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following resolution of QTc prolongation ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting glasdegib.(1) DISCUSSION: In a randomized, single-dose, double-blind, 4-way cross-over, placebo- and open-label moxifloxacin-controlled study in 36 healthy subjects, the largest placebo and baseline-adjusted QTc interval change was 8 msec (90% CI: 6-10 msec) with a single 150 mg dose of glasdegib (The 150 mg single dose was used to achieve therapeutic plasma concentrations). With two-fold therapeutic plasma concentrations (achieved with a 300 mg single dose), the QTc change was 13 msec (90% CI: 11-16 msec).(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) |
DAURISMO |
| Gilteritinib/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of gilteritinib with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of gilteritinib with 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.(1) 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).(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: 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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. Prior to initiation of therapy with gilteritinib, obtain baseline ECG and on days 8 and 15 of cycle 1, and prior to the start of the next two subsequent cycles. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications For a QTc interval greater than 500 msec: ---Interrupt gilteritinib therapy ---Resume gilteritinib therapy at 80 mg when the QTc interval returns to within 30 msec of baseline or <= 480 msec. For QTc interval increased by > 30 msec on ECG on Day 8 of cycle 1: ---Confirm with ECG on Day 9 ---If confirmed, consider dose reduction to 80 mg.(2) DISCUSSION: In the gilteritinib clinical trial, 1.4% of patients developed a QTc interval greater than 500 msec and 7% of patients had an increase QTc greater than 60 msec.(2) 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) |
XOSPATA |
| Pitolisant/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of pitolisant with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of pitolisant with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers or on concurrent use with CYP2D6 inhibitors are at increased risk for higher systemic exposure to pitolisant and may be at increased risk of QT prolongation.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: 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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2) DISCUSSION: In two dedicated QT prolongation studies, supra-therapeutic doses of pitolisant at 3-6 times the therapeutic dose (108-216 mg) were seen to cause mild to moderate QTc prolongation (10-13 ms). A study in patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers had higher systemic exposure up to 3-fold compared to CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers.(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) |
WAKIX |
| Entrectinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of entrectinib with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of entrectinib with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of entrectinib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications ---Interrupt entrectinib therapy for QTc interval greater than 500 ms. ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting entrectinib.(1) If torsade de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, and/or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia occur, permanently discontinue entrectinib.(1) DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 3.1% of patients with at least one post-baseline ECG experienced QTcF prolongation of greater than 60 msec after starting entrectinib..(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) |
ROZLYTREK |
| Lefamulin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of lefamulin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of lefamulin with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of lefamulin with medications that prolong the QT interval.(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) 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) |
XENLETA |
| Hydroxychloroquine/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Hydroxychloroquine has been observed 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 hydroxychloroquine 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 hydroxychloroquine states that hydroxychloroquine should not be administered with other agents that prolong the QT 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: The manufacturer states that hydroxychloroquine has been shown to prolong the QT interval;(1) however, conditions that hydroxychloroquine treats have also been associated with QT prolongation. 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) |
HYDROXYCHLOROQUINE SULFATE, PLAQUENIL, SOVUNA |
| Amisulpride/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Amisulpride has been shown to prolong the QT interval. Concurrent use with QT prolonging agents may result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of amisulpride with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use caution when using amisulpride concurrently with other agents that can prolong the QT interval. Amisulpride may cause a dose and concentration dependent increase in the QTc interval. 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. ECG monitoring is recommended in patients with pre-existing arrhythmias or cardiac conduction disorders; electrolyte abnormalities; congestive heart failure; or in patients taking medications or with other medical conditions known to prolong the QT interval. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2) DISCUSSION: QT prolongation and torsades de pointes have been reported with amisulpride. In a study in 40 patients with post operative nausea and vomiting, amisulpride increased baseline QTcF by 5 msec after a 2-minute intravenous infusion of 5 mg and by 23.4 msec after an 8-minute intravenous infusion of 40 mg. Based on an exposure-response relationship, it is expected that a 10 mg intravenous infusion over 1 minute may increase the QTcF by 13.4 msec.(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) |
BARHEMSYS |
| Osilodrostat/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Osilodrostat has been shown to prolong the QT interval. Concurrent use with QT prolonging agents may result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of osilodrostat with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use caution when using osilodrostat concurrently with other agents that can prolong the QT interval and consider more frequent ECG monitoring. A dose-dependent QT interval prolongation was noted in clinical studies. Prior to initiating therapy with osilodrostat, obtain a baseline ECG and monitor for QTc interval changes thereafter. Consider temporary discontinuation of therapy if the QTc interval increases > 480 msec. 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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2) DISCUSSION: QTc prolongation has been reported with osilodrostat. In a thorough QT study in 86 healthy patients, osilodrostat increased baseline QTcF by 1.73 msec at a 10 mg dose and 25.38 msec at a 150 mg dose (up to 2.5 times the maximum recommended dosage). The predicted mean placebo-corrected QTcF at the highest recommended dose in clinical practice (30 mg twice daily) was estimated as 5.3 msec.(1) In a clinical study, five patients (4%) were reported to have an event of QT prolongation, three patients (2%) had a QTcF increase of > 60 msec from baseline, and 18 patients (13%) had a new QTcF value of > 450 msec.(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) |
ISTURISA |
| Oxaliplatin/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of oxaliplatin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of oxaliplatin with 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, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of oxaliplatin in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. ECG monitoring is recommended if oxaliplatin therapy is initiated in patients with congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, drugs known to prolong the QT interval, and electrolyte abnormalities.(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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Prescribing information for oxaliplatin states post-marketing cases of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including fatal Torsades de Pointes, have been reported.(1) Case reports have documented QT prolongation in patients with varying cancer indications for oxaliplatin.(3-6) 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.(7) |
OXALIPLATIN |
| Selpercatinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Selpercatinib prolongs the QTc interval.(1) Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2,3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of selpercatinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2,3) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Selpercatinib prolongs the QT interval. An increase in QT interval to > 500 ms was measured in 6% of patients and increase in the QT interval of at least 60 ms over baseline was measured in 15% of patients. Monitor patients at significant risk of developing QT prolongation, including patients with known long QT syndromes, clinically significant bradyarrhythmias, and severe or uncontrolled heart failure. Assess QT interval, electrolytes, and TSH at baseline and periodically during treatment. Correct hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and hypocalcemia prior to initiation and during treatment. Dose adjustments (1): For grade 3 QT interval prolongation, withhold selpercatinib until recovery to baseline or grade 0 or 1. Resume at a reduced dose. -1st dose reduction: For patients weighing less than 50 kg: 80 mg twice daily. For patients weighing 50 kg or greater: 120 mg twice daily. -2nd dose reduction: For patients weighing less than 50 kg: 40 mg twice daily. For patients weighing 50 kg or greater: 80 mg twice daily. -3rd dose reduction: For patients weighing less than 50 kg: 40 mg once daily. For patients weighing 50 kg or greater: 40 mg twice daily. -For grade 4 QT prolongation, discontinue selpercatinib. DISCUSSION: The effect of selpercatinib on the QT interval was evaluated in a thorough QT study in healthy subjects. The largest mean increase in QT is predicted to be 10.6 ms (upper 90% confidence interval: 12.1 ms) at the mean steady state maximum concentration (Cmax) observed in patients after administration of 160 mg twice daily. The increase in QT was concentration-dependent. 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) |
RETEVMO |
| Sunitinib/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of sunitinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of sunitinib in patients maintained on 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 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, advanced age or when receiving concomitant treatment with an inhibitor of CYP3A4.(1,2) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of sunitinib with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with caution.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor ECG more frequently and 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. DISCUSSION: Sunitinib has been shown to prolong the QT interval in a dose dependent manner. Torsade de pointes has been observed in less than 0.1% of patients receiving sunitinib.(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 sunitinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 26 (19.4%) with 16 (61.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 6 (23.1%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (3.8%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 (3.8%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 1 (3.8%) of patients and 1 (3.8%) patient experienced sudden cardiac death.(3) 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.(4) |
ASTAGRAF XL, ATOMOXETINE HCL, CESIUM CHLORIDE, ELLENCE, ENVARSUS XR, EPIRUBICIN HCL, FARYDAK, GRANISETRON HCL, ISRADIPINE, OFLOXACIN, PROGRAF, RUBRACA, RYDAPT, SANCUSO, SUSTOL, TACROLIMUS, TACROLIMUS XL, TOLTERODINE TARTRATE, TOLTERODINE TARTRATE ER, XALKORI |
| Ustekinumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ustekinumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ustekinumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Ustekinumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants in psoriasis studies. In psoriatic arthritis studies, concomitant methotrexate use did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis studies, concomitant use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by ustekinumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included nasopharyngitis(8%) and upper respiratory tract infection(5%). Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ustekinumab. Cases of interstitial pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia resulting in respiratory failure or prolonged hospitalization have been reported in patients receiving ustekinumab.(1) |
IMULDOSA, OTULFI, PYZCHIVA, SELARSDI, STELARA, STEQEYMA, USTEKINUMAB, USTEKINUMAB-AEKN, USTEKINUMAB-TTWE, WEZLANA, YESINTEK |
| Galantamine/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Galantamine may reduce heart rate by increasing acetylcholine in the heart and increasing vagal tone. Bradycardia has been associated with increased risk of QTc interval prolongation.(1) Concurrent use of galantamine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of galantamine in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2) 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, advanced age or when receiving concomitant treatment with an inhibitor of CYP3A4.(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 UK manufacturer of galantamine states that it should be used with caution in patients treated with drugs that affect the QTc interval.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor ECG more frequently and 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. DISCUSSION: Therapeutic doses of galantamine have been reported to cause QTc prolongation in patients.(2) An 85 year old male with dementia was restarted on galantamine 8 mg daily after a 2-week treatment interruption due to a syncopal episode that occurred 3 months previously. During his prior syncopal episode, he was hypotensive and bradycardic, but QTc interval was normal. After restarting galantamine, he was found to be hypotension and bradycardiac again, and QTc interval was significantly prolonged to 503 msec, over 60 msec longer than when he was off galantamine. Galantamine was discontinued and his QTc interval returned to baseline.(4) A 47 year old schizophrenic male experienced prolongation of the QTc interval to 518 msec after galantamine was increased from 8 mg daily to 12 mg daily. Although he was also on quetiapine and metoprolol, he had been stable on his other medications. His QTc interval normalized after galantamine was stopped.(5) The European pharmacovigilance (Eudravigilance) database contains 14 reports of torsades de pointe in patients on galantamine as of October 2019.(1) A pharmacovigilance study based on the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database found that, of a total of 33,626 cases of TdP/QT prolongation reported between January 2004 and September 2022, 54 cases occurred in patients on galantamine. The disproportionality analysis found a ROR = 5.12, 95% CI (3.92,6.68) and a PRR = 5.11, chi-square = 175.44.(6) 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.(7) |
GALANTAMINE ER, GALANTAMINE HBR, GALANTAMINE HYDROBROMIDE, ZUNVEYL |
| COVID-19 Vaccines/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators may prevent the immune system from properly responding to the COVID-19 vaccine.(1,2) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators may interfere with vaccine-induced immune response and impair the efficacy of the vaccine. However, patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In an effort to optimize COVID-19 vaccine response, the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) published conditional recommendations for administration of COVID-19 vaccines with immunosuppressants and immunomodulators.(1) The CDC also provides clinical considerations for COVID-19 vaccination in patients on immunosuppressants.(2) The CDC states that all immunocompromised patients over 6 months of age should receive at least 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine if eligible. See the CDC's Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for specific recommendations based on age, vaccination history, and vaccine manufacturer.(2) The ACR states that in general, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators should be held for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose. See below for specific recommendations for certain agents.(1) The CDC advises planning for vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or resuming immunosuppressive therapy.(2) Patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1,2) B-cell depleting agents, including rituximab: The ACR recommends consulting with the rheumatologist to determine optimal timing of COVID-19 vaccination. Measuring CD19 B cells may be considered to determine need for a booster vaccine dose. If B cell levels are not measured, a supplemental vaccine dose 2-4 weeks before the next scheduled dose of rituximab is recommended.(1) The CDC states that the utility of B-cell quantification to guide clinical care is not known and is not recommended. Patients who receive B-cell depleting therapy should receive COVID-19 vaccines about 4 weeks before the next scheduled dose. For patients who received 1 or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine during treatment with B-cell-depleting therapies that were administered over a limited period (e.g., as part of a treatment regimen for certain malignancies), revaccination may be considered. The suggested interval to start revaccination is about 6 months after completion of the B-cell-depleting therapy.(2) Abatacept: - Subcutaneous abatacept should be withheld for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose, as disease activity allows. - For intravenous abatacept, time administration so that vaccination will occur 1 week before the next abatacept infusion.(1) Cyclophosphamide: When feasible, administer cyclophosphamide one week after each COVID-19 vaccine dose.(1) Recipients of hematopoietic cell transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy who received one or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine prior to or during treatment should undergo revaccination following the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. Revaccination should start at least 3 months (12 weeks) after transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy.(2) TNF-alpha inhibitors and cytokine inhibitors: The ACR was not able to reach consensus on whether to modify dosing or timing of these agents with COVID-19 vaccination.(1) The CDC includes these agents in their general recommendation to hold therapy for at least 2 weeks following vaccination.(2) DISCUSSION: The ACR convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance Task Force to provide guidance on optimal use of COVID-19 vaccines in rheumatology patients. These recommendations are based on limited clinical evidence of COVID-19 vaccines in patients without rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders and evidence of other vaccines in this patient population.(1) The ACR recommendation for rituximab is based on studies of humoral immunity following receipt of other vaccines. These studies have uncertain generalizability to vaccination against COVID-19, as it is unknown if efficacy is attributable to induction of host T cells versus B cell (antibody-based) immunity.(1) The ACR recommendation for mycophenolate is based on preexisting data of mycophenolate on non-COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity. Emerging data suggests that mycophenolate may impair SARS-CoV-2 vaccine response in rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease and transplant patients.(1) The ACR recommendation for methotrexate is based on data from influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines with methotrexate.(1) The ACR recommendation for JAK inhibitors is based on concerns related to the effects of JAK inhibitors on interferon signaling that may result in a diminished vaccine response.(1) The ACR recommendation for subcutaneous abatacept is based on several studies suggesting a negative effect of abatacept on vaccine immunogenicity. The first vaccine dose primes naive T cells, naive T cell priming is inhibited by CTLA-4, and abatacept is a CTLA-4Ig construct. CTLA-4 should not inhibit boosts of already primed T cells at the time of the second vaccine dose.(1) |
COMIRNATY 2024-2025, MODERNA COVID 24-25(6M-11Y)EUA, NOVAVAX COVID 2024-2025 (EUA), PFIZER COVID 2024-25(5-11Y)EUA, PFIZER COVID 2024-25(6M-4Y)EUA, SPIKEVAX 2024-2025 |
| Pacritinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Pacritinib has been observed 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 pacritinib 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 manufacturer of pacritinib states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided. Avoid the use of pacritinib in patients with a baseline QTc > 480 msec. Correct hypokalemia prior to initiation and during therapy with pacritinib.(1) If patients develop QTc prolongation >500 msec or >60 msec from baseline, hold pacritinib. If QTc prolongation resolves to <=480 msec or to baseline within 1 week, resume pacritinib at the same dose. If time to resolution of the QTc interval takes greater than 1 week to resolve, reduce the pacritinib dose.(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: In a 24 week clinical study, patients treatment with pacritinib 200 mg twice daily had a change in QTc from baseline of 11 msec (90% CI: 5-17).(1) Pacritinib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation. In clinical trials, patients with QTc prolongation >500 msec occurred in 1.4% of patients in the treatment arm compared to 1% in the control arm. The treatment arm had a greater incidence of an increase in QTc > 60 msec from baseline than the control arm (1.9% vs 1%, respectively). QTc prolongation adverse reactions were higher in the treatment arm than the control group (3.8% vs 2%, respectively).(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) |
VONJO |
| Triclabendazole/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Triclabendazole has been observed 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) Triclabendazole is partially metabolized by CYP1A2. Ciprofloxacin, propafenone, and vemurafenib are CYP1A2 inhibitors and may inhibit the CYP1A2 mediated metabolism of triclabendazole. CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of triclabendazole 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) Hepatic impairment and concurrent use of CYP1A2 inhibitors may raise triclabendazole levels and increase the risk of QT prolongation.(1) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of triclabendazole states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used with caution. Monitor ECG in patients with a history of QTc prolongation, symptoms of long QT interval, electrolyte imbalances, concurrent CYP1A2 inhibitors, or hepatic impairment. If signs of a cardiac arrhythmia develop, stop treatment with triclabendazole and monitor ECG.(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: In a thorough QT study, a dose-dependent prolongation in the QTc interval was observed with triclabendazole. The largest placebo-corrected mean increase in QTc was 9.2 msec (upper limit of confidence interval (UCI): 12.2 msec) following oral administration of 10 mg/kg triclabendazole twice daily (at the recommended dose), and the largest placebo-corrected mean increase in QTc was 21.7 msec (UCI: 24.7 msec) following oral administration of 10 mg/kg triclabendazole twice daily for 3 days (3 times the approved recommended dosing duration).(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) |
EGATEN |
| Sarilumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sarilumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sarilumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Sarilumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis studies. Sarilumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by sarilumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia and cellulitis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving sarilumab. Cases of tuberculosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystis with sarilumab have been reported.(1) |
KEVZARA |
| Ublituximab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ublituximab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ublituximab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ublituximab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ublituximab with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive agents, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents. When switching from agents with immune effects, the half-life and mechanism of action of these drugs must be taken into consideration in order to prevent additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) DISCUSSION: The most common infections reported by ublituximab-treated patients in the clinical trial periods included upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Serious, including life-threatening or fatal, bacterial and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ublituximab.(1) Serious and/or fatal bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections have been associated with other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. There were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported during the clinical trials; however, there have been reports of PML during or following completion of other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies.(1) |
BRIUMVI |
| Quizartinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Quizartinib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose- and concentration dependent manner. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of quizartinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quizartinib states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided.(1) Quizartinib is only available through a restricted REMS program due to the serious risk of QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, and cardiac arrest. The manufacturer recommends monitoring as follows: -Initiate quizartinib only if the QTcF is less than or equal to 450 ms. -During induction and consolidation, monitor ECGs prior to initiation and then at minimum once weekly during treatment. -During maintenance, monitor ECGs prior to initiation and then at minimum once weekly for the first month following dose initiation and escalation and clinically therafter. Dose escalation may occur only if the QTcF is less than or equal to 450 ms. The manufacturer recommends the following dose modifications for adverse reactions: -If the QTcF is 450 ms to 480 ms (Grade 1) - Continue quizartinib dose. -If the QTcF is 481 ms to 500 ms (Grade 2) - Reduce the dose of quizartinib without interruption based on prescribing information. Resume the previous dose in the next cycle if the QTcF has decreased to less than 450 ms. -If the QTcF is greater than 500 ms (Grade 3) - Interrupt quizartinib. Resume at a reduced dose based on prescribing information when the QTcF is less than 450 ms. Maintain the dose of 26.5 mg once daily during maintenance if the QTcF is greater than 500 ms during induction or consolidation. -If recurrent QTcF is greater than 500 ms (Grade 3) - Permanently discontinue quizartinib if QTcF is greater than 500 ms despite dose reduction and correction/elimination of other risk factors. -If TdP, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs/symptoms of life-threatening arrythmia occur (Grade 4) - Permanently discontinue quizartinib. 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. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: Quizartinib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation, Torsades de Pointes, ventricular arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and sudden death. Quizartinib increased QTc in a dose- and concentration-dependent manner.(1) In an exposure-response analysis, quizartinib had a predicted concentration-dependent QTc prolongation of 18 to 24 ms (upper bound of 2-sided 90% CI: 21 and 27 ms) at a median steady-state Cmax dose of 26.5 mg and 53 mg during maintenance therapy.(1) In patients administered quizartinib, 2.3% of 265 patients had a QTcF greater than 500 msec and 10% of patients had a increase from baseline QTcF greater than 60 msec.(1) In patients administered quizartinib during the induction phase, torsades de pointes occurred in approximately 0.2% of patients, cardiac arrest occurred in 0.6%, including 0.4% with a fatal outcome, and 0.1% of patients experienced ventricular fibrillation.(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 postmarketing reports.(3) |
VANFLYTA |
| Tocilizumab/Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tocilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1) CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tocilizumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1) DISCUSSION: Tocilizumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate, non-biologic DMARDs or corticosteroids, depending on the indication. Tocilizumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by tocilizumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, sepsis and bacterial arthritis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving tocilizumab. Cases of tuberculosis, cryptococcus, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystosis have been reported.(1) |
ACTEMRA, ACTEMRA ACTPEN, TOFIDENCE, TYENNE, TYENNE AUTOINJECTOR |
| Dexmedetomidine Sublingual/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dexmedetomidine sublingual 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 dexmedetomidine sublingual 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of dexmedetomidine sublingual states that concurrent use should be avoided with other agents 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: In a QT study, dexmedetomidine sublingual had a concentration dependent effect on the QT interval. The mean QTc (95% confidence interval) increased from baseline by 6 (7) msec with a 120 mcg single dose, 8 (9) msec with 120 mcg followed by 2 additional doses of 60 mcg (total 3 doses), 8 (11) msec with a single 180 mcg dose, and 11 (14) msec with 180 mcg followed by 2 additional doses of 90 mcg (total 3 doses), 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.(3) |
IGALMI |
| Mavorixafor/QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mavorixafor 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 mavorixafor 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of mavorixafor states that concurrent use of mavorixafor with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be approached with caution. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to initiation, during concurrent therapy, and as clinically indicated with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If QT prolongation occurs, a dose reduction or discontinuation of mavorixafor may be required.(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: In a thorough QT study, a dose of mavorixafor 800 mg increased the mean QTc 15.6 msec (upper 90% CI = 19.9 msec). The dose of mavorixafor was 2 times the recommended maximum daily dose.(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) |
XOLREMDI |
| Givinostat/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Givinostat may 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 givinostat 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of givinostat states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating givinostat, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(1) If the QTc interval is greater than 500 ms or the change from baseline is greater than 60 ms, withhold givinostat therapy.(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.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In a QT study, the largest mean increase in QTc interval of 13.6 ms (upper confidence interval of 17.1 ms) occurred 5 hours after administration of givinostat 265.8 mg (approximately 5 times the recommended 53.2 mg dose in patients weighing 60 kg or more).(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) |
DUVYZAT |
| Revumenib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Revumenib may 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 revumenib 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 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of revumenib states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating revumenib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(1) If the QTc interval is greater than 480 ms, withhold revumenib therapy. Resume revumenib after the QTc interval drops to 480 msec or less.(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.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 29% of 135 patients treated with the recommended dosage of revumenib; 12% of patients had Grade 3 QTc prolongation. Revumenib increased the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At the mean steady-state Cmax using the highest approved recommended dosage of revumenib without CYP3A4 inhibitors, QTc increase was predicted to be 27 msec (upper bound of 90% confidence interval = 30 msec). At the steady-state Cmax using the highest approved recommended dosage of revumenib with CYP3A4 inhibitors, QTc increase was predicted to be 19 msec (upper bound of 90% confidence interval = 22 msec).(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) |
REVUFORJ |
| Taletrectinib/Possible QT Prolonging Agents SEVERITY LEVEL: 3-Moderate Interaction: Assess the risk to the patient and take action as needed. MECHANISM OF ACTION: Taletrectinib 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 taletrectinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(1) PREDISPOSING FACTORS: In general, 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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Taletrectinib should be taken on an empty stomach. Administration with food may increase the risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes. PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of taletrectinib with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, adjust the frequency of monitoring as recommended in the prescribing information. If QTc is >500 msec or the change from baseline is >60 msec, withhold taletrectinib.(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: Taletrectinib causes concentration-dependent QTc prolongation. At steady state maximal concentration, taletrectinib (600 mg daily) increased the QTc interval by 12.8 msec (upper confidence interval 15.4 msec). At plasma concentrations achieved with taletrectinib (600 mg daily) with high fat food (1.5-fold higher than on an empty stomach), the predicted QTc interval increase is 20.5 (16.3, 24.7) msec.(1) In a clinical trial including 351 evaluable patients, 13% experienced an increase in QTcF of >60 msec compared to baseline and 2.6% had an increase in QTcF to >500 msec. Overall, 3.4% of patients had Grade 3 QTc interval prolongation. The median time from the first dose of taletrectinib to the onset of QT prolongation was 22 days (range: 1 day to 38.7 months). 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.(9) |
IBTROZI |
The following contraindication information is available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
Drug contraindication overview.
The manufacturer states there are no known contraindications to the use of sunitinib.
The manufacturer states there are no known contraindications to the use of sunitinib.
There are 5 contraindications.
Absolute contraindication.
| Contraindication List |
|---|
| Arterial aneurysm |
| Arterial dissection |
| Hemolytic uremic syndrome |
| Lactation |
| Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura |
There are 23 severe contraindications.
Adequate patient monitoring is recommended for safer drug use.
| Severe List |
|---|
| Acute myocardial infarction |
| Bradycardia |
| Cardiomyopathy |
| Chronic heart failure |
| Congenital long QT syndrome |
| Hemoptysis |
| Hemorrhage |
| Hyperkalemia |
| Hypermagnesemia |
| Hypertension |
| Hypokalemia |
| Hypomagnesemia |
| Invasive surgical procedure |
| Left ventricular failure |
| Myocardial ischemia |
| Myocarditis |
| Nephrotic syndrome |
| Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome |
| Pregnancy |
| Prolonged QT interval |
| Proteinuria |
| Thromboembolic disorder |
| Torsades de pointes |
There are 11 moderate contraindications.
Clinically significant contraindication, where the condition can be managed or treated before the drug may be given safely.
| Moderate List |
|---|
| Adrenocortical insufficiency |
| Anemia |
| Diabetes mellitus |
| Disease of liver |
| Hyperthyroidism |
| Hypoglycemic disorder |
| Hypothyroidism |
| Lower seizure threshold |
| Pancreatitis |
| Seizure disorder |
| Thrombocytopenic disorder |
The following adverse reaction information is available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
Adverse reaction overview.
The most common adverse effects occurring in 25% or more of patients receiving sunitinib include are fatigue/asthenia, diarrhea, mucositis/stomatitis, nausea, decreased appetite/anorexia, vomiting, abdominal pain, hand-foot syndrome, hypertension, bleeding events, dysgeusia/altered taste, dyspepsia, and thrombocytopenia.
The most common adverse effects occurring in 25% or more of patients receiving sunitinib include are fatigue/asthenia, diarrhea, mucositis/stomatitis, nausea, decreased appetite/anorexia, vomiting, abdominal pain, hand-foot syndrome, hypertension, bleeding events, dysgeusia/altered taste, dyspepsia, and thrombocytopenia.
There are 61 severe adverse reactions.
| More Frequent | Less Frequent |
|---|---|
|
Abnormal hepatic function tests Chronic heart failure Hemorrhage Hypertension Increased alanine transaminase Increased aspartate transaminase Increased risk of bleeding |
Dehydration Hyperbilirubinemia Hypernatremia Hypoglycemic disorder Hypokalemia Infection Lymphopenia Neutropenic disorder Thrombocytopenic disorder Tumor hemorrhage |
| Rare/Very Rare |
|---|
|
Acute cerebral infarction Acute myocardial infarction Anemia Angioedema Arterial aneurysm Arterial dissection Arterial thrombosis Aseptic necrosis of jaw bone Cardiomyopathy Cerebrovascular accident Cholecystitis Dissection of aorta Erythema multiforme Esophagitis Gastrointestinal perforation Hepatic failure Hepatitis Hyperammonemic encephalopathy Hypophosphatemia Impaired wound healing Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr) Left ventricular failure Myocardial ischemia Myopathy Necrotizing fasciitis Nephrotic syndrome New fistula formation involving an internal organ Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia Pancreatitis Pleural effusions Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome Prolonged QT interval Pulmonary thromboembolism Pyoderma gangrenosum Renal failure Rhabdomyolysis Stevens-johnson syndrome Thromboembolic disorder Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura Thyroiditis Torsades de pointes Toxic epidermal necrolysis Transient cerebral ischemia Tumor lysis syndrome |
There are 35 less severe adverse reactions.
| More Frequent | Less Frequent |
|---|---|
|
Acute abdominal pain Anorexia Arthralgia Back pain Constipation Cough Diarrhea Dizziness Dry skin Dyschromia Dysgeusia Dyspepsia Dyspnea Fatigue Fever Flatulence General weakness Headache disorder Hypothyroidism Nausea Pain in extremities Peripheral edema Skin rash Stomatitis Vomiting |
Alopecia Myalgia Sore tongue |
| Rare/Very Rare |
|---|
|
Hair discoloration Hypercortisolism Hyperthyroidism Proteinuria Skin and skin structure infection Upper respiratory infection Urinary tract infection |
The following precautions are available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
Safety and efficacy of sunitinib have not been established in pediatric patients. Safety and pharmacokinetics of sunitinib have been assessed in 2 open-label studies in 56 pediatric patients 2 years to <17 years of age with refractory solid tumors, high-grade glioma, or ependymoma. The maximum tolerated dose, apparent clearance, and volume of distribution adjusted for body surface area for sunitinib and its major active metabolite were lower in pediatric patients compared to adults.
In pediatric patients 2 years to <17 years of age with refractory solid tumors, sunitinib was poorly tolerated; the study also was amended to exclude patients with previous exposure to anthracyclines or cardiac radiation due to the occurrence of dose-limiting cardiotoxicity. The effect of sunitinib on open tibial growth plates in pediatric patients has not been established.
Contraindicated
Severe Precaution
Management or Monitoring Precaution
In pediatric patients 2 years to <17 years of age with refractory solid tumors, sunitinib was poorly tolerated; the study also was amended to exclude patients with previous exposure to anthracyclines or cardiac radiation due to the occurrence of dose-limiting cardiotoxicity. The effect of sunitinib on open tibial growth plates in pediatric patients has not been established.
Contraindicated
| None |
Severe Precaution
| None |
Management or Monitoring Precaution
| None |
Based on animal data, sunitinib can cause fetal harm when administered during pregnancy. There are no adequate data regarding the developmental risk associated with the use of sunitinib during pregnancy in humans; however, teratogenic and embryolethal effects have been demonstrated in animal studies with doses similar to or less than those used clinically. If sunitinib is used during pregnancy or if the patient becomes pregnant while receiving the drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential fetal hazard.
Sunitinib and/or its metabolites are extensively distributed into milk in rats, with a milk-to-plasma ratio of up to 12:1. It is not known whether sunitinib or its primary active metabolite is distributed into human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions to sunitinib in nursing infants, females should not breast-feed during sunitinib therapy and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose.
Of the 7527 patients receiving sunitinib for GIST, renal cell carcinoma, or NET of pancreatic origin in clinical studies, 32% were 65 years of age or older and 7% were 75 years of age or older. The incidence of grade 3 or 4 adverse effects was higher in patients 65 years of age or older compared to younger adults. In the clinical studies evaluating sunitinib in patients with GIST or metastatic renal cell carcinoma, 30 or 41% of patients, respectively, were 65 years of age or older.
No overall differences in safety and efficacy were observed relative to younger adults. In the clinical study evaluating sunitinib in patients with NET of pancreatic origin, 27% of patients receiving sunitinib were 65 years of age or older. The study did not include sufficient numbers of patients with NET of pancreatic origin to determine if patients 65 years of age or older respond differently relative to younger patients.
No overall differences in safety and efficacy were observed relative to younger adults. In the clinical study evaluating sunitinib in patients with NET of pancreatic origin, 27% of patients receiving sunitinib were 65 years of age or older. The study did not include sufficient numbers of patients with NET of pancreatic origin to determine if patients 65 years of age or older respond differently relative to younger patients.
The following prioritized warning is available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate):
WARNING: Rarely, sunitinib has caused severe (sometimes fatal) liver problems. Get medical help right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing eyes/skin. Your doctor will monitor for liver problems with blood tests. Tell all of your doctors and pharmacists if you have ever stopped taking sunitinib because of liver problems (including high liver enzymes).
WARNING: Rarely, sunitinib has caused severe (sometimes fatal) liver problems. Get medical help right away if you develop symptoms of liver problems such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, severe stomach/abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, or yellowing eyes/skin. Your doctor will monitor for liver problems with blood tests. Tell all of your doctors and pharmacists if you have ever stopped taking sunitinib because of liver problems (including high liver enzymes).
The following icd codes are available for SUTENT (sunitinib malate)'s list of indications:
| Gastrointestinal stromal tumor | |
| C49.A | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor |
| C49.A0 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor, unspecified site |
| C49.A1 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of esophagus |
| C49.A2 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of stomach |
| C49.A3 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of small intestine |
| C49.A4 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of large intestine |
| C49.A5 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of rectum |
| C49.A9 | Gastrointestinal stromal tumor of other sites |
| Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor | |
| C25.4 | Malignant neoplasm of endocrine pancreas |
| RCC adjuvant therapy following nephrectomy | |
| C64 | Malignant neoplasm of kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.1 | Malignant neoplasm of right kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.2 | Malignant neoplasm of left kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.9 | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified kidney, except renal pelvis |
| Renal cell carcinoma | |
| C64 | Malignant neoplasm of kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.1 | Malignant neoplasm of right kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.2 | Malignant neoplasm of left kidney, except renal pelvis |
| C64.9 | Malignant neoplasm of unspecified kidney, except renal pelvis |
Formulary Reference Tool