Bretylium Tosylate (bretylium tosylate)

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

Class I And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Halofantrine

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: Possibly additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of halofantrine and Class I or III antiarrhythmics may pre-dispose patients to development of prolonged QTc interval.(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 halofantrine states under the contraindications section of the prescribing information that unless there are compelling clinical reasons, halofantrine should not be used with Class I and III antiarrhythmics.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Because concurrent use may pre-dispose patients to prolongation of the QTc interval, the manufacturer of halofantrine states in the contraindications section of the prescribing information that halofantrine should not be used with Class I or III antiarrhythmics unless compelling clinical reasons exist.(1) 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.

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Selected Quinolones

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: Unknown. Possibly additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased QTc intervals which may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias such as 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.(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 inhibitors its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent administration of sparfloxacin with Class Ia (disopyramide, moricizine, procainamide, quinidine) or Class III (amiodarone, bretylium, sotalol) antiarrhythmic agents is contraindicated by the manufacturer of sparfloxacin.(1) Concurrent administration of these agents with grepafloxacin is also contraindicated by the manufacturer of grepafloxacin unless appropriate cardiac monitoring can be assured.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: The product information for grepafloxacin states that because prolongation of the QTc interval has been observed in healthy subjects receiving grepafloxacin, the concurrent administration of grepafloxacin with medications known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated unless appropriate cardiac monitoring can be assured.(2) Torsades de pointes has been reported in patients receiving sparfloxacin with disopyramide and amiodarone.(1)

Class Ia And Class Iii Antiarrhythmics/Dofetilide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dofetilide 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 dofetilide with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Renal impairment may increase risk for excessive QTc prolongation as dofetilide is primarily renally eliminated. To prevent increased serum levels and risk for ventricular arrhythmias, dofetilide must be dose adjusted for creatinine clearance < or = to 60 mL/min.(1) The risk of QT prolongation may be increased by reduced creatinine clearance, female gender, larger doses of sotalol, and a history of cardiomegaly or congestive heart failure.(1-2) Risk may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, or advanced age.(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: Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be withheld for at least three half-lives prior to initiating dofetilide. Dofetilide has been administered to patients previously treated with amiodarone when amiodarone levels were below 0.3 mg/L or amiodarone had been withdrawn for at least 3 months.(1) The manufacturer of propafenone states that Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be withheld for at least 5 half-lives prior to initiating propafenone.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Because of the risk of adverse effects, Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be withheld for at least three half-lives prior to initiating dofetilide. Dofetilide has been administered to patients previously treated with amiodarone when amiodarone levels were below 0.3 mg/L or amiodarone had been withdrawn for at least three months.(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.(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.

Class Ia And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Disopyramide

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: Disopyramide 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 disopyramide 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 by reduced creatinine clearance, female gender, larger doses of sotalol, and a history of cardiomegaly or congestive heart failure.(1) Risk may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, or advanced age.(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 Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as Class I, II, III, or IV is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Because combinations of antiarrhythmics are not well researched and concurrent use may result in unpredictable effects, the Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that the concurrent use of other antiarrhythmics, such as Class I, II, III, or IV is contraindicated.(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.

Class Ia And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Ibutilide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of ibutilide with Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ibutilide with Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in life-threatening ventricular 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.(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 manufacturer of ibutilide states that Class IA or III antiarrhythmics should not be used concomitantly with ibutilide or within 4 hours post-infusion.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, Class IA and III antiarrhythmics were withheld for 5 half-lives prior to the administration of ibutilide and for 4 hours after.(1) In separate clinical trials, concomitant use of ibutilide with amiodarone resulted in significantly prolonged QTc intervals.(2,3) 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.

Selected Antiarrhythmics/Pimozide

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use may possibly result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in prolongation of the QTc interval, which may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent therapy with pimozide and Class IA and III antiarrhythmics should be avoided. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with agents that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Pimozide has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Therefore, the manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with agents that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated because of the risk of additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) No other clinical documentation is available. 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.

Selected Class I & Class Iii Antiarrhythmic Agents/Sotalol

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sotalol has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of sotalol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation may be increased by reduced creatinine clearance, female gender, larger doses of sotalol, and a history of cardiomegaly or congestive heart failure.(1-2) Risk may also be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of sotalol state Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents which have the potential to prolong refractoriness may cause prolongation of the QT interval and so are not recommended.(1-2) These agents should be withheld for at least 3 half-lives prior to initiation of sotalol.(2) Selected Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents linked to this monograph are: ajmaline, amiodarone, bretylium, dronedarone, encainide, flecainide, hydroquinidine, indecainide, moricizine, procainamide and quinidine. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Selected Class Ia And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Propafenone

SEVERITY LEVEL: 1-Contraindicated Drug Combination: This drug combination is contraindicated and generally should not be dispensed or administered to the same patient.

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of propafenone with other Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1) In addition to additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval, concurrent amiodarone and propafenone may affect conduction and repolarization.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of propafenone with other Class IA and III antiarrhythmics may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. In addition to these effects, concurrent amiodarone may affect conduction and repolarization.(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 increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of propafenone states that concurrent use of Class IA and III Antiarrhythmics is not recommended and these agents should be withheld for at least 5 half-lives prior to dosing with propafenone.(1) If alternatives are not available and concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Two studies evaluated the safety of adding ibutilide to propafenone for cardioversion. Although positive clinical results were observed, ten patients reported significant bradycardia and one patient experienced torsades de pointes.(4,5) A study assessed the use of propafenone in patients with amiodarone-resistant ventricular tachycardia. Two cases reported suppressed ventricular tachycardia after the addition of propafenone to amiodarone. Four cases reported worsening of spontaneous tachycardia with combined administration, and one case degenerated to ventricular fibrillation. The combination may be useful but is often associated with undesirable, significant side-effects. The combination may be limited to patients without severely depressed left ventricular function and a reduced probability of inducing ventricular tachycardia.(6)

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

Class I & Class Iii Antiarrhythmics/Vernakalant

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent administration of vernakalant and Class I or Class III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of vernakalant with Class I or Class III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects on the heart. Concurrent use of Class I antiarrhythmics may increase the risk of atrial flutter.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vernakalant states that intravenous Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should not be used within 4 hours before or after vernakalant administration. Use of vernakalant in patients who have received intravenous Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents in the previous 4-24 hours cannot be recommended.(1) The manufacturer of vernakalant states that the use of vernakalant in patients receiving oral Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should be approached with caution. Resumption or initiation of oral Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents may be considered 2 hours after completion of vernakalant administration.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because of the risk of adverse effects, the manufacturer of vernakalant states that intravenous Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents should not be used within 4 hours before or after vernakalant administration. Resumption or initiation of oral Class I or Class III antiarrhythmic agents may be considered 2 hours after completion of vernakalant administration.(1)

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Eliglustat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of eliglustat and Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects on the PR, QRS and QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of eliglustat and Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: If the patient has hepatic impairment, eliglustat metabolism can be inhibited and result in increased levels and increased 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, advanced age, use of multiple medications, and/or in patients who are taking strong CYP3A4 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: Systemic exposure to eliglustat is highly variable depending upon use of concurrent CYP2D6 and/or CYP3A4 inhibitors and the patient's CYP2D6 metabolizer status. For example, - Eliglustat maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) increased 7.0-fold and 8.4-fold respectively in CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers (EM) treated with paroxetine 30 mg daily. - In simulated models, concomitant use of both a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (e.g. ketoconazole) and a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor (e.g. paroxetine) may increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC 16.7-fold and 24-fold respectively in CYP2D6 EMs. Because high systemic concentrations of eliglustat prolong PR, QRS and QTc intervals and because systemic exposure to eliglustat in a particular individual may be very high, the use of eliglustat is not recommended 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: Eliglustat has been shown to prolong the PR, QRS and QTc interval in a dose dependent manner.(1)

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Selected Quinolones

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Unknown. Possibly additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval. Proposed mechanisms for this interaction may stem from quinolone inhibition of hepatic cytochromes and/or competitive inhibition of renal elimination via active tubular secretion. Ciprofloxacin and norfloxacin are moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4. Quinidine is metabolized by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased QTc intervals which may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias such as 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.(15) 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).(15)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of ciprofloxacin,(1) gatifloxacin,(2) gemifloxacin,(3) levofloxacin,(4) lomefloxacin,(5), moxifloxacin,(6) nalidixic acid,(7) norfloxacin(8) and ofloxacin(9) state that these agents should be avoided in patients receiving Class IA and III antiarrhythmic agents. 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: Ciprofloxacin,(1) gatifloxacin,(2) gemifloxacin,(3) levofloxacin,(4) lomefloxacin,(5), moxifloxacin,(6) nalidixic acid,(7) norfloxacin(8) and ofloxacin(9) have the potential to prolong the QTc interval. Torsades de pointes has been reported during post-marketing surveillance in patients receiving lomefloxacin.(5) There are reports of prolonged QTc intervals with levofloxacin and amiodarone(9) and ciprofloxacin(11) with amiodarone or sotalol. However, a randomized, crossover study evaluated seven healthy males in which quinidine sulfate (400 mg) were administered alone then crossed over with ciprofloxacin (750 mg b.i.d. for 5 days) pretreatment. No significant significant differences were found in the quinidine clearance, half-life, or or Cmax or in QRS or QTc prolongation.(10) Another randomized, crossover study was conducted to determine pharmacokinetic interactions between levofloxacin plus procainamide and ciprofloxacin with procainamide. Levofloxacin significantly decreased renal clearance and the renal clearance/creatinine clearance ratios of procainamide and N-acetylprocainamide (NAPA), the major metabolite of procainamide; however, ciprofloxacin only changed the renal clearance of procainamide and NAPA.(13) A pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic study evaluated the interaction between ofloxacin and procainamide. Nine healthy volunteers randomly received one dose of procainamide 1 G, including or excluding pretreatment with ofloxacin (400 mg b.i.d. for 5 doses). A 12-point EKG monitored for any pharmacodynamic abnormalities and blood urine samples evaluated for pharmacokinetic variations. The AUC and Cmax for procainamide were increased by 27% and 21% with clearance diminished by 22%.(14) 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.

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Telithromycin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Telithromycin may prolong the QT interval.(1) Telithromycin may affect the absorption of sotalol.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of telithromycin with a Class IA or III antiarrhythmic may result in prolongation of the QTc interval, which may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.(1) Levels of sotalol may be reduced.(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 telithromycin states that telithromycin should be avoided in patients taking 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: Telithromycin may prolong the QT interval. Concurrent administration with a Class IA or III antiarrhythmic may result in prolongation of the QTc interval, which may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias, and should be avoided.(1) Telithromycin has been shown to decrease the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of sotalol by 34% and 20%, respectively.(1)

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

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Sunitinib

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)

Class Ia & Iii Antiarrhythmics/Tolterodine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tolterodine and Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tolterodine 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, congential long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age, and/or patients who are poor CYP P-450-2D6 metabolizers.(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 tolterodine 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: The effects of tolterodine on the QTc interval were studied in 45 healthy subjects. Effects were compared to moxifloxacin, a known QTc prolonging agent. Tolterodine's effect on the QTc interval correlated with tolterodine plasma concentration. There was a greater increase in QTc in patients who were CYP P-450-2D6 poor metabolizers. There has been no associated with tolterodine and torsades in the international post-marketing experience of Detrol or Detrol LA.(1)

Class Ia And Iii Antiarrhythmics/Abarelix

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Abarelix has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with Class IA or III antiarrhythmics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of abarelix with Class IA or III antiarrhythmics 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 abarelix states that physicians should consider if the risks of QTc prolongation outweigh the benefits of abarelix therapy in patients taking 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: 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)

Selected Antiarrhythmics/Ranolazine

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 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, and/or use of multiple medications.(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 concurrent use of ranolazine with Class Ia or III antiarrhythmics should be approached with caution.(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) Although the UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that concurrent use with Class Ia or III antiarrhythmics other than amiodarone is contraindicated,(1) this warning was removed from the US labeling as a result of analysis of data from the MERLIN-TIMI 36 trial.(3)

Sodium Channel Blocker; Potassium Channel Blocker/Lacosamide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Lacosamide may enhance the slow inactivation of voltage-gated sodium channels and may cause dose-dependent bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lacosamide and agents that affect cardiac conduction (sodium channel blockers and potassium channel blockers) may increase the risk of bradycardia, prolongation of the PR interval, atrioventricular (AV) block, or ventricular tachyarrhythmia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Lacosamide should be used with caution in patients on concomitant medications that affect cardiac conduction, including sodium channel blockers and potassium channel blockers.(1) If concurrent use is needed, obtain an ECG before lacosamide therapy and after lacosamide dose is titrated to steady-state.(1) Patients should be monitored closely when lacosamide is given intravenously.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial in patients with partial-onset seizures, asymptomatic first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block occurred in 4/944 (0.4%) of patient who received lacosamide compared to 0/364 (0%) with placebo.(1) In a clinical trial in patients with diabetic neuropathy, asymptomatic first-degree AV block occurred in 5/1023 (0.5%) of patients who received lacosamide compared to 0/291 (0%) with placebo.(1) Second-degree and complete AV block have been reported in patients with seizures.(1) One case of profound bradycardia was observed in a patient during a 15-minute infusion of 150 mg of lacosamide.(1) A case report of a 49 year old male with refractory complex partial and generalized seizures described the development of ventricular tachycardia four months after addition of lacosamide 400 mg/day to the existing regimen of carbamazepine, lamotrigine, clonazepam, and valproate. The patient's ECG showed first-degree AV block, posterior left fascicular block, and severe widening of the QRS complex, all of which resolved upon discontinuation of lacosamide.(2)

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There are no contraindication contraindications for this drug.

• Aortic valve stenosis
• Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Pulmonary hypertension

• Sinus bradycardia

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Rare or Very Rare

• Chest pain
• Respiratory depression

Less Frequent

• Nausea
• Vomiting

Rare or Very Rare

• Accidental fall
• Bradycardia
• Chest tightness
• Orthostatic hypotension

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