Ranolazine Er (ranolazine)

The recommended initial adult dosage of ranolazine for adjunctive therapy in the management of chronic stable angina pectoris is 500 mg twice daily; dosage may be increased based on clinical response up to the maximum recommended dosage of 1 g twice daily. Dosages exceeding 1 g twice daily are poorly tolerated and should not be used.

Ranolazine is contraindicated in patients receiving inducers or strong inhibitors of cytochrome P-450 isoenzyme 3A (CYP3A). Ranolazine dosage should not exceed 500 mg twice daily in patients receiving moderate CYP3A inhibitors. (See Drug Interactions.)

Ranolazine is administered orally without regard to meals. Ranolazine tablets should be swallowed whole and not broken, chewed, or crushed. If a dose of ranolazine is missed, the next dose should be taken at the regularly scheduled time; the dose should not be doubled.

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

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

Oct2 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/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: Agents that inhibit the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) that prolong the QT interval may inhibit the excretion of dofetilide by OCT2 in the kidneys and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OCT2 inhibitors that prolong QT may result in increased levels of and toxicities of dofetilide, including additive potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for QT prolongation include: cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), female sex, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, advanced age, and concurrent use of agents known to cause QT prolongation.(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) 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)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of dofetilide states that all renal cation transport inhibitors are contraindicated. If dofetilide is to be discontinued, a washout of at least 2 days is recommended prior to starting OCT2 inhibitors.(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: Dofetilide is primarily excreted in the urine via both glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion via the cation transport system. The concurrent administration of dofetilide (500 mcg twice daily) with cimetidine (an OCT2 inhibitor)(400 mg twice daily) resulted in an increase in dofetilide plasma levels by 58%. The concurrent administration of dofetilide (500 mcg single dose) with cimetidine (100 mg twice daily) resulted in an increase in dofetilide plasma levels by 13%.(1) OCT2 inhibitors that prolong QT include: ranolazine.(3)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inh/Colchicine (FOR CARDIOPROTECTION)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors may affect the transport of colchicine, a P-gp substrate.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a P-gp inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from colchicine. Symptoms of colchicine toxicity include abdominal pain; nausea or vomiting; severe diarrhea; muscle weakness or pain; numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes; myelosuppression; feeling weak or tired; increased infections; and pale or gray color of the lips, tongue, or palms of hands.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of colchicine used for cardiovascular risk reduction states that concurrent use of colchicine with P-gp inhibitors is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: There are several reports of colchicine toxicity(3-5) and death(6,7) following the addition of clarithromycin to therapy. In a retrospective review of 116 patients who received clarithromycin and colchicine during the same hospitalization, 10.2% (9/88) of patients who received simultaneous therapy died, compared to 3.6% (1/28) of patients who received sequential therapy.(8) An FDA review of 117 colchicine-related deaths that were not attributable to overdose found that 60 deaths (51%) involved concurrent use of clarithromycin.(2) There is one case report of colchicine toxicity with concurrent erythromycin.(9) In a study in 20 subjects, pretreatment with diltiazem (240 mg daily for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 44.2% (range -46.6% to 318.3%) and by 93.4% (range -30.2% to 338.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, pretreatment with verapamil (240 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 40.1% (range -47.1% to 149.5%) and by 103.3% (range -9.8% to 217.2%), respectively.(1) Colchicine toxicity has been reported with concurrent use of CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors such as clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1,2) P-gp inhibitors include abrocitinib, amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, schisandra, selpercatinib, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(1,10,11)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Doxorubicin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibition may increase doxorubicin cellular concentration, as well as decrease biliary or renal elimination.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased cellular or systemic levels of doxorubicin may result in doxorubicin toxicity, including cardiomyopathy, myelosuppression, or hepatic impairment.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction magnitude may be greater in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with doxorubicin.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal inhibition. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor the patient closely for signs and symptoms of doxorubicin toxicity. For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: Doxorubicin is a substrate of P-gp.(1) Clinical studies have identified and evaluated the concurrent use of doxorubicin and P-gp inhibitors as a target to overcome P-gp mediated multidrug resistance.(3,4) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, paroxetine, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, sarecycline, schisandra, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(5,6)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Topotecan

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein may increase the absorption of topotecan.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of topotecan with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of topotecan and signs of toxicity. These signs may include but are not limited to anemia, diarrhea, and thrombocytopenia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of topotecan states that the use of topotecan and P-glycoprotein inhibitors should be avoided. If concurrent use is warranted, carefully monitor patients for adverse effects.(1) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, the combined use of elacridar (100 mg to 1000 mg) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of topotecan approximately 2.5-fold.(1) Oral cyclosporine (15 mg/kg) increased the AUC of topotecan lactone and total topotecan to 2-fold to 3-fold of the control group, respectively.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: adagrasib, amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, bosutinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, ginseng, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir/glecaprevir, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sotorasib, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(3,4)

P-Gp Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Oral Lefamulin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may increase the absorption of lefamulin and may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of oral lefamulin with P-gp inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may result in elevated levels of and effects from lefamulin, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of oral lefamulin with medications that prolong the QT interval and inhibit P-gp.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, intravenous lefamulin increased the QTcF 13.6 msec (90% CI = 15.5 msec) and oral lefamulin increased the QTcF by 9.3 msec (90% CI = 10.9 msec).(1) Coadministration of ketoconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) with lefamulin tablets increased lefamulin maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) by 165% and 58%.(1) In a study, oral lefamulin tablets administered concomitantly with and at 2 or 4 hours before oral midazolam (a CYP3A4 substrate) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of midazolam by 200% and 100%, respectively. No clinically significant effect on midazolam pharmacokinetics was observed when co-administered with lefamulin injection.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, azithromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, osimertinib, quinidine, ranolazine, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(4)

P-Gp Inhibitors/Daraxonrasib (>150 MG)

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: Daraxonrasib is a substrate of P-gp. P-gp inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of daraxonrasib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of daraxonrasib, including dermatologic toxicity, stomatitis, GI perforation, and interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: For patients taking agents that are P-gp inhibitors, reduce the dose of daraxonrasib to 150 mg daily. After the P-gp inhibitor has been discontinued, resume the daraxonrasib dosage taken prior to initiating the inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a pharmacokinetic model, quinidine 300 mg three times daily (a P-gp inhibitor) increased the area under curve (AUC) of daraxonrasib by 1.8-fold.(1) P-gp inhibitors include: abrocitinib, amiodarone, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, curcumin, danicopan, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, lapatinib, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, ranolazine, selpercatinib, tepotinib, tezacaftor, turmeric, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2-3)

P-Gp Or Bcrp Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pazopanib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval and inhibit P-gp or BCRP may result in increased absorption and higher levels of pazopanib and additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of pazopanib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval and inhibit P-gp or BCRP may result in elevated levels of pazopanib, signs of toxicity, and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pazopanib states concurrent use of strong P-gp or BCRP inhibitors should be avoided. Use caution when pazopanib is coadministered with other drugs known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Administration of 1,500 mg lapatinib, a substrate and weak inhibitor of CYP3A4, P-gp, and BCRP, with 800 mg pazopanib resulted in an approximately 50% to 60% increase in mean pazopanib area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) compared with administration of 800 mg pazopanib alone.(1) In clinical studies, 2% (11/558) of patients receiving pazopanib experienced QT prolongation. Torsades de pointes occurred in less than 1% (2/977) of patients who received pazopanib in monotherapy studies. In a randomized clinical trial, 3 of 290 patients who received pazopanib had post-baseline QTc values between 500 and 549 msec. None of the patients receiving placebo had post-baseline QTc values greater than or equal to 500 msec.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received pazopanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 32 (19.4%) with 18 (56.3%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 4 (12.5%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 3 (9.3%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 4 (12.5%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 2 (6.3%) of patients and 1 (3.1%) patient experienced sudden cardiac death.(4) Agents that are P-gp or BCRP inhibitors that may cause QT prolongation include: amiodarone, aumolertinib, azithromycin, dronedarone, erythromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, mavorixafor, osimertinib, pacritinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(3, 5-6)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Anagrelide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of anagrelide with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of anagrelide with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of anagrelide states that anagrelide should not be used in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.(1) The Australian, Canadian, and UK manufacturers of anagrelide state use of anagrelide should be approached with caution in patients taking medications that can prolong the QTc interval.(2-4) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, dose-related QT changes were observed with anagrelide. The maximum mean change in QTcI (95% CI) in comparison to placebo was 7.0 (9.8) ms and 13.0 (15.7) msec following doses of 0.5 mg and 2.5mg, respectively.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(6) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Artemether-Lumefantrine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of artemether-lumefantrine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the use of artemether-lumefantrine in patients taking drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated. These agents include class IA and III antiarrhythmics; neuroleptics; antidepressive agents; some macrolides, fluoroquinolones, imidazole and triazole antifungals; terfenadine; astemizole; and cisapride.(1) The US manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the use of artemether-lumefantrine should be avoided in patients taking drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval. These agents include class IA and III antiarrhythmics; neuroleptics; antidepressive agents; some macrolides, fluoroquinolones, imidazole and triazole antifungals; terfenadine; astemizole; and cisapride.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Ranolazine/Moderate Cyp3a4 Inducers That Prolong Qt

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate inducers of CYP3A4 may induce the metabolism of ranolazine.(1,2) Concurrent use of agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a moderate inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of ranolazine and increased risk of QT prolongation. The risk of potentially life-threatening arrhythmias including torsades de pointes may be increased.(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.(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) Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ranolazine states that the concurrent use of CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and St. John's wort is contraindicated. Concurrent use of moderate CYP3A4 inducers should be avoided.(1) The UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that ranolazine should not be used in patients receiving CYP3A4 inducers.(2) If coadministration with another agent that prolongs QT is unavoidable, monitor 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: Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily), strong inducer of CYP3A4, decreased ranolazine plasma concentrations by 95%.(1,2) The effects of a moderate CYP3A4 inducer on ranolazine concentrations has not been studied. 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) Moderate CYP3A4 inducers that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: efavirenz, fexinidazole, pacritinib, and thioridazine.(5,6)

Ranolazine/Simvastatin (> 20 MG)

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: Ranolazine may inhibit the metabolism of simvastatin by CYP3A4.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ranolazine may result in elevated levels of simvastatin,(1-5) which may result in myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Do not exceed a dosage of 20 mg daily of simvastatin in patients receiving concurrent therapy with ranolazine.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased plasma levels of simvastatin (80 mg daily) and its active metabolite each by 2-fold.(4) In healthy subjects, simvastatin (20 mg daily) had no effect on ranolazine levels.(4) In a study in 17 healthy volunteers, simvastatin (80 mg daily) did not have a significant effect on ranolazine sustained release (SR, 1750 mg initial dose followed by 1000 mg twice daily) pharmacokinetics with the mean area under the curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and minimum concentration (Cmin) being within 80% to 125%. In contrast, ranolazine SR increased the Cmax of simvastatin lactone, simvastatin acid, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor activity by 2-fold with the corresponding AUC increases in the range of 40% to 60%.(5,6) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on simvastatin for 12 years, one of which with concurrent cyclosporine. Two months after the addition of carvedilol, diltiazem, and ranolazine, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(7) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on a stable dose of simvastatin (80 mg). Ten days after the addition of ranolazine (500 mg extended release) was added to the patient's medication regimen, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(9)

Ranolazine/Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inducers of CYP3A4 may induce the metabolism of ranolazine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a strong inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of ranolazine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ranolazine states that the concurrent use of CYP3A4 inducers is contraindicated.(1) The UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that ranolazine should not be used in patients receiving CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin.(2)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily), strong inducer of CYP3A4, decreased ranolazine plasma concentrations by 95%.(1,2) Strong inducers of CYP3A4 include: apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, encorafenib, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, and St. John's wort.(1-4)

Ranolazine/Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of ranolazine and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects from ranolazine, including additive QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia like 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.(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 concurrent use of ranolazine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated.(1,2) 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: Concurrent use of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased plasma levels of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) by 220%.(1) Ranolazine-induced QTc prolongation is dose and concentration-related.(1,2) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong the QTc interval include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(1,2,4,5)

Ranolazine/Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors; Protease Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 and protease inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of ranolazine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 or protease inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects from ranolazine. Elevated ranolazine levels may result in QTc prolongation, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia, 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.(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 concurrent use of ranolazine with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or protease inhibitors is contraindicated.(1,2,4-8) The US HIV guidelines state that ranolazine (regardless of dose) is contraindicated with atazanavir when it is boosted with ritonavir. If atazanavir is not boosted with ritonavir, ranolazine should not be coadministered.(8) The US manufacturer of itraconazole states that concurrent administration of ranolazine is contraindicated during and two weeks after itraconazole treatment.(9) 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: Concurrent use of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily), a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased plasma levels of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) by 220%.(1) Concurrent use of diltiazem, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 inhibitor, at daily doses of 180 mg to 360 mg increased plasma levels of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) by 50% and 140%, respectively.(1,2) Concurrent use of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) did not affect the pharmacokinetics of diltiazem (60 mg TID).(1) Concurrent use of verapamil (120 mg three times daily), a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 increased plasma levels of ranolazine (750 mg twice daily) by 100%.(1) Ranolazine-induced QTc prolongation is dose and concentration-related.(1,2) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and protease inhibitors linked to this monograph include: boceprevir; cobicistat; ensitrelvir; idelalisib; itraconazole; josamycin; ketoconazole; mibefradil; mifepristone; nefazodone; relacorilant; telaprevir; troleandomycin; tucatinib; ritonavir-boosted darunavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, and tipranavir; ritonavir-boosted or unboosted atazanavir or indinavir; and nelfinavir.(1,2,10,11) Ritonavir is always used with another protease inhibitor as a pharmacokinetic booster and is captured as part of the protease inhibitor regimen.

Select P-Gp Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Aumolertinib

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: Aumolertinib is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption, decrease elimination of aumolertinib, and result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with selected P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of aumolertinib which may increase the risk for cardiac failure, rhabdomyolysis, thrombosis, elevated LFTs, hyponatremia, hematologic toxicity, and QT prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsade de pointes (TdP).(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) Patients with risk factors for thrombosis may be at higher risk of adverse events, including those with advanced age, obesity (BMI >30), smoking, prolonged immobilization, heart failure, hypercoagulable state, history of venous thromboembolism, malignancy, and major surgery. The risk for rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of aumolertinib states that concomitant use of aumolertinib and P-gp inhibitors or medicines that prolong the QTc interval should be avoided. If a suitable alternative is not available, consider increasing the frequency of ECG and electrolyte monitoring.(1) For patients on concomitant dronedarone: the manufacturer of dronedarone states that the use of drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated.(3) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation occurs, follow recommended dose modifications: - Grade 2 (QTc interval >480 to 500 ms): Withhold aumolertinib for up to 2 weeks. If QTc interval has not recovered to <= 480 ms, permanently discontinue aumolertinib. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms or within 30 ms of baseline, resume aumolertinib treatment at 110 mg. Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following return to <= 480 ms. Monitor and correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications. - Grade 3 (QTc interval > 500 ms or QTc interval increase of > 60 ms from baseline): Withhold aumolertinib for up to 2 weeks. If QTc interval has not recovered to <= 480 ms or within 30 ms of baseline, permanently discontinue aumolertinib. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms and it is the first occurrence, resume treatment at 110 mg dose. If QTc interval recovers to <= 480 ms and it is the second occurrence or the first occurrence in patients with risk factors, resume treatment at 55 mg dose. Permanently discontinue aumolertinib if signs or symptoms recur at any time on the 55 mg dose. Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following return to <= 480 ms. Monitor and correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications. - QT interval prolongation associated with torsade de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs/symptoms of other serious arrhythmia: permanently discontinue aumolertinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: Based on in vitro data, aumolertinib is a substrate of P-gp.(1) A concentration-QT analysis predicted a QTc interval prolongation at 110 mg aumolertinib of 9.06 ms (upper confidence interval = 11.01 ms) in 49 subjects.(1) In clinical studies (n=545), QT prolongation was reported in 51 patients (9.4%) treated with aumolertinib 110 mg. Seven patients (1.3%) had symptomatic events, including cardiac arrest, syncope, and ventricular arrhythmia. One patient with cardio-respiratory arrest and one patient with sudden cardiac death died. QTcF increase >60 ms occurred in 4.2% of patients, and increase in QTcF to >500 ms occurred in 0.9% of patients.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: amiodarone, azithromycin, clarithromycin, dronedarone, erythromycin, lapatinib, lonafarnib, lopinavir/ritonavir, osimertinib, posaconazole, propafenone, ranolazine, selpercatinib, telithromycin, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(3)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Ensartinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ensartinib is a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrate. P-gp inhibitors may increase the levels of ensartinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of a P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from ensartinib.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ensartinib states that concurrent use of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(4)

DISCUSSION: Ensartinib is a substrate of P-gp. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase toxicity of ensartinib.(1) Inhibitors of P-gp linked to this monograph include: abrocitinib, amiodarone, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diosmin, eliglustat, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginkgo biloba, glecaprevir and pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, ivacaftor, lapatinib, mavorixafor, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), neratinib, osimertinib, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, ranolazine, rolapitant, silibinin, silymarin, sotagliflozin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, vilazodone, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2,3)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lemborexant (> 5 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of lemborexant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from lemborexant, including somnolence, fatigue, CNS depressant effects, daytime impairment, headache, and nightmare or abnormal dreams.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The maximum recommended dose of lemborexant with concurrent use of a weak CYP3A4 inhibitors should not exceed 5 mg per dose.(1) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: Lemborexant is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a PKPB model, concurrent use of lemborexant with itraconazole increased area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 3.75-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively. Concurrent use of lemborexant with fluconazole increased AUC and Cmax by 4.25-fold and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1) Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amiodarone, amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, belumosudil, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, delavirdine, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, ginkgo, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, mavorixafor, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, rucaparib, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, viloxazine, vonoprazan, and ziftomenib.(1,3)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ubrogepant (> 50 MG)

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: Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ubrogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ubrogepant with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in an increase in exposure of ubrogepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a dosage adjustment of ubrogepant when used concomitantly with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Initial dose of ubrogepant should not exceed 50 mg when used concomitantly with weak inhibitors of CYP3A4. A second dose may be given within 24 hours but should not exceed 50 mg when used concurrently with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ubrogepant with verapamil, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 3.5-fold and 2.8-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax), respectively. No dedicated drug interaction study was conducted to assess concomitant use with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. The conservative prediction of the maximal potential increase in ubrogepant exposure with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors is not expected to be more than 2-fold.(1) Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amiodarone, amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, delavirdine, deutivacaftor, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, maribavir, mavorixafor, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, pirtobrutinib, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, rucaparib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, viloxazine, vonoprazan, and ziftomenib. (3,4)

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

Disopyramide; Ranolazine/Mavacamten

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mavacamten has been associated with left ventricular systolic dysfunction and worsening heart failure symptoms in patients with obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Concurrent use with disopyramide and ranolazine may have additive negative inotropic effects.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of mavacamten with other agents that have negative inotropic effects may result in left ventricular systolic dysfunction and worsening heart failure symptoms.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mavacamten states that the concurrent use with disopyramide or ranolazine should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of mavacamten with disopyramide or ranolazine has not been studied. Patients on monotherapy with disopyramide or ranolazine were excluded from clinical trials.(1)

Mate Inhibit That Prolong Qt/Chloroquine; Hydroxychloroquine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of the Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion (MATE) protein transporters in the kidneys that prolong the QTc interval may interfere with the renal elimination of chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine via the MATE1 transporter and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of MATE renal transporter inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may result in increased levels of and toxicity from chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, including irreversible retinopathy, potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP), hypoglycemia, or myopathy.(1,2)

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.(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 manufacturers of chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine state that concomitant use of MATE renal transporter inhibitors should be avoided.(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: In a study of healthy volunteers, cimetidine (400 mg daily for 4 days) decreased the clearance of single-dose chloroquine (300 mg) by 53% and half-life by 49%, compared to subjects not on cimetidine.(4) MATE inhibitors that prolong the QT include: ranolazine and vandetanib.(5)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pralsetinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit cellular efflux of pralsetinib and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a P-gp inhibitor that prolongs QT may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from pralsetinib, including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1-3) Other toxicities include hemorrhagic events, pneumonitis, hepatotoxicity, and hypertension.(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 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: Coadministration of pralsetinib with a P-gp inhibitor that prolongs QT should be avoided.(1-3) If coadministration with a P-gp inhibitor that prolongs QT cannot be avoided, use with caution and reduce the dose of pralsetinib as follows: -If the current dose is 400 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 300 mg daily. -If the current dose is 300 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 200 mg daily. -If the current dose is 200 mg once daily, decrease the dose to 100 mg daily. After the inhibitor is discontinued for three to five half-lives, resume the dose of pralsetinib at the dose taken prior to initiation of the inhibitor.(1) 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. If the QTc interval exceeds 500 ms, interrupt pralsetinib therapy until QTc is <470 ms. Resume pralsetinib at the same dose if risk factors that cause QT prolongation an are identified and corrected. If risk factors that cause QT prolongation are not identified, resume pralsetinib at a reduced dose. Permanently discontinue pralsetinib if the patient develops life-threatening arrhythmia.(3)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of a single dose of cyclosporine 600 mg (a P-gp inhibitor) with a single pralsetinib 200 mg dose increased pralsetinib concentration maximum (Cmax) by 48% and area-under-curve (AUC) by 81%.(1) In clinical trials, QTc prolongation developed in 5.1% of patients on pralsetinib, with 2 patients (0.4%) having serious prolongation. Two patients required dose reductions or interruptions. No patients required permanent discontinuation of pralsetinib, and there was no life-threatening or fatal QT prolongation.(2) In a secondary analysis of the phase II ARROW study, ECG and plasma concentrations of 34 patients were examined. At steady state, mean change in QTc was 4.9-7.7 ms, with a greater QTc increase at higher concentrations, especially above 3,000 ng/mL. Although median minimum concentration (Cmin) is 1,150 ng/mL, there is a large interindividual variation and concentrations above 3,000 ng/mL may be expected in some patients.(2) P-glycoprotein inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, aumolertinib, azithromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, mavorixafor, osimertinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, vemurafenib, and vepdegestrant.(5,6)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Bilastine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibition may increase the absorption of bilastine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors may result in elevated levels and toxicities from bilastine, including headache and somnolence.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction magnitude may be greater in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Canadian manufacturer of bilastine states that concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors with bilastine is not recommended. Coadministration should be avoided in patients with moderate or severe renal impairment.(1) The UK manufacturer of bilastine states that coadministration of bilastine and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided in patients with moderate to severe renal impairment.(2) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(5)

DISCUSSION: In a study, ketoconazole and erythromycin both increased bilastine area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 2-fold and 2- to 3-fold, respectively.(1) The UK manufacturer of bilastine states that these changes do not appear to affect the safety of bilastine.(2) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, paroxetine, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, sarecycline, schisandra, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(4,5)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Colchicine (FOR GOUT & FMF)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors may affect the transport of colchicine, a P-gp substrate.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a P-gp inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from colchicine. Symptoms of colchicine toxicity include abdominal pain; nausea or vomiting; severe diarrhea; muscle weakness or pain; numbness or tingling in the fingers or toes; myelosuppression; feeling weak or tired; increased infections; and pale or gray color of the lips, tongue, or palms of hands.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction is expected to be more severe in patients with renal and/or hepatic impairment(1,2) and in patients who receive concurrent therapy.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of colchicine with P-gp inhibitors is contraindicated in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.(1-3) Avoid concurrent use in other patients, if possible.(3) In patients without renal or hepatic impairment who are currently taking or have taken a P-gp inhibitor in the previous 14 days, the dosage of colchicine should be reduced. For gout flares, the recommended dosage is 0.6 mg (1 tablet) for one dose. This dose should be repeated no earlier than in 3 days.(1,2) For gout prophylaxis, if the original dosage was 0.6 mg twice daily, use 0.3 mg daily. If the original dosage was 0.6 mg daily, use 0.3 mg every other day.(3-12) For Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF), the recommended maximum daily dose is 0.6 mg (may be given as 0.3 mg twice a day).(1,2) Patients should be instructed to immediately report any signs of colchicine toxicity, such as abdominal pain, nausea/significant diarrhea, vomiting; muscle weakness/pain; numbness/tingling in fingers/toes; unusual bleeding or bruising, infections, weakness/tiredness, or pale/gray color of the lips/tongue/palms of hands. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(13)

DISCUSSION: There are several reports of colchicine toxicity(4-6) and death(7,8) following the addition of clarithromycin to therapy. In a retrospective review of 116 patients who received clarithromycin and colchicine during the same hospitalization, 10.2% (9/88) of patients who received simultaneous therapy died, compared to 3.6% (1/28) of patients who received sequential therapy.(9) An FDA review of 117 colchicine-related deaths that were not attributable to overdose found that 60 deaths (51%) involved concurrent use of clarithromycin.(2) There is one case report of colchicine toxicity with concurrent erythromycin.(10) In a study in 20 subjects, pretreatment with diltiazem (240 mg daily for 7 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 44.2% (range -46.6% to 318.3%) and by 93.4% (range -30.2% to 338.6%), respectively.(1) In a study in 24 subjects, pretreatment with verapamil (240 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of colchicine (0.6 mg) by 40.1% (range -47.1% to 149.5%) and by 103.3% (range -9.8% to 217.2%), respectively.(1) Colchicine toxicity has been reported with concurrent use of CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitors such as clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, and verapamil.(1,2) P-gp inhibitors include abrocitinib, amiodarone, asciminib, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, lapatinib, ledipasvir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, schisandra, selpercatinib, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(1,11,12)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Relugolix

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Relugolix is a substrate of the intestinal P-glycoprotein (P-gp) efflux transporter. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase the absorption of relugolix.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of relugolix with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of relugolix and adverse effects, including hot flashes, skin flushing, musculoskeletal pain, hyperglycemia, acute renal injury, transaminitis, arrhythmias, and hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of relugolix states that the coadministration of relugolix with P-gp inhibitors should be avoided. If the P-gp inhibitor is to be used short-term, relugolix may be held for up to 2 weeks. If treatment with relugolix is interrupted for longer than 7 days, resume relugolix with a loading dose of 360 mg on the first day, followed by 120 mg once daily.(1) If coadministration with a P-gp inhibitor cannot be avoided, relugolix should be taken at least 6 hours before the P-gp inhibitor. Monitor the patient more frequently for adverse events.(1) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of relugolix with erythromycin (a P-gp and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of relugolix by 6.2-fold. Voriconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) did not have a clinically significant effect on the pharmacokinetics of relugolix.(1) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, curcumin, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, lapatinib, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, mibefradil, mifepristone, neratinib, osimertinib, paroxetine, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, quinine, ranolazine, ritonavir, sarecycline, schisandra, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(3,4)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Vincristine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors may inhibit cellular efflux of vincristine.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a P-gp inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from vincristine including myelosuppression, neurologic toxicity, tumor lysis syndrome, hepatotoxicity, constipation, or bowel obstruction.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the use of P-gp inhibitors in patients undergoing therapy with vincristine.(1) Consider alternatives with no or minimal P-gp inhibition. The manufacturer of vincristine states that concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of lopinavir/ritonavir states that patients who develop significant hematological or gastrointestinal toxicity on concomitant vincristine should temporarily hold lopinavir/ritonavir, or use alternative medications that do not inhibit CYP3A4 or P-gp.(2) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(3)

DISCUSSION: Vincristine is a substrate of P-gp. Inhibitors of P-gp may increase toxicity of vincristine.(1) There are several case reports of neurotoxicity with concurrent administration of vincristine and itraconazole.(4-6) There is a case report of neurotoxicity with concurrent administration of lopinavir-ritonavir with vincristine.(7) In a prospective study in 22 children receiving various chemotherapy with prophylactic itraconazole oral solution (0.5 ml/kg per day), two children receiving vincristine developed non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and one child developed syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).(8) Inhibitors of P-gp linked to this monograph include: abrocitinib, amiodarone, Asian ginseng (Panax ginseng), asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, elagolix, eliglustat, erythromycin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, ginkgo biloba, glecaprevir and pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, ivacaftor, lapatinib, mavorixafor, milk thistle (Silybum marianum), neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quercetin, quinidine, ranolazine, rolapitant, Schisandra chinensis, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir, sotorasib, tepotinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, venetoclax, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vilazodone, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(9-10)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Disopyramide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of disopyramide 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.(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 Australian manufacturer of disopyramide states that concurrent use with agents liable to produce torsades de pointes, including tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressants, erythromycin, vincamine, and sultopride, is contraindicated.(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.(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.

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Sertindole

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of sertindole 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 sertindole state that sertindole is contraindicated in patients receiving drugs 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 been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Citalopram

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

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) 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.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Propafenone

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

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, 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Toremifene

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

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, patients should be closely monitored. Electrocardiograms (ECGs) should be obtained.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Trazodone (>= 100 MG)

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

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Zuclopenthixol

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Zuclopenthixol prolongs the QTc interval. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) Zuclopenthixol is partially metabolized by CYP2D6. Some QT prolonging agents such as quinidine are also CYP2D6 inhibitors and may inhibit metabolism of zuclopenthixol.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of zuclopenthixol with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) CYP2D6 inhibitors such as quinidine may increase zuclopenthixol concentrations resulting in zuclopenthixol toxicity.

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 UK manufacturer of zuclopenthixol 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)

Ranolazine/Moderate Cyp3a4 Inducers

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate inducers of CYP3A4 may induce the metabolism of ranolazine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a moderate inducer of CYP3A4 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of ranolazine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Induction effects may be more likely with regular use of the inducer for longer than 1-2 weeks.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ranolazine states that the concurrent use of CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, and St. John's wort is contraindicated. Concurrent use of moderate CYP3A4 inducers should be avoided.(1) The UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that ranolazine should not be used in patients receiving CYP3A4 inducers.(2)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily), strong inducer of CYP3A4, decreased ranolazine plasma concentrations by 95%.(1,2) The effects of a moderate CYP3A4 inducer on ranolazine concentrations has not been studied. Moderate inducers of CYP3A4 include: belzutifan, bosentan, cenobamate, dabrafenib, dipyrone, elagolix, etravirine, lesinurad, lorlatinib, mitapivat, modafinil, nafcillin, pexidartinib, repotrectinib, sotorasib, telotristat, and tovorafenib.(1-4)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Dabigatran

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dabigatran etexilate is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Inhibition of intestinal P-gp leads to increased absorption of dabigatran.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use dabigatran with P-gp inhibitors may lead to elevated plasma levels of dabigatran, increasing the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Factors associated with an increased risk for bleeding include renal impairment, concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors, patient age >74 years, coexisting conditions (e.g. recent trauma) or use of drugs (e.g. NSAIDs) associated with bleeding risk, and patient weight < 50 kg.(1-4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Assess renal function and evaluate patient for other pre-existing risk factors for bleeding prior to initiating concurrent therapy. The US manufacturer of dabigatran states that the concurrent use of dabigatran and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided in atrial fibrillation patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 ml/min) and in patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl less than 50 ml/min) being treated for or undergoing prophylaxis for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). The interaction with P-gp inhibitors can be minimized by taking dabigatran several hours apart from the P-gp inhibitor dose.(1) The concomitant use of dabigatran with P-gp inhibitors has not been studied in pediatric patients but may increase exposure to dabigatran.(1) While the US manufacturer of dabigatran states that no dosage adjustment is necessary in other patients,(1) the Canadian manufacturer of dabigatran states that concomitant use of strong P-gp inhibitors (e.g., glecaprevir-pibrentasvir) is contraindicated. When dabigatran is used for the prevention of venous thromboembolism (VTE) after total hip or knee replacement concurrently with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil, the dose of dabigatran should be reduced from 110 mg twice daily to 150 mg once daily. For patients with CrCl less than 50 ml/min on verapamil, a further dabigatran dose reduction to 75 mg once daily should be considered. Verapamil should be given at least 2 hours after dabigatran to minimize the interaction.(2) The UK manufacturer of dabigatran also states the use of dabigatran with strong P-gp inhibitors (e.g., cyclosporine, glecaprevir-pibrentasvir or itraconazole) is contraindicated. Concurrent use of ritonavir is not recommended. When dabigatran is used in atrial fibrillation patients and for treatment of DVT and PE concurrently with verapamil, the UK manufacturer recommends reducing the dose of dabigatran from 150 mg twice daily to 110 mg twice daily, taken simultaneously with verapamil. When used for VTE prophylaxis after orthopedic surgery concurrently with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil, the dabigatran loading dose should be reduced from 110 mg to 75 mg, and the maintenance dose should be reduced from 220 mg daily to 150 mg daily, taken simultaneously with the P-gp inhibitor. For patients with CLcr 30-50 mL/min on concurrent verapamil, consider further lowering the dabigatran dose to 75 mg daily.(3) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Consider regular monitoring of hemoglobin, platelet levels, and/or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or ecarin clotting time (ECT). When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(10)

DISCUSSION: When dabigatran was co-administered with amiodarone, the extent and rate of absorption of amiodarone and its active metabolite DEA were essentially unchanged. The dabigatran area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) were increased by about 60% and 50%, respectively;(1,2) however, dabigatran clearance was increased by 65%.(1) Pretreatment with quinidine (200 mg every 2 hours to a total dose of 1000 mg) increased the AUC and Cmax of dabigatran by 53% and 56%, respectively.(1,2) Chronic administration of immediate release verapamil one hour prior to dabigatran dose increased dabigatran AUC by 154%.(4) Administration of dabigatran two hours before verapamil results in a negligible increase in dabigatran AUC.(1) Administration of sofosbuvir-velpatasvir-voxilaprevir (400/100/200 mg daily) increased the Cmax and AUC of a single dose of dabigatran (75 mg) by 2.87-fold and 2.61-fold, respectively.(5) Simultaneous administration of glecaprevir-pibrentasvir (300/120 mg daily) with a single dose of dabigatran (150 mg) increased the Cmax and AUC by 2.05-fold and 2.38-fold, respectively.(6) A retrospective comparative effectiveness cohort study including data from 9,886 individuals evaluated adverse bleeding rates with standard doses of oral anticoagulants with concurrent verapamil or diltiazem in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation and normal kidney function. The study compared rates of bleeding following co-administration of either dabigatran, rivaroxaban, or apixaban with verapamil or diltiazem, compared to co-administration with amlodipine or metoprolol. Results of the study found that concomitant dabigatran use with verapamil or diltiazem was associated with increased overall bleeding (hazard ratio (HR) 1.52; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05-2.20, p<0.05) and increased overall GI bleeding (HR 2.16; 95% CI, 1.30-3.60, p<0.05) when compared to amlodipine. When compared to metoprolol, concomitant dabigatran use with verapamil or diltiazem was also associated with increased overall bleeding (HR, 1.43; 95% CI, 1.02-2.00, p<0.05) and increased overall GI bleeding (HR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.42-3.79, p<0.05). No association was found between increased bleeding of any kind and concurrent use of rivaroxaban or apixaban with verapamil or diltiazem.(7) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with dabigatran and amiodarone or verapamil concluded that concurrent use is considered safe if CrCl is greater than 50 ml/min but should be avoided if CrCl is less than 50 ml/min in VTE and less than 30 ml/min for NVAF. Concurrent use with diltiazem was considered safe.(9) P-gp inhibitors include amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, conivaptan, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diosmin, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir, imlunestrant, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, selpercatinib, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, voclosporin, and voxilaprevir.(1-9)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Venetoclax

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Venetoclax is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. P-gp inhibitors may lead to increased levels of venetoclax.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors may result in elevated levels of venetoclax, increasing the risk for tumor lysis syndrome and other toxicities.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for tumor lysis syndrome include (1): - the ramp-up phase of venetoclax therapy when tumor burden is highest - initial magnitude of tumor burden - renal impairment The risk of venetoclax toxicities may be increased in patients with severe hepatic impairment.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid P-gp inhibitors and consider alternative treatments when possible. If a P-gp inhibitor must be used, reduce venetoclax dose by at least 50%. Monitor more closely for signs of toxicity such as tumor lysis syndrome, hematologic and non-hematologic toxicities.(1) If the P-gp inhibitor is discontinued, the manufacturer of venetoclax recommends resuming the prior (i.e. pre-inhibitor) dose of venetoclax 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of the P-gp inhibitor.(1) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: In 11 healthy subjects, a single dose of rifampin (a P-gp inhibitor) increased venetoclax maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 106% and 78%, respectively.(1) In 11 previously treated NHL subjects, ketoconazole (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor which also inhibits P-gp and BCRP) 400 mg daily for 7 days increased the Cmax and AUC of venetoclax 2.3-fold and 6.4-fold respectively.(1) In 12 healthy subjects, coadministration of azithromycin (500 mg Day 1, 250 mg for Days 2-5) decreased venetoclax Cmax and AUC by 25% and 35%. No dosage adjustment is needed when venetoclax is coadministered with azithromycin.(1) P-gp inhibitors include: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tezacaftor, tepotinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(3)

Selected Qt Prolonging Agents/Ziprasidone

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)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Pimozide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(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) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of pimozide and CYP3A4 inhibitors, especially when other risk factors for QT prolongation are present. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked include: anamorelin, gepotidacin, givinostat, lapatinib, osilodrostat, pazopanib, ranolazine, roxithromycin, rucaparib, selpercatinib, vepdegestrant, and ziftomenib.(4-6)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Eliglustat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of eliglustat. If the patient is also taking an inhibitor of CYP2D6, eliglustat metabolism can be further inhibited.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of eliglustat, including prolongation of the PR, QTc, and/or QRS intervals, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: If the patient is also taking an inhibitor of CYP2D6, is a poor metabolizer of CYP2D6, and/or has hepatic impairment, eliglustat metabolism can be further inhibited.(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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of eliglustat with weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 in poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 should be avoided.(1) The dosage of eliglustat with weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 in extensive metabolizers of CYP2D6 with mild (Child-Pugh Class A) hepatic impairment should be limited to 84 mg daily.(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. For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(3)

DISCUSSION: Ketoconazole (400 mg daily), a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4, increased eliglustat (84 mg BID) maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) by 4-fold and 4.4-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PKPB) models suggested ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 4.4-fold and 5.4-fold, respectively, in intermediate metabolizers. PKPB models suggested ketoconazole may increase the Cmax and AUC of eliglustat (84 mg daily) by 4.3-fold and 6.2-fold, respectively, in poor metabolizers.(1) PKPB models suggested fluconazole, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 2.8-fold and 3.2-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers and by 2.5-fold and 2.9-fold, respectively in intermediate metabolizers. PKPB models suggest that concurrent eliglustat (84 mg BID), paroxetine (a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6), and ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 16.7-fold and 24.2-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. In intermediate metabolizers, eliglustat Cmax and AUC would be expected to increase 7.5-fold and 9.8-fold, respectively.(1) PKPB models suggest that concurrent eliglustat (84 mg BID), terbinafine (a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6), and ketoconazole would increase eliglustat Cmax and AUC by 10.2-fold and 13.6-fold, respectively, in extensive metabolizers. In intermediate metabolizers, eliglustat Cmax and AUC would be expected to increase 4.2-fold and 5-fold, respectively.(1) Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, belumosudil, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, delavirdine, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, ginkgo, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, propofol, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, rucaparib, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, vonoprazan, and ziftomenib.(4,5)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lomitapide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of lomitapide.(1) Lomitapide is very susceptible to CYP3A4 inhibition. For example, in an interaction study with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (ketoconazole) lomitapide exposure was increased 27-fold.(2) Thus even weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may affect lomitapide exposure (AUC, area-under-curve).

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in 2-fold increases in lomitapide levels and toxicity from lomitapide.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: This interaction may be more severe in patients with hepatic impairment or with end-stage renal disease.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When initiating lomitapide in patients taking a stable dose of a weak CYP3A4 inhibitor, follow the recommended dose and titration schedule per labeling. When initiating a weak CYP3A4 inhibitor in patients taking lomitapide, decrease the dose of lomitapide by 50%. The maximum recommended lomitapide dose with concurrent weak CYP3A4 inhibitors should be: -Adults (age 18 years and older): 30 mg daily, -Age group 11 to 17 years: 20 mg daily, -Age group 2 to 10 years: 10 mg daily. Due to lomitapide's long half-life, it may take 1 to 2 weeks to see the full effect of this interaction.(1) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: Lomitapide is very susceptible to CYP3A4 inhibition. For example, in an interaction study with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor (ketoconazole) lomitapide exposure was increased 27-fold.(2) Based upon interactions with stronger inhibitors, weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 are predicted to increase lomitapide area-under-curve(AUC) 2-fold.(1) Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this interaction include: amiodarone, amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, atorvastatin, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, belumosudil, bicalutamide, blueberry juice, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, chlorzoxazone, clotrimazole, cranberry juice, cyclosporine, daridorexant, delavirdine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, ginkgo, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lurasidone, maribavir, mavorixafor, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, rucaparib, selpercatinib, sevabertinib, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, viloxazine, vonoprazan, ziftomenib, and zileuton.(1-3)

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

Cyp3a4; Cyp2c8; P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Loperamide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp may increase loperamide systemic absorption and facilitate entry into central nervous system (CNS).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp may increase levels of loperamide, resulting in respiratory depression.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Use loperamide with caution in patients receiving inhibitors of CYP3A4, CYP2C8, and/or P-gp. Consider lower doses of loperamide in these patients and monitor for adverse effects. The manufacturer of lonafarnib recommends starting loperamide at a dose of 1 mg and slowly increasing the dose as needed.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, cross-over study in 12 healthy subjects, itraconazole (100 mg twice daily for 5 days - first dose 200 mg), gemfibrozil (600 mg twice daily), and the combination of itraconazole and gemfibrozil (same dosages) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of single doses of loperamide (4 mg) by 2.9-fold, 1.6-fold, and 4.2-fold, respectively.(3) In a study of healthy subjects, lonafarnib (100 mg twice daily for 5 days) increased the AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single dose loperamide (2 mg) by 299% and 214%, respectively.(3) In a study in 18 healthy males, quinidine increased the AUC of a single dose of loperamide by 2.2-fold and markedly decreased pupil size.(4) In a study in 8 healthy subjects, subjects experienced respiratory depression when a single dose of loperamide (16 mg) was administered with a single dose of quinidine (600 mg) but not when loperamide was administered alone.(6) Loperamide plasma levels increased 2-fold to 3-fold.(5) Coadministration of trofinetide 12,000 mg twice daily with 4 mg of loperamide increased the AUC of loperamide by 1.73-fold and the Cmax by 1.95-fold. Administration of trofinetide 2 hours prior to loperamide increased the AUC of loperamide by 1.22-fold and the Cmax by 1.44-fold.(7)

Dual Cyp3a4 & P-Gp Inhibitors/Nintedanib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nintedanib is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter and is metabolized to a minor extent by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is both an inhibitor of P-gp and CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of nintedanib.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of nintedanib recommends close monitoring for nintedanib patients receiving drugs which are both P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitors. In an interaction study ketoconazole increased exposure to nintedanib by 60%. Nintedanib therapy may need to be interrupted or the dose may need to be reduced.(1)

DISCUSSION: In an interaction study coadministration with ketoconazole, a P-gp and CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased nintedanib exposure (area-under-curve, AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.61-fold and 1.83 fold respectively.(1) Strong CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: adagrasib, boceprevir, clarithromycin, cobicistat, grapefruit, indinavir, itraconazole, josamycin, ketoconazole, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mibefradil, mifepristone, nefazodone, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir, and tucatinib. Moderate CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: conivaptan, diltiazem, dronedarone, erythromycin, fluvoxamine, isavuconazonium, schisandra, and verapamil. Weak CYP3A4 & P-gp inhibitors include: amiodarone, azithromycin, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, ivacaftor, lapatinib, mavorixafor, ranolazine, and vepdegestrant.(2)

Mate Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Flecainide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of the Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion (MATE) protein transporters in the kidneys that prolong the QT interval may interfere with the renal elimination of flecainide and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of MATE renal transporter inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from flecainide.(1) The concurrent use of flecainide and agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes (TdP).(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for QT prolongation include: cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), female sex, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, advanced age, and concurrent use of agents known to cause QT prolongation.(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 serum flecainide concentrations and observe the patients for signs of toxicity. 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 pharmacokinetic study, concurrent use of cimetidine (1 gram daily, a MATE inhibitor) increased flecainide levels by 30% and increased half-life by 10%.(1) MATE inhibitors that prolong QT include: ranolazine and vandetanib.(4)

Mate Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Oxaliplatin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of the Multidrug and Toxin Extrusion (MATE) protein transporters in the kidneys that prolong the QT interval may interfere with the renal elimination of oxaliplatin and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.(1) Oxaliplatin is a MATE substrate.(2,3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of MATE renal transporter inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from oxaliplatin.(1) The concurrent use of oxaliplatin and agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes(TdP).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for QT prolongation include: cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), female sex, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, advanced age, and concurrent use of agents known to cause QT prolongation.(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 oxaliplatin with MATE renal transporter inhibitors should be approached with caution and monitored closely. If concurrent use is warranted, monitor for toxicities of oxaliplatin and consider dosage reduction based on toxicity dose recommendations.(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: Oxaliplatin is a MATE substrate.(2,3) MATE inhibitors that prolong QT include: ranolazine and vandetanib.(6)

Moderate & Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Tacrolimus

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate and weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of tacrolimus.(1) In addition, concurrent use of tacrolimus with agents known to prolong the QT interval may result in additive or synergistic effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a CYP3A4 inhibitor may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from tacrolimus, including nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity.(1) In addition, concurrent administration of a QT prolonging CYP3A4 inhibitor and tacrolimus 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.(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 tacrolimus recommends frequently monitoring tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations and reducing tacrolimus dose if needed.(1) 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 coadministration of amiodarone and tacrolimus was described in a case report of a 73-year-old kidney transplant recipient with normal renal function who was on amiodarone for years. Tacrolimus 7 mg per day was started and after 3 months, the patient was found to have a tacrolimus level of 63 ng/mL. The dose of tacrolimus was lowered to 2 mg per day, and tacrolimus levels dropped to 12.9 ng/mL.(3) In another case report, a 65-year-old man on amiodarone for 5 years started tacrolimus 3 mg twice daily status-post renal transplant. After one day, QTc was prolonged from a baseline of 440 ms to 535 ms. QTc dropped to 493 ms three days after discontinuation of amiodarone and dose reduction of tacrolimus.(4) A case report describes the interaction between azithromycin and tacrolimus in a 27-year old woman with acute myelogenous leukemia who had a bone marrow transplant. On tacrolimus 0.02 mg/kg/day IV, the patient had stable tacrolimus levels of 15.8 to 17.5 ng/mL. Three days after initiation of azithromycin 500 mg daily, tacrolimus levels rose to over 30 ng/mL.(5) In a case report, a 64-year-old kidney transplant recipient on a stable dose of tacrolimus 10 mg twice daily for 5 months was started on ranolazine 500 mg twice daily for angina. Tacrolimus levels rose from the patient's stable levels of 7 to 10 ng/mL in the previous 5 months to 17.8 ng/mL after 1 day.(6) Another case report describes a 54-year-old kidney transplant recipient on tacrolimus 3 mg twice daily with trough levels of 4.5 to 7.4 ng/mL for the previous 4 years. After he was started on ranolazine 375 mg twice daily, tacrolimus levels rose to 10.9 ng/mL and serum creatinine (Scr) rose from 1.2 to 2 mg/dL. Ranolazine was discontinued after one month, and tacrolimus levels dropped to 3.6 ng/mL, with complete reversal of renal failure.(7) A 62-year-old kidney transplant recipient on a stable dose of tacrolimus for years was started on ranolazine and titrated to 1,000 mg twice daily over one month. After 2 weeks, he experienced renal failure with Scr rising from 1.5 to 2.4 mg/dL, and tacrolimus level was elevated at 14 ng/mL. Ranolazine was discontinued and tacrolimus levels decreased to 7 ng/mL after 3 days, with Scr returning to baseline.(8) Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: ciprofloxacin, clofazimine, crizotinib, and nilotinib.(9) Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors the prolong QT linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, anamorelin, azithromycin, cilostazol, lapatinib, mavorixafor, osilodrostat, propofol, ranolazine, rucaparib, selpercatinib, vepdegestrant, and ziftomenib.(9)

Oct2 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Procainamide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the excretion of procainamide by OCT2 in the kidneys and result in additive risk of QT prolongation.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OCT2 renal transport inhibitors that prolong QT may result in increased levels of and toxicities of procainamide, including additive potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, like torsades de pointes (TdP).

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for QT prolongation include: cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, recent myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), female sex, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, advanced age, and concurrent use of agents known to cause QT prolongation.(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: Consider the potential benefits against the risks of concurrent use of procainamide with OCT2 renal transport inhibitors. If concurrent use is appropriate, monitor for toxicities of procainamide and consider dosage reduction of procainamide.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Administration of trimethoprim to patients receiving procainamide produced an increase in the area under the concentration-time curve and a decrease in the clearance of procainamide. At the same time, serum NAPA concentrations and clearance were decreased. OCT2 inhibitors that prolong QT include: ranolazine.(4)

Oct2 Inhibitors/Cisplatin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) may inhibit the excretion of cisplatin by OCT2 in the kidneys.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OCT2 renal transport inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicities from cisplatin, including nephrotoxicity, ototoxicity, neuropathy, and myelosuppression.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Pre-existing renal insufficiency, advanced age, and dehydration may increase the risk of nephrotoxicity.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the potential benefits against the risks of concurrent use of cisplatin with OCT2 renal transport inhibitors. If concurrent use is appropriate, monitor closely for toxicities of cisplatin and consider dosage reduction of cisplatin.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In a study, givinostat increased the levels of creatinine (OCT2 substrate) by 4.76 umol/L from baseline.(1) In a study, trilaciclib increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of metformin (an OCT2, MATE1, and MATE-2K substrate) by approximately 65% and 81%, respectively. Renal clearance of metformin was decreased by 37%. Trilaciclib did not cause significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of topotecan (a MATE1 and MATE-2K substrate).(2) OCT2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: abemaciclib, arimoclomol, bictegravir, brepocitinib, dolutegravir, givinostat, isavuconazole, ranolazine, trilaciclib, trimethoprim, tucatinib, and vimseltinib.(3)

Oct2 Inhibitors/Clofarabine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) may inhibit the excretion of clofarabine by OCT2 in the kidneys.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OCT2 renal transport inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from clofarabine, including myelosuppression, serious hemorrhages, enterocolitis, nephrotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the potential benefits against the risks of concurrent use of clofarabine with OCT2 renal transport inhibitors. If concurrent use is appropriate, monitor for toxicities of the clofarabine and consider dosage reduction of clofarabine.(1)

DISCUSSION: In an animal study, cimetidine, an OCT2 inhibitor, decreased the clearance of clofarabine in rats by 61%. The clinical implications of this finding are unclear.(1,2) In a study, givinostat increased the levels of creatinine (OCT2 substrate) by 4.76 umol/L from baseline.(3) In a study, trilaciclib increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of metformin (an OCT2, MATE1, and MATE-2K substrate) by approximately 65% and 81%, respectively. Renal clearance of metformin was decreased by 37%. Trilaciclib did not cause significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of topotecan (a MATE1 and MATE-2K substrate).(4) OCT2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: abemaciclib, arimoclomol, bictegravir, brepocitinib, cimetidine, dolutegravir, givinostat, isavuconazole, ranolazine, trilaciclib, trimethoprim, tucatinib, and vimseltinib.(5)

Oct2 Inhibitors/Dalfampridine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents that inhibit the organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) may inhibit the excretion of dalfampridine by OCT2 in the kidneys.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of OCT2 renal transport inhibitors may result in increased levels of and toxicity from dalfampridine.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of seizures from dalfampridine may be increased in patients with a history of head trauma or prior seizure; CNS tumor; CNS infections; severe hepatic cirrhosis; excessive use of alcohol or sedatives; addiction to opiates, cocaine, or stimulants; use of over-the-counter stimulants and anorectics; diabetics treated with oral hypoglycemics or insulin; or with concomitant medications known to lower seizure threshold (antidepressants, theophylline, systemic steroids).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the potential benefits against the risks of concurrent use of dalfampridine with OCT2 renal transport inhibitors. If concurrent use is appropriate, monitor for toxicities of dalfampridine and consider dosage reduction of dalfampridine.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In a study, givinostat increased the levels of creatinine (OCT2 substrate) by 4.76 umol/L from baseline.(1) In a study, trilaciclib increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of metformin (an OCT2, MATE1, and MATE-2K substrate) by approximately 65% and 81%, respectively. Renal clearance of metformin was decreased by 37%. Trilaciclib did not cause significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of topotecan (a MATE1 and MATE-2K substrate).(2) OCT2 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: abemaciclib, arimoclomol, bictegravir, brepocitinib, givinostat, isavuconazole, ranolazine, trilaciclib, trimethoprim, tucatinib, and vimseltinib.(3)

P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Afatinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) may increase the absorption of afatinib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of afatinib with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of afatinib and signs of toxicity. These signs may include but are not limited to worsening diarrhea, stomatitis, skin rash/exfoliation/bullae or paronychia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of afatinib states the afatinib dose should be reduced by 10 mg if the addition of a P-glycoprotein inhibitor is not tolerated.(1) If afatinib dose was reduced due to addition of a P-gp inhibitor, resume the previous dose after the P-gp inhibitor is discontinued.(1) The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to afatinib.(2) The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(4)

DISCUSSION: A drug interaction study evaluated the effects of ritonavir 200 mg twice daily on afatinib exposure. Administration of ritonavir 1 hour before afatinib administration increased systemic exposure by 48%. Afatinib exposure was not changed when ritonavir was administered simultaneously with or 6 hours after afatinib dose.(1) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph are: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, deutivacaftor, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, isavuconazonium, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ketoconazole, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, saquinavir, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib and voclosporin.(1-3)

P-Gp Inhibitors That Prolong Qt/Mavorixafor

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors that prolong the QT interval may increase the absorption of mavorixafor and may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may increase the levels and effects of mavorixafor including additive QTc prolongation, which may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes, and sudden death.(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 used concomitantly with P-gp inhibitors, monitor more frequently for mavorixafor adverse effects and reduce the dose in 100 mg increments, if necessary, but not to a dose less than 200 mg.(1) The manufacturer of mavorixafor states the concurrent use of mavorixafor should be used with caution with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, a dose of mavorixafor 800 mg increased the mean QTc 15.6 msec (upper 90% confidence interval = 19.8 msec). The dose of mavorixafor was 2 times the recommended maximum daily dose.(1) In a study with healthy subjects, itraconazole 200 mg daily (a strong CYP3A4 and P-gp inhibitor) increased the exposure to single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg similar to that from single-dose mavorixafor 400 mg alone. This suggests that itraconazole increased mavorixafor exposure by about 2-fold.(1) A study in healthy volunteers found that ritonavir 100 mg twice daily (a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and P-gp inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of single-dose mavorixafor 200 mg by 60% and 39%, respectively.(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) P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, azithromycin, hydroquinidine, lapatinib, osimertinib, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, vemurafenib and vepdegestrant.(5)

P-Gp Inhibitors/Daraxonrasib (<= 150 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Daraxonrasib is a substrate of P-gp. P-gp inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of daraxonrasib.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of P-gp inhibitors may increase the levels and toxicities of daraxonrasib, including dermatologic toxicity, stomatitis, GI perforation, and interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: For patients taking agents that are P-gp inhibitors, reduce the dose of daraxonrasib from 300 mg to 150 mg daily. After the P-gp inhibitor has been discontinued, resume the daraxonrasib dosage taken prior to initiating the inhibitor.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a pharmacokinetic model, quinidine 300 mg three times daily (a P-gp inhibitor) increased the area under curve (AUC) of daraxonrasib by 1.8-fold.(1) P-gp inhibitors include: abrocitinib, amiodarone, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, curcumin, danicopan, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, ivacaftor, lapatinib, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, ranolazine, selpercatinib, tepotinib, tezacaftor, turmeric, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(2-3)

P-Gp Inhibitors/Rimegepant

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Rimegepant is a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor antagonist. Rimegepant is a substrate of the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) transporter. P-gp inhibitors may significantly increase the absorption of rimegepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of rimegepant with an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein may result in elevated levels of rimegepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of rimegepant recommends avoiding a second dose of rimegepant within 48 hours of a first dose when used concomitantly with P-gp inhibitors.(1) For patients on daraxonrasib, the manufacturer of daraxonrasib states that it should be taken at least 4 hours apart from P-gp substrates.(2)

DISCUSSION: Rimegepant is a substrate of P-gp. Use of P-gp inhibitors may increase the exposure of rimegepant. In a study, cyclosporine (a potent P-gp and BCRP inhibitor) increased rimegepant area-under curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.6- and 1.4-fold, respectively. Quinidine (a potent P-gp inhibitor) similarly increased rimegepant AUC and Cmax by 1.6- and 1.7-fold, respectively. Therefore, the effect of these drug interactions were concluded to be due entirely to P-gp and not BCRP.(1) P-glycoprotein inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amiodarone, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cyclosporine, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, imlunestrant, lapatinib, mavorixafor, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, tepotinib, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, and verapamil.(1-4)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Amiodarone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Amiodarone 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.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of amiodarone 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.(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) and UK(2) manufacturers of amiodarone states that concurrent use of agents known to cause torsades de pointes is contraindicated. The US manufacturer of amiodarone states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging drugs should be avoided and that need to co-administer amiodarone with any other drug known to prolong the QTc interval must be based on a careful assessment of the potential risks and benefits of doing so for each patient.(3) 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: QTc prolongation has been reported during concurrent amiodarone and fluoroquinolones and macrolide antibiotics. 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.

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Delamanid

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 delamanid 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: If possible, avoid concurrent use of delamanid and other agents that prolong the QT interval. If concurrent use is necessary, frequently monitor ECGs (more frequently than the standard recommended monthly ECG during delamanid therapy). Discontinue delamanid if a QTcF greater than 500 msec is observed.(1) Serum albumin, calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels should be obtained at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Discontinue delamanid if albumin falls below 2.8 g/DL. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: QT prolongation has been observed with delamanid and increases over the first 6-10 weeks of therapy. In a placebo controlled study in healthy subjects, the mean increase in QTcF from baseline during delamanid therapy was 7/6 msec at 1 month and 12.1 msec at 2 months. Three percent of patients experienced an increase of 60 msec or greater at some point during therapy. One patient had a QTcF greater than 500 msec. All patients with a QTcF greater than 60 msec were also taking a fluoroquinolone.(1)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Dexmedetomidine Sublingual

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Dordaviprone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dordaviprone 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 dordaviprone 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)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, avoid the use of dordaviprone with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval. If current use cannot be avoided, separate administration of dordaviprone and the QT-prolonging agent. The manufacturer does not provide details about how to separate administration and states that the exposure-response relationship and time course of pharmacodynamic response is not fully characterized. Dordaviprone's time to maximum concentration (Tmax) occurs at 1.4 hours (0.5, 5.6 hours) and mean terminal half-life is 11 hours.(1) Baseline and periodic monitoring of ECG and electrolytes is recommended.(1) Increase the frequency of monitoring in patients with congenital long QT syndrome, existing QTc prolongation, history of ventricular arrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, heart failure, or are taking strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) If QTc interval prolongation occurs, dose modifications are warranted. If QTc is >500 msec or the change from baseline is >60 msec, interrupt dordaviprone therapy until QTc interval is <= 480 msec or returns to baseline. If the patient has Torsades de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs or symptoms of serious or life-threatening arrhythmia, permanently discontinue dordaviprone.(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: Dordaviprone causes concentration-dependent QTc prolongation.(1) In a QT study, the estimated change in QTcF was 11.8 msec (90% CI: 9.8, 13.7) with dordaviprone (1.2 times the maximum recommended dose).(1) In a pooled safety analysis, out of 82 patients with baseline ECG, 6% of patients had an increase in QTc of >60 msec from baseline and 1.2% had an increase in QTc >500 msec. 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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Firmonertinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Firmonertinib 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 firmonertinib 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 firmonertinib states that firmonertinib should be avoided in patients with risk factors that may increase the risk of QTc interval prolongation or arrhythmic events, such as heart failure, hypokalemia, or congenital long QT syndrome.(1) Concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating firmonertinib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated. More frequent ECG monitoring may be necessary. The manufacturer of firmonertinib states patients with at least two independent ECG tests indicating a QTc > 500 ms should temporarily discontinue firmonertinib until QTc < 481 ms or returns to baseline levels (e.g., baseline QTc > or = 481 ms). Patients with QTc prolongation and severe arrhythmic symptoms or signs should permanently discontinue firmonertinib.(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 trials, among 446 patients treated with firmonertinib at a dose of 80 mg, 57 (12.8%) experienced QT interval prolongation on an ECG, of which 6 (1.3%) were grade 3 and the rest were grade 1-2. Of these, 7 (1.6%) experienced dose interruption, 5 (1.1%) experienced dose reduction, and 1 (0.2%) experienced permanent discontinuation of treatment.(1) In another study, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 6% of 130 patients (in 20 mg, 40 mg, 80 mg, and 160 mg groups; n=2 each). All were classified as grade 1 or grade 2 and assessed as possibly related to treatment. Two events (grade 2 at 80 mg, grade 2 at 160 mg) led to dose interruption before resolution. QT prolongation in the remaining patients was resolved without intervention, except for one event (grade 1) reported as worsening.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Gadofosveset

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: QT prolongation has been reported following gadofosveset administration. 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 gadofosveset 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.(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: In patients maintained on agents known to prolong the QT interval, consider a baseline ECG prior to administration of gadofosveset to asses the risk/benefit of gadofosveset. If gadofosveset is used, consider ECG monitoring for 72 hours until the majority of gadofosveset is eliminated. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Counsel patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting episodes during this time frame.(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 6% of patients experienced an increase in QTc of 30 msec to 60 msec 45 minutes after the administration of gadofosveset and 0.4% of patients experienced a QTc increase of greater than 60 msec at 45 minutes post-administration.(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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Gepotidacin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Gepotidacin 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 gepotidacin 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 gepotidacin states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating gepotidacin, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated.(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: The effect of gepotidacin on the QTc interval was evaluated in a randomized, active (moxifloxacin 400 mg) and placebo-controlled, double-blind cross-over trial in healthy subjects who received single intravenous (IV) infusions of gepotidacin over 2 hours. A dose- and concentration-dependent QTc prolongation effect of gepotidacin was observed. The mean placebo-corrected change from baseline QTcF values around Tmax were 12 msec at 1,000 mg IV and 22 msec at 1,800 mg IV (not approved dosing regimens and route of administration). 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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Givinostat

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Glasdegib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Hydroxyzine

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Iloperidone

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 CYP3A4) 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 CYP2D6) 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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Lenvatinib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Levomepromazine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Levomepromazine 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 levomepromazine 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 manufacturer of levomepromazine states that levomepromazine is not recommended 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: Case reports of QTc prolongation associated with levomepromazine have been reported.(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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Milsaperidone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Milsaperidone 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 milsaperidone 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, advanced age, and with concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP3A4 or CYP2D6, which metabolize milsaperidone.(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 manufacturer of milsaperidone states that concurrent use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided. 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 the QTc interval is consistently above 500 msec, discontinue milsaperidone.(1)

DISCUSSION: Milsaperidone and iloperidone rapidly interconvert in vivo. In a study of 160 patients with psychiatric disorders, coadministration of paroxetine (20 mg daily) 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 ketoconazole (a CYP3A4 inhibitor) and paroxetine did not increase the effects on iloperidone compared with either agent alone.(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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Mobocertinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mobocertinib 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 mobocertinib 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 mobocertinib states that mobocertinib may cause life-threatening QTc prolongation, including torsades de pointes. Mobocertinib should be avoided in patients receiving other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(1) If patients develop QTc prolongation during mobocertinib therapy, dose modifications are recommended: - If Grade 2 (QTc interval 481-500 msec) and first occurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the same dose. - If Grade 2 and recurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the next lower dose or permanently discontinue. - If Grade 3 (QTc interval >= 501 msec or QTc interval increase of > 60 msec from baseline) and first occurrence: hold mobocertinib until QTc returns to <= Grade 1 or baseline. Upon recovery, resume mobocertinib at the next lower dose or permanently discontinue. - If Grade 3 and recurrence: permanently discontinue mobocertinib. - If Grade 4 (Torsades de pointes; polymorphic ventricular tachycardia; signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia): permanently discontinue mobocertinib. 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. Increase the frequency of ECG monitoring in patients with risk factors for QTc prolongation, including congenital long QT syndrome, heart disease, or electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a clinical study, mobocertinib 160 mg once daily was associated with a concentration-dependent increase in QTc, with the largest mean increase in QTc of 23 msec.(1) In clinical studies, patients were excluded if baseline QTc was greater than 470 msec. In a subset of 250 patient with scheduled and unscheduled electrocardiograms (ECGs), 1.2% of patients had a QTc interval >500 msec and 11% of patients had a change-from-baseline QTc interval >60 msec. Grade 4 Torsades de Pointes occurred in 1 patient (0.4%).(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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Osimertinib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Pimavanserin

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Quizartinib

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 arrhythmia 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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Revumenib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Romidepsin

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Selpercatinib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Sulpiride

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sulpiride 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 sulpiride 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 sulpiride 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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Taletrectinib

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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Vepdegestrant

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Vepdegestrant 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 vepdegestrant 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, and 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 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 vepdegestrant states that concurrent use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor ECG when initiating vepdegestrant, during concurrent use, and as clinically indicated. Consider increasing the frequency of ECG monitoring. Do not initiate vepdegestrant in patients with a baseline QTc >470 ms. Withhold vepdegestrant if the QTc is >480 ms or the change from baseline is >60 ms.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Vepdegestrant 200 mg daily increased QTc by 12 ms (upper confidence interval = 15 ms) in patients with ESR1 mutation-positive breast cancer.(1) In VERITAC-2, QTc prolongation occurred in 10% of patients, with 1.6% of patients having Grade 3 events. QTc was >500 ms in 1.6% of patients and QTc increase from baseline of >60 ms occurred in 2.6% of patients.(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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Ziftomenib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ziftomenib 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 ziftomenib 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 ziftomenib states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs prior to initiating ziftomenib, during concomitant use, and as clinically indicated. More frequent ECG monitoring may be necessary. Do not initiate ziftomenib if baseline QTcF > 480 ms.(1) Perform ECG at least once weekly for the first 4 weeks on treatment, then at least monthly thereafter. If the QTc interval is greater than 500 ms or the change from baseline is greater than 60 ms, withhold ziftomenib 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 clinical trials, QTc interval prolongation was reported as an adverse event in 12% of 112 patients treated with the recommended dosage of ziftomenib. QTc was >500 ms in 9% of patients and the increase from baseline QTcF was >60 ms in 12% of patients. Ziftomenib increased the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At a dose of 600 mg daily, the largest mean increase in QTc was 7.7 ms (upper bound of confidence interval = 12.6 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.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Amisulpride

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Anamorelin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Anamorelin 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 anamorelin 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 anamorelin states that the concurrent use of QT prolonging agents should be approached with caution, especially in the early stages (i.e., the first 3 weeks) of drug administration.(1,3) Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. If abnormalities are found, take appropriate measures, including discontinuing anamorelin.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Anamorelin blocks sodium channels and may suppress cardiac conduction, resulting in prolongation of the QRS width or QT interval. A study of 7 healthy volunteers receiving single-dose anamorelin 400 mg found that 1 patient experienced QRS width prolongation. In 60 healthy adults recieving anamorelin, the maximum difference (upper limit of 95% one-sided confidence interval) in the change from baseline in QTcF interval compared to placebo was 6.16 (7.73) msec in patients on 100 mg and 7.38 (10.31) msec in patients on 300 mg.(1) The Japanese pharmacovigilance database was reviewed to evaluate disproportionality of conduction defects related to anamorelin. Out of 537 cases of adverse reactions, there were 51 cases of conduction defects (36 cases of prolonged QT, 5 cases of prolonged QRS complex, 2 cases of long QT syndrome). When adjusted for concomitant use of QT prolonging agents, the reporting odds ratio (ROR) of anamorelin-related conduction defects was 20.00 (95% CI 14.86-26.91).(3) There have been several case reports of widened QRS complexes following anamorelin exposure, usually accompanied by worsening hepatic function.(4-6) 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Catequentinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Catequentinib 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 catequentinib 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)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of catequentinib with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored closely. Monitor ECG and electrolytes regularly (every 3-6 weeks) if catequentinib is administered with concurrent QTc prolonging drugs.(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: Catequentinib causes QTc prolongation. In clinical studies, QTc prolongation was reported as a very common adverse effect.(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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Etrasimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of etrasimod has a negative chronotropic effect, which may increase the risk of developing QT prolongation.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: 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: 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 (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to etrasimod. 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: Prior to initiation of etrasimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present.(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) 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: 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Fingolimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. 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) Fingolimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which fingolimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes. 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: 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: Patients with a baseline QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 milliseconds should not be started on fingolimod. Patients with pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, or a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation should receive cardiologist consultation to evaluate the risks of fingolimod therapy. In all patients, first dose monitoring is recommended to monitor for bradycardia for the first 6 hours. Check blood pressure and pulse hourly. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period. US monitoring recommendations include additional monitoring for the following patients:(1) If heart rate (HR) is less than 45 beats per minute (bpm), the heart rate 6 hours postdose is at the lowest value postdose, or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. Continuous overnight ECG monitoring is recommended in patients requiring pharmacologic intervention for symptomatic bradycardia, some preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc before dosing or during 6 hours observation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs, or concurrent therapy with drugs that slow heart rate or AV conduction. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. United Kingdom recommendations:(3) Obtain a 12-lead ECG prior to initiating fingolimod therapy. Consult a cardiologist for pretreatment risk-benefit assessment if patient has a resting heart rate less than 55 bpm, history of syncope, second degree or greater AV block, sick-sinus syndrome, concurrent therapy with beta-blockers, Class Ia, or Class III antiarrhythmics, heart failure or other significant cardiovascular disease. Perform continuous ECG monitoring, measure blood pressure and heart rate every hour, and perform a 12-lead ECG 6 hours after the first dose. Monitoring should be extended beyond 6 hours if symptomatic bradycardia or new onset of second degree AV block, Mobitz Type II or third degree AV block has occurred at any time during the monitoring period. If heart rate 6 hours after the first dose is less than 40 bpm, has decreased more than 20 bpm compared with baseline, or if a new onset second degree AV block, Mobitz Type I (Wenckebach) persists, then monitoring should also be continued. If fingolimod treatment is discontinued for more than two weeks, the effects on heart rate and conduction could recur. Thus, first dose monitoring precautions should be followed upon reintroduction of fingolimod. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of fingolimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 6 hours followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. The second dose may further decrease heart rate, but the magnitude of change is smaller than the first dose. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about one month.(1,2) 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 hour after taking the first dose of fingolimod was not conclusive; however a link to fingolimod or a drug interaction with fingolimod could not be ruled out.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Galantamine

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Gepirone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Gepirone 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 gepirone 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 gepirone states that gepirone should be used with caution and ECGs should be monitored more frequently when used with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If QTcF is > 450 msec at baseline, do not initiate gepirone. If QTc increases to > 450 msec during treatment, monitor ECGs more frequently and do not increase the dose of gepirone.(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, 100 mg per day of immediate-release gepirone increased the mean QTc 18.4 msec (upper 90% CI = 22.7 msec) on day 1 and 16.1 msec (upper 90% CI = 20.7) on day 7. The dose of gepirone was 2-fold the exposure of 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Gilteritinib

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Osilodrostat

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ozanimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. 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) Ozanimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which ozanimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: 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: 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: Prior to initiation of ozanimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. Patients with preexisting cardiac conditions, significant QT prolongation (QTc >450 msec in males, >470 msec in females), concurrent Class Ia or Class III antiarrhythmics, or receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time ozanimod is initiated or resumed should be referred to a cardiologist.(1) The US recommendations state: Dose titration is recommended with initiation of ozanimod due to transient decrease in heart rate and AV conduction delays.(1) United Kingdom recommendations:(2) Due to the risk of transient decreases in HR with the initiation of ozanimod, first dose, 6-hour monitoring for signs and symptoms of symptomatic bradycardia is recommended in patients with resting HR <55 bpm, second-degree [Mobitz type I] AV block or a history of myocardial infarction or heart failure. Patients should be monitored with hourly pulse and blood pressure measurement during this 6-hour period. An ECG prior to and at the end of this 6-hour period is recommended. Additional monitoring after 6 hours is recommended in patients with: heart rate less than 45 bpm, heart rate at the lowest value post-dose (suggesting that the maximum decrease in HR may not have occurred yet), evidence of a new onset second-degree or higher AV block at the 6-hour post dose ECG, or QTc interval greater than 500 msec. In these cases, appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the symptoms/findings have resolved. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2,3)

DISCUSSION: 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, maximum heart rate effect occurred on day 8.(1,2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Pitolisant

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ponesimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor 1 modulator. 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: After a dose of ponesimod, a decrease in heart rate typically begins 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, and 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: 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: Prior to initiation of ponesimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present. Ponesimod is generally not recommended in patients who are receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent, anti-arrhythmic drugs, or drugs that may decrease heart rate. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended.(1) In patients with heart rate (HR) less than 55 beats per minute (bpm), first- or second-degree AV block, or history of myocardial infarction or heart failure, monitor patients for 4 hours after the first dose for signs and symptoms of bradycardia with a minimum of hourly pulse and blood pressure measurements. Obtain an ECG in these patients prior to dosing and at the end of the 4-hour observation period.(1) Additional US monitoring recommendations include: If HR is less than 45 bpm, the heart rate 4 hours post-dose is at the lowest value post-dose or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. If patient requires treatment for symptomatic bradycardia, second-degree or higher AV block, or QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 msec, perform continuous overnight ECG monitoring and repeat the first dose monitoring strategy for the second dose of ponesimod. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. If fewer than 4 consecutive doses are missed during titration: resume treatment with the first missed titration dose and resume the titration schedule at that dose and titration day. If fewer than 4 consecutive doses are missed during maintenance: resume treatment with the maintenance dosage. If 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during treatment initiation or maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration (new starter pack) and follow first-dose monitoring recommendations. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Savolitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Savolitinib 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 savolitinib 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 savolitinib states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used 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: In a thorough QT study, patients treatment with savolitinib 600 mg had a mean change in QTc from baseline of 11.93 msec at 3-6 hours postdose.(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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Siponimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of siponimod has a negative chronotropic effect. Siponimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which siponimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown, but may involve reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: 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 torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: 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: Prior to initiation of siponimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval before or during the 6 hour observation, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) In patients with heart rate (HR) less than 55 beats per minute (bpm), first- or second-degree AV block, or history of myocardial infarction or heart failure, first dose monitoring is recommended with hourly pulse and blood pressure to monitor for bradycardia for the first 6 hours. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period.(1) Additional US monitoring recommendations include: If HR is less than 45 bpm, the heart rate 6 hours postdose is at the lowest value postdose or if the ECG shows new onset of second degree or higher AV block at the end of the monitoring period, then monitoring should continue until the finding has resolved. If patient requires treatment for symptomatic bradycardia, second-degree or higher AV block, or QTc interval greater than or equal to 500 msec, perform continuous overnight ECG monitoring. Repeat the first dose monitoring strategy for the second dose of siponimod. If a titration dose is missed or if 4 or more consecutive daily doses are missed during maintenance treatment, reinitiate Day 1 of the dose titration and follow titration monitoring recommendations. Patient will need to be observed in the doctor's office or other facility for at least 6 hours after the first dose and after reinitiation if treatment is interrupted or discontinued for certain periods. Consult the prescribing information for full monitoring recommendations. United Kingdom recommendations:(3) In certain patients, it is recommended that an electrocardiogram (ECG) is obtained prior to dosing and at the end of the observation period. If post-dose bradyarrhythmia or conduction-related symptoms occur or if ECG 6 hours post-dose shows new onset second-degree or higher AV block or QTc > 500 msec, appropriate management should be initiated and observation continued until the symptoms/findings have resolved. If pharmacological treatment is required, monitoring should be continued overnight and 6-hour monitoring should be repeated after the second dose. During the first 6 days of treatment, if a titration dose is missed on one day, treatment needs to be re-initiated with a new titration pack. If there is a missed dose after day 6 the prescribed dose should be taken at the next scheduled time; the next dose should not be doubled. If maintenance treatment is interrupted for 4 or more consecutive daily doses, siponimod needs to be re-initiated with a new titration pack.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Tolterodine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tolterodine 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.(1,2)

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers may be at increased risk.(1,2) 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 tolterodine states concurrent use agents known to prolong the QT interval should be used with caution. Consider close observation in patients with a known history of QT prolongation or patients taking antiarrhythmic medications.(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: In a study of the effect of tolterodine immediate release tablets, the effect on the QT interval appeared greater for 8 mg/day (two times the therapeutic dose) compared to 4 mg/day. Tolterodine 2 mg BID and tolterodine 4 mg BID increased the QTcF by 5.01 msec (0.28-9.74 msec) and 11.84 msec (7.11-16.58 msec), respectively. The change in QT interval was more pronounced in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers (PM) than extensive metabolizers (EMs).(1,2) 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.(4)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Trazodone (< 100 MG)

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Triclabendazole

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Tucidinostat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tucidinostat with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of tucidinostat 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.(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: Concurrent use of tucidinostat and other agents that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be used with caution. The manufacturer of tucidinostat recommends monitoring ECG and electrolytes every three weeks.(1) If the QTc interval exceeds 500 ms, tucidinostat should be suspended and the ECG should be monitored more frequently. After the QTc interval prolongation has resolved, tucidinostat may be restarted at a reduced 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: 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Zidesamtinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Zidesamtinib 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 zidesamtinib 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, and 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 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 zidesamtinib states that concurrent use of other drugs that are known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored more frequently.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor ECG and electrolytes when initiating zidesamtinib, during concurrent use, and as clinically indicated. Consider increasing the frequency of ECG and electrolyte monitoring. Withhold, then resume at same or reduced dose, or permanently discontinue zidesamtinib based on severity.(1) If QTc prolongation occurs, follow recommended dose modifications: - Grade 2 (QTc interval 481-500 ms): Withhold zidesamtinib until recovery to Grade <= 1 or baseline; correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications; and resume at same dose. - Grade 3 (QTc interval >= 501 ms or QTc interval increase of > 60 ms from baseline): Withhold zidesamtinib until recovery to Grade <= 1 or baseline; correct electrolytes and/or change concomitant medications; and resume at reduced dose. - Grade 4 (Torsades de pointes; polymorphic ventricular tachycardia; or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia): Permanently discontinue zidesamtinib. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Zidesamtinib 100 mg once daily increased the QTc by 13 ms (upper confidence interval = 19 ms) in patients with advanced ROS1-positive NSCLC and other advanced ROS1-positive solid tumors.(1) In a pooled safety study, QTc increase >60 ms occurred in 2% of patients and 0.2% of patients had an increase in QTcF > 500 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.(3)

Ranolazine (<=500 MG BID)/Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ranolazine. Verapamil may also increase the absorption of ranolazine by inhibiting P-glycoprotein.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects from ranolazine. Elevated ranolazine levels may result in QTc prolongation, which may result in life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia, 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.(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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ranolazine states that the dosage of ranolazine should be limited to 500 mg twice daily in patients receiving moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4.(1) 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: Concurrent use of diltiazem, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4, at daily doses of 180 mg to 360 mg increased plasma levels of ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) by 50% and 130%, respectively.(1,3) In healthy subjects, concurrent ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) had no effects on the pharmacokinetics of diltiazem (60 mg three times daily).(1) Concurrent use of verapamil (120 mg three times daily) increased plasma levels of ranolazine (750 mg twice daily) by 100%.(1) In a study in 12 healthy males, ranolazine immediate release (IR, 240 mg three times daily) had no effect on diltiazem (60 mg three times daily) pharmacokinetics. However, at ranolazine IR steady state, diltiazem increased ranolazine IR area under the curve (AUC) by 85%, on average, and increased maximum concentration (Cmax) by 1.9-fold and minimum concentration (Cmin) by 2.1-fold.(4) In a study in 12 subjects, ranolazine sustained release (SR, 500 mg twice daily) had no effect on diltiazem (60 mg three times daily) pharmacokinetics. However, at ranolazine steady state, diltiazem increased ranolazine SR Cmax, concentration minimum (Cmin), AUC by 80%, 216%, and 90%, on average, respectively.(4) In a study in 8 healthy males, diltiazem modified release (MR, 180 mg, or 240 mg, or 360 mg, once daily) increased ranolazine sustained release (SR, 1000 mg twice daily) AUC by 52%, 93%, and 139%, respectively. Ranolazine half-lives did not show any consistent trend of changes with increasing doses of diltiazem.(4) In a study of patients with severe chronic angina, the addition of ranolazine 750 mg twice daily or 1,000 mg twice daily along with their standard dose of diltiazem (180 mg once daily) provided additional antianginal relief, without evident adverse, long-term survival consequences over 1 to 2 years of therapy.(5) Ranolazine-induced QTc prolongation is dose and concentration-related.(1) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amprenavir, aprepitant, avacopan, berotralstat, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, diltiazem, erythromycin, dronedarone, duvelisib, fedratinib, fluconazole, fluvoxamine, fosamprenavir, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, ledipasvir, lenacapavir, letermovir, netupitant, nilotinib, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, stiripentol, treosulfan and verapamil.(1,3,6,7)

Ranolazine/Atorvastatin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine may inhibit the metabolism of atorvastatin by CYP3A4.(1,2,4-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ranolazine may result in elevated levels of atorvastatin(1,2) which may result in myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider a reduction of atorvastatin dose with concurrent ranolazine.

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased mean exposure to atorvastatin by 40%. However, in one subject, exposure was increased by approximately 400%.(1) In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased plasma levels of simvastatin (80 mg daily) and its active metabolite each by 2-fold.(1) In healthy subjects, simvastatin (20 mg daily) had no effect on ranolazine levels.(1) In a study in 17 healthy volunteers, simvastatin (80 mg daily) did not have a significant effect on ranolazine sustained release (SR, 1750 mg initial dose followed by 1000 mg twice daily) pharmacokinetics with the mean area under the curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and minimum concentration (Cmin) being within 80% to 125%. In contrast, ranolazine SR increased the Cmax of simvastatin lactone, simvastatin acid, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor activity by 2-fold with the corresponding AUC increases in the range of 40% to 60%.(2,7) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on simvastatin for 12 years, one of which with concurrent cyclosporine. Two months after the addition of carvedilol, diltiazem, and ranolazine, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(8) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on a stable dose of simvastatin (80 mg). Ten days after the addition of ranolazine (500 mg extended release) was added to the patient's medication regimen, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(9)

Ranolazine/Digoxin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine may increase the absorption of digoxin by inhibiting P-glycoprotein.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ranolazine may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from digoxin.(1,2) Symptoms of digoxin toxicity can include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, malaise, drowsiness, generalized muscle weakness, disorientation, hallucinations, visual disturbances, and arrhythmias.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Low body weight, advanced age, impaired renal function, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, and/or hypomagnesemia may increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with digoxin and ranolazine. The dosage of digoxin may need to be adjusted by 30% to 50% or the frequency of administration may need to be reduced.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased plasma levels of digoxin (0.125 mg daily) by 1.5-fold.(1,2) In healthy subjects, digoxin (0.125 mg daily) had no effect on ranolazine levels.(1) Concomitant administration of ranolazine with digoxin increased the digoxin serum concentration 50%.(3)

Ranolazine/Metformin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine may decrease renal elimination of metformin by inhibiting OCT-2.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ranolazine may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from metformin.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for metformin associated lactic acidosis include renal impairment, sepsis, dehydration, excessive alcohol intake, acute or chronic metabolic acidosis, hepatic insufficiency, acute heart failure, metformin plasma levels > 5 micrograms/mL, and conditions which may lead to tissue hypoxia. Geriatric patients may also be at higher risk due to slower metformin clearance and increased half-life in this population.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with metformin and ranolazine. In patients receiving 1000 mg ranolazine twice daily, limit the dose of metformin to 1700 mg daily.(1)

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased exposure of metformin by 80%. Ranolazine (500 mg BID) increased metformin exposure by 40%.(1)

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)

Ranolazine/Selected Antiarrhythmics

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)

Ranolazine/Simvastatin (<=20 MG); Lovastatin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine may inhibit the metabolism of lovastatin(3) and simvastatin by CYP3A4.(1,2,4-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ranolazine may result in elevated levels of lovastatin(3) and simvastatin,(1,2,4-6) which may result in myopathy and rhabdomyolysis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for myopathy or rhabdomyolysis may be greater in patients 65 years and older, inadequately treated hypothyroidism, renal impairment, carnitine deficiency, malignant hyperthermia, or in patients with a history of myopathy or rhabdomyolysis. Patients with a SLCO1B1 polymorphism that leads to decreased function of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 may have increased statin concentrations and be predisposed to myopathy or rhabdomyolysis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Do not exceed a dosage of 20 mg daily of simvastatin in patients receiving concurrent therapy with ranolazine.(1,2,4-6) Consider a reduction of lovastatin dose with concurrent ranolazine.

DISCUSSION: In healthy subjects, ranolazine (1000 mg twice daily) increased plasma levels of simvastatin (80 mg daily) and its active metabolite each by 2-fold.(1) In healthy subjects, simvastatin (20 mg daily) had no effect on ranolazine levels.(1) In a study in 17 healthy volunteers, simvastatin (80 mg daily) did not have a significant effect on ranolazine sustained release (SR, 1750 mg initial dose followed by 1000 mg twice daily) pharmacokinetics with the mean area under the curve (AUC), maximum concentration (Cmax), and minimum concentration (Cmin) being within 80% to 125%. In contrast, ranolazine SR increased the Cmax of simvastatin lactone, simvastatin acid, and HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor activity by 2-fold with the corresponding AUC increases in the range of 40% to 60%.(2,7) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on simvastatin for 12 years, one of which with concurrent cyclosporine. Two months after the addition of carvedilol, diltiazem, and ranolazine, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(8) In a case report, a patient had been maintained on a stable dose of simvastatin (80 mg). Ten days after the addition of ranolazine (500 mg extended release) was added to the patient's medication regimen, the patient developed rhabdomyolysis.(9)

Select P-Gp Inhibitors/Edoxaban (<= 30 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Edoxaban is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption and decrease renal tubular elimination of edoxaban.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with selected P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of edoxaban which may increase the risk for bleeding.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Bleeding risk may be increased in patients with creatinine clearance below 50 mL per minute(1-4). Use of multiple agents which increase edoxaban exposure or affect hemostasis would be expected to increase the risk for bleeding. The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Management recommendations between approving regulatory agencies (FDA or European Medicines Agency, EMA) are conflicting. EMA approved prescribing information specifically states that dosage adjustments are not required solely for concomitant use with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil regardless of indication.(3,4) Potential interactions with azithromycin, clarithromycin, or oral itraconazole are not described.(3) FDA approved prescribing recommendations for edoxaban are indication specific:(2) - For prevention of stroke or embolic events due to nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, no edoxaban dose adjustments are recommended during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. - For treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), the edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily during concomitant use with azithromycin, clarithromycin, oral itraconazole, quinidine or verapamil. The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to edoxaban.(6) Monitor patients receiving anticoagulant therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. anti Factor Xa inhibition) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. Discontinue edoxaban in patients with active bleeding. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(9)

DISCUSSION: Edoxaban in vivo interaction studies have been performed for quinidine and verapamil. In vivo interaction studies have not been conducted for the remaining P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph.(1,4) In an interaction study, the effect of repeat administration of quinidine (300 mg TID) on a single oral dose of edoxaban 60 mg was evaluated in healthy subjects. Both peak (Cmax) and total systemic exposure (AUC) to edoxaban and to the active M4 metabolite increased approximately 1.75-fold.(1) In an interaction study, the effect of repeat administration of verapamil (240 mg Verapamil SR Tablets (Calan SR) QD for 11 Days) on a single oral dose of edoxaban 60 mg on the morning of Day 10 was evaluated in healthy subjects. Total and peak systemic exposure to edoxaban increased 1.53-fold and 1.53-fold, respectively. Total and peak systemic exposure to the active M4 metabolite increased 1.31-fold and 1.28-fold, respectively.(1) Based upon the above results, patients in the DVT/PE trial had a 50% dose reduction (from 60 mg to 30 mg) during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Approximately 0.5% of these patients required a dose reduction solely due to P-gp inhibitor use. This low rate of concurrent therapy was too small to allow for detailed statistical evaluation. Almost all of these patients were receiving quinidine or verapamil. In these patients, both trough edoxaban concentrations (Ctrough) used to evaluate bleeding risk, and total edoxaban exposure (AUC or area-under-curve) used to evaluate treatment efficacy, were lower than patients who did not require any edoxaban dose adjustment. In this DVT/PE comparator trial, subgroup analysis revealed that warfarin had numerically better efficacy than edoxaban in patients receiving P-gp inhibitors. Based upon the overall lower exposure to edoxaban in P-gp dose adjusted subjects, both EMA and FDA Office of Clinical Pharmacology (OCP) concluded that the edoxaban 50% dose reduction overcorrected for the difference in exposure.(1,4) Consequently, EMA recommended no edoxaban dose adjustments for patients receiving concomitant therapy with quinidine or verapamil.(3,4) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with edoxaban and verapamil concluded that if concurrent use is considered safe.(7) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diltiazem, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, indinavir, oral itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tezacaftor, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(8)

Select P-Gp Inhibitors/Edoxaban (> 30 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Edoxaban is a substrate for P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Inhibitors of P-gp may increase intestinal absorption and decrease renal tubular elimination of edoxaban.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with selected P-gp inhibitors may result in higher systemic concentrations of edoxaban which may increase the risk for bleeding.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Bleeding risk may be increased in patients with creatinine clearance below 50 mL per minute(1-4). Use of multiple agents which increase edoxaban exposure or affect hemostasis would be expected to increase the risk for bleeding. The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Management recommendations between approving regulatory agencies (FDA or European Medicines Agency, EMA) are conflicting. EMA approved prescribing information specifically states that dosage adjustments are not required solely for concomitant use with amiodarone, quinidine, or verapamil regardless of indication.(3,4) Potential interactions with azithromycin, clarithromycin, or oral itraconazole are not described.(3) FDA approved prescribing recommendations for edoxaban are indication specific:(2) - For prevention of stroke or embolic events due to nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, no edoxaban dose adjustments are recommended during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. - For treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), the edoxaban dose should be reduced to 30 mg daily during concomitant use with azithromycin, clarithromycin, oral itraconazole, quinidine or verapamil. The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to edoxaban.(6) Monitor patients receiving anticoagulant therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin and/or hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. anti Factor Xa inhibition) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. Discontinue edoxaban in patients with active bleeding. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(9)

DISCUSSION: Edoxaban in vivo interaction studies have been performed for quinidine and verapamil. In vivo interaction studies have not been conducted for the remaining P-gp inhibitors linked to this monograph.(1,4) In an interaction study, the effect of repeat administration of quinidine (300 mg TID) on a single oral dose of edoxaban 60 mg was evaluated in healthy subjects. Both peak (Cmax) and total systemic exposure (AUC) to edoxaban and to the active M4 metabolite increased approximately 1.75-fold.(1) In an interaction study, the effect of repeat administration of verapamil (240 mg Verapamil SR Tablets (Calan SR) QD for 11 Days) on a single oral dose of edoxaban 60 mg on the morning of Day 10 was evaluated in healthy subjects. Total and peak systemic exposure to edoxaban increased 1.53-fold and 1.53-fold, respectively. Total and peak systemic exposure to the active M4 metabolite increased 1.31-fold and 1.28-fold, respectively.(1) Based upon the above results, patients in the DVT/PE trial had a 50% dose reduction (from 60 mg to 30 mg) during concomitant therapy with P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Approximately 0.5% of these patients required a dose reduction solely due to P-gp inhibitor use. This low rate of concurrent therapy was too small to allow for detailed statistical evaluation. Almost all of these patients were receiving quinidine or verapamil. In these patients, both trough edoxaban concentrations (Ctrough) used to evaluate bleeding risk, and total edoxaban exposure (AUC or area-under-curve) used to evaluate treatment efficacy, were lower than patients who did not require any edoxaban dose adjustment. In this DVT/PE comparator trial, subgroup analysis revealed that warfarin had numerically better efficacy than edoxaban in patients receiving P-gp inhibitors. Based upon the overall lower exposure to edoxaban in P-gp dose adjusted subjects, both EMA and FDA Office of Clinical Pharmacology (OCP) concluded that the edoxaban 50% dose reduction overcorrected for the difference in exposure.(1,4) Consequently, EMA recommended no edoxaban dose adjustments for patients receiving concomitant therapy with quinidine or verapamil.(3,4) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with edoxaban and verapamil concluded that if concurrent use is considered safe.(7) P-gp inhibitors linked to this interaction are: amiodarone, asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diltiazem, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, indinavir, oral itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, neratinib, osimertinib, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tezacaftor, tepotinib, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, verapamil, vimseltinib, and voclosporin.(8)

Selected Cyp2d6 Inhibitors/Metoprolol

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP2D6 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of metoprolol.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP2D6 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from metoprolol.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The interaction may be more severe in patients who are ultrarapid metabolizers of CYP2D6.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with metoprolol and inhibitors of CYP2D6. The dosage of metoprolol may need to be adjusted.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: In an open-label, randomized, cross-over study in 12 healthy males, celecoxib (200 mg BID) increased the AUC of metoprolol (50 mg) by 64%. One subject experienced a 200% increase.(3) In a randomized, double-blind, cross-over study in 7 healthy subjects, hydroxychloroquine (400 mg) increased the AUC of a single dose of metoprolol by 65%.(4) In a study in 20 Chinese patients with chronic myelogenous leukemia, imatinib (400 mg BID) increased the AUC of metoprolol (100 mg single dose) by 23%. (5) In healthy subjects, ranolazine (750 mg twice daily) increased plasma levels of a single dose of metoprolol (100 mg) by 1.8-fold.(6) CYP2D6 inhibitors include: abiraterone, asunaprevir, berotralstat, bupropion, capivasertib, celecoxib, chloroquine, cinacalcet, citalopram, clomipramine, dacomitinib, diphenhydramine, dronabinol, duloxetine, eliglustat, escitalopram, fedratinib, fluoxetine, hydroxychloroquine, imatinib, levomepromazine, lorcaserin, moclobemide, osilodrostat, paroxetine, quinine, ranitidine, ranolazine, rolapitant, and sertraline.

Selected Cyp2d6 Inhibitors/Propranolol

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: CYP2D6 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of propranolol.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP2D6 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from propranolol, including hypotension and bradycardia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy with propranolol and CYP2D6 inhibitors. The dosage of propranolol may need to be adjusted.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a pharmacokinetic study in 16 healthy volunteers, concurrent use of quinidine 200 mg (a CYP2D6 inhibitor) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of propranolol by 2.29-fold.(2) In a pharmacokinetic study in 6 healthy subjects, concurrent use of quinidine increased propranolol AUC 2-fold.(3) A retrospective review of concurrent use of propranolol and antidepressants evaluated the risk of hospitalization or emergency room visit within 30 days of concurrent prescription. In patients receiving antidepressants with moderate to strong CYP2D6 inhibitory effects, patient were an increased risk compared to patients receiving no antidepressants (Hazard Ratio (HR) = 1.53; 95% CI 1.03-2.81 vs. HR = 1.24; 95% CI 0.82-1.88).(4) Case reports of bradycardia and cardiac adverse effects have been reported with concurrent use of propranolol and the antidepressants fluoxetine and paroxetine (strong CYP2D6 inhibitors).(5) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors include: bupropion, dacomitinib, fluoxetine, mavorixafor, and paroxetine. Moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors include: abiraterone, asunaprevir, berotralstat, capivasertib, cinacalcet, duloxetine, eliglustat, escitalopram, levomepromazine, lorcaserin, mirabegron, moclobemide, quinine, ranolazine, and rolapitant. Weak CYP2D6 inhibitors include: desvenlafaxine, diphenhydramine, dimenhydrinate, dronabinol, fedratinib, hydroxychloroquine, imatinib, osilodrostat, ranitidine, and sertraline.(6)

Selected P-Glycoprotein (P-GP) Inhibitors/Betrixaban

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Betrixaban is a substrate for the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) system. Inhibition of intestinal P-gp leads to increased absorption of betrixaban.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use betrixaban with P-gp inhibitors may lead to elevated plasma levels of betrixaban, increasing the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Factors associated with an increased risk for bleeding include renal impairment, concomitant use of P-gp inhibitors, coexisting conditions (e.g. recent trauma) or use of drugs (e.g. NSAIDs) associated with bleeding risk, and patient weight < 50 kg.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Assess renal function and evaluate patient for other pre-existing risk factors for bleeding prior to initiating concurrent therapy. The concurrent use of betrixaban and P-gp inhibitors should be avoided in patients with severe renal impairment (CrCl less than 30 ml/min).(1) The recommended dose for patients receiving or starting concomitant P-gp inhibitors is an initial single dose of 80 mg followed by 40 mg once daily. The recommended duration of treatment is 35 to 42 days.(1) Note that if betrixaban is used with the combination of darunavir and cobicistat, dose adjustment of betrixaban is not necessary.(2) The manufacturer of vimseltinib states concurrent use with P-gp substrates should be avoided. If concurrent use cannot be avoided, take vimseltinib at least 4 hours prior to betrixaban.(3) Careful monitoring for signs and symptoms of bleeding is warranted during concurrent therapy. Consider regular monitoring of hemoglobin, platelet levels, and/or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) or ecarin clotting time (ECT). Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as bleeding from the eyes, gums or nose; unusual bruising; dark stools; red or dark brown urine; and/or abdominal pain or swelling.(1) The anticoagulant effect of betrixaban is expected to persist for at least 72 hours after the last dose. The manufacturer of daraxonrasib states P-gp substrates should be administered at least 4 hours apart from daraxonrasib.(8)

DISCUSSION: In the APEX randomized, double-blind study the incidence of major or clinically relevant non-major bleeds (CRNM) in the betrixaban 40mg and 80 mg group was higher in patients taking concomitant P-gp inhibitors (2.8% vs. 4.1% vs. 4.7%).(4) In a study in 12 subjects, concomitant administration of a single dose of betrixaban (40 mg) following a 5-day regimen of ketoconazole (200 mg twice daily) resulted in an increase in betrixaban's maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-the-curve (AUC) of 2.3-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively.(5) An open-label study looking at concomitant administration of a single dose of betrixaban with verapamil in 18 subjects found an increase in betrixaban's Cmax and AUC of approximately 4.7-fold and 3-fold, respectively.(5) In a study, concomitant administration of betrixaban (80 mg) with amiodarone resulted in an increase in betrixaban's Cmax by 143%.(5) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with betrixaban and amiodarone, diltiazem, or verapamil concluded that if concurrent use is warranted, the betrixaban dose should be reduced to 80 mg once then 40 mg daily. Use should be avoided if CrCl is less than 30 ml/min.(6) P-gp inhibitors include asunaprevir, aumolertinib, azithromycin, belumosudil, capmatinib, carvedilol, cimetidine, clarithromycin, cobicistat, conivaptan, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, danicopan, daraxonrasib, daridorexant, diltiazem, diosmin, dronedarone, erythromycin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginseng, glecaprevir, hydroquinidine, imlunestrant, indinavir, itraconazole, ivacaftor, josamycin, lapatinib, ledipasvir, lonafarnib, lopinavir, mavorixafor, neratinib, osimertinib, pibrentasvir, pirtobrutinib, posaconazole, propafenone, quinidine, ranolazine, ritonavir, selpercatinib, sofosbuvir/velpatasvir/voxilaprevir, sotorasib, telaprevir, telithromycin, tepotinib, tezacaftor, tucatinib, valbenazine, velpatasvir, vemurafenib, vepdegestrant, vimseltinib, voclosporin and voxilaprevir.(1,4-7)

Selected P-Gp And Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Rivaroxaban

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Amiodarone, azithromycin, brodalumab, chloramphenicol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, felodipine, fluvoxamine, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, ivacaftor, nilotinib, piperine, pirtobrutinib, quinidine, ranolazine, simeprevir, ticagrelor and tolvaptan may inhibit the metabolism of rivaroxaban by CYP3A4 and by P-glycoprotein.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an agent that is both an inhibitor of P-gp and a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of and clinical effects of rivaroxaban, including an increased risk of bleeding, in patients with decreased renal function.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with decreased renal function (CrCL of 15 ml/min to 80 ml/min) may be predisposed to this interaction.(1) The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer states no precautions are necessary with the concurrent use of these agents and rivaroxaban in patients with normal renal function.(1) It would be prudent to closely monitor concurrent use in patients with reduced renal function (CrCL of 15 ml/min to 80 ml/min). If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Clarithromycin (500 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of rivaroxaban by 50% and 40%, respectively.(1,2) Erythromycin (500 mg three times daily) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of rivaroxaban by 30% and 30%, respectively.(1-3) In patients with mild renal impairment (CrCl of 50 ml/min to 79 ml/min) who were receiving erythromycin, rivaroxaban levels were increased 76% when compared to administration of rivaroxaban in patients with normal renal function receiving rivaroxaban alone. In patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCl of 30 ml/min to 49 ml/min) who were receiving erythromycin, rivaroxaban levels were increased 99% when compared to administration of rivaroxaban in patients with normal renal function receiving rivaroxaban alone.(1) Fluconazole increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of rivaroxaban by 40%% and 30%, respectively.(1) These changes are not expected to be clinically significant in patients with normal renal function.(1,2) In a case report, an 88-year-old woman with renal impairment on rivaroxaban presented with an elevated INR of 2.5 and a rivaroxaban peak plasma concentration above the upper limit of detection at >800 mcg/L (therapeutic range 58-211 mcg/L). Nothing in her medical history suggested a reason for supratherapeutic rivaroxaban levels except for a 7-week amiodarone regimen that was discontinued 3 weeks prior. This suggests the potential for amiodarone to persist in the body weeks after its use and precipitate drug-drug interactions.(4) A retrospective cohort study examined 24,943 patients aged 66 years and older with concurrent therapy of an anticoagulant, either rivaroxaban (40.0%), apixaban (31.9%), or dabigatran (28.1%), with either azithromycin or clarithromycin. The primary outcome of hospital admission with major hemorrhage within 30 days on concurrent therapy was higher in patients on clarithromycin (0.77%) compared to azithromycin (0.43%) with an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.71 (95% CI, 1.20-2.45). In a self-controlled case series, 744 major hemorrhage events were identified among 647 unique individuals taking anticoagulants who were exposed to clarithromycin. The rate of events that occurred during clarithromycin use had a significant rate ratio of 1.44 (95% CI, 1.08-1.92).(5) A propensity matched cohort evaluated the concurrent use of combined P-gp and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors with apixaban or rivaroxaban. Combined inhibitors included amiodarone, diltiazem, erythromycin, dronedarone, and verapamil. Bleeding occurred in 26.4% of patients in the inhibitor group compared to 18.4% in the control group (hazard ratio 1.8; 95% CI 1.19-2.73; p=0.006). Although not statistically significant, patients in the inhibitor group also had a higher rate of major bleeding (15% vs 10.3%) and minor bleeding (8.9% vs 5.2%), respectively.(6) A summary of pharmacokinetic interactions with rivaroxaban and amiodarone concluded that concurrent use should be avoided if CrCl < 80 ml/min.(7) A prospective cohort study of 174 patients evaluated the concurrent use of rivaroxaban and amiodarone. The combination of rivaroxaban and amiodarone was associated with a higher incidence of bleeding events (p=0.041; HR=2.83, 95% CI 1.05-7.66) and clinically relevant non-major bleeding (p=0.021; HR=3.65, 95% CI 1.21-10.94). Concurrent use of amiodarone and rivaroxaban in non-valvular atrial fibrillation patients was an independent risk factor for increased risk of bleeding (p=0.044; OR 2.871, 95% CI 1.028-8.023).(8) P-gp and weak CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph are: amiodarone, azithromycin, belumosudil, brodalumab, chloramphenicol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, daridorexant, diosmin, flibanserin, fostamatinib, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, hydroquinidine, istradefylline, ivacaftor, mavorixafor, nilotinib, piperine, pirtobrutinib, quinidine, ranolazine, selpercatinib, simeprevir, tolvaptan, and vepdegestrant.(9,10)

Selected Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Intravenous Lefamulin

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 other 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 by 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)

Selected Qt Prolongers/Astemizole; Terfenadine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of astemizole or terfenadine with agents known to prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, 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.(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, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of apomorphine,(2) dasatinib,(3) dolasetron,(4) fesoterodine,(5) formoterol,(6,7) gadoxetate,(8,9) gatifloxacin,(10) gemifloxacin,(11) haloperidol,(12-14) lapatinib,(15) levofloxacin,(16) methadone,(17) nalidixic acid,(18) norfloxacin,(19) and risperidone(20) state that these agents should be used with caution with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval. 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. 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.(21) 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.(23) The UK manufacturer of ciprofloxacin states that ciprofloxacin should be used with caution in patients at risk for torsades.(23) 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.(24) The concurrent use of ezogabine with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with caution. Patients receiving concurrent therapy with other QT prolongers, an electrocardiogram (ECG) should be performed prior to ezogabine initiation. In those patients with a corrected QT interval greater than 440 msec at baseline, a repeat ECG should be performed after reaching the maintenance dose of ezogabine.(25) In patients maintained on agents known to prolong the QT interval, consider a baseline ECG prior to administration of gadofosveset to asses the risk/benefit of gadofosveset. If gadofosveset is used, consider ECG monitoring for 72 hours until the majority of gadofosveset is eliminated. Counsel patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting episodes during this time frame.(26) The UK manufacturer of ranolazine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with caution.(28) Patients should be instructed to inform their physician if they are receiving any drugs that prolong the QTc interval.(28) The US manufacturer of romidepsin states that appropriate cardiovascular monitoring, such as monitoring of electrolytes and ECGs at baseline and periodically during treatment should be considered in patients receiving concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the QT interval.(29) The manufacturers of dofetilide(31) and sotalol(32) state that concurrent use with other agents known to prolong the QT interval is not recommended. The manufacturer of telavancin recommends against the use of telavancin with other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(32) 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.

DISCUSSION: Astemizole and terfenadine have been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Other agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval.(33) 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.

Slt Moderate And Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibit/Sirolimus Protein-Bound

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate and weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of sirolimus by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in elevated levels of and side effects from sirolimus.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sirolimus protein-bound injection (Fyarro) states a dose reduction to 56 mg/m2 is recommended when used concurrently with moderate or weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided.(1)

DISCUSSION: In an open, randomized, cross-over trial in 18 healthy subjects, concurrent single doses of diltiazem (120 mg) and sirolimus (10 mg) increased sirolimus area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) by 60% and by 43%, respectively. Sirolimus apparent oral clearance and volume of distribution decreased by 38% and 45%, respectively. There were no effects on diltiazem pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics.(2) In a study in 26 healthy subjects, concurrent sirolimus (2 mg daily) with verapamil (180 mg twice daily) increased sirolimus AUC and Cmax by 2.2-fold and 2.3-fold, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of the active S-enantiomer of verapamil each increased by 1.5-fold. Verapamil time to Cmax (Tmax) was increased by 1.2 hours.(2) Moderate and weak CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: amlodipine, anamorelin, aprepitant, avacopan, azithromycin, berberine, berotralstat, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clofazimine, conivaptan, crizotinib, daclatasvir, daridorexant, delavirdine, diltiazem, diosmin, elinzanetant, estrogen, flibanserin, fluvoxamine, fosaprepitant, fosnetupitant, fostamatinib, ginkgo, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, gepotidacin, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lazertinib, oral lefamulin, lenacapavir, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lumateperone, lurasidone, mavorixafor, netupitant, nicardipine, omeprazole, osilodrostat, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, rimegepant, roxithromycin, scutellarin, sevabertinib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, stiripentol, ticagrelor, tofisopam, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vonoprazan, and voxelotor.(3,4)

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)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Lemborexant (<= 5 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of lemborexant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of an inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in increased levels of and effects from lemborexant, including somnolence, fatigue, CNS depressant effects, daytime impairment, headache, and nightmare or abnormal dreams.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The maximum recommended dose of lemborexant with concurrent use of a weak CYP3A4 inhibitors should not exceed 5 mg per dose.(1) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: Lemborexant is a CYP3A4 substrate. In a PKPB model, concurrent use of lemborexant with itraconazole increased area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax) by 3.75-fold and 1.5-fold, respectively. Concurrent use of lemborexant with fluconazole increased AUC and Cmax by 4.25-fold and 1.75-fold, respectively.(1) Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amiodarone, amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, belumosudil, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, delavirdine, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, ginkgo, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, mavorixafor, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, rucaparib, selpercatinib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, viloxazine, vonoprazan, and ziftomenib.(1,3)

Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors/Ubrogepant (<= 50 MG)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of ubrogepant.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ubrogepant with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in an increase in exposure of ubrogepant.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends a dosage adjustment of ubrogepant when used concomitantly with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Initial dose of ubrogepant should not exceed 50 mg when used concomitantly with weak inhibitors of CYP3A4. A second dose may be given within 24 hours but should not exceed 50 mg when used concurrently with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: Coadministration of ubrogepant with verapamil, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, resulted in a 3.5-fold and 2.8-fold increase in area-under-curve (AUC) and concentration maximum (Cmax), respectively. No dedicated drug interaction study was conducted to assess concomitant use with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. The conservative prediction of the maximal potential increase in ubrogepant exposure with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors is not expected to be more than 2-fold.(1) Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: amiodarone, amlodipine, anamorelin, asciminib, avapritinib, azithromycin, Baikal skullcap, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, chlorzoxazone, cilostazol, cimetidine, ciprofloxacin, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, delavirdine, deutivacaftor, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fosaprepitant, fostamatinib, gepotidacin, givinostat, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, lapatinib, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, maribavir, mavorixafor, olaparib, osilodrostat, palbociclib, pazopanib, peppermint oil, piperine, pirtobrutinib, propiverine, propofol, ranitidine, ranolazine, resveratrol, roxithromycin, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, skullcap, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, vepdegestrant, viloxazine, vonoprazan, and ziftomenib.(3,4)

Hepatic cirrhosis.

Concomitant use with inducers or potent inhibitors of cytochrome P-450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A. (See Drug Interactions.)

Known hypersensitivity to ranolazine or any ingredient in the formulation.

• Chronic kidney disease stage 3B (moderate) GFR 30-44 ml/min
• Chronic kidney disease stage 4 (severe) GFR 15-29 ml/min
• Chronic kidney disease stage 5 (failure) GFr<15 ml/min
• Congenital long QT syndrome
• Hepatic cirrhosis
• Prolonged QT interval
• Torsades de pointes

• Acute renal failure
• Disease of liver

• Chronic heart failure
• Chronic kidney disease stage 2 (mild) GFR 60-89 ml/min
• Chronic kidney disease stage 3A (moderate) GFR 45-59 ml/min

Adverse effects reported in 4% or more of patients receiving ranolazine and more frequently than placebo include constipation, dizziness, nausea, and headache.

Rare or Very Rare

• Angioedema
• Bradycardia
• Eosinophilia
• Hematuria
• Hypotension
• Leukopenia
• Myoclonus
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Pancytopenia
• Prolonged QT interval
• Pulmonary fibrosis
• Renal failure
• Syncope
• Thrombocytopenic disorder
• Torsades de pointes

More Frequent

• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Headache disorder
• Nausea

Less Frequent

• Acute abdominal pain
• Anorexia
• Dyspepsia
• Dyspnea
• General weakness
• Hyperhidrosis
• Palpitations
• Peripheral edema
• Tinnitus
• Vertigo
• Vomiting
• Xerostomia

Rare or Very Rare

• Acute cognitive impairment
• Ataxia
• Blurred vision
• Dysuria
• Hallucinations
• Hypoesthesia
• Paresthesia
• Pruritus of skin
• Skin rash
• Tremor
• Urinary retention
• Urine discoloration

No enhanced messaging available.

Safety and efficacy not established in children younger than 18 years of age.

Category C. (See Users Guide.)

It is not known whether ranolazine is distributed into milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions to ranolazine in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the woman.

A substantial number of patients studied in controlled clinical trials of ranolazine for management of chronic angina were geriatric (i.e., 48% were 65 years of age or older and 11% were 75 years of age or older). No overall differences in efficacy were observed between older and younger patients. In addition, no differences in safety were reported between patients 65 years of age or older and younger patients. However, in patients 75 years of age or older, higher and greater severity of adverse effects and drug discontinuance associated with ranolazine (compared with placebo) was observed. In general, dosage of ranolazine should be selected cautiously in geriatric patients, usually initiating therapy at the low end of the dosage range. The greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, and/or cardiac function and of concomitant disease and drug therapy observed in the elderly also should be considered.