Qualaquin (quinine sulfate)

Dosage of quinine sulfate is expressed in terms of the salt.

The only FDA-approved preparations of quinine sulfate currently commercially available in the US are capsules containing 324 mg of quinine sulfate (Qualaquin(R); generic); the drug was previously available in the US as capsules containing 325 mg. This difference in quinine sulfate preparations may result in minor disparities between some published dosage recommendations that were based on the previously available 325-mg capsules and dosage recommendations for the currently available 324-mg capsules.

Quinine sulfate is administered orally.

Although quinine has been administered by slow IV infusion as quinine dihydrochloride, a parenteral preparation of the drug is no longer is available for use in the US, either commercially or from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When parenteral antimalarial therapy is indicated, IV quinidine gluconate should be used. (See Quinidine in 24:04.04.04.)

Quinine sulfate should be administered with food to minimize possible GI irritation.

Patients should be advised to take quinine sulfate exactly as prescribed and to contact their clinicians if they have questions regarding the prescribed dosage regimen, including missed doses. If a patient misses a dose, they should be advised not to double the next dose; if more than 4 hours have elapsed following a missed dose, the patient should not take the missed dose and should take the next dose as previously scheduled.

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.

Antimalarial Agents/Penicillamine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use may result in additive or synergistic effects on the blood and kidneys(1) or increased penicillamine levels.(2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of penicillamine with antimalarials may result in serious hematologic or renal toxicity(1,2) or elevated levels of penicillamine.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of penicillamine states that penicillamine should not be used in patients receiving concurrent therapy with antimalarial agents.(1)

DISCUSSION: In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, concurrent chloroquine increased penicillamine plasma concentrations by 34% when compared to penicillamine alone.(2) In a 2-year controlled, double-blind trial of penicillamine, hydroxychloroquine, or combination therapy, patients on combination therapy did not do as well as patients receiving penicillamine alone.(3) Because antimalarial agents are associated with hematologic and renal toxicity, the manufacturer of penicillamine states that penicillamine should not be used in patients receiving concurrent antimalarials.(1)

Antimalarials/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: Halofantrine and quinine may inhibit the metabolism of lumefantrine by CYP2D6.(1) The combination of artemether-lumefantrine and antimalarials may result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in toxicity and/or prolongation of the QT interval, which may result in life-threatening arrhythmias.(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 UK manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that the concurrent use of artemether-lumefantrine with other antimalarials is contraindicated.(1) The US manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine states that artemether-lumefantrine should not be given concurrently with antimalarials.(2) If a patient deteriorates during artemether-lumefantrine therapy and requires another antimalarial agent, it may be started immediately, but the UK manufacturer of artemether-lumefantrine recommends ECG and potassium monitoring.(1) In patients who have previously received halofantrine, both the UK and US manufacturers of artemether-lumefantrine recommends that one month elapse between the last dose of halofantrine and the initiation of artemether-lumefantrine.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 14 healthy subjects, administration of a single intravenous dose of quinine (10 mg/kg) 2 hours after the sixth dose of artemether-lumefantrine had no effect on lumefantrine or dihydroartemisinin levels. Artemether levels were decreased; however, this was not believed to be clinically significant.(1,2) Concurrent quinine and artemether-lumefantrine produced a slight, but significant increase on the QTc interval.(1)

Antimalarials/Halofantrine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Possibly additive effects on the QTc interval.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of halofantrine and other antimalarials, such as quinine, chloroquine, or mefloquine, may predispose patients to development of prolonged QTc intervals.(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).(5)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of halofantrine states under the contraindications section of the prescribing information that unless there are compelling clinical reasons, halofantrine should not be used with other antimalarials, such as quinine, chloroquine, or mefloquine.(1) The US manufacturer of halofantrine states that halofantrine should not be given with or subsequent to mefloquine.(2) The US manufacturer of mefloquine states that halofantrine must not be given concurrently with or within 15 weeks of the last dose of mefloquine.(3) 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 halofantrine and mefloquine has been reported to result in further prolongation of the QTc interval.(4) Because concurrent use may predispose patients to prolongation of the QTc interval, the UK manufacturer of halofantrine states under the contraindications section of the prescribing information that halofantrine should not be used with other antimalarials such as quinine, chloroquine, or mefloquine unless compelling clinical reasons exist.(1) The US manufacturer of halofantrine states that halofantrine should not be given with or subsequent to mefloquine.(2) The US manufacturer of mefloquine states that halofantrine must not be given with or subsequent to mefloquine.(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.

Chloroquine;Hydroxychloroquine;Quinidine;Quinine/Mefloquine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown, but may involve additive effects between mefloquine and antimalarials including chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine or quinine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of mefloquine with chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine or quinine may result in electrocardiographic abnormalities, cardiac arrest, and/or an increased risk of convulsions.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of mefloquine with chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine, or quinine is contraindicated. If these agents are used in the initial treatment of malaria, the administration of mefloquine should be delayed until 12 hours after the last dose of chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, quinidine, or quinine.(1)

DISCUSSION: There is little clinical information to support this interaction. An in vitro study in human liver microsomes showed that quinine inhibits the metabolism of mefloquine.(2) The manufacturer of mefloquine states that concurrent administration of mefloquine with quinine or quinidine may produce electrocardiographic abnormalities or cardiac arrest and that the concurrent administration of mefloquine and quinine or chloroquine may increase the risk of convulsions.(1) The manufacturer of mefloquine states that if quinine or quinidine are used in the treatment of malaria, 12 hours should elapse between the their last dose and the first dose of mefloquine.(1)

Immunosuppressive; Immunomod/Cladribine Onc Inj (10 MG/5 ML)

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: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The UK and AU manufacturers of Litak state that concomitant use of other myelosuppressive medicinal products with cladribine is contraindicated.(1-2) The Israeli manufacturer of Litak states that cladribine should not be used concomitantly with other myelosuppressive medicinal products.(3)

DISCUSSION: The risk of severe myelotoxicity and long-lasting immunosuppression is increased in patients with a disease-related bone marrow infiltration or a previous myelosuppressive treatment.(1-3)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Efalizumab; Natalizumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Natalizumab,(1-3) efalizumab,(4) immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of natalizumab(1-3) or efalizumab(4) with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of infections, including progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Previous JCV infection, longer duration of natalizumab treatment - especially if greater than 2 years, and prior or concomitant treatment with immunosuppressant medication are all independent risk factors which increase the risk for PML.(1,5) The FDA has estimated PML incidence stratified by risk factors: If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence <1/1,000. If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment less than 25 months, incidence 2/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, no prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 4/1,000 If anti-JCV antibody positive, history of prior immunosuppressant use and natalizumab treatment 25-48 months, incidence 11/1,000.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of natalizumab states patients with Crohn's disease should not receive concurrent immunosuppressants, with the exception of limited overlap of corticosteroids, due to the increased risk for PML. For new natalizumab patients currently receiving chronic oral corticosteroids for Crohn's Disease, begin corticosteroid taper when therapeutic response to natalizumab has occurred. If corticosteroids cannot be discontinued within six months of starting natalizumab, discontinue natalizumab.(3) The US manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not ordinarily be used in multiple sclerosis patients receiving immunosuppressants or immunomodulators due to the increased risk for PML. Immunosuppressives include, but are not limited to azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, mercaptopurine, methotrexate, mitoxantrone, mycophenolate, and corticosteroids.(3,6) The UK manufacturer of natalizumab states that concurrent use with immunosuppressives or antineoplastic agents is contraindicated.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of natalizumab states that natalizumab should not be used with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents.(2) The US manufacturer of certolizumab states that concurrent therapy with natalizumab is not recommended.(7)

DISCUSSION: Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy has been reported in patients receiving concurrent natalizumab were recently or concomitantly taking immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-5,8,9) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(10)

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)

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/Bepridil

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: Bepridil 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 bepridil with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Hypokalemia, the use of potassium wasting diuretics, and the presence of antecedent bradycardia may increase the risk of torsades de pointes.(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, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibitors its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of bepridil states under contraindications that bepridil is contraindicated in patients taking other drugs that prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Cisapride

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: Torsades de pointes has been reported with cisapride. 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 cisapride 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 torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

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

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Disopyramide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: 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 torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

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 alternatives are not available and concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitor ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Dronedarone

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of dronedarone states that the use of drugs or herbal products that are known to prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated. These agents include phenothiazine anti-psychotics, tricyclic antidepressants, certain oral macrolide antibiotics, and Class IA and III antiarrhythmics.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Droperidol

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Congestive heart failure, bradycardia, use of a diuretic, cardiac hypertrophy, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, age over 65 years, alcohol abuse, and the use of agents such as benzodiazepines, volatile anesthetics, and intravenous opiate may predispose patients to the development of prolonged QT syndrome.(1) Risk may also be increased in patients with other cardiovascular diseases (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypocalcemia, or female gender.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of droperidol states under precautions drug interactions that drugs known to have the potential to prolong the QT interval should not be used together with droperidol.(1)

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Levomethadyl

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: Levomethadyl has been shown to prolong the QTc interval and induce torsade de pointes. 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 levomethadyl with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Congestive heart failure, bradycardia, diuretic use, cardiac hypertrophy, hypokalemia, or hypomagnesemia may increase the risk of torsade de pointes and/or sudden death.(1) The risk of QT prolongation may also be increased in patients with other cardiovascular diseases (e.g. myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypocalcemia, 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 levomethadyl states under contraindications that levomethadyl is contraindicated in patients being treated concomitantly with other drug products known to prolong the QT interval.(1)

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Pimozide

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug know to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pimozide states under contraindications that the use of pimozide is contraindicated in patients taking other drugs which prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Qt Prolonging Agents/Sparfloxacin

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: Sparfloxacin 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 sparfloxacin 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 sparfloxacin states under contraindications that sparfloxacin is contraindicated in patients being treated concomitantly with medications known to produce an increase in the QTc interval and/or torsade de pointes.(1)

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Quinidine; Quinine/Selected Macrolides

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Clarithromycin, erythromycin and troleandomycin may inhibit the metabolism of quinidine(1) and quinine(2) by CYP3A4. Azithromycin, clarithromycin and erythromycin have been associated with prolongation of the QT interval.(3,4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, or troleandomycin may result in elevated levels and effects from quinidine and quinine, including torsades de pointes.(3,4)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of quinidine with azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin or troleandomycin should be avoided when possible. If combination therapy is required evaluate patient-specific predisposing risk factors, baseline QTc interval, and monitor as appropriate. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities. The dosage of quinidine may need to be adjusted in patients receiving erythromycin or troleandomycin. The US manufacturer of quinine states that concurrent use of erythromycin or troleandomycin should be avoided.(2)

DISCUSSION: In a study in 30 healthy males, pretreatment with erythromycin (250 mg 4 times daily) decreased the total clearance, partial clearance by 3-hydroxylation, and partial clearance by N-oxidation of a single oral dose of quinidine (200 mg) by 34%, 50%, and 33%, respectively. Quinidine maximum concentration (Cmax) increased by 39%.(6) QT prolongation(7) and quinidine toxicity(8) have been reported following erythromycin administration. In a cross-over study in 10 healthy subjects, troleandomycin (500 mg every 8 hours) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of a single oral dose of quinine sulfate (600 mg) by 87%. Quinine clearance was 45% lower and the formation clearance of 3-hydroxyquinine, quinine's main metabolite, decreased 81%.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Quinine/Astemizole

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: Quinine inhibits the metabolism of astemizole.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased levels of astemizole, which have been shown to result in QT prolongation, cardiac arrest, cardiac arrhythmias (including torsades de pointes), and death.

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent administration of these agents is contraindicated according to the manufacturer's product information for astemizole. 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: Studies have shown that concurrent administration of quinine (430 mg single dose) and astemizole results in increased levels of astemizole and desmethylastemizole, as well as QT prolongation. Studies in humans have also been shown that beverage containing quinine (up to 80 mg/day or 32 ounces of tonic water) can produce increases in astemizole, although the QT interval was not significantly prolonged.

Selected Immunosuppressants/Nadofaragene Firadenovec

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Nadofaragene firadenovec may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of nadofaragene firadenovec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause disseminated adenovirus infection.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Individuals who are immunosuppressed or immune-deficient should not receive nadofaragene firadenovec.(1)

DISCUSSION: Nadofaragene firadenovec is a non-replicating adenoviral vector-based gene therapy but may contain low levels of replication-competent adenovirus. Immunocompromised persons, including those receiving immunosuppressant therapy, may be at risk for disseminated adenovirus infection.(1)

Selected Immunosuppressants/Talimogene Laherparepvec

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Talimogene laherparepvec is a live, attenuated herpes simplex virus.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Talimogene laherparepvec is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(1) The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks due to immunosuppressant drugs should be determined by a physician.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of talimogene laherparepvec in patients receiving immunosuppressive therapy may cause a life-threatening disseminated herpetic infection.(1)

Selected Immunosuppressive Agents/Live Vaccines; Live Bcg

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: A variety of disease modifying agents suppress the immune system. Immunocompromised patients may be at increased risk for uninhibited replication after administration of live, attenuated vaccines or intravesicular BCG. Immune response to vaccines may be decreased during periods of immunocompromise.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1) After instillation of intravesicular BCG, immunosuppression may interfere with local immune response, or increase the severity of mycobacterial infection following inadvertent systemic exposure.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Immunosuppressive diseases (e.g. hematologic malignancies, HIV disease), treatments (e.g. radiation) and drugs may all increase the magnitude of immunodeficiency.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are immunocompromised. The magnitude of immunocompromise and associated risks should be determined by a physician.(1) For patients scheduled to receive chemotherapy, vaccination should ideally precede the initiation of chemotherapy by 14 days. Patients vaccinated while on immunosuppressive therapy or in the 2 weeks prior to starting therapy should be considered unimmunized and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after discontinuation of therapy.(1) Patients who receive anti-B cell therapies should not receive live vaccines for at least 6 months after such therapies due to a prolonged duration of immunosuppression. An exception is the Zoster vaccine, which can be given at least 1 month after receipt of anti-B cell therapies.(1) The US manufacturer of abatacept states live vaccines should not be given during or for up to 3 months after discontinuation of abatacept.(2) The US manufacturer of live BCG for intravesicular treatment of bladder cancer states use is contraindicated in immunosuppressed patients.(3) The US manufacturer of daclizumab states live vaccines are not recommended during and for up to 4 months after discontinuation of treatment.(4) The US manufacturer of guselkumab states that live vaccines should be avoided during treatment with guselkumab.(5) The US manufacturer of inebilizumab-cdon states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and after discontinuation until B-cell repletion. Administer all live vaccinations at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of inebilizumab-cdon.(6) The US manufacturer of ocrelizumab states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell repletion occurs after discontinuation of therapy. Administer all live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ocrelizumab.(7) The US manufacturer of ozanimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for up to 3 months after discontinuation of ozanimod.(8) The US manufacturer of siponimod states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and for up to 4 weeks after discontinuation of treatment.(9) The US manufacturer of ustekinumab states BCG vaccines should not be given in the year prior to, during, or the year after ustekinumab therapy.(10) The US manufacturer of satralizumab-mwge states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and should be administered at least four weeks prior to initiation of satralizumab-mwge.(11) The US manufacturer of ublituximab-xiiy states that live vaccines are not recommended during treatment and until B-cell recovery. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of ublituximab-xiiy.(12) The US manufacturer of etrasimod states that live vaccines should be avoided during and for 5 weeks after treatment. Live vaccines should be administered at least 4 weeks prior to initiation of etrasimod.(13) The US manufacturer of emapalumab-lzsg states that live vaccines should not be administered to patients receiving emapalumab-lzsg and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose of emapalumab-lzsg. The safety of immunization with live vaccines during or following emapalumab-lzsg therapy has not been studied.(14) The US manufacturer of sibeprenlimab-szsi states live vaccines should not be given within 30 days prior to initiation or during treatment with sibeprenlimab-szsi.(15)

DISCUSSION: Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1) Patients with a history of leukemia who are in remission and have not received chemotherapy for at least 3 months are not considered to be immunocompromised.(1)

Selected Qt Prolonging Agents/Saquinavir

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: QT prolongation has been reported with ritonavir-boosted saquinavir. 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 ritonavir-boosted saquinavir with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of saquinavir states that concurrent use of atazanavir, chlorpromazine, clarithromycin, clozapine, dasatinib, erythromycin, halofantrine, haloperidol, mesoridazine, pentamidine, quinine, rilpivirine, sertindole, sunitinib, tacrolimus, thioridazine, or ziprasidone is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If concurrent use with dasatinib and saquinavir is warranted, consider decreasing the dose of dasatinib to 20 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 70 mg daily, 20 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 100 mg daily, and to 40 mg daily in patients taking dasatinib 140 mg daily. If these doses are not tolerated, either saquinavir or dasatinib must be discontinued. If saquinavir is discontinued, a one-week washout period should be allowed before the dosage of dasatinib is increased. For patients taking dasatinib 60 mg or 40 mg daily, saquinavir should not be used concurrently. If concurrent therapy with sunitinib is warranted, a dosage reduction of sunitinib to a minimum of 37.5 mg daily in patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) or advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) or to a minimum of 25 mg in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) should be considered.

DISCUSSION: Ritonavir-boosted saquinavir increases the QT interval in a dose dependent manner.(1) In a study in 20 subjects, concurrent atazanavir (300 mg daily) and saquinavir/ritonavir (1600/100 mg daily) increased saquinavir AUC and Cmax by 60% and 42%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of atazanavir were not reported.(1) In a study in 12 subjects, concurrent clarithromycin and saquinavir base increased clarithromycin AUC and Cmax by 45% and by 39%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of 14-OH-clarithromycin were decreased by 24% and by 34%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of saquinavir increased by 177% and by 187%, 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.(2) Selected QT prolonging agents linked to this monograph include: atazanavir, chlorpromazine, clarithromycin, clozapine, dasatinib, erythromycin, halofantrine, haloperidol, mesoridazine, pentamidine, quinine, rilpivirine, sertindole, sunitinib, tacrolimus, thioridazine, and ziprasidone.

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

Immunosuppres;Immunomodul/Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ocrelizumab or ofatumumab in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ocrelizumab or ofatumumab with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ocrelizumab US prescribing information states: - Ocrelizumab and other immune-modulating or immunosuppressive therapies, (including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with ocrelizumab. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as daclizumab, fingolimod, natalizumab, teriflunomide, or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating ocrelizumab.(1) The ofatumumab US prescribing information states: - Ofatumumab and other immunosuppressive therapies (including systemic corticosteroids) may have the potential for increased immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. When switching between therapies, the duration and mechanism of action of each therapy should be considered due to the potential for additive immunosuppressive effects. Ofatumumab for MS therapy has not been studied in combination with other MS agents that suppress the immune system.(2)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) In a retrospective cohort study of multiple sclerosis patients newly initiated on a disease-modifying therapy, use of high-efficacy agents (alemtuzumab, natalizumab, or ocrelizumab) resulted in the same risk of overall infections as moderate-efficacy agents, but there was an elevated risk of serious infections (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.24, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.06-1.44) and UTIs (aHR = 1.21, 95% CI = 1.14-1.30).(3)

Immunosuppres;Immunomodulators That Prolong Qt/Fingolimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3) Initiation of fingolimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3) The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes. There is no consistent signal of increased incidence of QTc outliers, either absolute or change from baseline, associated with fingolimod treatment.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to fingolimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to fingolimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(4) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for managing this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The fingolimod US prescribing information states: - Antineoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies (including corticosteroids) are expected to increase the risk of immunosuppression, and the risk of additive immune system effects must be considered if these therapies are coadministered with fingolimod. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, such as natalizumab, teriflunomide or mitoxantrone, the duration and mode of action of these drugs must be considered to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects when initiating fingolimod.(1) The fingolimod Canadian prescribing information states: - Concurrent use with immunosuppressive or immunomodulatory agents is contraindicated due to the risk of additive immune system effects. However, co-administration of a short course of corticosteroids (up to 5 days) did not increase the overall rate of infection in patients participating Phase III clinical trials.(2) The fingolimod UK summary of product characteristics states: - Fingolimod is contraindicated in patients currently receiving immunosuppressive therapies or those immunocompromised by prior therapies. When switching patients from another disease modifying therapy to fingolimod, the half-life and mode of action of the other therapy must be considered in order to avoid an additive immune effect whilst at the same time minimizing the risk of disease activation.(3) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time fingolimod is initiated or resumed should be monitored overnight with continuous ECG monitoring in a medical facility. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1) Correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia prior to starting fingolimod.

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3) After the first dose of fingolimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 6 hours followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. The second dose may further decrease heart rate, but the magnitude of change is smaller than the first dose. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about one month.(1,2) In a thorough QT interval study of doses of 1.25 or 2.5 mg fingolimod at steady-state, when a negative chronotropic effect of fingolimod was still present, fingolimod treatment resulted in a prolongation of QTc, with the upper boundary of the 90% confidence interval (CI) of 14.0 msec. The cause of death in a patient who died within 24 hours after taking the first dose of fingolimod was not conclusive; however a link to fingolimod or a drug interaction with fingolimod could not be ruled out.(1)

Immunosuppressiv; Immunomodulators That Prolong Qt/Etrasimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system. Initiation of etrasimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 7 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose.(1) This may increase the risk of QT prolongation.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1) Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate. A mean decrease in heart rate of 7.2 (8.98) beats per minute was seen 2 to 3 hours after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk of infection. Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to etrasimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation, or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to etrasimod.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1) If concurrent therapy is unavoidable, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present prior to initiation of etrasimod.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) Monitor blood pressure during treatment.(1)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1) Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate or transient AV conduction delays.(1) A transient decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of etrasimod and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks) were detected at a higher incidence under etrasimod treatment than placebo.(1)

Immunosuppressiv; Immunomodulators That Prolong Qt/Siponimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Siponimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) Initiation of siponimod has a negative chronotropic effect and can cause bradycardia.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of siponimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) The heart rate lowering effect of siponimod starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. This leads to a mean decrease in heart rate of 5-6 beats per minute after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from Day 1-baseline reached on Day 5-6. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsade de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to siponimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to siponimod. The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information includes this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1,2) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time siponimod is initiated or resumed should be referred to a cardiologist. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) After the first dose of siponimod, heart rate decrease may begin within an hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 10 days.(1,2) A transient, dose-dependent decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of siponimod, which plateaued at doses greater than or equal to 5 mg, and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks and sinus pauses) were detected at a higher incidence under siponimod treatment than placebo. AV blocks and sinus pauses occurred above the recommended dose of 2 mg, with notably higher incidence under non-titrated conditions compared to dose titration conditions.(1)

Immunosuppressiv;Immunomodulators That Prolong Qt/Ponesimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1) Initiation of ponesimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 6 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ponesimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1) The heart rate lowering effect of ponesimod reaches an initial decrease within an hour and reaches its nadir within 2-4 hours. The heart rate typically recovers to baseline levels 4-5 hours after administration. All patients recovered from bradycardia. The conduction abnormalities typically were transient, asymptomatic, resolved within 24 hours. Second- and third-degree AV blocks were not reported. With up-titration after Day 1, the post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ponesimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation, or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ponesimod.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1) Ponesimod is generally not recommended in patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent, anti-arrhythmic drugs, or drugs that may decrease heart rate. Consultation with a cardiologist is recommended. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1) After the first dose of ponesimod, heart rate decrease may begin within the first hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 4-5 hours.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Baricitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants such as azathioprine or cyclosporine may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of baricitinib states that concurrent use of baricitinib with biologic DMARDs or potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: Most patients who developed serious infections while being treated with baricitinib were on concomitant immunosuppressants like methotrexate and corticosteroids. The combination of baricitinib with other biologic DMARDs has not been studied.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Cladribine Oral

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The cladribine US prescribing information states: -Concomitant use with myelosuppressive or other immunosuppressive drugs is not recommended. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered. In patients who have previously been treated with immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs, consider potential additive effect, the mode of action, and duration of effect of the other drugs prior to initiation of cladribine.(1) The cladribine Canadian prescribing information states: -Use of cladribine in immunocompromised patients is contraindicated because of a risk of additive effects on the immune system. Acute short-term therapy with corticosteroids can be administered during cladribine treatment.(2)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-2)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Deuruxolitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deuruxolitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deuruxolitinib and potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of deuruxolitinib states that concurrent use of deuruxolitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of infection. If a patient develops a serious or opportunistic infection, interrupt deuruxolitinib treatment until the infection is controlled.

DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving treatment with deuruxolitinib.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Filgotinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or other Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic DMARDs, or other JAK inhibitors may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of filgotinib states that concurrent use of filgotinib with other immunosuppressants or immunomodulators including azathioprine, cyclosporine, tacrolimus, biologic DMARDs, or other JAK inhibitors is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving filgotinib. Caution should be used in patients with a higher incidence of serious infection, including elderly patients aged 75 years and older.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Inebilizumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inebilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in myelosuppression including neutropenia resulting in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of inebilizumab states that the concurrent use of inebilizumab with immunosuppressive agents, including systemic corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)

DISCUSSION: Inebilizumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents. The most common infections reported by inebilizumab treated patients in the randomized and open-label clinical trial periods included urinary tract infections (20%), nasopharyngitis (13%), upper respiratory tract infections (8%), and influenza (7%). Although there been no cases of Hepatitis B virus reactivation or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy reported in patients taking inebilizumab, these infections have been observed in patients taking other B-cell-depleting antibodies.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ritlecitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ritlecitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ritlecitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ritlecitinib states that concurrent use of ritlecitinib with other JAK inhibitors, biologic immunomodulators, cyclosporine or other potent immunosuppressants is not recommended.(1)

DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving ritlecitinib. Reported infections included appendicitis, COVID-19 infection (including pneumonia), and sepsis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation was reported in clinical studies with ritlecitinib.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Tofacitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), or potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants use may increase the risk of serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Tofacitinib should not be used concurrently with azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or cyclosporine.(1) Patient should be monitored for decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils. Therapy should be adjusted based on the indication. - For all indications: If absolute neutrophil count (ANC) or lymphocyte count is less than 500 cells/mm3, discontinue tofacitinib. - For rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily or Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily. - For ulcerative colitis and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: -If taking Xeljanz 10 mg twice daily, decrease to 5 mg twice daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 10 mg twice daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz 5 mg twice daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 5 mg twice daily. -If taking Xeljanz XR 22 mg once daily, decrease to 11 mg once daily. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, increase to 22 mg once daily based on clinical response. -If taking Xeljanz XR 11 mg once daily, interrupt dosing. When ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3, resume 11 mg once daily. - For polyarticular course juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pcJIA) and ANC 500 to 1000 cells/mm3: interrupt dosing until ANC is greater than 1000 cells/mm3.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of tofacitinib and azathioprine, other biologic DMARDs, or potent immunosuppressants may increase the risk of infection.(1) Serious infections due to bacterial, mycobacterial, invasive fungal, viral, or other opportunistic pathogens have been reported in patients receiving tofacitinib. Some patients presented with disseminated disease and were often taking concomitant immunomodulating agents. In the ulcerative colitis population, a greater risk of serious infections was seen with a higher tofacitinib dose. In 7 placebo-controlled rheumatoid arthritis trials (0-3 months exposure), the overall frequency of infections was 20% in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily group and 22% in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily group compared to 18% in the placebo group. Serious infections were reported in 11 patients (1.7 events per 100 patient-years) with a rate difference between treatment groups of 1.1 (-0.4, 2.5) events per 100 patient-years for both tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily and 10 mg twice daily. During 0-12 months exposure, serious infections were reported in 34 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient years) in the tofacitinib 5 mg twice daily group and 33 patients (2.7 events per 100 patient years) in the tofacitinib 10 mg twice daily group.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Upadacitinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Upadacitinib, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators may result in an increased risk of serious infections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of upadacitinib states that concurrent use of upadacitinib with immunosuppressives or immunomodulators is not recommended.

DISCUSSION: Serious infections have been reported in patients receiving upadacitinib. Reported infections included pneumonia, cellulitis, tuberculosis, multidermatomal herpes zoster, oral/esophageal candidiasis, cryptococcosis. Reports of viral reactivation, including herpes virus reactivation and hepatitis B reactivation, were reported in clinical studies with upadacitinib.(1)

Immunosuppressives;Immunomodulators That Prolong Qt/Ozanimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1,2) Initiation of ozanimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ozanimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1,2) The initial heart rate lowering effect of ozanimod usually occurs within 5 hours. With continued up-titration, the maximal heart rate effect of ozanimod occurred on Day 8. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications may increase the risk from this interaction. Pre-existing cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, stroke, or heart block), severe untreated sleep apnea, a prolonged QTc interval prior to ozanimod initiation, factors associated with QTc prolongation (e.g. hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia), or concomitant treatment with QT prolonging agents may increase risk for cardiovascular toxicity due to ozanimod.(1,2) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may also be increased in patients with a history of torsades de pointes, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of the QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information includes this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1,2) Patients receiving concurrent treatment with a QT prolonging agent at the time ozanimod is initiated or resumed should receive consultation with a cardiologist. Consult the prescribing information for recommendations regarding cardiac monitoring.(1)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1,2) After the first dose of ozanimod heart rate decline is usually maximal at approximately 5 hours, returning to baseline at 6 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, max heart rate effect occurred on day 8.(1,2)

Myelosuppressive Agents That Prolong Qt/Clozapine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of clozapine with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) Clozapine and concurrent use with other myelosuppressive agents may be associated with additive risk of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of clozapine in patients maintained on other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1-3) Moderate neutropenia, even if due to combination therapy, may require abrupt discontinuation of clozapine resulting in decompensation of the patient's psychiatric disorder (e.g. schizophrenia). The disease treated by other agents may be compromised if myelosuppression requires dose reduction, delay, or discontinuation of the myelosuppressive agent. Undetected severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis may be fatal.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) Low white blood counts prior to initiation of the myelosuppressive agent may increase risk for clinically significant neutropenia.(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Approach the concurrent use of clozapine and other agents that prolong the QTc interval with caution.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If a patient stabilized on clozapine therapy requires treatment with other myelosuppressive agents the clozapine prescriber should consult with the prescriber of the myelosuppressive agent to discuss treatment and monitoring options. More frequent absolute neutrophil count (ANC) monitoring or treatment alternatives secondary to neutropenic episodes may need to be considered. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends that prescribers monitor patients' ANC according to the monitoring frequencies described in the prescribing information. Severe neutropenia remains a serious, potentially fatal risk that is greatest in the first several months of clozapine treatment. ANC monitoring can help identify neutropenia early to allow for timely intervention.(4) Australia, Canada and U.K.: Clozapine is only available through a restricted distribution system which requires documentation of the ANC prior to dispensing. For most clozapine patients, clozapine treatment must be interrupted for a suspected clozapine-induced ANC < 1000 cells/microliter. For patients with benign ethnic neutropenia (BEN), treatment must be interrupted for suspected clozapine-induced neutropenia < 500 cells/microliter.(1)

DISCUSSION: Treatment with clozapine has been associated with QT prolongation as well as ventricular arrhythmia, torsades de pointes, cardiac arrest, and sudden death.(1) Myelosuppressive agents that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: arsenic, crizotinib, dasatinib, encorafenib, entrectinib, epirubicin, eribulin, fexinidazole, glasdegib, inotuzumab, lenvatinib, midostaurin, nilotinib, osimertinib, oxaliplatin, pacritinib, panobinostat, pazopanib, pentamidine, quinine, quizartinib, revumenib, ribociclib, romidepsin, rucaparib, sorafenib, tacrolimus, and vinflunine.

Myelosuppressives That Affect Iodide/Sodium Iodide I 131

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sodium iodide I 131 can cause depression of the hematopoetic system. Myelosuppressives and immunomodulators also suppress the immune system.(1) Many compounds can affect iodide protein binding and alter iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sodium iodide I 131 with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives or immunomodulators, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding.(1) Compounds that affect iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may impact the effectiveness of radioactive iodide.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Compounds that affect iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are expected to have the most impact during therapy using radioactive iodide. Diagnostic procedures would be expected to be impacted less.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sodium iodide I 131 states that concurrent use with bone marrow depressants may enhance the depression of the hematopoetic system caused by large doses of sodium iodide I 131.(1) Sodium iodide I 131 causes a dose-dependent bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia or thrombocytopenia, in the 3 to 5 weeks following administration. Patients may be at increased risk of infections or bleeding during this time. Monitor complete blood counts within one month of therapy. If results indicate leukopenia or thrombocytopenia, dosimetry should be used to determine a safe sodium iodide I 131 activity.(1) Discuss the use of agents that affect iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics with the patient's oncologist.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: Hematologic disorders including death have been reported with sodium iodide I 131. The most common hematologic disorders reported include anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia.(1) Many agents interact with radioactive iodine. The average duration of effect is: anticoagulants - 1 week antihistamines - 1 week anti-thyroid drugs, e.g: carbimazole, methimazole, propylthiouracil - 3-5 days corticosteroids - 1 week iodide-containing medications, e.g: amiodarone - 1-6 months expectorants - 2 weeks Lugol solution - 3 weeks saturated solution of potassium iodine - 3 weeks vitamins - 10-14 days iodide-containing X-ray contrast agents - up to 1 year lithium - 4 weeks phenylbutazone - 1-2 weeks sulfonamides - 1 week thyroid hormones (natural or synthetic), e.g.: thyroxine - 4 weeks tri-iodothyronine - 2 weeks tolbutamide - 1 week topical iodide - 1-9 months (1,2)

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/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)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Levoketoconazole

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Levoketoconazole has been observed to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-dependent manner. Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of levoketoconazole states that levoketoconazole is contraindicated with other agents that prolong the QT interval.(1) Levoketoconazole is also contraindicated in patients with a prolonged QTcF interval of greater than 470 msec at baseline, history of torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, or long QT syndrome (including first-degree family history). Use caution in patients with other risk factors for QT prolongation including congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, and uncorrected electrolyte abnormalities. Consider more frequent ECG monitoring. Prior to starting levoketoconazole, obtain a baseline ECG and correct hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia. If a patient develops QT prolongation with a QTc interval greater than 500 msec, temporarily discontinue levoketoconazole. After resolution of prolonged QTc interval, levoketoconazole may be resumed at a lower dose. If QTc interval prolongation recurs, permanently discontinue levoketoconazole.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: During phase 1 and 2 studies, which excluded patients with baseline QTcF interval greater than 470 msec, 4 (2.4%) patients experienced QTcF > 500 msec, and 23 (14.7%) patients experienced change-from-baseline QTcF > 60 msec.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

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/Ivabradine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: QT prolongation may be exacerbated by ivabradine-induced reduction in heart rate.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ivabradine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may exacerbate QT prolongation.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK, AU, and Canadian manufacturer of ivabradine states that concurrent use with cardiovascular and non-cardiovascular QT prolonging agents should be avoided.(1,4,5) The Canadian manufacturer states that if concurrent therapy is deemed necessary, close cardiac monitoring (12-lead ECG) is required. Depending on the ECG results, ivabradine dosing may need to be decreased or stopped.(4) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have 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/Vandetanib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of vandetanib states that the use of vandetanib with other agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) The manufacturer of vandetanib states therapy should be interrupted if Corrected QT interval, Fridericia (QTcF) is greater than 500 ms; resume at a reduced dose when the QTcF returns to less than 450 ms. Consult current prescribing information for further details.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Vandetanib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-dependent manner. Vandetanib has a long half-life (19 days) and effects on the QTc interval may not resolve quickly following vandetanib discontinuation.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received vandetanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 4 (80%) with 0 (0%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 1 (25%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (25%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 2 (50%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients had ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(4) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

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)

Quinidine; Quinine/Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may decrease the metabolism of quinidine or quinine.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of quinidine or quinine with CYP3A4 inhibitors may lead to increased serum levels and adverse effects of quinidine or quinine, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1,2)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent CYP3A4 inhibitors should be monitored for increased effects of quinidine or quinine.(1-2) The manufacturer of sevabertinib states that concurrent use of drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and have a narrow therapeutic window like quinidine or quinine should be avoided.(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: Serious cardiovascular events, including QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest, and/or sudden death have been reported in patients taking quinidine in combination with CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1) In a study of healthy volunteers, ketoconazole (100 mg twice daily for 3 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of single-dose quinine (500 mg) by 45% compared to quinine alone.(2) In a clinical study, coadministration of midazolam (a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate) with sevabertinib (20 mg twice daily) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of midazolam by 2-fold and 1.8-fold.(3) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: camizestrant, relacorilant, and sevabertinib.(5,6)

Quinine Derivatives/Neuromuscular Blocking Agents

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Synergistic or additive pharmacologic activity.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: May see an increase in the neuromuscular blocking effects, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent administration of neuromuscular blocking agents and quinine derivatives during the first several hours of postoperative period. If administered, respiratory support may be needed. If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.

DISCUSSION: Administration of quinidine during the immediate postoperative period has been associated with respiratory paralysis and apnea.

Quinine/Qt Prolonging Agents

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quinine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.

Quinine/Selected Anticoagulants (VIT K ANTAGONISTS)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Quinine may have the potential to depress hepatic enzyme synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of selected anticoagulants (vitamin K antagonists) and quinine may increase the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: 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: 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. The time of highest risk for a coumarin-type drug interaction is when the precipitant drug is initiated or discontinued. Contact the prescriber before initiating, altering the dose or discontinuing either drug.

DISCUSSION: This interaction has not been reported with quinine, only with quinidine; however, if an interaction occurs, the consequences could be severe.

Quinine/Selected Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may decrease the metabolism of quinidine.(2) Both agents have been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of quinidine with CYP3A4 inhibitors may lead to increased serum levels and adverse effects of quinidine, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes (TdP).(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Closely monitor for adverse effects of quinine during concurrent therapy.(1) The manufacturer of gepotidacin states that concurrent use of drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP3A4 and have a narrow therapeutic window like quinine should be avoided.(2) If concomitant use is unavoidable, monitor for adverse effects and consider dose reduction of quinine according to its prescribing information.(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 study of healthy volunteers, ketoconazole (100 mg twice daily for 3 days) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of single-dose quinine (500 mg) by 45% compared to quinine alone.(1) In a clinical study, coadministration of single-dose midazolam 2 mg (a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate) with gepotidacin (3,000 mg every 12 hours for 2 doses) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) of midazolam by 1.9-fold.(2) Selected CYP3A4 inhibitors linked to this monograph include: gepotidacin.(2)

Quinine/Selected Protease Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism of this interaction is not completely known and is likely multifactorial. Quinine is a substrate of CYP3A4, P-gp, and UGT.(1-3) Protease inhibitors primarily inhibit CYP3A4 but may also inhibit or induce other hepatic metabolic processes. In particular, ritonavir may induce P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and uridine-5'-diphospho-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT).(2-4) Nelfinavir and tipranavir are known to induce UGT while atazanavir and indinavir inhibit UGT.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent ritonavir has been reported to result in elevated levels of and toxicity from quinine. Quinine toxicity includes symptoms of cinchonism (headache, vasodilation/sweating, nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, tinnitus, hearing impairment, vertigo/dizziness, blurred vision/disturbance in color perception/blindness, abdominal pain, deafness) as well as QTc prolongation and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,5) On the other hand, concurrent lopinavir-ritonavir (fixed dose combination) has been reported to result in decreased levels of quinine. Whether this finding translates into reduced anti-malarial efficacy is unknown. One of the studies examining the use of lopinavir-ritonavir with quinine found that free, unbound levels of quinine was decreased, whereas the other found an increase in free quinine levels.(2,3)

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.(6) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for 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).(6)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of quinine and ritonavir recommend avoiding the use of quinine in patients maintained on ritonavir.(1,4) If concurrent therapy is required, consider reducing the dose of quinine.(1,4,5) There is no FDA or guideline recommendation for the concurrent use of other protease inhibitors with quinine. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model suggests that quinine dosage may need to be increased when used with lopinavir-ritonavir, based on decreased quinine concentrations when used with lopinavir-ritonavir.(7) Patients receiving concurrent therapy should be monitored with electrocardiograms during treatment with quinine. Electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, and potassium) should also be monitored.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In 10 healthy subjects, ritonavir (200 mg every 12 hours for 9 days) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of quinine (600 mg) by 4-fold each. The clearance of quinine decreased 4.5-fold. There were no significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of ritonavir.(1,5) A pharmacokinetic study of 12 healthy volunteers who were coadministered quinine and lopinavir-ritonavir found that lopinavir-ritonavir led to a decrease in the Cmax and AUC of total quinine by 48% and 50%, respectively, and of free quinine by 33% and 36%, respectively. The AUC and Cmax of total 3-hydroxyquinine, the major active metabolite of quinine, both decreased by 69%, and of free 3-hydroxyquinine decreased by 65% and 39%, respectively. The mechanism of interaction was attributed to ritonavir induction of UGT enzymes and of the P-gp transporter.(2) The effects of other ritonavir-boosted protease inhibitor regimens on quinine has not been studied. Nelfinavir and tipranavir are known to induce UGT while atazanavir and indinavir inhibit UGT. In another pharmacokinetic study of 19 healthy subjects, quinine Cmax and AUC decreased by 49% and 58%, respectively, when administered concurrently with lopinavir-ritonavir, compared to when administered alone. The Cmax and AUC of 3-hydroxyquinine decreased by 85% and 98%, respectively, when given with lopinavir-ritonavir. A significant increase (236%) in free quinine Cmax was observed. The clinical significance of these changes is unclear.(3) A physiologically based pharmacokinetic model predicted that lopinavir-ritonavir decreases the AUC of unbound quinine by about 70%, compared to quinine alone. The authors suggested increasing the dose of quinine from 600 mg three times daily to 1,800 mg three times daily.(7)

Select Antimalarials/Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers That Prolong Qt

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of quinidine and quinine.(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 strong CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of quinidine and quinine, and increase the risk of potentially life-threatening 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.(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: If possible, avoid the use of hydroquinidine or quinidine with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) The US manufacturer of quinine recommends avoiding the concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers because of the increased risk of malaria treatment failure.(2) In patients receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inducers, monitor quinidine or quinine serum levels and observe the patient for symptoms of reduced efficacy. Adjust the dosage accordingly. 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: Several studies document the reduction in quinidine response in patients receiving concurrent rifampin. Decreased elimination half-life, reduced area-under-curve (AUC), and low serum quinidine level were observed. In healthy volunteers, quinine AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) were reduced 85% and 55%, respectively, after a single dose of rifampin was added after two weeks of quinine therapy.(1) In a randomized control trial of 59 male patients with Plasmodium falciparum malaria, treatment with concomitant quinine and rifampin was associated with a cure rate of only 35% compared to 88% in those treated with quinine monotherapy. The AUC of quinine during treatment days 3 through 7 was significantly reduced in the quinine plus rifampin group compared to those treated with quinine alone (11.7 vs. 47.5 mcg/ml/day; p < 0.004).(4) In an open-label, cross-over study in 7 healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of mefloquine (500 mg) by 68% and 19%, respectively.(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 postmarketing reports.(6) Strong CYP3A4 inducers that prolong QT linked to this monograph include: encorafenib and ivosidenib.(7)

Select Moderate Cyp2d6 Inhibitors/Tamoxifen

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Inhibitors of CYP2D6 may inhibit the conversion of tamoxifen to endoxifen (an active metabolite of tamoxifen).(1-2) The role of endoxifen in tamoxifen's efficacy has been debated and may involve a minimum concentration level.(3-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of inhibitors of CYP2D6 may decrease the effectiveness of tamoxifen in preventing breast cancer recurrence.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors in patients who are CYP2D6 ultrarapid, normal, or intermediate metabolizers should be avoided. Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers lack CYP2D6 function and are not affected by CYP2D6 inhibition.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Although data on this interaction are conflicting, it may be prudent to use alternatives to CYP2D6 inhibitors when possible in patients taking tamoxifen. The US manufacturer of tamoxifen states that the impact on the efficacy of tamoxifen by strong CYP2D6 inhibitors is uncertain and makes no recommendation regarding coadministration with inhibitors of CYP2D6.(12) The manufacturer of paroxetine (a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor) states that alternative agents with little or no CYP2D6 inhibition should be considered.(13) The National Comprehensive Cancer Network's breast cancer guidelines advises caution when coadministering strong CYP2D6 inhibitors with tamoxifen.(14) NCCN states when prescribing a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it is reasonable to avoid SSRIs that are strong and moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors, particularly fluoxetine and paroxetine, if an appropriate alternative exists.(14) Cancer Care Ontario breast cancer guidelines state concurrent use of moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors should be approached with caution and alternative options should be considered.(15) The European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) clinical practice guidelines for early breast cancer states patients on tamoxifen should be advised to avoid concurrent use of strong and moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors. Consider alternatives to tamoxifen if CYP2D6 inhibitors cannot be replaced with alternative agents.(16) If concurrent therapy is warranted, the risks versus benefits should be discussed with the patient. Rolapitant, a moderate CYP2D6 inhibitor, effects on CYP2D6 are expected to last at least 28 days after administration.(17)

DISCUSSION: Some studies have suggested that administration of fluoxetine, paroxetine, and quinidine with tamoxifen or a CYP2D6 poor metabolizer phenotype may result in a decrease in the formation of endoxifen (an active metabolite of tamoxifen) and a shorter time to breast cancer recurrence.(1-2,9) A retrospective study of 630 breast cancer patients found an increasing risk of breast cancer mortality with increasing durations of coadministration of tamoxifen and paroxetine. In the adjusted analysis, absolute increases of 25%, 50%, and 75% in the proportion of time of overlapping use of tamoxifen with paroxetine was associated with 24%, 54%, and 91% increase in the risk of death from breast cancer, respectively.(18) The CYP2D6 genotype of the patient may have a role in the effects of this interaction. Patients with wild-type CYP2D6 genotype may be affected to a greater extent by this interaction. Patients with a variant CYP2D6 genotype may have lower baseline levels of endoxifen and may be affected to a lesser extent by this interaction.(6-10) In a retrospective review, 1,325 patients treated with tamoxifen for breast cancer were classified as being poor 2D6 metabolizers (lacking functional CYP2D6 enzymes), intermediate metabolizers (heterozygous alleles), or extensive metabolizers (possessing 2 functional alleles). After a mean follow-up period of 6.3 years, the recurrence rates were 14.9%, 20.9%, and 29.0%, in extensive metabolizers, intermediate metabolizers, and poor metabolizers, respectively.(11) In October of 2006, the Advisory Committee Pharmaceutical Science, Clinical Pharmacology Subcommittee of the US Food and Drug Administration recommended that the US tamoxifen labeling be updated to include information about the increased risk of breast cancer recurrence in poor CYP2D6 metabolizers (either by genotype or drug interaction).(19-20) The labeling changes were never made due to ongoing uncertainty about the effects of CYP2D6 genotypes on tamoxifen efficacy. In contrast to the above information, two studies have shown no relationship between CYP2D6 genotype and breast cancer outcome.(21-23) As well, a number of studies found no association between use of CYP2D6 inhibitors and/or antidepressants in patients on tamoxifen and breast cancer recurrence,(24-28) though the studies were limited by problematic selection of CYP2D6 inhibitors and short follow-up. A single dose of rolapitant increased dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate, about 3-fold on days 8 and day 22 following administration. Dextromethorphan levels remained elevated by 2.3-fold on day 28 after single dose rolapitant. The inhibitory effects of rolapitant on CYP2D6 are expected to persist beyond 28 days.(17) Moderate CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong the QT interval include adagrasib, dronedarone, levomethadone, and quinine.(29-30)

Selected Immunosuppressants/Leflunomide; Teriflunomide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide and potent immunosuppressants may result in additive or synergistic effects on the immune system.(1,2) Leflunomide is a prodrug and is converted to its active metabolite teriflunomide.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of leflunomide or teriflunomide with immunosuppressants may result in an increased risk of serious infections, including opportunistic infections, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia, tuberculosis (including extra-pulmonary tuberculosis), and aspergillosis.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If leflunomide or teriflunomide is used concurrently with immunosuppressive agents, chronic CBC monitoring should be performed more frequently, every month instead of every 6 to 8 weeks. If bone marrow suppression or a serious infection occurs, leflunomide or teriflunomide should be stopped and rapid drug elimination procedure should be performed.(1,2)

DISCUSSION: Pancytopenia, agranulocytosis and thrombocytopenia have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide alone, but most frequently in patients taking concurrent immunosuppressants.(1,2) Severe and potentially fatal infections, including sepsis, have been reported in patients receiving leflunomide or teriflunomide, especially Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia and aspergillosis. Tuberculosis has also been reported.(1,2)

Selected Myelosuppressive Agents/Deferiprone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of deferiprone with other drugs known to be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis may increase the frequency or risk for severe toxicity.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of deferiprone and myelosuppressive agents may result in severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis, which may be fatal.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Agranulocytosis may be less common in patients receiving deferiprone for thalassemia, and more common in patients treated for other systemic iron overload conditions (e.g. myelodysplastic syndromes, sickle cell disease).(2,3) Inadequate monitoring appears to increase the risk for severe outcomes. Manufacturer post market surveillance found that in all fatal cases of agranulocytosis reported between 1999 and 2005, data on weekly white blood count (WBC) monitoring was missing. In three fatal cases, deferiprone was continued for two to seven days after the detection of neutropenia or agranulocytosis.(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, discontinue one of the drugs associated with risk for neutropenia or agranulocytosis. If alternative therapy is not available, documentation and adherence to the deferiprone monitoring protocol is essential. Baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) must be at least 1,500/uL prior to starting deferiprone. Monitor ANC weekly during therapy. If infection develops, interrupt deferiprone therapy and monitor ANC more frequently. If ANC is less than 1,500/uL but greater than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone and any other drugs possibly associated with neutropenia. Initiate ANC and platelet counts daily until recovery (i.e. ANC at least 1,500/uL). If ANC is less than 500/uL, discontinue deferiprone, evaluate patient and hospitalize if appropriate. Do not resume deferiprone unless potential benefits outweigh potential risks.(1)

DISCUSSION: Drugs linked to this monograph have an FDA Boxed Warning for risk of neutropenia, agranulocytosis, or pancytopenia, or have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(1-25) In pooled clinical studies submitted to the FDA, 6.1% of deferiprone patients met criteria for neutropenia and 1.7% of patients developed agranulocytosis.(1) The time to onset of agranulocytosis was highly variable with a range of 65 days to 9.2 years (median, 161 days).(3)

Selected Myelosuppressive Agents/Dipyrone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of dipyrone with other drugs known to be associated with neutropenia or agranulocytosis may increase the frequency or risk for severe toxicity.(1-29)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of dipyrone with agents that cause bone marrow depression, including myelosuppressives, may result in an enhanced risk of hematologic disorders, including anemia, blood dyscrasias, bone marrow depression, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Bone marrow depression may increase the risk of serious infections and bleeding. Undetected severe neutropenia or agranulocytosis may be fatal.(1-29)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of dipyrone and myelosuppressive agents should be avoided. The European Medicines Agency states dipyrone is contraindicated in patients with a prior medical history of dipyrone-induced agranulocytosis (or from other pyrazolones/pyrazolidines), impaired bone marrow function or diseases of the hematopoietic system.(3) International labeling for dipyrone and methotrexate state that co-administration may increase the hematotoxicity of methotrexate, especially in elderly patients, and therefore should be avoided.(1-2) The European Medicines Agency advises if agranulocytosis is suspected with dipyrone, a complete blood count (including differential blood count) should be performed immediately, and treatment must be stopped while waiting for the results. If confirmed, treatment must not be reintroduced.(1-3)

DISCUSSION: A retrospective cohort study analyzed new users of dipyrone (n=444,972), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (n=3,814,367) which served as a reference cohort, and opioids-paracetamol (n=3,129,221) which was the negative control. During continuous treatment over a median of 37-40 days, 26 cases of hospitalized agranulocytosis occurred. With the assumption that agranulocytosis onset was 7 days prior to admission, the hazard ratio of agranulocytosis associated with dipyrone was 4.40 [0.90-21.57] compared to NSAIDs and 2.45 [0.68-8.83] compared to opioid-paracetamol. HR of neutropenia from dipyrone was 2.98 [1.57-5.65] compared to NSAIDs and not statistically significant compared to opioids-paracetamol. In a sensitivity analysis assuming that the onset of agranulocytosis was the date of hospitalization, the HR of dipyrone-induced agranulocytosis was 7.20 [95% confidence interval: 1.92-26.99] compared to NSAIDs and 3.31 [1.17-9.34] compared to opioids-paracetamol. Agranulocytosis was very rare but more than 4 times more common with dipyrone than other analgesics.(4) In a review of 1,448 reports of agranulocytosis attributed to dipyrone, patients with fatal outcomes were older and more often had also received methotrexate compared to those with non-fatal outcomes (odds ratio: 5.18; 95% confidence interval: 3.06-8.78).(5) Agents linked to this interaction generally have > 5% risk for neutropenia and/or warnings describing risk for myelosuppression in manufacturer prescribing information.(2,6-26)

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)

Slt Antimalarials/Str 3A4 Inducer;Slt Barbiturates,Hydantoin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of mefloquine, quinidine, and quinine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of mefloquine, quinidine, or quinine.

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving concurrent strong CYP3A4 inducers, monitor mefloquine, quinidine, or quinine serum levels and observe the patient for symptoms of reduced efficacy. Adjust the dosage accordingly. The US manufacturer of quinine recommends avoiding the concurrent use of rifampin, a strong CYP3A4 inducer, because of the increased risk of malaria treatment failure.

DISCUSSION: Several studies document the reduction in quinidine response in patients receiving concurrent rifampin. Decreased elimination half-life, reduced area-under-curve (AUC), and low serum quinidine level were observed. In healthy volunteers, quinine AUC and maximum concentration (Cmax) were reduced 85% and 55%, respectively, after a single dose of rifampin was added after two weeks of quinine therapy.(6) In a randomized control trial of 59 male patients with Plasmodium falciparum malaria, treatment with concomitant quinine and rifampin was associated with a cure rate of only 35% compared to 88% in those treated with quinine monotherapy. The AUC of quinine during treatment days 3 through 7 was significantly reduced in the quinine plus rifampin group compared to those treated with quinine alone (11.7 vs. 47.5 mcg/ml/day; p < 0.004).(7) In an open-label, cross-over study in 7 healthy subjects, concurrent rifampin (600 mg daily) decreased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of mefloquine (500 mg) by 68% and 19%, respectively.(8,9) Agents linked to this monograph include: apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, enzalutamide, ethotoin, fosphenytoin, lumacaftor, mitotane, natisedine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifampin, rifapentine, and St. John's wort.(10)

Slt Immunosuppress; Immunomodulator/Ropeginterferon Alfa-2B

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ropeginterferon alfa-2b and immunosuppressives both suppress the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ropeginterferon alfa-2b with immunosuppressives may result in an increased risk of serious infections.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of myelosuppressive agents.(1-2) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, monitor for effects of excessive immunosuppression.

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 20% of patients experienced leukopenia. Interferon alfa products may cause fatal or life-threatening infections.(1-2)

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)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Cladribine Oncology Inj

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cladribine in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of cladribine with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Recommendations for cladribine regarding this interaction differ between regulatory approving agencies. The cladribine US, UK, and Australian prescribing information state: -Caution should be exercised if cladribine injection is administered before, after, or in conjunction with other drugs known to cause immunosuppression or myelosuppression.(1-3) The cladribine Canadian prescribing information states: -Proceed carefully in patients with severe bone marrow impairment of any etiology since further suppression of bone marrow function should be anticipated.(4)

DISCUSSION: Severe bone marrow suppression, including neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia, has been commonly observed in patients treated with cladribine injection, especially at high doses.(1-4)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Covid-19 Vaccines

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Immunosuppressants and immunomodulators may prevent the immune system from properly responding to the COVID-19 vaccine.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Administration of a COVID-19 vaccine with immunosuppressants or immunomodulators may interfere with vaccine-induced immune response and impair the efficacy of the vaccine. However, patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),(1) Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA),(2) and the American College of Rheumatology (ACR)(3) have published guidances for COVID-19 vaccination in patients on immunosuppressants. The CDC states that all immunocompromised patients over 6 months of age should receive at least 1 dose of COVID-19 vaccine if eligible. See the CDC's Interim Clinical Considerations for Use of COVID-19 Vaccines for specific recommendations based on age, vaccination history, and vaccine manufacturer.(1) The CDC advises planning for vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or resuming immunosuppressive therapy.(1) IDSA recommends timing COVID-19 vaccination at least 2 weeks before starting or at least 3 months after completing immunosuppressive therapy.(2) The ACR states that in general, immunosuppressants and immunomodulators should be held for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose.(3) Patients should be offered and given a COVID-19 vaccine even if the use and timing of immunosuppressive agents cannot be adjusted, though the immune response will likely be blunted. COVID-19 vaccines should not be delayed in patients taking immunosuppressive therapies.(1-2) See below for specific recommendations for certain agents. B-cell depleting agents, including rituximab: The CDC states that the utility of B-cell quantification to guide clinical care is not known and is not recommended. Patients who receive B-cell depleting therapy on a continuing basis should receive COVID-19 vaccines about 4 weeks before the next scheduled dose. For patients who received 1 or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine during treatment with B-cell-depleting therapies that were administered over a limited period (e.g., as part of a treatment regimen for certain malignancies), revaccination may be considered according to the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. The suggested interval to start revaccination is about 6 months after completion of the B-cell-depleting therapy.(1) IDSA recommends waiting for at least 3-6 months after the last infusion of B-cell depleting therapy before administering COVID-19 vaccines.(2) The ACR recommends consulting with the rheumatologist to determine optimal timing of COVID-19 vaccination. Measuring CD19 B cells may be considered to determine need for a booster vaccine dose. If B cell levels are not measured, a supplemental vaccine dose 2-4 weeks before the next scheduled dose of rituximab is recommended.(3) Recipients of hematopoietic cell transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy who received one or more doses of COVID-19 vaccine prior to or during treatment should undergo revaccination following the current CDC recommendations for unvaccinated patients. Revaccination should start at least 3 months (12 weeks) after transplant or CAR-T-cell therapy.(1,2) The CDC includes abatacept, cyclophosphamide, and TNF-alpha and cytokine inhibitors in their general recommendation to hold therapy for at least 2 weeks following vaccination (1) while the ACR provides different recommendations:(3) *Abatacept: - Subcutaneous abatacept should be withheld for 1-2 weeks after each vaccine dose, as disease activity allows. - For intravenous abatacept, time administration so that vaccination will occur 1 week before the next abatacept infusion. *Cyclophosphamide: When feasible, administer cyclophosphamide 1 week after each COVID-19 vaccine dose. *TNF-alpha inhibitors and cytokine inhibitors: The ACR was not able to reach consensus on whether to modify dosing or timing of these agents with COVID-19 vaccination.

DISCUSSION: IDSA recommendations are based on cohort and case control studies in immunocompromised patients that found low to modest vaccine effectiveness (37-61%) but lower risks of COVID-19 association hospitalization, COVID-19 related mortality, and critical illness.(2) The ACR convened a COVID-19 Vaccine Guidance Task Force to provide guidance on optimal use of COVID-19 vaccines in rheumatology patients. These recommendations are based on limited clinical evidence of COVID-19 vaccines in patients without rheumatic and musculoskeletal disorders and evidence of other vaccines in this patient population.(3) The ACR recommendation for rituximab is based on studies of humoral immunity following receipt of other vaccines. These studies have uncertain generalizability to vaccination against COVID-19, as it is unknown if efficacy is attributable to induction of host T cells versus B cell (antibody-based) immunity.(3) The ACR recommendation for mycophenolate is based on preexisting data of mycophenolate on non-COVID-19 vaccine immunogenicity. Emerging data suggests that mycophenolate may impair SARS-CoV-2 vaccine response in rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease and transplant patients.(3) The ACR recommendation for methotrexate is based on data from influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines with methotrexate.(3) The ACR recommendation for JAK inhibitors is based on concerns related to the effects of JAK inhibitors on interferon signaling that may result in a diminished vaccine response.(3) The ACR recommendation for subcutaneous abatacept is based on several studies suggesting a negative effect of abatacept on vaccine immunogenicity. The first vaccine dose primes naive T cells, naive T cell priming is inhibited by CTLA-4, and abatacept is a CTLA-4Ig construct. CTLA-4 should not inhibit boosts of already primed T cells at the time of the second vaccine dose.(3)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Sarilumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Sarilumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of sarilumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of sarilumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)

DISCUSSION: Sarilumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate or conventional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis studies. Sarilumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by sarilumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia and cellulitis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving sarilumab. Cases of tuberculosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystis with sarilumab have been reported.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Tocilizumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Tocilizumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of tocilizumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of tocilizumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)

DISCUSSION: Tocilizumab was studied as monotherapy and in combination with methotrexate, non-biologic DMARDs or corticosteroids, depending on the indication. Tocilizumab has not been studied with biological DMARDs and concurrent use should be avoided. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by tocilizumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis, herpes zoster, gastroenteritis, diverticulitis, sepsis and bacterial arthritis. Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving tocilizumab. Cases of tuberculosis, cryptococcus, aspergillosis, candidiasis, and pneumocystosis have been reported.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ublituximab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ublituximab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ublituximab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ublituximab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ublituximab with immunomodulating or immunosuppressive agents, including immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids, may increase the risk of infection.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents. When switching from agents with immune effects, the half-life and mechanism of action of these drugs must be taken into consideration in order to prevent additive immunosuppressive effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: The most common infections reported by ublituximab-treated patients in the clinical trial periods included upper respiratory tract infections and urinary tract infections. Serious, including life-threatening or fatal, bacterial and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ublituximab.(1) Serious and/or fatal bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections have been associated with other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies. There were no cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) reported during the clinical trials; however, there have been reports of PML during or following completion of other anti-CD20 B-cell depleting therapies.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ustekinumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ustekinumab, immunosuppressives, and immunomodulators all suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive or immunomodulating agents may result in an increased risk for serious infections.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of ustekinumab recommends caution because the concurrent use of ustekinumab with immunosuppressive agents may increase the risk of infection. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the risk of additive immune suppression and monitor based on prescribing information for both agents.(1)

DISCUSSION: Ustekinumab has not been studied in combination with other immunosuppressants in psoriasis studies. In psoriatic arthritis studies, concomitant methotrexate use did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. In Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis studies, concomitant use of immunosuppressants or corticosteroids did not appear to influence the safety or efficacy of ustekinumab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider the potential for increased immunosuppressive risks from both agents.(1) The most common infections reported by ustekinumab treated patients in the clinical trial periods included nasopharyngitis(8%) and upper respiratory tract infection(5%). Serious bacterial, mycobacterial, fungal, and viral infections were observed in patients receiving ustekinumab. Cases of interstitial pneumonia, eosinophilic pneumonia, and cryptogenic organizing pneumonia resulting in respiratory failure or prolonged hospitalization have been reported in patients receiving ustekinumab.(1)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Ceritinib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of ceritinib in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) Patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) may be at increased risk of this interaction. Ceritinib dose reduction may be warranted in severe hepatic impairment. See prescribing information for recommendations.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible, avoid coadministration of ceritinib with other QT prolonging agents. Consider obtaining electrocardiogram (ECG) and serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals in patients receiving concurrent therapy with ceritinib and another agent that may prolong the QTc interval.(1) In patients who develop a QTc interval greater than 500 msec on at least 2 occasions, withhold ceritinib until the QTc interval is less than 481 msec or recovery to baseline if baseline QTc was greater than or equal to 481 msec, then resume ceritinib with a 150 mg dose reduction. If the patient develops QTc interval prolongation in combination with torsades de pointes or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia, permanently discontinue ceritinib.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial 3% of patients experienced a QTc interval increase over baseline greater than 60 msec. Less than 1% of patients (1 of 304) treated with ceritinib was found to have a QTc greater than 500 msec. The upper limit of the 90% confidence interval for mean QTC increase was 16 msec at ceritinib 750 mg. Data suggested that ceritinib produces concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation.(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/Crizotinib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of crizotinib in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider periodic electrocardiogram (ECG) and electrolyte monitoring (calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals) in patients receiving concurrent therapy with crizotinib and another agent that prolongs the QTc interval.(1) In patients who develop a QTc greater than 500 ms on at least 2 separate ECGs, withhold crizotinib until recovery to baseline or to a QTc less than 481 ms, then resume crizotinib at reduced dose.(1) In patients who develop a QTc greater than 500 ms or greater than or equal to 60 ms change from baseline with Torsade de pointes or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia, permanently discontinue crizotinib.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Crizotinib is associated with concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In a clinical trial 2.1% of patients were found to have a QTcF greater than or equal to 500 msec and 5% of patients had an increase in QTcF by greater than or equal to 60 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 crizotinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 1 (50%) with 1 (100%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms). No patients had a QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms, ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4)

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/Eribulin

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of eribulin states that patients receiving concurrent therapy with eribulin and other agents known to prolong the QT interval should receive ECG monitoring.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: QT prolongation, independent of eribulin concentration, was observed on Day 8 of therapy but not on Day 1 in an uncontrolled open-label ECG study in 26 patients.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Ezogabine

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of ezogabine in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsade 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 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.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study in healthy subjects, ezogabine titrated to 1200 mg/day increased the mean QTc interval by 6.7 msec (upper bound of 95% CI was 12.6 msec) within three hours of dosing.(1)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Fexinidazole

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fexinidazole 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 fexinidazole 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 fexinidazole states that fexinidazole should be avoided in patients receiving other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(1) Avoid use of fexinidazole in patients who have a baseline QTcF interval greater than 470 msec, a history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome, cardiac arrhythmias, uncompensated heart failure, or family history of sudden death, or uncorrected hypokalemia.(1) If patients are, or need to be, treated with drugs known to prolong QTcF interval or to induce bradycardia do not initiate therapy with fexinidazole until such drugs are eliminated from the body (allow a washout period of 5 half-lives for such other drugs). Do not start such drugs until fexinidazole therapy is eliminated (allow a washout period of 7 days).(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, fexinidazole was associated with a concentration-dependent QTcF prolongation. At recommended therapeutic doses, the mean (upper 90% confidence interval) increase in QTcF is predicted to be 19.0 msec (23.3 msec). The observed increase in QTcF appears to be associated with the M2 (sulfone) metabolite of fexinidazole.(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/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/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/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/Oxaliplatin

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of oxaliplatin in patients with congenital long QT syndrome. ECG monitoring is recommended if oxaliplatin therapy is initiated in patients with congestive heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, drugs known to prolong the QT interval, and electrolyte abnormalities.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Prescribing information for oxaliplatin states post-marketing cases of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including fatal Torsades de Pointes, have been reported.(1) Case reports have documented QT prolongation in patients with varying cancer indications for oxaliplatin.(3-6) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(7)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Pacritinib

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pacritinib states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided. Avoid the use of pacritinib in patients with a baseline QTc > 480 msec. Correct hypokalemia prior to initiation and during therapy with pacritinib.(1) If patients develop QTc prolongation >500 msec or >60 msec from baseline, hold pacritinib. If QTc prolongation resolves to <=480 msec or to baseline within 1 week, resume pacritinib at the same dose. If time to resolution of the QTc interval takes greater than 1 week to resolve, reduce the pacritinib dose.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a 24 week clinical study, patients treatment with pacritinib 200 mg twice daily had a change in QTc from baseline of 11 msec (90% CI: 5-17).(1) Pacritinib has been associated with QTc interval prolongation. In clinical trials, patients with QTc prolongation >500 msec occurred in 1.4% of patients in the treatment arm compared to 1% in the control arm. The treatment arm had a greater incidence of an increase in QTc > 60 msec from baseline than the control arm (1.9% vs 1%, respectively). QTc prolongation adverse reactions were higher in the treatment arm than the control group (3.8% vs 2%, respectively).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Pazopanib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pazopanib states that pazopanib should be avoided in patients receiving other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In clinical studies, 2% (11/558) of patients receiving pazopanib experienced QT prolongation. Torsades de pointes occurred in less than 1% (2/977) of patients who received pazopanib in monotherapy studies. In a randomized clinical trial, 3 of 290 patients who received pazopanib had post-baseline QTc values between 500 and 549 msec. None of the patients receiving placebo had post-baseline QTc values greater than or equal to 500 msec.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received pazopanib, QTc prolongation was identified in 32 (19.4%) with 18 (56.3%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 4 (12.5%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 3 (9.3%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 4 (12.5%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. Ventricular tachycardia was seen in 2 (6.3%) of patients and 1 (3.1%) patient experienced sudden cardiac death.(4) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(2)

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/Ribociclib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of ribociclib 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 concurrent use of ribociclib with agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, monitor patients closely. Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and correct any electrolyte abnormalities at the beginning of each ribociclib cycle. Monitor ECG at baseline, Day 14 of the first cycle, at the beginning of the second cycle, and as necessary. If a prolonged QTc is noted, refer to ribociclib prescribing information for current dose modification and management instructions. Ribociclib may need to be interrupted, reduced, or discontinued.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Ribociclib has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a concentration-dependent manner. At steady state, the mean increase in QTc interval exceeded 20 msec.(1) In MONALEESA-7, an increase of greater than 60 ms from baseline in the QTcF interval was observed in 14/87 (16%) of patients in the ribociclib and tamoxifen combination group.(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/Sorafenib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of sorafenib in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be monitored with electrocardiograms during treatment with sorafenib. Electrolytes (calcium, magnesium, and potassium) should also be monitored.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a non-randomized trial in 53 patients, sorafenib resulted in a mean change in QTc of 8.5 msec (upper bound of 90% CI: 13.3 msec).(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received sorafenib, QTc prolongation was identified in 13 (31.7%) with 5 (38.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 4 (30.7%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 2 (15.4%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 2 (15.4%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients developed ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(4)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Telavancin

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of telavancin recommends against the use of telavancin with other drugs known to cause QT prolongation.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, double-blind, multiple-dose, positive-controlled, placebo-controlled, parallel study in healthy subjects, the mean maximum baseline-corrected, placebo-corrected QTc prolongation was 11.6 msec and 15.1 msec for telavancin at dosages of 7.5 mg/kg and 15 mg/kg, respectively. The estimated mean maximum baseline-corrected, placebo-corrected QTc prolongation for a telavancin dosage of 10 mg/kg is 12-15 msec.(1) In studies in patients, 21% of patients receiving telavancin (214 of 1029, 10 mg/kg) and 16% of patients receiving vancomycin (164 of 1033) received concurrent QT prolonging agents. The rate of QTc prolongation greater than 60 msec was 1.5% (15 patients) in the telavancin group and 0.6% (6 patients) in the vancomycin group. Nine of the 15 telavancin subjects with QTc prolongation received concurrent QT prolongers, compared with 1 of the vancomycin patients.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

Possible Qt Prolonging Agents/Vemurafenib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of vemurafenib in patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Vemurafenib should not be initiated in patients taking medications known to prolong the QT interval, patients with a baseline QTc greater than 500 msec, uncorrectable electrolyte abnormalities, or known long QT syndrome is not recommended.(1) All patients receiving vemurafenib should undergo ECG testing at baseline, after 15 days of treatment, monthly during the first 3 months of treatment, and then every 3 months. If a patient's QTc exceeds 500 msec during treatment, vemurafenib should be discontinued and cardiac risk factors for QT prolongation should be controlled. Consider discontinuing other medications known to prolong the QT interval at this time. If the patient's QTc decreases below 500 msec, vemurafenib may be introduced at a lower dosage according to the current labeling recommendations. If the patient's QTc remains greater than 500 msec and increased >60 msec from pre-treatment values after controlling cardiac risk factors for prolongation, permanently discontinue vemurafenib.(1) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Vemurafenib is associated with concentration-dependent QTc interval prolongation. In the first month of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 12.8 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 14.9 msec). In the first 6 months of treatment, the largest mean QTc change was 15.1 msec (upper boundary of 90% CI: 17.7 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

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/Bedaquiline

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of bedaquiline patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Bedaquiline should be used with caution in patients receiving therapy with agents that prolong the QT interval. Patients should receive a baseline electrocardiogram (ECG) before initiation, 2 weeks after initiation, during treatment as clinically indicated, and at the expected time of maximum increase of the QT interval when receiving concurrent agents that prolong the QT interval. Bedaquiline and other QT prolonging agents should be discontinued if the patient develops a clinically significant ventricular arrhythmia or a QTcF of greater than 500 msec confirmed by repeat ECGs. If a patient develops syncope, perform an ECG.(1) Also consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial, mean increases in QTc were greater in patients treated with bedaquiline than with placebo. At Week 1, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 9.9 msec, compared with 2.5 msec for placebo. At Week 24, bedaquiline increased QTc by an average of 15.7 msec, compared with 6.2 msec for placebo. In another clinical trial in which patients received bedaquiline with other QT prolonging agents, QT prolongation was additive and proportional to the number of QT prolonging drugs used. Patients receiving bedaquiline alone averaged a QTc increase of 23.7 msec over baseline, while patients receiving bedaquiline with at least one other QT prolonging agent averaged a QTc increase of 30.7 msec.(1) In a study, bedaquiline was coadministered with QTc prolonging agents clofazimine and levofloxacin. In the study, 5% of patients had a QTc >= 500 ms and 43% of patients had an increase in QTc >= 60 ms from baseline.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(3)

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/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/Mavorixafor

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of mavorixafor states that concurrent use of mavorixafor with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval should be approached with caution. ECG monitoring is recommended prior to initiation, during concurrent therapy, and as clinically indicated with other agents known to prolong the QTc interval.(1) If QT prolongation occurs, a dose reduction or discontinuation of mavorixafor may be required.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, a dose of mavorixafor 800 mg increased the mean QTc 15.6 msec (upper 90% CI = 19.9 msec). The dose of mavorixafor was 2 times the recommended maximum daily dose.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Norfloxacin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Norfloxacin 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 norfloxacin 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 norfloxacin states that norfloxacin should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

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/Pasireotide

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The use of pasireotide patients maintained on agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Pasireotide should be used with caution in patients receiving therapy with agents that prolong the QT interval. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals.(1) Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In randomized, blinded, crossover study in healthy subjects, pasireotide (0.6 mg BID) increased the placebo-subtracted QTcI by 12.7 msec (95 upper CI: 14.7 msec). Supra-therapeutic doses of 1.95 mg BID increased the placebo-subtracted QTcI by 16.6 msec (95 upper CI: 18.6 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Posaconazole

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of posaconazole states that posaconazole should be used with caution when given with other agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ranolazine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ranolazine prolongs the QTc interval in a dose-related manner. Use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of ranolazine and agents known to prolong the QTc interval may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Sevoflurane

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Sevoflurane should be used with caution in patients taking agents known to prolong the QT interval.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

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

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/Voriconazole

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of voriconazole with agents known to prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of voriconazole states concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be administered with caution.(1) In patients maintained on voriconazole and other agents known to prolong the QT interval, consider a baseline ECG prior to administration to assess the risk/benefit of therapy. Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities prior to initiation of therapy. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: A placebo-controlled, randomized, crossover study to evaluate the effect on the QT interval of healthy male and female subjects was conducted with three single oral doses of voriconazole and ketoconazole. The placebo-adjusted mean maximum increases in QTc from baseline after 800 mg, 1200 mg, and 1600 mg of voriconazole and after ketoconazole 800 mg were all <10 msec. No subject experienced an interval exceeding the potentially clinically relevant threshold of 500 msec.(1) In a retrospective study of 2,735 patients with a prolonged QTc interval, voriconazole use was associated with an increased risk of torsades de pointes.(4)

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)

Quinine/Aluminum And Magnesium Antacids; Lanthanum

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Aluminum and magnesium antacids may delay or decrease the absorption of quinine.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of antacids may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of quinine.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quinine states that concurrent use with aluminum or magnesium containing antacids should be avoided. Some vitamin preparations may contain sufficient quantities of magnesium salts with antacid properties to interact as well.

DISCUSSION: Aluminum and magnesium antacids have been shown to decrease quinine absorption in rats.

Quinine/Digoxin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Reduced clearance of digoxin and possible displacement of digoxin from its tissue binding sites.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: May observe increased digoxin toxicity. 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 and/or hepatic function, hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, and/or hypomagnesemia may increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor serum digoxin levels and observe the patient for signs and symptoms of digoxin toxicity. The dosage of digoxin may need to be decreased by 15-30% or the frequency of administration may be reduced.(6) Consider therapy with an agent which has not been shown to interact with digoxin.

DISCUSSION: This interaction is well documented. Concomitant administration of digoxin and quinine resulted in a 33% increase in digoxin area-under-the-curve (AUC).(6)

Quinine/Possible Qt Prolonging Agents

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(3) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of quinine states that concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be avoided.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.

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)

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• Blackwater fever
• Congenital long QT syndrome
• Hemolytic anemia from pyruvate kinase and g6PD deficiencies
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome
• Myasthenia gravis
• Optic neuritis
• Prolonged QT interval
• Severe hepatic disease
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Torsades de pointes

• Bradycardia
• Chronic kidney disease stage 4 (severe) GFR 15-29 ml/min
• Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (g6Pd) deficiency
• Hypokalemia
• Thrombocytopenic disorder

• Atrial fibrillation
• Atrial flutter
• Disease of liver
• Hypoglycemic disorder
• Tinnitus

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More Frequent

• Cinchonism

Rare or Very Rare

• Abnormal hepatic function tests
• Acquired chromatopsia
• Agranulocytosis
• Allergic dermatitis
• Anaphylaxis
• Angioedema
• Aplastic anemia
• Atrioventricular block
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Blackwater fever
• Bronchospastic pulmonary disease
• Disseminated intravascular coagulation
• Drug-induced hepatitis
• Dyspnea
• Erythema multiforme
• Facial edema
• Fever
• Hearing loss
• Hemolytic anemia
• Hemolytic uremic syndrome
• Hemorrhage
• Hypoglycemic disorder
• Hypoprothrombinemia
• Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Interstitial nephritis
• Intravascular hemolysis
• Jaundice
• Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)
• Leukopenia
• Lupus-like syndrome
• Neuromuscular blockade
• Neutropenic disorder
• Optic neuritis
• Pancytopenia
• Prolonged QT interval
• Pruritus of skin
• Pulmonary edema
• Renal failure
• Seizure disorder
• Skin rash
• Stevens-johnson syndrome
• Sudden visual loss
• Tachycardia
• Thrombocytopenic disorder
• Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
• Torsades de pointes
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis
• Urticaria
• Ventricular arrhythmias
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Vision impairment

More Frequent

• Abdominal pain with cramps
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Rare or Very Rare

• Acute cognitive impairment
• Anorexia
• Chills
• Diplopia
• Ecchymosis
• Flushing
• General weakness
• Headache disorder
• Hyperhidrosis
• Muscle weakness
• Myalgia
• Petechiae
• Photophobia
• Skin photosensitivity
• Tinnitus
• Vasodilation of blood vessels
• Vertigo
• Visual changes

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The manufacturers state that quinine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus.

The CDC recommends oral quinine sulfate and clindamycin as a regimen of choice for the treatment of uncomplicated chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum in pregnant women. (See Treatment of Uncomplicated Malaria under Uses: Malaria.)

Although published data on more than 1000 quinine pregnancy exposures (majority of exposures occurred after the first trimester) did not show an increased risk of teratogenic effects compared with the background rate in the general population, there are few well-controlled studies to date evaluating quinine in pregnant women.

Hypoglycemia, due to increased pancreatic secretion of insulin, has been associated with quinine use, especially in pregnant women. In one study in women in the third trimester of pregnancy with severe P. falciparum malaria who received IV quinine dihydrochloride (no longer available in the US either commercially or from the Parasitic Diseases Drug Service of the CDC) in the recommended dosage, there was no apparent adverse effect on the fetuses; however, these women appeared to be particularly susceptible to the hypoglycemic effects of quinine.

There is no evidence to date that quinine causes uterine contractions at dosages recommended for the treatment of malaria. However, doses severalfold higher than those used to treat malaria may stimulate the pregnant uterus.

Quinine crosses the placenta resulting in measurable blood concentrations in the fetus. In a small number of women who delivered live infants 1-6 days after starting quinine therapy, placental cord plasma quinine concentrations were 1-4.6 mg/L (mean: 2.4 mg/L) and the mean ratio of cord plasma to maternal plasma quinine concentrations ranged from 0.18-0.46 mg/L (within 1 standard deviation). Such placental cord plasma quinine concentrations may not result in therapeutic fetal plasma quinine concentrations. If congenital malaria is suspected, the infant should be evaluated after delivery and treated with antimalarial agents if appropriate.

Animal developmental studies have been conducted in multiple species using subcutaneous or IM quinine dosages similar to the maximum recommended human dosage (MRHD) of 32 mg/kg daily based on body surface area (BSA) comparisons. Teratogenic and fetotoxic effects were observed in rabbits (e.g., death in utero, degenerated auditory nerve and spiral ganglion, CNS anomalies (anencephaly, microcephaly)), dogs (e.g., death in utero), and guinea pigs (e.g., hemorrhage, mitochondrial change in cochlea). There were no teratogenic effects observed in rats or monkeys given the drug at dosages corresponding to 1 or 2 times the MRHD, respectively. In a pre- postnatal study in rats, oral quinine sulfate at a dosage corresponding to approximately 0.1 times the MRHD based on BSA comparison resulted in offspring with impaired growth, lower body weights at birth and during the lactation period, and delayed physical development of teeth eruption and eye opening during the lactation period.

Deafness and optic nerve hypoplasia have been reported rarely in children exposed in utero when the mother received high-dose quinine therapy during pregnancy. Quinine reportedly has caused congenital malformations in humans when used in large doses (up to 30 g) for attempted abortion. Deafness related to auditory nerve hypoplasia was reported in about half of these cases; limb anomalies, visceral defects, and visual changes have also been reported. No clinically important difference in the rate of stillbirths at greater than 28 weeks of gestation was reported in women in Thailand with P. falciparum malaria treated with 10 mg/kg of quinine orally 3 times daily for 7 days during various stages of pregnancy (1.6%) compared with the rate of stillbirths reported in women without malaria or treatment with antimalarial agents during pregnancy (1.8%). In addition, the overall rate of congenital malformations (1.4%) was similar in pregnant women who received quinine compared with the rate observed in those who did not receive the drug (1.7%), and the rate of spontaneous abortion was higher in the women without malaria or treatment with antimalarial agents during pregnancy (10.9%) than in women treated with quinine during gestation (3.5%). There was no increased risk of structural birth defects reported in an epidemiologic survey that included 104 mother-child pairs exposed to quinine during the initial 4 months of gestation.

Malaria infection in pregnant women is associated with high risks of both maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Pregnant women with P. falciparum malaria have an increased incidence of fetal loss (e.g., spontaneous abortion, stillbirth), preterm labor and delivery, intrauterine growth retardation, low birth weight, and maternal death. Therefore, prompt treatment of malaria during pregnancy is important.

Although quinine generally is considered compatible with breast-feeding, the risks and benefits to the infant and mother should be assessed and the drug should be used with caution in nursing women.

Data to date are limited regarding the safety of quinine in breast-fed infants. In a single study of nursing women who received 10 mg/kg of quinine orally every 8 hours for 1-10 days, there was no evidence of infant toxicity. Estimates from this study indicate that breast-fed infants are exposed to less than 2-3 mg of quinine base (less than 0.4% of the maternal dose) daily through breast milk. (See Pharmacokinetics: Distribution.)

Plasma quinine concentrations may not be therapeutic in infants of nursing mothers receiving quinine. If malaria is suspected in the infant, appropriate evaluation and treatment should be provided.

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