Defitelio (defibrotide sodium)

Dosage of defibrotide sodium is expressed in terms of the salt. Defibrotide sodium has a potency of 27-39 units per mg based on results of 2 separate assays that measure the release of a product formed by contact between defibrotide sodium, plasmin, and a plasmin substrate.

Prior to the administration of defibrotide, the patient should be hemodynamically stable, as confirmed by the requirement of no more than one vasopressor to maintain blood pressure, and should not be experiencing any clinically important bleeding.

Defibrotide is administered by IV infusion over 2 hours. Defibrotide injection concentrate must be diluted prior to administration. For IV infusion, the appropriate dose of defibrotide sodium injection concentrate (80 mg/mL) should be withdrawn from the vial(s) and added to an infusion bag containing 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose injection to yield a final defibrotide sodium concentration of 4-20 mg/mL. The resulting solution should be mixed gently. The IV solution may vary from colorless to light yellow depending on the type and amount of diluent used. Because defibrotide injection concentrate contains no preservatives, partially used vials should be discarded. However, diluted solutions of defibrotide should be used within 4 hours if stored at room temperature or within 24 hours if stored under refrigeration; up to 4 doses of defibrotide sodium may be prepared at once if stored under refrigeration.

Diluted IV solutions of defibrotide should be administered through a 0.2-mcm inline filter. The manufacturer states that defibrotide solutions must not be administered simultaneously through the same IV line with other drugs. The IV administration line should be flushed with 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose injection immediately before and after defibrotide administration.

Defibrotide injection concentrate should be stored at 20-25degreesC but may be exposed to temperatures ranging from 15-30degreesC.

No dosing information is available for this tab.

Formal drug interaction studies with defibrotide are lacking.

Defibrotide is not a substrate, inhibitor, or inducer of any known drug-metabolizing enzymes or transporters.

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

Anticoagulant;Antiplatelet;Thrombolytic/Alipogene Tiparvovec

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: Alipogene tiparvovec is given as a one-time series of intramuscular (IM)injections. Depending upon patient weight 27 to 60 injections are given, each at a different site.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic agents increase bleeding risk at IM injection sites.

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: Antiplatelet or other anticoagulant agents must not be taken for at least one week prior to alipogene tiparvovec therapy. Assure that abnormal bleeding parameters have been corrected prior to administration. Antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapy may be resumed one day after alipogene tiparvovec administration. If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, 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 tests (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: Alipogene tiparvovec is given as a one-time series of intramuscular (IM)injections for the treatment of familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency. Depending upon patient weight 27 to 60 injections are given, each at a different site. Concurrent use of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic agents increase bleeding risk at IM injection sites.

Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics/Apixaban

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: Additive effects on hemostasis.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of apixaban with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may increase the risk of 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: The long-term use of concurrent therapy with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and other anticoagulants is generally considered contraindicated. However, overlap may be necessary when switching therapy from one agent to another in order to prevent thrombotic events. Manufacturer recommendations concerning overlap (if any) and timing of discontinuation versus initiation vary depending upon which agent is being discontinued and initiated. Refer to current prescribing information for both agents for additional details. Specific recommendations for converting between anticoagulants: - When converting between apixaban and anticoagulants other than warfarin, discontinue the current anticoagulant and begin the new one when next dose is due. - When converting from warfarin to apixaban, discontinue warfarin and begin apixaban when the international normalized ratio (INR) is below 2.0. - Apixaban affects INR. Therefore concurrent administration with warfarin when converting from apixaban to warfarin is not useful in determining target warfarin dose. If continuous anticoagulation is warranted, discontinue apixaban and begin both warfarin and a parenteral anticoagulant when next dose of apixaban is due. Once INR is within range, discontinue the parenteral anticoagulant. The use of concurrent therapy with Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) and thrombolytics is generally considered contraindicated. The manufacturer of alteplase states that the use of alteplase for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients receiving anticoagulants. Concurrent use of alteplase and anticoagulants is dependent on the therapeutic indication. In Acute Ischemic Stroke: - Clinical practice guidelines for acute ischemic stroke state the use of thrombolytic therapy for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients who have received thrombin inhibitors or factor Xa inhibitors in the previous 48 hours (in normal renal function) and have abnormal laboratory tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), INR, platelet count, ecarin clotting time (ECT), thrombin time, or direct factor Xa assays at presentation. In Acute Myocardial Infarction: - Patients who are receiving thrombolytics for an indication of acute myocardial infarction should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding, especially at arterial puncture sites, if apixaban is used concurrently. - The use of thrombolytics in patients with acute myocardial infarction should follow standard management of myocardial infarction, including minimizing arterial and venous puncture; avoid noncompressible arterial puncture; and minimize internal jugular and subclavian venous punctures to decrease bleeding from the noncompressible sites. For all indications: - In the event of serious bleeding, anticoagulants should be discontinued immediately. - If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. - When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. - Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Limited overlap of DOACs with other anticoagulants may be required when initiating or discontinuing DOACs in order to prevent thrombotic events. However, long-term concomitant treatment is not recommended because of increased risk of bleeding. Patients who are receiving thrombolytics should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding if anticoagulants are being used concurrently or have recently been used.

Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics/Dabigatran

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: Dabigatran is a direct thrombin inhibitor. When taken with agents that affect clotting factors, increased bleeding episodes can occur.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of dabigatran with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may result in additive or synergistic effects resulting in unwanted bleeding episodes.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Factors associated with an increase risk for bleeding include renal impairment, concomitant use of P-glycoprotein inhibitors, patient age >74 years, coexisting conditions (e.g. recent trauma) or use of drugs (e.g. NSAIDs) associated with bleeding risk, and patient weight <50 kg.(1-3) The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The long-term use of concurrent therapy with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and other anticoagulants is generally considered contraindicated. However, overlap may be necessary when switching therapy from one agent to another in order to prevent thrombotic events. Manufacturer recommendations concerning overlap (if any) and timing of discontinuation versus initiation vary depending upon which agent is being discontinued and initiated. Refer to current prescribing information for both agents for additional details. Specific recommendations for converting between anticoagulants: - When converting from parenteral anticoagulants to dabigatran, administer dabigatran 0-2 hours before the next dose of the parenteral drug is due. - When converting from dabigatran to a parenteral anticoagulant in adults, begin parenteral anticoagulant: --12 hours after last dose of dabigatran in patients with CrCl greater than or equal to 30 ml/min, --24 hours after last dose of dabigatran in patients with CrCl less than 30 ml/min. - When converting from dabigatran to a parenteral anticoagulant in pedatrics, begin the parenteral anticoagulant 12 hours after the last dose of dabigatran. - When converting from warfarin to dabigatran, discontinue warfarin and begin dabigatran when the patient's INR is below 2.0. - When converting from dabigatran to warfarin in adults, start warfarin: --3 days before discontinuing dabigatran in patients with CrCl greater than 50 ml/min, --2 days before discontinuing dabigatran in patients with CrCl of 30 ml/min to 50 ml/min, --1 day before discontinuing dabigatran in patients with CrCl of 15 ml/min to 30 ml/min. --There is no recommendation available for converting dabigatran to warfarin in patients with CrCl less than 15 ml/min. - When converting from dabigatran to warfarin in pediatrics, start warfarin: --3 days before discontinuing dabigatran in patient with eGFR >= 50 ml/min/1.73 m2. --There is no data on using dabigatran in pediatric patients with eGFR < 50 ml/min/1.73 m2. - Dabigatran affects INR. Therefore the INR will better reflect warfarin's effect only after stopping dabigatran for at least 2 days. The use of concurrent therapy with Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) and thrombolytics is generally considered contraindicated. The manufacturer of alteplase states that the use of alteplase for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients receiving anticoagulants. Concurrent use of alteplase and anticoagulants is dependent on the therapeutic indication. In Acute Ischemic Stroke: - Clinical practice guidelines for acute ischemic stroke state the use of thrombolytic therapy for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients who have received thrombin inhibitors or factor Xa inhibitors in the previous 48 hours (in normal renal function) and have abnormal laboratory tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), INR, platelet count, ecarin clotting time (ECT), thrombin time, or direct factor Xa assays at presentation. In Acute Myocardial Infarction: - Patients who are receiving thrombolytics for an indication of acute myocardial infarction should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding, especially at arterial puncture sites, if dabigatran is used concurrently. - The use of thrombolytics in patients with acute myocardial infarction should follow standard management of myocardial infarction, including minimizing arterial and venous puncture; avoid noncompressible arterial puncture; and minimize internal jugular and subclavian venous punctures to decrease bleeding from the noncompressible sites. For all indications: - In the event of serious bleeding, anticoagulants should be discontinued immediately. - If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. - When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. - Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Patients who are receiving thrombolytics should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding if anticoagulants are being used concurrently or have recently been used.

Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics/Edoxaban

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: Additive effects on hemostasis.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of edoxaban with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may increase the risk of bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Bleeding risk may be increased in patients with renal impairment and in patients > 75 years of age. Use of multiple agents which affect hemostasis increases the risk for bleeding.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The long-term use of concurrent therapy with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and other anticoagulants is generally considered contraindicated. However, overlap may be necessary when switching therapy from one agent to another in order to prevent thrombotic events. Manufacturer recommendations concerning overlap (if any) and timing of discontinuation versus initiation vary depending upon which agent is being discontinued and initiated. Refer to current prescribing information for both agents for additional details. Specific recommendations for converting between anticoagulants: - When converting from other (non-vitamin K antagonist) oral anticoagulants to edoxaban, discontinue current oral anticoagulant and start edoxaban at the time of the next scheduled dose of the old oral anticoagulant. - When converting from a low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) to edoxaban, start edoxaban at the time of the next scheduled administration of LMWH. - When converting from unfractionated heparin to edoxaban, discontinue the infusion and start edoxaban 4 hours later. - When converting from edoxaban to another DOAC, discontinue edoxaban and begin the new oral anticoagulant at the time of the next scheduled dose of edoxaban. - When converting from edoxaban to parenteral anticoagulation, start the parenteral anticoagulant at the time of the next dose of edoxaban. - When converting from warfarin to edoxaban, discontinue warfarin and start edoxaban when the INR is < or = to 2.5. - When converting from edoxaban to warfarin, for patients taking 60 mg of edoxaban, reduce the dose to 30 mg and begin warfarin concomitantly. For patients receiving 30 mg of edoxaban, reduce the dose to 15 mg and begin warfarin concomitantly. INR must be measured at least weekly and just prior to the daily dose of edoxaban to minimize the effects of edoxaban on INR measurement. Once a stable INR = or > 2.0 is achieved, edoxaban should be discontinued and the warfarin continued. - A second edoxaban to warfarin conversion option: Discontinue edoxaban and administer a parenteral anticoagulant and warfarin at the time of the next scheduled edoxaban dose. Once a stable INR = or > 2.0 is achieved, the parenteral anticoagulant should be discontinued and the warfarin continued. The use of concurrent therapy with Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) and thrombolytics is generally considered contraindicated. The manufacturer of alteplase states that the use of alteplase for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients receiving anticoagulants. Concurrent use of alteplase and anticoagulants is dependent on the therapeutic indication. In Acute Ischemic Stroke: - Clinical practice guidelines for acute ischemic stroke state the use of thrombolytic therapy for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients who have received thrombin inhibitors or factor Xa inhibitors in the previous 48 hours (in normal renal function) and have abnormal laboratory tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), INR, platelet count, ecarin clotting time (ECT), thrombin time, or direct factor Xa assays at presentation. In Acute Myocardial Infarction: - Patients who are receiving thrombolytics for an indication of acute myocardial infarction should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding, especially at arterial puncture sites, if edoxaban is used concurrently. - The use of thrombolytics in patients with acute myocardial infarction should follow standard management of myocardial infarction, including minimizing arterial and venous puncture; avoid noncompressible arterial puncture; and minimize internal jugular and subclavian venous punctures to decrease bleeding from the noncompressible sites. For all indications: - In the event of serious bleeding, anticoagulants should be discontinued immediately. - If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. - When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. - Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Limited overlap of DOACs with other anticoagulants may be required when initiating or discontinuing DOACs in order to prevent thrombotic events. However, long-term concomitant treatment is not recommended because of increased risk of bleeding. Patients who are receiving thrombolytics should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding if anticoagulants are being used concurrently or have recently been used.

Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics/Rivaroxaban

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: Additive effects on hemostasis.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of rivaroxaban with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may increase the risk of 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: The long-term use of concurrent therapy with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and other anticoagulants is generally considered contraindicated. However, overlap may be necessary when switching therapy from one agent to another in order to prevent thrombotic events. Manufacturer recommendations concerning overlap (if any) and timing of discontinuation versus initiation vary depending upon which agent is being discontinued and initiated. Refer to current prescribing information for both agents for additional details. Specific recommendations for converting between anticoagulants: - When converting from rivaroxaban to anticoagulants other than warfarin and switching to an anticoagulant with rapid onset, discontinue rivaroxaban and begin new anticoagulant when next dose of rivaroxaban is due. - When converting from anticoagulants other than warfarin to rivaroxaban, discontinue current anticoagulant and begin rivaroxaban between 0-2 hours before next evening dose of the drug is due. For patients receiving continuous infusion of unfractionated heparin, simultaneously stop the infusion and administer rivaroxaban. - When converting from warfarin to rivaroxaban, discontinue warfarin and begin rivaroxaban once international normalized ratio (INR) is below 3.0 in adults and below 2.5 in pediatric patients. - When converting from rivaroxaban to warfarin in adults, rivaroxaban affects INR. Therefore concurrent administration with warfarin is not useful in determining target warfarin dose. If continuous anticoagulation is warranted, discontinue rivaroxaban and begin both warfarin and a parenteral anticoagulant when the next dose of rivaroxaban is due. Once INR is within range, discontinue the parenteral anticoagulant. - When converting from rivaroxaban to warfarin in pediatrics, continue rivaroxaban for at least 2 days after the first dose of warfarin. After two days, INR should be measured just prior to the next scheduled dose of rivaroxaban. Once a stable INR = or > 2.0 is achieved, rivaroxaban should be discontinued and warfarin continued. The use of concurrent therapy with Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs) and thrombolytics is generally considered contraindicated. The manufacturer of alteplase states that the use of alteplase for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients receiving anticoagulants. Concurrent use of alteplase and anticoagulants is dependent on the therapeutic indication. In Acute Ischemic Stroke: - Clinical practice guidelines for acute ischemic stroke state the use of thrombolytic therapy for an indication of acute ischemic stroke is contraindicated in patients who have received thrombin inhibitors or factor Xa inhibitors in the previous 48 hours (in normal renal function) and have abnormal laboratory tests such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), INR, platelet count, ecarin clotting time (ECT), thrombin time, or direct factor Xa assays at presentation. In Acute Myocardial Infarction: - Patients who are receiving thrombolytics for an indication of acute myocardial infarction should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding, especially at arterial puncture sites, if rivaroxaban is used concurrently. - The use of thrombolytics in patients with acute myocardial infarction should follow standard management of myocardial infarction, including minimizing arterial and venous puncture; avoid noncompressible arterial puncture; and minimize internal jugular and subclavian venous punctures to decrease bleeding from the noncompressible sites. For all indications: - In the event of serious bleeding, anticoagulants should be discontinued immediately. - If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. - When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. - Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Patients who are receiving thrombolytics should be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding if anticoagulants are being used concurrently or have recently been used.

Defibrotide/Selected Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics

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 effects on hemostasis.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of defibrotide with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may increase the risk of bleeding.(1)

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: The US manufacturer of defibrotide states that concomitant use with systemic anticoagulant or antithrombotic therapy is contraindicated.(1) In patients who have received prior anticoagulant or thrombolytic therapy, consider delaying the start of defibrotide until the effects of the anticoagulant have abated.(1) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, closely 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; gingival bleeding; nosebleeds; unusual bruising; orange/red urine or dark/black stools; new onset of headache, confusion, slurred speech, or vision; acute abdominal pain; 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: In pivotal clinical trials, 176 patients received defibrotide; the use of anticoagulants or thrombolytics was not allowed. Bleeding events not attributed to underlying disease were as follows: epistaxis (14%), pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage (9%), gastrointestinal hemorrhage (9%), pulmonary hemorrhage (9%), intracranial hemorrhage (3%), cerebral hemorrhage (2%).

Thrombolytics/Donanemab

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: Microhemorrhage has been reported with the use of donanemab. Radiographic changes on brain MRI have been noted as amyloid related imaging abnormalities-hemosiderin deposition (ARIA-H) which included microhemorrhage. In addition, intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH) greater than 1 cm in diameter have occurred in patients treated with donanemab.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of donanemab with thrombolytic agents may increase the risk of hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with ongoing amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) may be at increased risk for post-thrombolytic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association guidelines for the early management of patients with acute ischemic stroke states patients on amyloid immunotherapy is an absolute contraindication for use of thrombolysis. The guidelines state that the risk of thrombolysis related intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in patients on amyloid immunotherapy or with ARIA is unknown and thrombolysis should be avoided in such patients.(2) The manufacturer of donanemab states that donanemab should be used with extreme caution in patients treated with thrombolytics. Evaluate the risks and benefits of concurrent use of donanemab with thrombolytics.(1) The manufacturer of donanemab recommends testing for AP0E4 status prior to initiation of treatment.(1) Use of thrombolytics in patients who are homozygous for the APOE4 gene, may have an increased risk of ARIA with donanemab therapy.(1,3-5) If thrombolytics are warranted, patients receiving concurrent therapy with donanemab and thrombolytics should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding and changes in platelet count or symptoms associated with ARIA-H.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of microhemorrhage, including headache, nausea/vomiting, confusion, dizziness, visual disturbance, gait difficulties, and loss of coordination. General signs of blood loss include decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) to monitor efficacy and safety of thrombolytic use with lecanemab. Discontinue thrombolytics in patients with active pathologic bleeding.(1) Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as confusion, headache, dizziness, nausea, visual changes, unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study of 1736 participants randomized to receive donanemab (n = 860) or placebo (n = 876), donanemab was observed to increase amyloid related imaging abnormalities-hemosiderin deposition (ARIA-H), including microhemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). One fatal ICH occurred in a patient taking donanemab in the setting of focal neurologic symptoms of ARIA and the use of a thrombolytic agent.(1) Radiographic changes were classified as mild (<=4 new incidences), moderate (5 to 9 new incidences), or severe (10 or more new incidences). The maximum severity of ARIA-H microhemorrhage was observed as mild in 17% (143/853), moderate in 4% (34/853), and severe in 5% (40/853) of patients taking donanemab.(1) Baseline use of antithrombotic medication (aspirin, other antiplatelets, or anticoagulants) was allowed. The majority of exposures to antithrombotic medications were to aspirin. The incidence of ARIA-H was 30% (106/349) in patients taking donanemab with a concomitant antithrombotic medication within 30 days compared to 29% (148/504) who did not receive an antithrombotic within 30 days of an ARIA-H event.(1) The incidence of ICH greater than 1 cm in diameter was 0.6% (2/349 patients) in patients taking donanemab with a concomitant antithrombotic medication compared to 0.4% (2/504) in those who did not receive an antithrombotic.(1) The manufacturer of donanemab states the number of events and the limited exposure to non-aspirin antithrombotic medications limit definitive conclusions about the risk of ARIA or ICH in patients taking antithrombotic medications concurrently with donanemab. If concurrent therapy is warranted, patients should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding and changes in platelet count or INR.(1)

Thrombolytics/Lecanemab

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: Microhemorrhage has been reported with the use of lecanemab. Radiographic changes on brain MRI have been noted as amyloid related imaging abnormalities-hemosiderin deposition (ARIA-H) which included microhemorrhage. In addition, intracerebral hemorrhages (ICH) greater than 1 cm in diameter have occurred in patients treated with lecanemab.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lecanemab with thrombolytic agents may increase the risk of hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with ongoing amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) may be at increased risk for post-thrombolytic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The American Heart Association and American Stroke Association guidelines for the early management of patients with acute ischemic stroke states patients on amyloid immunotherapy is an absolute contraindication for use of thrombolysis. The guidelines state that the risk of thrombolysis related intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in patients on amyloid immunotherapy or with ARIA is unknown and thrombolysis should be avoided in such patients.(2) The US manufacturer of lecanemab states that lecanemab should be used with extreme caution in patients treated with thrombolytics. Evaluate the risks and benefits of concurrent use of lecanemab with thrombolytics.(1) Appropriate use recommendations for lecanemab state patients on lecanemab should not receive thrombolytics.(3) If thrombolytics are warranted, patients receiving concurrent therapy with lecanemab and thrombolytics should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding and changes in platelet count or symptoms associated with ARIA-H.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of microhemorrhage, including headache, nausea/vomiting, confusion, dizziness, visual disturbance, gait difficulties, and loss of coordination. General signs of blood loss include decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform computed tomography (CT) scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs) to monitor efficacy and safety of thrombolytic use with lecanemab. Discontinue thrombolytics in patients with active pathologic bleeding.(1) Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as confusion, headache, dizziness, nausea, visual changes, unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In a case report, a patient treated with thrombolytics for acute stroke who had received lecanemab experienced severe, multi-focal brain hemorrhages leading to death.(4) In clinical studies, lecanemab was observed to increase ARIA-H, including microhemorrhage and intracerebral hemorrhage. Radiographic changes were classified as mild (<=4 new incidences), moderate (5 to 9 new incidences), or severe (10 or more new incidences. Patients were excluded from clinical trials if taking concurrent anticoagulants or anti-platelets.(1) In Studies 1 and 2, the maximum severity of ARIA-H microhemorrhage was mild in 9% (79/898), moderate in 2% (19/898), and severe in 3% (28/898) of patients. Intracerebral hemorrhage greater than 1 cm in diameter was reported in 0.7% (6/898) of patients in Study 2 after treatment with lecanemab compared to 0.1% (1/897) on placebo. Fatal events of intracerebral hemorrhage in patients taking lecanemab have been observed.(1)

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

Anticoagulants; Antiplatelets; Thrombolytics/Caplacizumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Bleeding has been reported with the use of caplacizumab.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of caplacizumab with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or thrombolytics may increase the risk of hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. hemophilia, coagulation factor deficiencies). 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: Avoid the use of caplacizumab with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and thrombolytics. Interrupt caplacizumab therapy if clinically significant bleeding occurs. Patients may require von Willebrand factor concentrate to rapidly correct hemostasis. If caplacizumab is restarted, closely monitor for signs of bleeding.(1) 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 tests (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: Bleeding has been reported with caplacizumab. In clinical studies, severe bleeding adverse reactions of epistaxis, gingival bleeding, upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and metrorrhagia were each reported in 1% of patients. Overall, bleeding events occurred in approximately 58% of patients on caplacizumab versus 43% of patients on placebo.(1) In post-marketing reports, cases of life-threatening and fatal bleeding were reported with caplacizumab.(1)

Anticoagulants; Fibrinolytics/Aducanumab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Microhemorrhage has been reported with the use of aducanumab. Radiographic changes on brain MRI have been noted as amyloid related imaging abnormalities-hemosiderin deposition (ARIA-H) which included microhemorrhage.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of aducanumab with either anticoagulants or fibrinolytics may increase the risk of hemorrhage.(1-3)

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: Evaluate concurrent use of aducanumab with anticoagulants or fibrinolytics.(1-3) Patients receiving concurrent therapy with aducanumab and anticoagulants or fibrinolytics should be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of bleeding and changes in platelet count or International Normalized Ratio (INR).(1) Enhanced observation is recommended for the first 8 doses of aducanumab, particularly with dose titration. MRI should be considered if a patient develops clinical symptoms of microhemorrhage.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of microhemorrhage, including headache, nausea/vomiting, confusion, dizziness, visual disturbance, gait difficulties, and loss of coordination. General signs of blood loss include decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory tests (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 confusion, headache, dizziness, nausea, visual changes, unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In two phase 3 studies, aducanumab was observed to increase ARIA-H, including microhemorrhage. Radiographic changes were classified as mild (<=4 new incidences), moderate (5 to 9 new incidences), or severe (10 or more new incidences. Patients were excluded from clinical trials if taking concurrent anticoagulants or anti-platelets.(1) In Studies 1 and 2, ARIA was observed in 41% of patients treated with aducanumab with a planned dose of 10 mg/kg, compared to 10% of patients on placebo.(1)

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

Anticoagulant;Antiplatelet;Thrombolytic/Icosapent Ethyl

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: In vitro data suggests that fish oils can competitively inhibit cyclooxygenase which decreases synthesis of thromboxane A1 leading to a decrease in platelet aggregation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic agents increase bleeding risks.

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 deemed medically necessary, 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 tests (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: Specific studies with icosapent ethyl and affects on bleeding risk have not been conducted. Concurrent use of anticoagulant, antiplatelet, or thrombolytic agents may increase bleeding risks by impairing platelet function and prolonging bleeding time.(1) Several case reports have shown increased bleeding time and an increased risk of adverse effects from concurrent therapy.(2,3,4) A randomized placebo controlled study of 40 people taking omega-3 fatty acids and oral anticoagulants showed a significant prolongation in bleeding time.(5)

Anticoagulants/Lifileucel

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Internal organ hemorrhage, including intraabdominal and intracranial hemorrhage, has been reported in the presence of persistent or repeated thrombocytopenia following treatment with lifileucel.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use or recent therapy with lifileucel and an anticoagulant may increase the risk of life-threatening hemorrhage, including intraabdominal and intracranial hemorrhage.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer states patients with persistent or repeated thrombocytopenia after receiving lifileucel should not use anticoagulants. If anticoagulation therapy is warranted, close monitoring of patients must take place.(1) The US manufacturer recommends withholding or discontinuing lifileucel if internal organ hemorrhage is indicated, or patient is ineligible for IL-2 (aldesleukin) infusion.(1) 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 tests (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In the open-label single-arm study of 156 adult patients, two cases of internal organ hemorrhage (abdominal hemorrhage and intracranial hemorrhage) leading to death were reported.(1) The incidence of grade 3 or 4 laboratory abnormalities occurring in melanoma patients following treatment with lifileucel included thrombocytopenia (78.2%), neutropenia (69.2%) and anemia (58.3%). Prolonged thrombocytopenia occurred in 30.1% of patients.(1)

Anticoagulants; Antiplatelets; Thrombolytics/Drotrecogin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Drotrecogin, anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and thrombolytics all affect hemostasis.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of drotrecogin with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or thrombolytics, including heparin and aspirin, may increase the risk of bleeding.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Drotrecogin should be used with caution with other agents that affect hemostasis, including concurrent heparin for thrombotic or embolic events; recent administration (within 3 days) of thrombolytics; recent administration of oral anticoagulants (within 7 days) or glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors; or recent administration (within 7 days) of aspirin (greater than 650 mg daily) or other platelet inhibitors.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: Because of the increased risk of bleeding, drotrecogin should be used with caution with other agents that affect hemostasis, including concurrent heparin for thrombotic or embolic events; recent administration (within 3 days) of thrombolytics; recent administration of oral anticoagulants (within 7 days) or glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitors; or recent administration (within 7 days) of aspirin (greater than 650 mg daily) or other platelet inhibitors.(1)

Anticoagulants; Thrombolytics/Remibrutinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Remibrutinib may cause bleeding. Anticoagulants and thrombolytics also affect hemostasis.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of remibrutinib with anticoagulants or thrombolytics may increase the risk of bleeding.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Consider the risks and benefits of concomitant administration of antithrombotic agents with remibrutinib. Interrupt treatment with remibrutinib if bleeding is observed and resume if the benefit is expected to outweigh the risk. 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. Interrupt treatment with remibrutinib for 3 to 7 days pre- and post-surgery or invasive procedures.(1)

DISCUSSION: No data are available on concomitant use of remibrutinib with anticoagulants. The concomitant use of remibrutinib and anticoagulants was not allowed in clinical studies. Use of the antiplatelet agents, acetyl salicylic acid at doses up to 100 mg daily or clopidogrel up to 75 mg daily, was allowed in the remibrutinib clinical studies.(1)

Slt Anticoagulants;Antiplatelets;Thrombolytics/Fluvoxamine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Serotonin release by platelets plays a role in hemostasis.(1) Fluvoxamine may cause a decrease in serotonin reuptake by platelets, resulting in an additive risk of bleeding with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and thrombolytics.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fluvoxamine and agents that affect coagulation may result in bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Renal impairment has been associated with an elevated risk of GI bleed in patients on SSRIs.(2) 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: Concurrent therapy of fluvoxamine and agents that affect coagulation should be undertaken with caution. 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, anti Factor Xa inhibition) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In a retrospective review of 5 years of data from the Pharmaco-Epidemiologic Prescription Database, hospitalizations for upper gastro-intestinal bleeding in antidepressant users were compared to those in non-antidepressant users. The risk of a bleed in a patient using an NSAID only based on an observed-expected ration was 4.5 and in a patient using low-dose aspirin only was 2.5. Concurrent use of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor with NSAIDs or low-dose aspirin increased the risk of bleeding to 12.2 and 5.2, respectively.(3) In another study, there were 16 cases of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients receiving concurrent therapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and NSAIDs. Adjusted relative risk of bleeding with NSAIDs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or both were 3.7, 2.6, or 15.6, respectively.(4) In a case-control study conducted in users of acenocoumarol or phenprocoumon, 1,848 patients who had been hospitalized with abnormal bleeding were each matched to 4 control patients. When patients took both a SSRI and a coumarin, an increased risk of hospitalization due to major non-gastrointestinal bleeding was observed (adjusted OR 1.7), but not due to gastrointestinal bleeding (adjusted OR 0.8).(5) A retrospective review examined patients discharged from a hospital with antiplatelet therapy following a myocardial infarction. When compared to aspirin therapy alone, both aspirin therapy with a SSRI and aspirin, clopidogrel, and SSRI therapy were associated with an increased risk of bleeding (hazard ratios 1.42 and 2.35, respectively.) Compared with dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel), use of aspirin and clopidogrel and a SSRI was also associated with increased risk of bleeding (hazard ratio 1.57).(6) In The Rotterdam Study, fluvoxamine increased the risk of over anticoagulation (hazard ratio 2.63). Paroxetine was not associated with an increased risk. There were insufficient numbers of patients taking other SSRIs to assess increased risk.(7) A self-controlled case study of 1,622 oral anticoagulant-precipitant drug pairs were reviewed and found 14% of drug pairs were associated with a statistically significant elevated risk of thromboembolism. Concurrent use of dabigatran and citalopram resulted in a ratio of rate ratios (95% CI) of 1.69 (1.11-2.57).(8)

Slt Anticoagulants;Antiplatelets;Thrombolytics/Ssris;Snris

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Serotonin release by platelets plays a role in hemostasis.(1,2) The increased risk of bleeding may be a result of a decrease in serotonin reuptake by platelets.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor(1-6) or a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor(7-9) and agents that affect coagulation may result in bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Renal impairment has been associated with an elevated risk of GI bleed in patients on SSRIs.(15) 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: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(1-6) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors(7-9) and agents that affect coagulation should be used concurrently with caution. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In a retrospective review of 5 years of data from the Pharmaco-Epidemiologic Prescription Database, hospitalizations for upper gastro-intestinal bleeding in antidepressant users were compared to those in non-antidepressant users. The risk of a bleed in a patient using an NSAID only based on an observed-expected ration was 4.5 and in a patient using low-dose aspirin only was 2.5. Concurrent use of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor with NSAIDs or low-dose aspirin increased the risk of bleeding to 12.2 and 5.2, respectively.(10) In another study, there were 16 cases of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients receiving concurrent therapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and NSAIDs. Adjusted relative risk of bleeding with NSAIDs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or both were 3.7, 2.6, or 15.6, respectively.(11) In a case-control study conducted in users of acenocoumarol or phenprocoumon, 1848 patients who had been hospitalized with abnormal bleeding were each matched to 4 control patients. When patients took both a SSRI and a coumarin, an increased risk of hospitalization due to major non-gastrointestinal bleeding was observed (adjusted OR 1.7), but not due to gastrointestinal bleeding (adjusted OR 0.8).(12) A retrospective review examined patients discharged from a hospital with antiplatelet therapy following a myocardial infarction. When compared to aspirin therapy alone, both aspirin therapy with a SSRI and aspirin, clopidogrel, and SSRI therapy were associated with an increased risk of bleeding (hazard ratios 1.42 and 2.35, respectively.) Compared with dual antiplatelet therapy (aspirin and clopidogrel), use of aspirin and clopidogrel and a SSRI was also associated with increased risk of bleeding (hazard ratio 1.57).(13) In The Rotterdam Study, fluvoxamine increased the risk of over anticoagulation (hazard ratio 2.63). Paroxetine was not associated with an increased risk. There were insufficient numbers of patients taking other SSRIs to assess increased risk.(14) A self-controlled case study of 1,622 oral anticoagulant-precipitant drug pairs were reviewed and found 14% of drug pairs were associated with a statistically significant elevated risk of thromboembolism. Concurrent use of dabigatran and citalopram resulted in a ratio of rate ratios (95% CI) of 1.69 (1.11-2.57).(16) A systematic review and meta-analysis of 22 cohort and case-controlled studies including over 1 million patients found 1.55-fold higher odds of upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding in SSRI users compared with non-SSRI users (95% CI, 1.35-1.78). In subgroup analyses, the risk was found to be greatest among participants taking SSRIs concurrently with NSAIDs or antiplatelet medications.(17)

Thrombolytics/Abciximab

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Thrombolytics decrease plasma fibrinogen levels.(1) When thrombolytics are administered with abciximab, there is enhanced inhibition of platelet aggregation.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of abciximab and thrombolytics may result in greater inhibition of platelet aggregation which may lead to an increased risk of bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Active internal bleed, thrombocytopenia, recent major surgery or trauma, severe uncontrolled hypertension, use of IV dextran before PCI, and history of cerebrovascular accident within two years(2) Other 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: Because of effects on bleeding, abciximab should be used judiciously in patients who have received thrombolytics. In all patients receiving abciximab, potential bleeding sites should be checked. It is also recommended to monitor the patients closely.(2) If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling.

DISCUSSION: In the GUSTO V trial, the incidence of moderate or severe non intracranial bleeding was increased in patients receiving half-dose Reteplase with abciximab (4.6%) when compared to patients receiving full-dose Reteplase alone (2.3%).(2,3)

Concomitant administration with systemic anticoagulant or fibrinolytic therapy. (See Hemorrhage under Cautions: Warnings/Precautions.) Known hypersensitivity to defibrotide or any ingredient(s) in the formulation.

• Hemorrhage

• Increased risk of bleeding

There are no moderate contraindications for this drug.

Hemorrhagic events of any type or severity were reported in 59% of 176 patients receiving defibrotide sodium (6.25 mg/kg every 6 hours) in clinical trials for the treatment of hepatic VOD with pulmonary and/or renal dysfunction following HSCT; 20% of patients experienced grade 4-5 (fatal or considered life-threatening) hemorrhagic events. Adverse effects (independent of causality) reported in at least 10% of patients receiving defibrotide in clinical trials were hypotension, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and epistaxis. Life-threatening or fatal adverse events (independent of causality) reported in at least 2% of patients receiving defibrotide in clinical trials include pulmonary alveolar hemorrhage, sepsis, graft-versus-host disease, GI hemorrhage, lung infiltration, pneumonia, pulmonary hemorrhage, infection, intracranial hemorrhage, hyperuricemia, and cerebral hemorrhage.

More Frequent

• Hypotension

Rare or Very Rare

• Anaphylaxis
• Angioedema
• Hemorrhage

More Frequent

• Diarrhea
• Epistaxis
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Rare or Very Rare

• Skin rash
• Urticaria

No enhanced messaging available.

Safety and efficacy of defibrotide have been established in pediatric patients. Clinical trials that included patients 1 month to less than 17 years of age who received defibrotide for the treatment of hepatic VOD with renal or pulmonary dysfunction following HSCT showed similar safety and efficacy outcomes compared with those in adults.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of defibrotide in pregnant women. In animal studies, use of defibrotide sodium in pregnant rabbits during the period of organogenesis at a dosage comparable to the recommended human dosage was associated with a decrease in the number of implantations and viable fetuses. Pregnant women should be advised of the potential risk of miscarriage with defibrotide use.

It is not known whether defibrotide is distributed into human milk. Breast-feeding during defibrotide treatment is not recommended due to the potential for serious adverse effects, including bleeding, in a breast-fed infant.

The manufacturer states that clinical studies of defibrotide did not include a sufficient number of patients 65 years of age or older to determine whether geriatric patients respond differently than younger individuals; other reported clinical experience has not revealed differences in response between geriatric and younger patients.