Pimozide (pimozide)

When pimozide is used for suppression of motor and vocal tics in patients with Tourette's syndrome, the initial dosage of the drug should be low and dosage adjustments should be made gradually. Dosage of pimozide must be carefully adjusted to balance symptomatic relief and the suppression of tics against the adverse effects of the drug. Patients receiving pimozide should have an ECG performed before therapy with the drug is initiated and periodically thereafter, particularly during the period of dosage adjustment. (See Cautions: Precautions and Contraindications.)

Pimozide is administered orally. The drug may usually be administered once daily but also may be given in divided doses, particularly if once-daily dosing is not well tolerated. Some clinicians recommend administration of the drug as a single dose at bedtime to minimize adverse effects.

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.

Antipsychotics/Sibutramine

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: Sibutramine has demonstrated antidepressant effects. (1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of sibutramine and an antipsychotic may result in additive or synergistic central nervous system (CNS) effects.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Australian,(2) Canadian,(1) and UK(3) manufacturers of sibutramine state that concurrent use with antipsychotics is contraindicated.

DISCUSSION: The use of sibutramine with other CNS-active agents has not been evaluated.(1-3)

Neuroleptics/Iomeprol

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: Neuroleptics may lower seizure threshold.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Use of iomeprol in a patient receiving a neuroleptic may increase the risk of seizure.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of iomeprol states that neuroleptics should be discontinued 48 hours before iomeprol use. Treatment with a neuroleptic should not be resumed until 24 hours post-procedure.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because neuroleptics may lower seizure threshold, neuroleptics should be discontinued 48 hours before iomeprol use. Treatment with a neuroleptic should not be resumed until 24 hours post-procedure.(1)

Pimozide/Aprepitant

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: Aprepitant may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of aprepitant and pimozide may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in cardiac arrhythmias, including life-threatening 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 increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of aprepitant states that the concurrent use of aprepitant and pimozide 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: Aprepitant is a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4. Elevated levels of pimozide have been shown to increase the QTc interval, which may result in life-threatening arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes. Therefore, the manufacturer of aprepitant states that the concurrent use of aprepitant and pimozide is contraindicated.(1)

Pimozide/Boceprevir; Telaprevir

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: Boceprevir(1) and telaprevir(2) may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of boceprevir(1) or telaprevir(2) may result in elevated levels of and effects from pimozide, including life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.

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 increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturers of boceprevir(1) and telaprevir(2) state that concurrent use of pimozide is contraindicated. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1,3) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Boceprevir has been shown to be a strong inhibitor of CYP3A4.(1) Telaprevir has also been shown to inhibit CYP3A4.(2) Therefore, concurrent use of boceprevir(1) or telaprevir(2) with agents that are highly dependent on CYP3A4 for clearance and for which elevated plasma levels are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events is contraindicated.

Pimozide/Delavirdine

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: Delavirdine may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of delavirdine with pimozide may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of delavirdine states that the concurrent use of pimozide 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: Because delavirdine inhibits CYP3A4, the concurrent use of agents that are highly dependent on CYP3A4 for clearance and for which elevated plasma concentration are associated with serious and/or life-threatening events, such as pimozide, is contraindicated by the US manufacturer of delavirdine.(1) Elevated levels of pimozide may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(4)

Pimozide/Letermovir

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: Letermovir, a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor, may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP3A4.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1, 5-6) Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(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) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(7)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide and letermovir 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: An in vitro study indicates that pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A4.(4) Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(2)

Pimozide/Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: clofazimine, dronedarone, erythromycin, and fluconazole.(4,5)

Pimozide/Phenothiazines That Prolong Qt

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Therefore, the manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with agents that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated because of the risk of additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) No other clinical documentation is available. One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Pimozide/Qt Prolonging Agents

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: 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.

Pimozide/Rolapitant

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: Rolapitant may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP2D6.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent administration of rolapitant may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of rolapitant states concurrent use with pimozide is contraindicated. If patients require either rolapitant or pimozide, use an alternative antiemetic to rolapitant or an alternative to pimozide.(1) Avoid concurrent use, especially when other risk factors for QT prolongation are present. Rolapitant effects on CYP2D6 are expected to last at least 28 days after administration.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, e.g. correct electrolyte disturbances, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. Consider ECG to evaluate baseline and/or concurrent QT prolongation risk. Monitor patients on the combination and counsel patients accordingly.

DISCUSSION: Seven days after administration, a single dose of rolapitant was found to increase exposure to dextromethorphan, a CYP2D6 substrate, by 3-fold.(1) A single dose of rolapitant increased dextromethorphan 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.(1)

Pimozide/Selected Antiarrhythmics

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Therefore, the manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with agents that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated because of the risk of additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) No other clinical documentation is available. One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Pimozide/Selected Macrolide Antibiotics

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: Macrolide antibiotics may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Increased levels of pimozide may result in prolongation of the QT-interval, ventricular arrhythmias, 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.(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) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with macrolide antibiotics and pimozide 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: The manufacturer of pimozide states that two deaths have been linked to the addition of clarithromycin to pimozide therapy. Therefore, the manufacturer of pimozide states that concurrent therapy with macrolide antibiotics and pimozide is contraindicated.(1) A study in 12 subjects found that the concurrent administration of pimozide and clarithromycin resulted in significant increases in the pimozide maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) and decreased the clearance of pimozide. There was also a significant increase in the QTc interval when pimozide was administered with clarithromycin.(5) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Pimozide/Selected Protease Inhibitors; Cobicistat

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: Protease inhibitors(1-13,15) and cobicistat(14) may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP3A4.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1-15)

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.(17) 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).(17) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(18)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide and the protease inhibitors amprenavir,(1) atazanavir,(2,3) darunavir,(4) fosamprenavir,(5) indinavir,(6,7) nelfinavir,(6,8) nirmatrelvir coadministered with ritonavir,(15) and tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir(13) and cobicistat(14) is contraindicated. 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: An in vitro study indicates that pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A4.(15) Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(6) Selected CYP3A inhibitors linked include: amprenavir, atazanavir, cobicistat, darunavir, ensitrelvir, fosamprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, nirmatrelvir, paritaprevir, and tipranavir.

Pimozide/Ssris; Nefazodone

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: Fluvoxamine,(1) nefazodone,(2,3) may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP3A4. The mechanisms for the interactions between citalopram,(4) escitalopram,(5) and sertraline(6) and pimozide are unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1-9) Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(7)

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.(8) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(8) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(9)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide with citalopram,(3-5) escitalopram,(3-5) fluvoxamine,(1,3) nefazodone,(2,3) or sertraline(3,6) is contraindicated. 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: An in vitro study indicates that pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A4.(7) In a controlled study, the administration of a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) with citalopram (40 mg daily for 11 days) increased mean QTc values by 10 msec compared to pimozide administered alone. There was no change in pimozide area-under-curve (AUC) or maximum concentration (Cmax).(4,5) In a controlled study, the administration of sertraline (200 mg daily) with a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) resulted in 40% increases in both the AUC and Cmax of pimozide, but was not associated with EKG changes. However, given the narrow therapeutic index of pimozide, their concurrent use is contraindicated by the manufacturer of sertraline.(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.

Pimozide/Strong Cyp2d6 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP2D6.(1-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(8)

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.(7) 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).(7) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(8)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide with strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a controlled study in healthy subjects, steady-state paroxetine (60 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) by 151% and 62%, respectively.(2-4) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors include: dacomitinib, fluoxetine, paroxetine, and terbinafine.(1,9) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Pimozide/Strong Cyp2d6 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong the QTc interval may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide and cause an additive risk of QTc prolongation.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(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) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide with strong inhibitors of CYP2D6 is contraindicated.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a controlled study in healthy subjects, steady-state paroxetine (60 mg daily, a strong inhibitor of CYP2D6) increased the AUC and Cmax of a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) by 151% and 62%, respectively.(1) Strong CYP2D6 inhibitors that prolong QT linked include: hydroquinidine, mavorixafor, and quinidine.(5,6) 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.

Pimozide/Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP3A.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(8) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(8) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(9)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The use of pimozide with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated, especially when other risk factors for QT prolongation are present. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. The manufacturer of itraconazole states that concomitant treatment with pimozide is contraindicated during and 2 weeks after itraconazole treatment.(10,11)

DISCUSSION: An in vitro study indicates that pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval, resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Serious cardiovascular events, including QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest, and/or sudden death have been reported in patients taking pimozide in combination with itraconazole and/or other CYP3A4 inhibitors.(3) Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors include: idelalisib, itraconazole, ketoconazole, relacorilant, and tucatinib.(5,6) 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.

Pimozide/Strong Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: adagrasib, ceritinib, clarithromycin, levoketoconazole, lonafarnib, lopinavir, posaconazole, ribociclib, saquinavir, telithromycin, and voriconazole.(5,6)

Pimozide/Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT linked include: amiodarone, cilostazol, ciprofloxacin, and propofol.(4-6)

Pimozide/Zileuton

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: Zileuton may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide at CYP3A.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(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) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent administration of pimozide and zileuton is contraindicated by the manufacturer of pimozide.(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: An in vitro study indicates that pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A.(2) Because elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval, resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, the manufacturer of pimozide states that the concurrent administration of pimozide with inhibitors of CYP3A such as zileuton is contraindicated.(1)

Pimozide; Thioridazine/Bupropion

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: Bupropion may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide and thioridazine at CYP2D6.(1,2) These agents are also known to lower the seizure threshold.(1,3,4,6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1,6) As well, concurrent use may result in additive effects on the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures.(1,3,4,6)

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) The risk of seizures may be increased in patients with a history of head trauma or prior seizure; CNS tumor; severe hepatic cirrhosis; excessive use of alcohol or sedatives; addiction to opiates, cocaine, or stimulants; use of over-the-counter stimulants an anorectics; a total daily dose of bupropion greater than 450 mg or single doses greater than 150 mg; rapid escalation of bupropion dosage; diabetics treated with oral hypoglycemics or insulin; or with concomitant medications known to lower seizure threshold (antidepressants, theophylline, systemic steroids).(3,4) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(7)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of pimozide or thioridazine with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as bupropion is contraindicated.(1,6) 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. Concurrent use should be initiated with low initial bupropion dosing and small gradual dosage increases of bupropion.(3,4) Single doses of bupropion should not exceed 150 mg.(3,4) The maximum daily dose of bupropion should not exceed 300 mg for smoking cessation(3) or 450 mg for depression.(4)

DISCUSSION: The interactions of pimozide and thioridazine with bupropion have not been studied. In a controlled study in healthy subjects, steady-state paroxetine (60 mg daily, another strong inhibitor of CYP2D6) increased the area-under curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of a single dose of pimozide (2 mg) by 151% and 62%, respectively.(1)

Pimozide; Thioridazine/Ziprasidone

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, thioridazine and ziprasidone have all been shown to prolong the QTc interval. The concurrent use of ziprasidone with these agents may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of ziprasidone with pimozide or thioridazine may result in additive prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening arrhythmias.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of ziprasidone states under contraindications that ziprasidone should not be used with other drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including pimozide or thioridazine.(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: Ziprasidone has been shown to prolong the QTc interval in a dose-related fashion. Therefore, the manufacturer of ziprasidone states under contraindications that ziprasidone should not be used with other drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including pimozide or thioridazine.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Anagrelide

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

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

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

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

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

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

Qt Prolonging Agents/Artemether-Lumefantrine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Selected Agents/Mibefradil

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: Mibefradil has been shown to inhibit the activity of CYP P-450-3A4 and CYP P-450-2D6 and may inhibit the metabolism of these agents.(1-2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration may result in elevated levels of these agents.(1,2) Withdrawal of mibefradil may result in decreased levels of these agents. Concurrent administration of the mibefradil with the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may result in elevated levels of the HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, which may result in rhabdomyolysis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients who received concurrent therapy with mibefradil and these agents should be monitored for decreased levels and effectiveness of these medications during the two weeks following the withdrawal of mibefradil. Dosage adjustments of the medications may be necessary. The manufacturer of mibefradil stated that concurrent administration of mibefradil with either lovastatin or simvastatin was contraindicated and that concurrent administration of mibefradil with either atorvastatin or cerivastatin should have generally been avoided.(1) Fluvastatin or pravastatin, which are not significantly metabolized by CYP P-450-3A4, may have been used as alternatives in patients receiving mibefradil.

DISCUSSION: Mibefradil was shown to inhibit CYP P-450-3A4 and CYP P-450-2D6 thus may inhibit the metabolism of agents metabolized at these sites. Withdrawal of mibefradil may result in decreased levels of these agents as the CYP P-450 system returns to normal. Following the discontinuation of mibefradil, seven to 14 days are required for sufficient elimination of mibefradil metabolites to minimize mibefradil effects on the CYP P-450 system. Dosage adjustments may need to be made during this period.(2) The manufacturer stated that there were seven reports of rhabdomyolysis in patients receiving concurrent therapy with simvastatin and mibefradil. Four patients were also receiving cyclosporine. Because lovastatin follows the same metabolic pathway as simvastatin, a similar interaction would be expected. Atorvastatin and cerivastatin are metabolized by CYP P-450-3A4 to active and inactive metabolites.(1)

Selected Antipsychotics That Prolong Qt/Levomethadyl (IR)

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. Concurrent use with selected antipsychotics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1,2) Concurrent use of opioids such as levomethadyl and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(3)

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.(1,2) Concurrent use of opioids such as levomethadyl and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(3)

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

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.(1,2) Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as levomethadyl with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(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. If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(3) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(4) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(3) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(5)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(6) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(7) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(8) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(9) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(10) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(11) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(12)

Selected Antipsychotics That Prolong Qt/Methadone (NON MAT)

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: Methadone has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with selected antipsychotics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval. Concurrent use of methadone and antipsychotics may result in additive CNS depression.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of methadone with selected antipsychotics may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) Concurrent use of methadone and other CNS depressants such as antipsychotics may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(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 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) Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of methadone with droperidol, pimozide, or sertindole is contraindicated. If therapeutic alternatives are inadequate and concurrent use 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 concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(3) Gradual tapering or decreasing to the lowest effective dose of antipsychotic may be appropriate. Ensure that other health care providers prescribing other CNS depressants are aware of the patient's methadone treatment.(4) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(5) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(2) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(6)

DISCUSSION: Most cases of methadone-induced QT prolongation are associated with, but not limited to, higher dose treatment (greater than 200 mg daily) and most involve patients being treated for pain with large, multiple daily doses. Cases have been reported in patients treated with doses commonly used for maintenance treatment of opioid addiction.(1) A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(7) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(8) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(9) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(10) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(11) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(12) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(13) Selected antipsychotics linked include: droperidol, pimozide, and sertindole.

Selected Antipsychotics That Prolong Qt/Methadone For Mat

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: Methadone has been shown to prolong the QTc interval. Concurrent use with selected antipsychotics may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1-3) Concurrent use of methadone and antipsychotics may result in additive CNS depression.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of methadone with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1,2) Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants such as antipsychotics may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-3)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of methadone with droperidol, pimozide, or sertindole is contraindicated. If therapeutic alternatives are inadequate and concurrent use 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 concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(3) Gradual tapering or decreasing to the lowest effective dose of antipsychotic may be appropriate. Ensure that other health care providers prescribing other CNS depressants are aware of the patient's methadone treatment.(5) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(6) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(3) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(7)

DISCUSSION: Most cases of methadone-induced QT prolongation are associated with, but not limited to, higher dose treatment (greater than 200 mg daily) and most involve patients being treated for pain with large, multiple daily doses. Cases have been reported in patients treated with doses commonly used for maintenance treatment of opioid addiction.(2) Levomethadone should be used with caution in patients with a history of QT prolongation, advanced heart disease, concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors, or electrolyte abnormalities. Cases of QT prolongation and torsades de pointes have been reported, most commonly with high doses.(1) A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(8) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(9) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(10) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(11) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(12) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(13) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(14) Selected antipsychotics linked include: droperidol, pimozide, and sertindole.

Selected Antipsychotics/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: Concurrent administration may result in additive effects on the QT interval.(1,2)

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(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 cisapride states that cisapride should not be concomitantly administered with agents known to prolong the QT interval such as certain antipsychotic medications such as certain phenothiazines (1,2), sertindole (1), and pimozide.(2) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: The manufacturer of cisapride states that QT prolongation, torsades de pointes (sometimes with syncope), cardiac arrest, and sudden death have been reported in patients who were not taking agents known to increase cisapride levels. Some of these patients were taking agents known to prolong the QT interval, such as certain antipsychotic medications such as certain phenothiazines, sertindole, and pimozide. The manufacturer of cisapride states that cisapride should not be concomitantly administered with agents known to prolong the QT interval.(1,2) 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.

Selected Cyp2d6 Substrates That Prolong Qt/Givosiran

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: Givosiran interferes with the first and rate-limiting step in hepatic heme biosynthesis, which may lower hepatic heme levels and decrease production and/or activity of cytochrome P450 enzymes.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of givosiran may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from agents metabolized by CYP2D6.(1) Higher systemic concentrations of QT prolonging drugs which are metabolized by CYP2D6 may increase the risk for 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) With pimozide, thioridazine and tolterodine, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of givosiran with agents that are sensitive substrates of CYP2D6, or CYP2D6 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index. If concurrent use is unavoidable, decrease the dose of the CYP2D6 substrate and monitor patients for toxicity. If concurrent therapy with givosiran and a CYP2D6 substrate which may prolong the QT interval is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: A study of 9 patients with acute intermittent porphyria found that givosiran increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of caffeine (a CYP1A2 substrate) by 1.3- and 3.1-fold, respectively, compared to caffeine alone. Givosiran also increased the Cmax and AUC of dextromethorphan (a CYP2D6 substrate) by 2- and 2.4-fold, respectively, compared to dextromethorphan alone.(1,2) CYP2D6 substrates that are QT prolonging drugs linked to this monograph include: eliglustat, perhexiline, pimozide, prajmaline, propafenone, thioridazine, and tolterodine.

Selected Cyp2d6 Substrates That Prolong Qt/Panobinostat

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: Panobinostat is an inhibitor of CYP2D6 and is expected to inhibit the metabolism of agents through this pathway.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of panobinostat may result in elevated levels of and toxicity from agents metabolized by CYP2D6.(1) Higher systemic concentrations of QT prolonging drugs which are metabolized by CYP2D6 may increase the risk for 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) With pimozide, thioridazine and tolterodine, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of panobinostat with agents that are sensitive substrates of CYP2D6 (atomoxetine, deutetrabenazine, perphenazine, prajmaline, propafenone, tetrabenazine, or tolterodine) or CYP2D6 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index (pimozide and thioridazine). If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients for toxicity. If concurrent therapy with panobinostat and a CYP2D6 substrate which may prolong the QT interval (atomoxetine, deutetrabenazine, perphenazine, pimozide, prajmaline, thioridazine, or tolterodine) 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 in 14 subjects with advanced cancer, panobinostat (20 mg daily on Days 3, 5, and 8) increased the maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC) of a single dose of dextromethorphan (60 mg) by 20-200% and 20-130%, respectively. Dextromethorphan exposures were extremely variable.(1) CYP2D6 substrates that are QT prolonging drugs linked to this monograph include: perhexiline, pimozide, prajmaline, propafenone, thioridazine, and tolterodine.(2)

Selected Cyp3a4 Substrates/Mifepristone

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: Mifepristone is an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and may increase levels and effects of drugs metabolized by this enzyme.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Lovastatin, simvastatin and CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic window such as alprazolam, cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, pimozide, quinidine, sirolimus, and tacrolimus or CYP3A4 substrates with a high first pass effect such as oral midazolam, sildenafil, and triazolam are particularly susceptible to significant toxicity.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Due to the need for continuous therapy and mifepristone's long half-life of 85 hours(1) which leads to accumulation, patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome may be at an increased risk for toxicity. With pimozide, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of mifepristone for hypercortisolism due to endogenous Cushing's syndrome states use with lovastatin, simvastatin, CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic range, or CYP3A4 substrates with a high first pass effect is contraindicated.(1)

DISCUSSION: Administration of mifepristone 1200 mg daily for 10 days followed by a single dose of simvastatin 80 mg led to an increase of simvastatin and simvastatin acid (active metabolite) area-under-curve (AUC) of 10.4-fold and 15.7-fold, respectively.

Sensitive Cyp3a4 Substrates That Prolong Qt/Oral Lefamulin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Oral lefamulin is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and may inhibit the metabolism of CYP3A4 substrates. Also, concurrent use of lefamulin with agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of oral lefamulin with drugs sensitive to inhibition of the CYP3A4 pathway may lead to increased serum levels and adverse effects, including potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like 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) With pimozide, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The combination of oral lefamulin with sensitive CYP3A4 substrates that prolong the QTc interval is contraindicated.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities.(1) Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, intravenous lefamulin increased the QTcF 13.6 msec (90% CI = 15.5 msec) and oral lefamulin increased the QTcF by 9.3 msec (90% CI = 10.9 msec).(1) In a study, oral lefamulin tablets administered concomitantly with and at 2 or 4 hours before oral midazolam (a CYP3A4 substrate) increased the area-under-curve (AUC) and maximum concentration (Cmax) of midazolam by 200% and 100%, respectively. No clinically significant effect on midazolam pharmacokinetics was observed when co-administered with lefamulin injection.(1) Sensitive CYP3A4 substrates that prolong the QTc interval linked to this monograph include: bosutinib, dasatinib, dronedarone, eliglustat, entrectinib, gepirone, ivabradine, levomethadyl, lumefantrine, midostaurin, mobocertinib, pimozide, quetiapine, saquinavir, tacrolimus, and terfenadine.(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.(6)

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

Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Opioids (COUGH AND COLD)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid prescribing opioid-including cough medications for patients taking CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) If concurrent use is necessary, monitor patients for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines; Rivastigmine/Metoclopramide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: These agents block dopamine (D2) receptors. D2 blockade can cause extrapyramidal reactions, such acute dystonic reactions, pseudoparkinsonian tremors, akathisia, or tardive dyskinesia. Neuroleptic malignant syndrome may also occur in patients receiving D2 blockers. The risk of these adverse effects may be increased by concurrent use.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use may increase the risk of extrapyramidal reactions (e.g. acute dystonic reactions, pseudoparkinsonian tremors, akathisia, or tardive dyskinesia) and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Tardive dyskinesia, which may be permanent, typically affects the facial muscles and may result in uncontrollable lip smacking, chewing, puckering of the mouth, frowning or scowling, sticking out the tongue, blinking and moving the eyes, and shaking of the arms and/or legs.(1-3) Symptoms of neuroleptic malignant syndrome include hyperpyrexia, muscle rigidity, altered mental status, an autonomic instability (irregular pulse or blood pressure, tachycardia, diaphoresis, and cardiac arrhythmias), elevated creatine phosphokinase, myoglobinuria (rhabdomyolysis), and acute renal failure.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with Parkinson's or Lewy Body Disease may be more likely to have extrapyramidal reactions or unmasking of their primary disease symptoms. The risk of extrapyramidal symptoms is also increased in patients on metoclopramide for longer than 12 weeks. Elderly patients, especially elderly women, and diabetics are at higher risk of developing tardive dyskinesia. Other extrapyramidal symptoms, like acute dystonia, have occurred more frequently in patients younger than 30 years old.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of metoclopramide and agents likely to cause extrapyramidal reactions should be avoided.(1) If concurrent use is warranted, monitor patients closely for extrapyramidal reactions and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. The manufacturer of metoclopramide says to avoid treatment with metoclopramide for longer than 12 weeks, and to use the lowest possible dose.(1) Discontinue therapy if symptoms occur. Instruct patients to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms develop. Symptoms of extrapyramidal reactions, including tardive dyskinesia, include involuntary movements of limbs and facial grimacing, torticollis, oculogyric crisis, rhythmic protrusion of the tongue, bulbar type of speech, trismus, and/or dystonic reactions resembling tetanus/stridor/dyspnea.(3)

DISCUSSION: Both metoclopramide and phenothiazines can cause extrapyramidal reactions, such as tardive dyskinesia, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome. The risk may be increased by concurrent use.(1,2) Extrapyramidal symptoms have been reported with concurrent metoclopramide and neuroleptics, prochlorperazine, and chlorpromazine.(4-6)

Haloperidol; Pimozide/Quinupristin-Dalfopristin; Pristinamyc

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Quinupristin-dalfopristin and pristinamycin may inhibit the metabolism of haloperidol and pimozide at CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent administration of quinupristin-dalfopristin or pristinamycin with haloperidol or pimozide may result in elevated levels of these agents, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and possibly life-threatening arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of quinupristin-dalfopristin states that the concurrent administration of quinupristin-dalfopristin with agents that are known to be metabolized by CYP3A4 and to prolong the QTc interval, such as haloperidol and pimozide, 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: Quinupristin-dalfopristin has been shown to inhibit CYP3A4. Because of the risk that elevated levels of agents that are known to prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening arrhythmias, the manufacturer of quinupristin-dalfopristin states that the concurrent administration of quinupristin-dalfopristin with such agents that are also metabolized by CYP3A4 should be avoided.(1) Pristinamycin has been shown to inhibit CYP3A4.(4)

Pimozide/Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

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

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A. Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received nilotinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 29 (38.7%) with 1 (3.5%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 2 (7%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 9 (31%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 17 (58.6%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients developed ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(4) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 that prolong QT include: crizotinib and nilotinib.(5,6)

Pimozide/Possible Qt Prolonging Agents

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: Agents that are linked to this monograph may have been associated with torsades de pointes and/or QT prolongation but at this time lack substantial evidence for causing torsades de pointes.(2) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that should be considered "high-priority" for inclusion and should not be inactivated in EHR systems. This DDI subset was vetted by an expert panel commissioned by the U.S. Office of the National Coordinator (ONC) for Health Information Technology.

Pimozide/Selected Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may result in prolongation of the QTc interval and potentially life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use, especially when other risk factors for QT prolongation are present. The manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, e.g. correct electrolyte disturbances, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. Consider ECG to evaluate baseline and/or concurrent QT prolongation risk. Monitor patients on the combination and counsel patients accordingly.

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A.(1,4) Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Moderate inhibitors of CYP3A4 include: avacopan, berotralstat, conivaptan, diltiazem, duvelisib, fedratinib, fosnetupitant, imatinib, isavuconazonium, lenacapavir, netupitant, rilzabrutinib, schisandra, tofisopam, treosulfan and verapamil.(5,6)

Pimozide/Stiripentol

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Stiripentol may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of stiripentol may result in elevated levels of pimozide, which may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias including QT prolongation or torsades de pointes/wave burst arrhythmia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of stiripentol states that concurrent use of pimozide should be avoided unless strictly necessary.(1)

DISCUSSION: Stiripentol has been shown to inhibit CYP3A4.(1)

Pimozide/Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Weak inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of pimozide.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes.(1-2) Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(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 increased systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(4)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of pimozide states that concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is contraindicated and treatment with less potent inhibitors of CYP3A4 should also be avoided.(1) The UK manufacturer of pimozide contraindicates concomitant use of pimozide with CYP3A4 inhibitors and CYP2D6 inhibitors, stating that inhibition of either or both CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 may result in the elevation of pimozide blood concentration and increase the possibility of QT-prolongation.(2) For patients on avapritinib: this interaction applies only to gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients on avapritinib 200 mg or 300 mg.(5) If concurrent use cannot be avoided, then correct or minimize QT prolonging risk factors, use the lowest effective dose of pimozide, and discontinue other concurrent QT prolonging agents or CYP3A4 or CYP2D6 inhibitors if possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Pimozide is metabolized at CYP3A.(1,5) Elevated levels of pimozide may prolong the QTc interval resulting in life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias.(1) Serious cardiovascular events, including QT prolongation, torsades de pointes, ventricular tachycardia, cardiac arrest, and/or sudden death have been reported in patients taking pimozide in combination with itraconazole and/or other CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1,2) Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors include: amlodipine, asciminib, avapritinib, belumosudil, berberine, bicalutamide, blueberry, brodalumab, camizestrant, cannabidiol, capivasertib, chlorzoxazone, cimetidine, clotrimazole, cranberry, cyclosporine, daclatasvir, daridorexant, dihydroberberine, diosmin, elinzanetant, everolimus, flibanserin, fostamatinib, ginkgo, glecaprevir/pibrentasvir, goldenseal, grazoprevir, isoniazid, istradefylline, ivacaftor, lacidipine, larotrectinib, lazertinib, leflunomide, levamlodipine, linagliptin, lomitapide, lurasidone, marijuana, olaparib, palbociclib, peppermint, piperine, pirtobrutinib, propiverine, ranitidine, resveratrol, scutellarin, sevabertinib, simeprevir, sitaxsentan, teriflunomide, ticagrelor, tolvaptan, trofinetide, viloxazine, and vonoprazan.(7,8)

Pimozide/Weak Cyp3a4 Inhibitors That Prolong Qt

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of CYP3A4 inhibitors that prolong QT may increase the levels and effects of pimozide including additive QTc prolongation and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias like torsades de pointes. Concurrent use may also result in extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia, bradykinesia, cogwheel rigidity, dystonia, hypertonia, and oculogyric crisis.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) The risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

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

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

Qt Prolonging Agents/Dordaviprone

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

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Encorafenib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of encorafenib 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 encorafenib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) Recommended dosage modifications for encorafenib and QTc prolongation adverse reactions include: - QTcF greater than 500 ms and less than or equal to 60 ms increase from baseline: Withhold encorafenib until QTcF less than or equal to 500 ms. Resume at reduced dose. If more than one recurrence, permanently discontinue encorafenib. - QTcF greater than 500 ms and greater than 60 ms increase from baseline: Permanently discontinue encorafenib.(1) See prescribing information for additional information regarding dose reductions.(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: Encorafenib has been associated with a dose-dependent QTc interval prolongation. Following administration of encorafenib in combination with binimetinib, the largest mean (90% CI) QTcF change from baseline was 18 ms (14-22 ms), based on central tendency analysis.(1) Following administration of encorafenib in combination with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6, an increase of QTcF >500 ms was measured in 4% (9/226) of patients. Following administration of encorafenib with cetuximab and FOLFIRI, an increase of QTcF >500 ms was measured in 1.5% (1/65) 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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Entrectinib

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of entrectinib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications ---Interrupt entrectinib therapy for QTc interval greater than 500 ms. ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting entrectinib.(1) If torsade de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, and/or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia occur, permanently discontinue entrectinib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials, 3.1% of patients with at least one post-baseline ECG experienced QTcF prolongation of greater than 60 msec after starting entrectinib..(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Fexinidazole

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

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Gadofosveset

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

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Glasdegib

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid the concurrent use of glasdegib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications ---Interrupt glasdegib therapy for QTc interval greater than 500 ms. ---Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following resolution of QTc prolongation ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting glasdegib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a randomized, single-dose, double-blind, 4-way cross-over, placebo- and open-label moxifloxacin-controlled study in 36 healthy subjects, the largest placebo and baseline-adjusted QTc interval change was 8 msec (90% CI: 6-10 msec) with a single 150 mg dose of glasdegib (The 150 mg single dose was used to achieve therapeutic plasma concentrations). With two-fold therapeutic plasma concentrations (achieved with a 300 mg single dose), the QTc change was 13 msec (90% CI: 11-16 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Hydroxyzine

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(5) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(5) Doses of hydroxyzine greater than 100 mg/day may also increase the risk.(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Concurrent use of hydroxyzine with agents known to prolong the QT interval is contraindicated in Canada(1,2) and the UK.(3) The US manufacturer states that concurrent use should be approached with caution.(4) If concurrent therapy is deemed medically necessary, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In vitro data indicates that hydroxyzine blocks the hERG channel, which results in the potential risk of QT interval prolongation.(6) In a placebo controlled, non-thorough QT study, 10 patients in the placebo group (n=152) had a change in QT interval from baseline between 30 ms and 60 ms and one patient presented a change from baseline higher than 60 ms. In the hydroxyzine group (n=148), 14 subjects had a change in QT interval from baseline between 30 and 60 ms and were considered to have a potential risk factor for risk of QT interval prolongation and TdP due to relevant medical history, concomitant medication potentially associated with the induction of prolongation of QT interval, and/or polymedication.(6) Health Canada reviewed 61 cases of QT interval prolongation or torsades de pointes with hydroxyzine. In a majority of cases, patients had additional risk factors for QT prolongation. Three reports provided enough data for a more detailed review. Hydroxyzine was found to be either "possible" or "probably" contribution to QT prolongation/torsades in these reports.(1) The European Medicines Agency's Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) reviewed 190 case reports found in a search of "torsade de pointes/QT prolongation with hydroxyzine". Forty-two non-fatality cases were subdivided into torsades (n=16), QT prolongation (n=21), and ventricular tachycardia (n=5). All included risk factors for QT interval prolongation and TdP (cardiac disorders, hypokalemia, long QT syndrome, bradycardia, concomitant drugs which are known to prolong the QT interval). Dosages ranged from <= 100 mg/day (n=10), > 100 mg/day to <=300 mg/day (n=4), > 300 mg/day (n=8), overdosages (n=11), and premedication (n=9). Twenty-one cases involving fatalities had at least one risk factor for QT prolongation. The PRAC concluded that post-marketing cases of QT interval prolongation, TdP and ventricular tachycardia confirm the findings of the hERG studies suggesting that hydroxyzine blocks hERG channels. No difference in the risk of QT interval prolongation could be observed based on the indication, age of the subject, or dose.(6) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(7)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Inotuzumab Ozogamicin

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When possible, discontinue QT prolonging agents prior to therapy with inotuzumab ozogamicin or use alternative agents during inotuzumab ozogamicin therapy.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy.(1) Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(1)

DISCUSSION: Inotuzumab ozogamicin was shown to prolong the QT interval in clinical trials. In the INO-VATE trial, 3% (4/162) of patients experienced an increase in QTc equal to or greater than 60 msec. No patients has QTc values greater than 500 msec. Grade 2 QT prolongation was reported in 1% (2/164) patients. There were no reports of Grade 3 QT prolongation or Torsade de Pointes.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

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/Ivosidenib

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of ivosidenib 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 ivosidenib with medications that prolong the QT interval.(1) When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications ---Interrupt ivosidenib therapy ---Monitor ECGs at least weekly for 2 weeks following resolution of QTc prolongation ---Follow labeling recommendations regarding restarting ivosidenib.(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials of ivosidenib, 9% of patients experienced a QTc interval greater than 500 msec and 14% of patients had an increased from baseline QTc interval of greater than 60 msec. Patients with a baseline QTc of equal to or greater than 450 msec without pre-existing bundle branch block, or with a history of long QT syndrome were excluded from this trial.(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/Lofexidine

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of lofexidine and agents known to prolong the QT interval may exacerbate QT prolongation.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsade de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsade de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, advanced age,(3) renal impairment, and/or hepatic impairment.(1,2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsade de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of lofexidine states that concurrent use of lofexidine and QT prolonging agents should be avoided.(1) The US manufacturer states that ECGs should be monitored in patients receiving concurrent therapy with lofexidine and agents that are known to prolong the QT interval.(2) Consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: In a study of healthy volunteers, lofexidine 1.44 mg to 1.8 mg had a change from baseline in QTc of 14.4 msec and 13.6 msec, respectively.(2) In a dose response study, lofexidine had a mean QTc prolongation of 7.3 msec and 9.3 msec at doses of 2.16 mg/day and 2.88 mg/day, respectively.(2) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(4)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Macimorelin

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study in 60 healthy subjects, a supra-therapeutic dose of macimorelin (2mg/kg, 4 times the recommended dosage) produced a mean change in QTc of 9.6 msec (upper 95% CI of 11.4 msec). Similar effects were seen in a single-ascending dose study which examined dosages of 1.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg, and 2 mg/kg, suggesting an absence of dose-dependent changes.(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/Osimertinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Osimertinib prolongs the QTc interval.(1) Concurrent use with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in additive effects on the QTc interval.(2,3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of osimertinib with other agents that prolong the QTc interval may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(2,3)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Osimertinib prolongs the QT interval. Premarket clinical trials excluded patients with a baseline QTc > or = 470 msec. In these trials 11 patients (2.7%) had increase in QTc greater than 60 msec.(1) Manufacturer recommendations: when feasible, avoid concurrent administrations of osimertinib with drugs known to prolong the QTc interval. Conduct baseline and periodic monitoring with ECGs in patients with congenital long QTc syndrome, congestive heart failure, electrolyte abnormalities (e.g. serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium), or those taking medications known to prolong the QT interval.(1) Dose adjustments (1): - If QTc is greater than 500 msec on at least 2 separate ECGs, withhold osimertinib until QTc is < 481 msec or recovery to baseline (if baseline QTc was greater than or equal to 481 msec), then resume osimertinib at 40 mg per day. - For QTc prolongation with signs or symptoms of life threatening arrhythmia, permanently discontinue osimertinib. During concomitant therapy with another QT prolonging agent, monitor patients closely for prolongation of the QT interval.(1) Obtain serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: A retrospective review of 618 cancer patients treated with 902 administrations of tyrosine kinase inhibitors were evaluated for rate and incidence of QTc prolongation. In patients who received osimertinib, QTc prolongation was identified in 4 (25%) with 1 (25%) having Grade 1 (QTc 450-480 ms) and 1 (25%) having Grade 2 (QTc 480-500 ms). Grade 3 events occurred in 1 (25%) having QTc greater than or equal to 500 ms and 1 (25%) having QTc change greater than or equal to 60 ms. No patients had ventricular tachycardia, sudden cardiac death, or TdP.(4) In clinical studies of 1813 patients treated with osimertinib monotherapy, 1.1% of patients were found to have a QTc interval greater than 500 ms and 4.3% of patients had an increase from baseline QTc > 60 ms.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Pacritinib

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

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)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Pimavanserin

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

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)

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)

Select Sensitive Cyp3a4 Substrates That Prolong Qt/Voxelotor

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Voxelotor is an inhibitor of CYP3A4 and may decrease the metabolism of drugs metabolized by the CYP3A4 enzyme.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of voxelotor may lead to increased serum levels and adverse effects of drugs sensitive to inhibition of the CYP3A4 pathway.(1) Higher systemic concentrations of QT prolonging drugs which are metabolized by CYP3A4 may increase the risk for Torsades de Pointes.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: A greater risk for serious adverse events would be expected from drugs having a narrow therapeutic window. 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) With pimozide, the risk of anticholinergic toxicities including cognitive decline, delirium, falls and fractures is increased in geriatric patients using more than one medicine with anticholinergic properties.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of voxelotor states that co-administration of sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided. If concomitant use is unavoidable, consider dose reduction of the sensitive substrate.(1) If concurrent therapy with voxelotor and a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate which may prolong the QT interval 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, voxelotor increased the AUC of a single dose of midazolam by 1.6-fold. After multiple doses of midazolam, a 2-fold increase in AUC is predicted.(1) Sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with a narrow therapeutic index that prolong QT include: dronedarone, hydroquinidine, pimozide, quinidine, and tacrolimus.(1,4-5)

Selected Antipsychotics That Prolong Qt/Apomorphine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of apomorphine with certain antipsychotics may have additive effects on the QTc interval.(1) In addition, apomorphine is used to treat Parkinson Disease (PD) by increasing dopamine concentrations at D2 receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). Antipsychotic agents counteract this effect by blocking dopamine activity at CNS D2 receptors.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The concurrent use of apomorphine with certain antipsychotics may result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including torsades de pointes.(1) In addition, the efficacy of either agent may be decreased, leading to exacerbation of PD. Motor symptoms may worsen, increasing the risk for falls, dysphagia or aspiration.(3) Compared with Parkinson patients not receiving antipsychotic therapy, Parkinson patients receiving antipsychotics appear to have an increased mortality risk.(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. 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) Patients with Parkinson or Diffuse Lewy Body (DLB) disease are particularly susceptible to adverse effects of dopamine blockade by antipsychotics.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of apomorphine states that patients with major psychotic disorders treated with neuroleptics should be treated with dopamine agonists only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. Concurrent use with agents known to prolong the QT interval should be approached with caution.(1) The Canadian manufacturer of levomepromazine states concomitant use with other QT prolonging medications is not recommended.(5) The UK manufacturer of zuclopenthixol states that coadministration of other QT prolonging medications should be avoided.(6) Manufacturers of other QT-prolonging antipsychotics generally recommend using caution when coadministered with medications that prolong the QT interval. Reassess the need for antipsychotic therapy. If psychosis or hallucinations are due to an antiparkinson agent, when possible consider reducing the dose or changing the antiparkinson agent before initiating antipsychotic therapy. In patients with PD and dementia, addition of a cholinesterase inhibitor (e.g. rivastigmine) may improve psychosis. If an antipsychotic is required, then an atypical antipsychotic should be used.(2,3) 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: An epidemiologic study evaluated 21,043 elderly patients with Parkinson disease to determine if recent initiation of a typical or atypical antipsychotic was associated with increased mortality. They found an adjusted odds ratio of 2.0 for death associated with atypical antipsychotics versus no antipsychotic. They also found an adjusted odds ratio of 2.4 for death associated with typical versus atypical antipsychotics. The authors noted the increased mortality found with typical antipsychotics supports current treatment recommendations to use atypical antipsychotic agents in patients with Parkinson disease.(3,4) 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.(7)

Selected Dopamine Blockers/Cabergoline

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Dopamine (D2) blockers such as the phenothiazines, butyrophenones, thioxanthenes and atypical antipsychotics may decrease the effects of cabergoline, a dopamine agonist.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent administration of cabergoline with dopamine blockers (e.g. phenothiazines, butyrophenones, or thio xanthines) may decrease the effectiveness of cabergoline.(1) Cabergoline may decrease the effectiveness of antipsychotic treatment.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of cabergoline states cabergoline(1) should not be administered concurrently with dopamine antagonists. Avoid concurrent use when possible. If cabergoline is started in a patient receiving long term antipsychotic treatment, monitor closely for loss of antipsychotic efficacy. If an antipsychotic is required for a patient on long term cabergoline therapy, consider use of a shorter half-life, less potent dopamine (D2) blocking atypical antipsychotic (e.g. clozapine, quetiapine) and monitor closely.

DISCUSSION: The manufacturer of cabergoline state that it should not be administered concurrently with dopamine antagonists.

Selected Qt Prolonging Agents/Intravenous Lefamulin

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: In a thorough QT study, intravenous lefamulin increased the QTcF by 13.6 msec (90% CI = 15.5 msec) and oral lefamulin increased the QTcF by 9.3 msec (90% CI = 10.9 msec).(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Sensitive Cyp3a4; Cyp2c9; Cyp2c19 Substrates/Enzalutamide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Enzalutamide may induce the metabolism of agents metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of enzalutamide with agents metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19 may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of these agents.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Avoid concurrent use of agents metabolized by CYP3A4, CYP2C9, or CYP2C19 that have a narrow therapeutic index with enzalutamide. If concurrent use is required, consider increased monitoring of the affected agent.(1) Dosage adjustments may be required.

DISCUSSION: In a clinical trial in healthy subjects, enzalutamide was shown to reduce the area-under-curve (AUC) of midazolam (a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate), warfarin (a sensitive CYP2C9 substrate), and omeprazole (a sensitive CYP2C19 substrate.(1) A case report in a 77-year-old Caucasian male was initiated on 160 mg of enzalutamide after being stable on warfarin with an INR of 3.5. The INR dropped to 1.4 after approximately 20 days on enzalutamide therapy. Due to the drop in INR, the warfarin dose was increased by 50% which lead to a therapeutic INR. When enzalutamide was discontinued, the warfarin dose was decreased by 33% to remain at a therapeutic level. Upon reinitiation, the warfarin dose was increased once by 50% to achieve a therapeutic INR.(2) Sensitive CYP3A4 substrates with narrow therapeutic indexes include: astemizole, cisapride, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, ergotamine, pimozide, sirolimus, tacrolimus, temsirolimus, and terfenadine.(1,3,4) Sensitive CYP2C9 substrates with narrow therapeutic indexes include: warfarin.(1,3) Sensitive CYP2C19 substrates with narrow therapeutic indexes include: S-mephenytoin.(1,3)

Slt Antipsychotics/Selected Dopaminergic Agents

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Selected dopaminergic agents are used to treat neurologic conditions such as Parkinson Disease (PD) or restless legs syndrome, and endocrine disorders such as hyperprolactinemia by directly or indirectly increasing dopamine concentrations at D2 receptors in the central nervous system (CNS). Antipsychotic agents counteract this effect by blocking dopamine activity at CNS D2 receptors.(1-5)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The efficacy of either agent may be decreased, leading to exacerbation of the disease being treated. In patients with Parkinson disease motor symptoms may worsen, increasing the risk for falls, dysphagia or aspiration.(4,7) Compared with Parkinson patients not receiving antipsychotic therapy, Parkinson patients receiving antipsychotics appear to have an increased mortality risk.(6) Patients with other conditions such as restless legs syndrome or a psychotic disorder may also experience symptom exacerbation due to this combination.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with Parkinson or Diffuse Lewy Body (DLB) disease are particularly susceptible to adverse effects of dopamine blockade by antipsychotics.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Reassess the need for antipsychotic therapy. If psychosis or hallucinations are due to an antiparkinson agent, when possible consider reducing the dose or changing the antiparkinson agent before initiating antipsychotic therapy. In patients with PD and dementia, addition of a cholinesterase inhibitor (e.g. rivastigmine) may improve psychosis. If an antipsychotic is required, then an atypical antipsychotic should be used.(6,7) In patients with major psychotic disorders, consider reducing the dose, changing or stopping the dopaminergic agent. The US manufacturer of ropinirole recommends treatment with dopaminergic agents only if potential benefits outweigh risks.(1) The US manufacturer of entacapone states it should not ordinarily be used in patients with major psychotic disorders as entacapone may lead to an exacerbation of psychosis.(4)

DISCUSSION: An epidemiologic study evaluated 21,043 elderly patients with Parkinson disease to determine if recent initiation of a typical or atypical antipsychotic was associated with increased mortality. They found an adjusted odds ratio of 2.0 for death associated with atypical antipsychotics versus no antipsychotic They found an adjusted odds ratio of 2.4 for death associated with typical versus atypical antipsychotics. The authors noted the increased mortality found with typical antipsychotics supports current treatment recommendations to use atypical antipsychotic agents in patients with Parkinson disease.(6,7)

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

Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Opioids (EXTENDED RELEASE)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Tramadol (EXTENDED RELEASE)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids such as tramadol with antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids such as tramadol with other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as tramadol with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Antipsychotics;Phenothiazine/Slt Opioids (IMMEDIATE RELEASE)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Efavirenz

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, genetic impairment in drug metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2) CYP2B6 genotype may also increase the risk of this interaction. Patients who are most susceptible to this interaction are patients who are CYP2B6 poor metabolizers with CYP2B6 *6/*6 allele.(3)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of efavirenz states alternatives should be considered when concurrent administration with a drug with a known risk of Torsade de Pointes or when administered to patients at higher risk of Torsade de Pointes. Limited information is available on the potential pharmacodynamic interaction between efavirenz and drugs that prolong the QT interval; however, QT prolongation has been observed with efavirenz.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: A thorough QT study was conducted in the general population in 120 healthy subjects receiving efavirenz 600 mg daily. Time-matched differences in QTc with efavirenz compared to placebo was evaluated on day 11, at 6 hours post dose. The mean change in QTc was 5.2 msec and no change in QTc was greater than 10 msec.(4) In addition to the thorough QT study, the effect of efavirenz on the QTc interval was evaluated in 58 healthy subjects based on CYP2B6 genotype. CYP2B6 polymorphism was evaluated for each patient and results were the following: 65% with *1/*1 or *1/*4 allele (wild-type metabolizers), 26% with *1/*6 allele (intermediate metabolizers) and 9% with *6/*6 allele (slow metabolizers). Subjects with 2 copies of the CYP2B6*6 allele had significantly higher efavirenz exposure at steady-state (p<0.05). At steady-state concentrations of efavirenz, patients with CYP2B6 *1/*1 or *1/*6 alleles had no change in the QTc interval (p>0.05). However, patients with CYP2B6 *6/*6 allele had an increase in QTc mean +/- SD from 406 +/- 16.4 to 423 +/- 11.8 msec (p=0.02).(3) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval but are generally accepted to have a risk of causing Torsades de Pointes. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or Torsades de Pointes in clinical trials and/or post-marketing reports.(5)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Etrasimod

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate. A mean decrease in heart rate of 7.2 (8.98) beats per minute was seen 2 to 3 hours after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Prior to initiation of etrasimod, obtain an ECG to determine if preexisting conduction abnormalities are present.(1) Advice from a cardiologist is recommended in patients with preexisting heart and cerebrovascular conditions, prolonged QTc interval, risk factors for QT prolongation, concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs or drugs that slow the heart rate or AV conduction.(1) Monitor blood pressure during treatment.(1) If concurrent therapy is warranted, consider obtaining serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium levels and monitoring ECG at baseline and at regular intervals. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.

DISCUSSION: Initiation of etrasimod may result in a transient decrease in heart rate or transient AV conduction delays.(1) A transient decrease in heart rate was observed during the initial dosing phase of etrasimod and bradyarrhythmic events (AV blocks) were detected at a higher incidence under etrasimod treatment than placebo.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Fingolimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of fingolimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1-3) Fingolimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which fingolimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of fingolimod is biphasic with an initial decrease usually within 6 hours, followed by a second decrease 12 to 24 hours after the first dose. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes. There is no consistent signal of increased incidence of QTc outliers, either absolute or change from baseline, associated with fingolimod treatment.(1-3)

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

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

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

Qt Prolonging Agents/Gilteritinib

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting. Prior to initiation of therapy with gilteritinib, obtain baseline ECG and on days 8 and 15 of cycle 1, and prior to the start of the next two subsequent cycles. If QTc prolongation develops: ---Monitor and supplement electrolytes as clinically indicated ---Review and adjust concomitant QT prolonging medications For a QTc interval greater than 500 msec: ---Interrupt gilteritinib therapy ---Resume gilteritinib therapy at 80 mg when the QTc interval returns to within 30 msec of baseline or <= 480 msec. For QTc interval increased by > 30 msec on ECG on Day 8 of cycle 1: ---Confirm with ECG on Day 9 ---If confirmed, consider dose reduction to 80 mg.(2)

DISCUSSION: In the gilteritinib clinical trial, 1.4% of patients developed a QTc interval greater than 500 msec and 7% of patients had an increase QTc greater than 60 msec.(2) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ozanimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ozanimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator. Initiation of ozanimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 13 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1,2) Ozanimod blocks the capacity of lymphocytes to egress from lymph nodes, reducing the number of lymphocytes in peripheral blood. The mechanism by which ozanimod exerts therapeutic effects in multiple sclerosis is unknown but may involve the reduction of lymphocyte migration into the central nervous system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The initial heart rate lowering effect of ozanimod usually occurs within 5 hours. With continued up-titration, the maximal heart rate effect of ozanimod occurred on Day 8. Symptomatic bradycardia and heart block, including third degree block, have been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

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

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

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of ozanimod heart rate decline is usually maximal at approximately 5 hours, returning to baseline at 6 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, maximum heart rate effect occurred on day 8.(1,2)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Pitolisant

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients who are CYP2D6 poor metabolizers or on concurrent use with CYP2D6 inhibitors are at increased risk for higher systemic exposure to pitolisant and may be at increased risk of QT prolongation.(1) The risk of QT prolongation or torsades de pointes may be increased in patients with cardiovascular disease (e.g. heart failure, myocardial infarction, history of torsades de pointes, congenital long QT syndrome), hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, bradycardia, female gender, or advanced age.(2) Concurrent use of more than one drug known to cause QT prolongation or higher systemic concentrations of either QT prolonging drug are additional risk factors for torsades de pointes. Factors which may increase systemic drug concentrations include rapid infusion of an intravenous dose or impaired metabolism or elimination of the drug (e.g. coadministration with an agent which inhibits its metabolism or elimination, and/or renal/hepatic dysfunction).(2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: When concurrent therapy cannot be avoided, obtain ECGs and electrolyte values (serum calcium, magnesium, and potassium) prior to the start of treatment, after initiation of any drug known to prolong the QT interval, and periodically monitor during therapy. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. Instruct patients to report any irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or fainting.(2)

DISCUSSION: In two dedicated QT prolongation studies, supra-therapeutic doses of pitolisant at 3-6 times the therapeutic dose (108-216 mg) were seen to cause mild to moderate QTc prolongation (10-13 ms). A study in patients who were CYP2D6 poor metabolizers had higher systemic exposure up to 3-fold compared to CYP2D6 extensive metabolizers.(1) Agents that are linked to this monograph may have varying degrees of potential to prolong the QTc interval. Agents linked to this monograph have been shown to prolong the QTc interval either through their mechanism of action, through studies on their effects on the QTc interval, or through reports of QTc prolongation and/or torsades de pointes in clinical trials and/or postmarketing reports.(3)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Ponesimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Ponesimod is a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor 1 modulator. Initiation of ponesimod has a negative chronotropic effect leading to a mean decrease in heart rate of 6 beats per minute (bpm) after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: After a dose of ponesimod, a decrease in heart rate typically begins within an hour and reaches its nadir within 2-4 hours. The heart rate typically recovers to baseline levels 4-5 hours after administration. All patients recovered from bradycardia. The conduction abnormalities typically were transient, asymptomatic, and resolved within 24 hours. Second- and third-degree AV blocks were not reported. With up-titration after Day 1, the post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1,2)

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

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

DISCUSSION: After the first dose of ponesimod, heart rate decrease may begin within the first hour. Decline is usually maximal at approximately 4 hours. With continued, chronic dosing, post-dose decrease in heart rate is less pronounced. Heart rate gradually returns to baseline in about 4-5 hours.(1)

Qt Prolonging Agents/Siponimod

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

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

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The heart rate lowering effect of siponimod starts within an hour, and the Day 1 decline is maximal at approximately 3-4 hours. This leads to a mean decrease in heart rate of 5-6 beats per minute after the first dose. The first dose has also been associated with heart block. With continued up-titration, further heart rate decreases are seen on subsequent days, with maximal decrease from Day 1-baseline reached on Day 5-6. Symptomatic bradycardia has been observed. Bradycardia may be associated with an increase in the QTc interval, increasing the risk for torsades de pointes.(1)

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

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

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

Qt Prolonging Agents/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)

Selected Antipsychotics/Selected Opioids For Mat

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of buprenorphine or diacetylmorphine and antipsychotics may result in additive CNS depression.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of buprenorphine or diacetylmorphine and antipsychotics may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1-3)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Medication assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine or diacetylmorphine is not contraindicated in patients taking CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics; however, gradual tapering or decreasing to the lowest effective dose of the antipsychotic may be appropriate. Ensure that other health care providers prescribing other CNS depressants are aware of the patient's buprenorphine or diacetylmorphine treatment.(2) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(4) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(5)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(6) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(7) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(8) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(9) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(10) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(11) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(12) Selected antipsychotics linked include: amsulpride, chlorpromazine, chlorprothixene, clozapine, droperidol, haloperidol, iloperidone, mesoridazine, paliperidone, pimavanserin, pimozide, pipamperone, promethazine, quetiapine, sertindole, sulpiride, sultopride, thioridazine, ziprasidone, and zuclopenthixol.

Selected Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Meperidine (IR)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids such as meperidine and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids such as meperidine and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as meperidine with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Selected Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Oliceridine

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids such as oliceridine with antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids such as oliceridine with other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as oliceridine with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Selected Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Tramadol (IR)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids such as tramadol and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids such as tramadol and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as tramadol with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

Slt Antipsychotics; Phenothiazines/Codeine; Levorphanol (IR)

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of opioids such as codeine and levorphanol and antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in additive CNS depression.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of opioids such as codeine and levorphanol and other CNS depressants, such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Concurrent use of alcohol or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Limit prescribing opioid analgesics such as codeine and levorphanol with CNS depressants such as antipsychotics, including phenothiazine derivatives, to patients for whom alternatives are ineffective, not tolerated, or would be otherwise inadequate to provide sufficient management of pain.(1) If concurrent use is necessary, limit the dosages and duration of each drug to the minimum possible while achieving the desired clinical effect. If starting a CNS depressant (for an indication other than epilepsy) with an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of the CNS depressant than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based upon clinical response. If an opioid analgesic is indicated in a patient already taking a CNS depressant, prescribe a lower dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.(1) Respiratory depression can occur at any time during opioid therapy, especially during therapy initiation and following dosage increases. The risk of opioid-related overdose or overdose-related death is increased with higher opioid doses, and this risk persists over the course of therapy. Consider these risks when using concurrently with other agents that may cause CNS depression.(2) Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for unusual dizziness or lightheadedness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or unresponsiveness.(1) Discuss opioid reversal agents (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) with all patients when prescribing or renewing an opioid analgesic or medicine to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Consider prescribing an opioid reversal agent (e.g., naloxone, nalmefene) to patients prescribed medicines to treat OUD or opioid analgesics who are at increased risk of opioid overdose (such as those taking CNS depressants) and when a patient has household members/close contacts at risk for accidental overdose. Discuss the options for obtaining an opioid reversal agent (e.g., prescription, over-the-counter, or as part of a community-based program).(3)

DISCUSSION: A nested case-control study looked at the relationship between antipsychotic use and risk of acute respiratory failure. Current use of antipsychotics was associated with a 2.33-fold increase in risk of respiratory failure compared to no use of antipsychotics. The risk was also significantly increased in patients with recent use of antipsychotics (within the past 15-30 days, OR = 1.79) and recent past use (within 31-90 days OR = 1.41). The risk increased with higher doses and longer duration of use.(4) Between 2002 and 2014, the number of patients receiving an opioid analgesic increased 8%, from 75 million to 81 million patients, and the number of patients receiving a benzodiazepine increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients. During this time, the proportion of patients receiving concurrent therapy increased 31%, from 23 million to 30 million patients.(5) From 2004 to 2011, the rate of nonmedical use-related emergency room visits involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 11 to 34.2 per 100,000 and drug overdose deaths involving both opioids and benzodiazepines increased from 0.6 to 1.7 per 100,000. The proportion of prescription opioid analgesic deaths which also involved benzodiazepines increased from 18% to 31% during this time.(6) A prospective observational cohort study in North Carolina found that the rates of overdose death among patients co-dispensed opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines were 10 times higher than patients receiving opioid analgesics alone.(7) A case-cohort study of VA data from 2004-2009 found that the risk of death from overdose increased with concomitant opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Compared to patients with no history of benzodiazepines, patients with a history of benzodiazepine use (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.33) and patients with a current benzodiazepine prescription (HR=3.86) had an increased risk of fatal overdose.(8) A study found that opioid analgesics contributed to 77% of deaths in which benzodiazepines were determined to be a cause of death and that benzodiazepines contributed to 30% of deaths in which opioid analgesics were determined to be a cause of death. This study also found that other CNS depressants (including barbiturates, antipsychotic and neuroleptic drugs, antiepileptic and antiparkinsonian drugs, anesthetics, autonomic nervous system drugs, and muscle relaxants) were contributory to death in many cases where opioid analgesics were also implicated.(9) A study found that alcohol was involved in 18.5% of opioid analgesic abuse-related ED visits and 22.1 percent of opioid analgesic-related deaths.(10)

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Coma
• Congenital long QT syndrome
• Drug-induced CNS depression
• Extrapyramidal disease
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Parkinsonism
• Prolonged QT interval
• Torsades de pointes

• CYp2d6 poor metabolizer
• Hypokalemia
• Hypomagnesemia
• Senile dementia
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Ventricular arrhythmias

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia
• Disease of liver
• Glaucoma
• Hyperprolactinemia
• Kidney disease with reduction in glomerular filtration rate (GFr)
• Leukopenia
• Neutropenic disorder
• Seizure disorder
• Urinary retention

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

More Frequent

• Akathisia
• Behavioral disorders
• Cardiac arrhythmia
• Extrapyramidal disease
• Mood changes
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
• Parkinsonism
• Ventricular arrhythmias

Less Frequent

• Hyperkinesis
• Tardive dyskinesia

Rare or Very Rare

• Agranulocytosis
• Cataracts
• Hemolytic anemia
• Leukopenia
• Neutropenic disorder
• Oculogyric crisis
• Prolonged QT interval

More Frequent

• Blurred vision
• Constipation
• Drowsy
• General weakness
• Headache disorder
• Hypotension
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Pruritus of skin
• Sedation
• Sialorrhea
• Skin rash
• Visual changes
• Xerostomia

Less Frequent

• Abnormal sexual function
• Anorexia
• Anticholinergic toxicity
• Diarrhea
• Erectile dysfunction
• Galactorrhea not associated with childbirth
• Gynecomastia
• Nervousness
• Weight loss

Rare or Very Rare

• Accidental fall
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Hyperhidrosis
• Increased urinary frequency
• Mastalgia
• Nausea
• Periorbital edema
• Vomiting

No enhanced messaging available.

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Reproduction studies in rats and rabbits using oral pimozide dosages up to 2.5 mg/kg daily (up to about 8 times the maximum recommended human dosage) have not revealed evidence of fetal malformation; however, in rats receiving oral pimozide dosages of 2.5 mg/kg daily or higher, a decreased pregnancy rate, increased fetal resorption, and retarded development of fetuses occurred. The observed effects may have resulted from delay or inhibition of implantation. In rabbits, dose-related maternotoxicity, mortality, decreased weight gain, and embryotoxicity, including increased fetal resorption, occurred.

Neonates exposed to antipsychotic agents during the third trimester of pregnancy are at risk for extrapyramidal and/or withdrawal symptoms following delivery. There have been reports of agitation, hypertonia, hypotonia, tardive dyskinetic-like symptoms, tremor, somnolence, respiratory distress, and feeding disorder in these neonates. The majority of cases were also confounded by other factors, including concomitant use of other drugs known to be associated with withdrawal symptoms, prematurity, congenital malformations, and obstetrical and perinatal complications; however, some cases suggested that neonatal extrapyramidal symptoms and withdrawal may occur with exposure to antipsychotic agents alone. Some of the cases described time of symptom onset, which ranged from birth to one month after birth. Any neonate exhibiting extrapyramidal or withdrawal symptoms following in utero exposure to antipsychotic agents should be monitored. Symptoms were self-limiting in some neonates but varied in severity; some infants required intensive care unit support and prolonged hospitalization. For further information on extrapyramidal and withdrawal symptoms in neonates, see Cautions: Pregnancy, Fertility, and Lactation, in the Phenothiazines General Statement 28:16.08.24.

Pimozide should be used during pregnancy only when the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Women should be advised to notify their clinician if they become pregnant or plan to become pregnant during therapy with the drug. In addition, clinicians should advise women of childbearing potential about the benefits and risks of using antipsychotic agents during pregnancy. Patients should also be advised not to stop taking their antipsychotic agent if they become pregnant without first consulting with their clinician, since abruptly discontinuing the drugs can cause clinically important complications.

It is not known whether pimozide is distributed into milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions (e.g., tumorigenicity, unknown cardiovascular effects) to pimozide in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the woman.

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