Deflazacort (deflazacort)

The recommended dosage of deflazacort for the management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in patients 2 years of age and older is approximately 0.9 mg/kg once daily. If the tablets are used, doses should be rounded up to the nearest 6-mg increment, using any combination of tablet strengths to achieve the required dose. If the oral suspension is used, doses should be rounded up to the nearest 0.1 mL.

When discontinuing deflazacort therapy after the drug has been given for more than a few days, dosage should be gradually tapered to minimize the potential for adrenal insufficiency.

Deflazacort is administered orally (as tablets or oral suspension) without regard to food. Do not administer the drug with grapefruit juice. The tablet and oral suspension formulations of the drug are bioequivalent.

Deflazacort tablets and oral suspension should be stored at 20-25degreesC, but may be exposed to 15-30degreesC; any unused portions of the oral suspension should be discarded 1 month after first opening the bottle.

The active metabolite of deflazacort (21-desacetyldeflazacort) is a substrate of cytochrome P-450 (CYP) isoenzyme 3A4. In vitro studies indicate that the active metabolite does not inhibit CYP1A2, 2C9, 2C19, or 3A4 (at concentrations up to 100 mcM), but exhibits weak (and not likely to be clinically important) inhibition of CYP2B6, 2C8, 2D6, and 3A4. In vitro studies indicate that deflazacort does not induce CYP1A2, 2B6, or 3A4 (at concentrations up to 10 mcM).

Deflazacort and its active metabolite are substrates of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), but do not inhibit P-gp in vitro.

The active metabolite of deflazacort is not a substrate of breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP); neither deflazacort nor its active metabolite inhibit BCRP in vitro.

The active metabolite of deflazacort is not a substrate or inhibitor of organic anion-transporting protein (OATP) 1B1 or 1B3, and is not an inhibitor of organic anion transporter (OAT) 1 or 3 or organic cation transporter (OCT) 2.

The active metabolite of deflazacort does not inhibit uridine diphosphate-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A1, 1A4, 1A6, 1A9, or 2B7 (at concentrations up to 100 mcM), but exhibits weak (and not likely to be clinically important) inhibition of UGT1A3 and 2B15.

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

Agents Affecting Growth Hormone/Macimorelin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents affecting growth hormone may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin diagnostic test.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of agents affecting growth hormone may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin diagnostic test.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of macimorelin states concurrent use with agents affecting growth hormone may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin diagnostic test. Discontinue growth hormone products at least 1 week before administering the macimorelin diagnostic test. Sufficient washout time of drugs affecting growth hormone release prior to administration of macimorelin is recommended.(1) Agents affecting growth hormone include: - Drugs that directly affect the pituitary secretion of growth hormone (e.g. somatostatin, insulin, glucocorticoids, cyclooxygenase inhibitors) - Drugs that may transiently elevate growth hormone concentrations (e.g. clonidine, levodopa, insulin) - Drugs that may blunt the growth hormone response (e.g. muscarinic antagonists, anti-thyroid medications, growth hormone products)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of agents affecting growth hormone may impact the accuracy of the macimorelin diagnostic test.(1)

Agents Affecting Plasma Cortisol Levels/Cosyntropin

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of cosyntropin states accuracy of diagnosis using the cosyntropin diagnostic test may be complicated by concomitant medications affecting plasma cortisol levels.(1) Agents affecting plasma cortisol levels and recommendation to stop prior to cosyntropin diagnostic test include: - Glucocorticoids: May elevate plasma cortisol levels. Stop these drugs on the day of testing. Long-acting glucocorticoids may need to be stopped for a longer period before testing. - Spironolactone: May elevate plasma cortisol levels. Stop spironolactone on the day of testing. - Estrogen: May elevate plasma total cortisol levels. Discontinue estrogen containing drugs 4 to 6 weeks prior to testing to allow cortisol binding globulin levels to return to levels within the reference range. Alternatively, concomitant measurement of cortisol binding globulin at the time of testing can be done; if cortisol binding globulin levels are elevated, plasma total cortisol levels are considered inaccurate.(1)

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of agents affecting plasma cortisol levels may impact the accuracy of the cosyntropin diagnostic test.(1)

Corticosteroids/Mifamurtide

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: Mifamurtide activates macrophages as its mechanism of action. Corticosteroids suppress the immune system.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Chronic or routine use of corticosteroids may decrease the effectiveness of mifamurtide.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The UK manufacturer of mifamurtide states that the chronic or routine use of corticosteroids should be avoided during therapy with mifamurtide.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because mifamurtide stimulates the immune system, the chronic or routine use of corticosteroids should be avoided during therapy with mifamurtide.(1)

Glucocorticoids/Aldesleukin

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: Corticosteroids may suppress interleukin-2-induced tumor necrosis factor (TNF) synthesis.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of corticosteroids may reduce the antitumor effectiveness of aldesleukin.(2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer of aldesleukin states that concurrent administration of corticosteroids and aldesleukin should be avoided.(2)

DISCUSSION: Corticosteroids have been shown to reduce aldesleukin-related side effects such as fever, renal insufficiency, hyperbilirubinemia, confusion, and dyspnea.(1,2) However, dexamethasone has been shown to reduce aldesleukin-induced TNF synthesis.(1)

Glucocorticoids/Desmopressin

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: Glucocorticoids increase the risk of hyponatremia.(1-4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of glucocorticoids may increase the risk of hyponatremia with desmopressin.(1-4)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Predisposing factors for hyponatremia include: polydipsia, renal impairment (eGFR < 50 ml/min/1.73m2), illnesses that can cause fluid/electrolyte imbalances, age >=65, medications that cause water retention and/or increase the risk of hyponatremia (carbamazepine, chlorpromazine, lamotrigine, loop diuretics, NSAIDs, opioids, SSRIs, thiazide diuretics, and/or tricyclic antidepressants).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of systemic or inhaled glucocorticoids with desmopressin is contraindicated.(1-4) Desmopressin may be initiated 3 days or 5 half-lives after glucocorticoid discontinuation, whichever is longer. If concurrent use is deemed medically necessary, make sure serum sodium levels are normal before beginning therapy and consider using the desmopressin nasal 0.83 mcg dose. Consider measuring serum sodium levels more frequently than the recommended intervals of: within 7 days of concurrent therapy initiation, one month after concurrent therapy initiation and periodically during treatment. Counsel patients to report symptoms of hyponatremia, which may include: headache, nausea/vomiting, feeling restless, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, muscle cramps, changes in mental state (confusion, decreased awareness/alertness), seizures, coma, and trouble breathing. Counsel patients to limit the amount of fluids they drink in the evening and night-time and to stop taking desmopressin if they develop a stomach/intestinal virus with nausea/vomiting or any nose problems (blockage, stuffy/runny nose, drainage).(1)

DISCUSSION: In clinical trials of desmopressin for the treatment of nocturia, 4 of 5 patients who developed severe hyponatremia (serum sodium <= 125 mmol/L) were taking systemic or inhaled glucocorticoids. Three of these patients were also taking NSAIDs and one was receiving a thiazide diuretic.(2) Drugs associated with hyponatremia may increase the risk, including loop diuretics, carbamazepine, chlorpromazine, glucocorticoids, lamotrigine, NSAIDs, opioids, SSRIs, thiazide diuretics, and/or tricyclic antidepressants.(1,3-4)

Immunosuppressive; Immunomod/Cladribine Onc Inj (10 Mg/5 Ml)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Efalizumab; Natalizumab

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

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

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

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

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

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

Selected Immunosuppressants/Nadofaragene Firadenovec

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Selected Immunosuppressants/Talimogene Laherparepvec

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

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

Agents That Affect Iodide/Radioactive Iodide

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Many compounds can affect iodide protein binding and alter iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Compounds that affect iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics may impact the effectiveness of radioactive iodide.(1)

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Discuss the use of agents that affect iodide pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics with the patient's oncologist.(1) Because indocyanine green contains sodium iodide, the iodine-binding capacity of thyroid tissue may be reduced for at least one week following administration. Do not perform radioactive iodine uptake studies for at least one week following administration of indocyanine green.(2) The manufacturer of iopamidol states administration may interfere with thyroid uptake of radioactive iodine and decrease therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy. Avoid thyroid therapy or testing for up to 6 weeks post administration of iopamidol.(3)

DISCUSSION: Many agents interact with radioactive iodine. The average duration of effect is: anticoagulants - 1 week antihistamines - 1 week anti-thyroid drugs, e.g: carbimazole, methimazole, propylthiouracil - 3-5 days corticosteroids - 1 week iodide-containing medications, e.g: amiodarone - 1-6 months expectorants - 2 weeks Lugol solution - 3 weeks saturated solution of potassium iodine - 3 weeks vitamins - 10-14 days iodide-containing X-ray contrast agents - up to 1 year lithium - 4 weeks phenylbutazone - 1-2 weeks sulfonamides - 1 week thyroid hormones (natural or synthetic), e.g.: thyroxine - 4 weeks tri-iodothyronine - 2 weeks tolbutamide - 1 week topical iodide - 1-9 months (1)

Corticosteroids/Mifepristone

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Mifepristone is an antagonist of the progesterone and glucocorticoid (GR-II) receptors, but has little effect at the mineralocorticoid (GR-I) receptor. Mifepristone has a higher affinity for the glucocorticoid receptor than either dexamethasone or cortisol and will displace both endogenous and exogenous glucocorticoids from their binding sites.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Although serum cortisol levels rise, antagonism of the glucocorticoid receptor may lead to adrenal insufficiency. Efficacy of locally administered corticosteroids may be diminished.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers of mifepristone states that mifepristone is contraindicated in patients receiving concurrent long-term corticosteroid therapy.(1-2) Due to its long mean half-life of 85 hours(2), even short term mifepristone use may have an extended duration of effect.

DISCUSSION: The manufacturers of mifepristone states that mifepristone is contraindicated in patients receiving concurrent long-term corticosteroid therapy.(1-2)

Corticosteroids/Selected Anticholinesterase

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The mechanism of this interaction is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of these agents may contribute to increased muscle weakness and decreased response to anticholinesterases shortly after onset of corticosteroid therapy in the treatment of myasthenia gravis. Deterioration in muscle strength, including severe muscular depression, has been documented in patients with myasthenia gravis while receiving corticosteroids and anticholinesterases.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: If possible, hold anticholinesterase agents at least 24 hours before initiating corticosteroid therapy. If concurrent use is necessary, close observation of the patient is indicated and life support systems should be available.

DISCUSSION: Decreased effectiveness of anticholinesterases during the period of corticosteroid-induced increased weakness probably reflects a temporary increase in the severity of the disease process itself rather than a specific, direct interaction between the two drugs. Despite the initial adverse effect, glucocorticoid (or ACTH) therapy subsequently produces improvement, beyond pre-therapy muscle strength, in most myasthenia gravis patients. In an uncontrolled study involving nine patients receiving therapeutic doses of pyridostigmine, the concurrent administration of methylprednisolone resulted in a decrease in muscle strength in 71% of treatment courses. During 57% of treatment courses, severe muscle weakness occurred, necessitating mechanical ventilation. Improvement in muscle strength and response to pyridostigmine above baseline levels occurred after methylprednisolone was discontinued. Other clinical observations have indicated that the concomitant use of these agents can affect muscle strength, although each agent alone has been used successfully in treating myasthenia gravis.

Corticosteroids/Stem Cell Immunotherapy

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids suppress the immune system. Concurrent use or premedication with a prophylactic corticosteroid may interfere with the activity of hematopoetic stem cell and T-cell immunotherapies.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Corticosteroids may decrease the efficacy of hematopoetic stem cell and T-cell immunotherapies.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer states use of corticosteroids as a premedication prior to infusion of hematopoetic stem cell and T-cell immunotherapy is strongly discouraged.(1)

DISCUSSION: Corticosteroids may decrease the efficacy of hematopoetic stem cell and T-cell immunotherapy.(1) The manufacturer states use of corticosteroids as a premedication prior to infusion of hematopoetic stem cell and T-cell immunotherapy is strongly discouraged.(1)

Corticosteroids/T Cell Immunotherapies

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids suppress the immune system. Concurrent use or premedication with a prophylactic corticosteroid may interfere with the activity of CAR-T cell immunotherapies.(1-6)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Corticosteroids may decrease the efficacy of CAR-T cell immunotherapies.(1-6)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturers recommend avoiding concurrent or prophylactic use of corticosteroids as a premedication prior to infusion of CAR-T cell immunotherapy. Corticosteroids may be used and are recommended in the case of a life-threatening emergency, including the management of cytokine release syndrome or neurological toxicities.(1-6)

DISCUSSION: Corticosteroids may decrease the efficacy of CAR-T cell immunotherapy.(1-6) The manufacturers recommend avoiding concurrent or prophylactic use of corticosteroids as a premedication prior to infusion of CAR-T cell immunotherapy.(1-6) Corticosteroids may be used and are recommended in the case of a life-threatening emergency, including the management of cytokine release syndrome or neurological toxicities.(1-6)

Corticosteroids; Corticotropin (Acth)/Amphotericin B

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids and corticotropin may potentiate potassium excretion and overload salt and water retention.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of amphotericin b with corticosteroids or corticotropin may potentiate amphotericin b-induced hypokalemia, thereby predisposing patients to cardiac dysfunction.(1-2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of amphotericin b states that concurrent use of corticosteroids or corticotropin should be avoided unless absolutely necessary to avoid side effects. If concurrent use is necessary, serum electrolytes and cardiac function must be monitored closely.(1)

DISCUSSION: There are four case reports of cardiac enlargement, hypokalemia, and hypernatremia from concurrent use of amphotericin b and corticosteroids.(2)

Deflazacort/Strong And Moderate Cyp3a4 Inhibitors

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Deflazacort is a prodrug and is rapidly metabolized to the active metabolite, 21-desDFZ, by esterases. The metabolite 21-desDFZ is metabolized by CYP3A4 to inactive metabolites.(1) Inhibitors of CYP3A4 may inhibit the metabolism of the active metabolite of deflazacort metabolized by CYP3A4.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in increased systemic exposure to and effects from deflazacort.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends decreasing the dose to one-third of the recommended dose of deflazacort when used concurrently with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors. For example, if the recommended dose of deflazacort is 36 mg per day, the reduced dose would be 12 mg per day when administered with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors.(1)

DISCUSSION: Deflazacort is a prodrug and is rapidly metabolized to the active metabolite, 21-desDFZ. The metabolite 21-desDFZ is metabolized by CYP3A4.(1) Coadministration of deflazacort with clarithromycin, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased total geometric mean exposure (maximum concentration (Cmax) and area-under-curve (AUC)) to the active metabolite 21-desDFZ by 2.3- to 3.4-fold.(1)

Glucocorticoids/Relacorilant

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Relacorilant is a reversible antagonist of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR).(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Relacorilant may antagonize the effect of glucocorticoids, and glucocorticoids may decrease the effect of relacorilant. Conditions requiring glucocorticoids may be exacerbated and adrenal insufficiency may occur.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Relacorilant is contraindicated in patients who require glucocorticoids for life-saving purposes (e.g., immunosuppression after organ transplant). In patients taking glucocorticoids for other purposes, avoid relacorilant if possible. If coadministration cannot be avoided, monitor for reduced effectiveness of relacorilant and glucocorticoids. If adrenal insufficiency occurs, withhold relacorilant and administer glucocorticoid therapy. High doses of glucocorticoids may be required to overcome glucocorticoid receptor antagonism, which may continue for up to 6 days after the last dose of relacorilant. After adrenal insufficiency resolves, resume the previous dose, reduce dose, or permanently discontinue relacorilant based on the severity, as recommended in the manufacturer prescribing information.(1)

DISCUSSION: Relacorilant antagonizes the glucocorticoid receptor. Relacorilant is contraindicated in patients receiving glucocorticoids for life-saving conditions and should be avoided in patients taking glucocorticoids for other conditions.(1)

Immunosuppres;Immunomodul/Selected Multiple Sclerosis Agents

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

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

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

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

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Baricitinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Cladribine Oral

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

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

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

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

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Deuruxolitinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Etrasimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Etrasimod causes reversible sequestration of lymphocytes in lymphoid tissues, resulting in a mean 55% decrease in peripheral blood lymphocyte count at 52 weeks.(1) Other immunosuppressives and immune-modulators also suppress the immune system.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of etrasimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious and fatal infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection, cryptococcal infection, or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Incomplete washout of previously prescribed immunosuppressive or immune-modulating medications increases the risk of adverse effects.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The etrasimod US prescribing information states etrasimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Concomitant administration of these therapies with etrasimod should be avoided because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. Etrasimod's effect on peripheral lymphocytes may persist for up to 5 weeks after discontinuation.(1) When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects.(1)

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections, cryptococcal meningitis, disseminated cryptococcal infections, and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients treated with other sphingosine-1 phosphate receptor modulators.(1)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Filgotinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Fingolimod

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Fingolimod in combination with immunosuppressives and immune-modulators all suppress the immune system.(1-3)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of fingolimod with immunosuppressive or immune-modulating agents may result in an increased risk of serious infections, such as disseminated herpetic infection or progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), an opportunistic infection caused by the JC virus (JCV).(1-3)

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

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

DISCUSSION: Fatal disseminated herpes zoster and herpes simplex infections and cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) have been reported in patients who previously received immunomodulators or immunosuppressants.(1-3)

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Inebilizumab

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ozanimod

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ozanimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Ozanimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ozanimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ozanimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ponesimod

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The ponesimod US prescribing information states ponesimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the weeks following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with ponesimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, ponesimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ritlecitinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Siponimod

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

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

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

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The siponimod US prescribing information state this information regarding this interaction: -Siponimod has not been studied in combination with anti-neoplastic, immune-modulating, or immunosuppressive therapies. Caution should be used during concomitant administration because of the risk of additive immune effects during therapy and in the week following administration. When switching from drugs with prolonged immune effects, the half-life and mode of action of these drugs must be considered in order to avoid unintended additive immunosuppressive effects. Initiating treatment with siponimod after alemtuzumab is not recommended. However, siponimod can generally be started immediately after discontinuation of beta interferon or glatiramer acetate.(1)

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Tofacitinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Upadacitinib

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Myelosuppressives That Affect Iodide/Sodium Iodide I 131

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

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

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

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

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

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

Slt Immunosuppress; Immunomodulator/Ropeginterferon Alfa-2B

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

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

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

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

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

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

Systemic Corticosteroids; Corticotropin (Acth)/Live Vaccines

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids and corticotropin suppress the immune system. In severely immunocompromised patients, virus replication after administration of live, attenuated-virus vaccines can be enhanced and/or the immune response to the vaccine may be decreased.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: The expected serum antibody response may not be obtained and/or the vaccine may result in illness.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids or corticotropin for equal to or greater than 14 consecutive days.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that live-virus and live, attenuated vaccines should not be administered to patients who are severely immunosuppressed, including those who are receiving or have received high-dose, systemic steroids for greater than or equal to 14 consecutive days. Live vaccines should be deferred for at least 1 month after discontinuation of high-dose systemic steroids administered for 14 consecutive days. When initiating immunosuppressives doses of corticosteroids, wait 4 weeks after a live vaccines is administered. However, if patients require therapy for chronic inflammatory conditions, do not delay therapy due to past vaccines. Patients who are vaccinated within the 14 days prior to initiating immunosuppressive therapy should be considered unvaccinated and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after immunosuppressive therapy is discontinued.(1) The US manufacturer of corticotropin(2) and triamcinolone(3) and the Australian manufacturer of dexamethasone(4) state that administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines is contraindicated in patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids or corticotropin. The manufacturer of deflazacort states that live or live-attenuated vaccines should be administered at least 4 to 6 weeks prior to initiation of therapy with deflazacort.(5)

DISCUSSION: Many clinicians consider a dose equivalent to either 2 mg/kg of body weight or a total of 20 mg/day of prednisone as sufficiently immunosuppressive to raise safety concerns about live-virus vaccines.(1) Immunization procedures may be undertaken in patients receiving corticosteroids when the therapy is short term (less than 2 weeks); low to moderate dose; long-term, alternate-day treatment with short-acting preparations; maintenance physiologic doses (replacement therapy); or administered topically (skin or eyes), by aerosol, or by intra-articular, bursal, or tendon injection.(1) Killed or inactivated vaccines do not pose a danger to immunocompromised patients.(1)

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

Corticosteroids/Anticoagulants

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids may increase the coagulability of blood, thus decreasing the effect of the anticoagulant.(1,2) Corticosteroids may also lower vascular integrity, which could increase the risk of hemorrhage.(3,4)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of corticosteroids may result in either increased (increased risk of bleeding) or decreased effects (increased risk of treatment failure) of anticoagulants.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia). Drug associated risk factors include concurrent use of multiple drugs which inhibit anticoagulant/antiplatelet metabolism and/or have an inherent risk for bleeding (e.g. NSAIDs).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The patient's clotting times should be monitored closely, along with any clinical signs of hemorrhage or clot formation. The dosage of the anticoagulant may need to be adjusted accordingly. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. When applicable, perform agent-specific laboratory test (e.g. INR, aPTT) to monitor efficacy and safety of anticoagulation. Discontinue anticoagulation in patients with active pathologic bleeding. Instruct patients to report any signs and symptoms of bleeding, such as unusual bleeding from the gums or nose; unusual bruising; red or black, tarry stools; red, pink or dark brown urine; acute abdominal or joint pain and/or swelling. The time of highest risk for a coumarin-type drug interaction is when the precipitant drug is initiated or discontinued. Contact the prescriber before initiating, altering the dose or discontinuing either drug.

DISCUSSION: Corticotropin and other corticosteroids have been shown to both increase (3,5-11) and decrease (1,12,13) the effects of acenocoumarol, dicumarol, fluindione, and warfarin. Hemorrhagic episodes have been associated with concurrent use of these medications.(3,5) One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" 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.

Corticosteroids/Capivasertib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Capivasertib may cause severe hyperglycemia. Corticosteroids also cause hyperglycemia.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of capivasertib with corticosteroids may cause severe hyperglycemia.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with a medical history of diabetes mellitus and in patients with risk factors for hyperglycemia, such as obesity (BMI >= 30), elevated fasting glucose of > 160 mg/dL, HbA1c at or above the upper limit of normal, or intercurrent infections, may be at increased risk for hyperglycemia.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The US manufacturer of capivasertib recommends monitoring fasting blood glucose more frequently in patients on concomitant systemic corticosteroids.(1) If hyperglycemia occurs after starting capivasertib, monitor fasting glucose as clinically indicated and at least twice weekly until fasting glucose returns to normal.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because capivasertib has been associated with severe hyperglycemia, fasting blood glucose should be monitored closely during the concurrent use of corticosteroids with capivasertib therapy.(1) In clinical studies, hyperglycemia occurred in 18% of patients treated with capivasertib. Grade 3 (insulin therapy initiated; hospitalization indicated) or Grade 4 (life-threatening consequences; urgent intervention indicated) hyperglycemia occurred in 2.8% of patients. Diabetic ketoacidosis occurred in 0.3% of patients and diabetic metabolic decompensation in 0.6% of patients. Dose reduction for hyperglycemia was required in 0.6% of patients and permanent discontinuation was required in 0.6% of patients. The median time to first occurrence of hyperglycemia was 15 days (range: 1 to 367).(1) In the 65 patients with hyperglycemia, 45% required treatment with anti-hyperglycemic medication (insulin in 15%, and metformin in 29%). Of the 29 patients who required anti-hyperglycemic medication during treatment with capivasertib, 66% (19/29) remained on these medications at treatment discontinuation or last follow up.(1)

Corticosteroids/Erlotinib

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: The exact mechanism is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of corticosteroids may increase the risk of gastrointestinal perforation in patients receiving erlotinib. Fatalities have been reported.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients with a history of peptic ulceration or diverticular disease or who are receiving concomitant anti-angiogenic, NSAIDs, and/or taxane-based chemotherapy may be an increased risk of gastrointestinal perforation.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of gastrointestinal perforation. Discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop gastrointestinal perforation.(1)

DISCUSSION: In a phase II trial of concurrent bevacizumab plus erlotinib, 2 of 13 patients suffered fatal gastrointestinal perforations.(2) In another phase II trial of concurrent bevacizumab with erlotinib, 1 of 104 patients died of gastrointestinal perforation.(3) Two patients developed gastrointestinal perforations while taking erlotinib, corticosteroids, and ciprofloxacin.(3)

Corticosteroids/Gallium Ga 68 Dotatate

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: High-dose corticosteroids may down-regulate somatostatin subtype 2 receptors, the main binding site for gallium Ga 68 dotatate.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Repeated use of high doses of corticosteroids before use of gallium Ga 68 dotatate may result in false negative imaging results.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: In patients receiving high-dose corticosteroids prior to use of gallium Ga 68 dotatate, interpret imaging results with caution and in the context of the patient's clinical presentation.

DISCUSSION: Repeated use of high doses of corticosteroids before use of gallium Ga 68 dotatate may result in false negative imaging results due to down-regulation of the somatostatin subtype 2 receptor.(1)

Corticosteroids/Hormonal Contraceptives; Estrogens

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: It is speculated that hormonal contraceptives and estrogens inhibit hepatic metabolism of some corticosteroids as well as endogenous cortisol. Competitive protein binding may also contribute to elevations in serum corticosteroids.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of hormonal contraceptives or estrogens may result in an increase in the therapeutic and toxic effects of corticosteroids.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: None determined.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent hormonal contraceptives or estrogen should be observed for symptoms of corticosteroid toxicity. A lower corticosteroid dose may be required.

DISCUSSION: In a study in 6 healthy females controlled on long-term oral contraceptives, subjects received either a placebo or high and low-dose prednisolone (0.53 and 0.14 mg/Kg iv). Both dosages of prednisolone decreased the total clearance, unbound clearance, and volume of distribution (Vd) at maximum concentration (Cmax) of total drug. Significant increases in half-life for free and unbound prednisolone and hydrocortisone concentrations were also observed in comparison to the placebo group. In a study in 8 females controlled on oral contraceptive therapy, 8 females not receiving contraceptive therapy, and 8 males, each subject received prednisolone 40 mg iv. The plasma clearance of total prednisolone in females on OC was 96 ml/min, which was significantly lower than those in both the male and female (205 and 187 ml/min, respectively) control groups. Prednisolone half-life and mean residence times were increased. The oral contraceptive group had a significantly higher (2-fold) concentration of transcortin, resulting in lower clearance, decreased Vd, and a 2-fold increase in the area-under-curve (AUC) for prednisolone. A clinical trial demonstrated the interaction between prednisolone (20 mg) and oral contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol (30 mcg). The oral contraceptive users had an average plasma concentration of prednisolone 131% higher compared to the control group, and plasma cortisol levels were suppressed by approximately 90%. No differences were reported for ethinyl estradiol levels. In a study in 8 females taking oral contraceptives and 8 females who were were not, subjects received IV doses of prednisolone at 0.1 mg/Kg and 1.0 mg/Kg. Free prednisolone clearance was reduced by approximately 30% in the contraceptive receiving subjects compared to the control group, and plasma cortisol concentrations were reduced 2-fold compared to the control group. One or more of the drug pairs linked to this monograph have been included in a list of interactions that could be considered for classification as "non-interruptive" 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.

Corticosteroids/Nsaids

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Concurrent use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids result in additive risk of GI ulceration.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids may increase the incidence and/or severity of GI irritation or ulceration, including increasing the risk for bleeding.

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk of GI bleed may be increased in patients who are of older age, in poor health status, or who use alcohol or smoke. Risk may also be increased by concurrent use of anticoagulants, antiplatelets, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs); with longer duration of NSAID use; and with prior history of peptic ulcer disease and/or GI bleeding. The risk for bleeding episodes may be greater in patients with disease-associated factors (e.g. thrombocytopenia, advanced liver disease).

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy carefully for signs of gastrointestinal ulceration. Use the lowest effective NSAID dose for the shortest duration possible. If concurrent therapy is warranted, monitor patients receiving concurrent therapy for signs of blood loss, including decreased hemoglobin, hematocrit, fecal occult blood, and/or decreased blood pressure and promptly evaluate patients with any symptoms. Instruct patients to report signs of GI bleeding such as black, tarry stools; "coffee ground" vomit; nausea; or stomach/abdominal pain.

DISCUSSION: Concurrent use of NSAIDs and corticosteroids increase the risk of GI bleeding.

Corticosteroids/Quinolones

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Quinolone-induced arthropathy is a class effect of the quinolones.(1) Exactly how corticosteroid use increases the risk of tendon rupture is unknown.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of quinolones and corticosteroids may increase the risk of tendonitis and/or tendon rupture. This affect is most common in the Achilles tendon, but has been reported in the rotator cuff (shoulder), hand, biceps, thumb, and other tendons.(2-9)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Risk factors for tendinitis and tendon rupture include age greater than 60; a history of kidney, heart, or lung transplantation, strenuous physical activity, renal failure, and previous tendon disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Quinolone use should be discontinued if the patient experiences pain, inflammation, or rupture of a tendon. Patients experiencing discomfort or pain should be instructed to rest and refrain from exercise until the diagnosis of tendonitis tendon rupture has been excluded.(2-9)

DISCUSSION: Ruptures of the shoulder, hand, Achilles tendon, or other tendons that required surgical repair or resulted in prolonged disability have been reported in patients receiving ciprofloxacin,(2) gatifloxacin,(3) levofloxacin,(4) lomefloxacin,(5) moxifloxacin,(6) nalidixic acid,(7) norfloxacin,(8) and ofloxacin.(9) A retrospective review of the IMS Health database examined quinolone use use from July 1, 1992 to June 30, 1998. The adjusted relative risk of tendon disorder with concurrent quinolone use was 1.9. Relative risk increased to 3.2 in patients aged 60 or older compared to 0.9 in patients aged less than 60. In patients aged 60 or older who used corticosteroids and quinolones concurrently, relative risk increased to 6.2.(10) In contrast, another retrospective review examined patients from a health insurance claims database and found no apparent effect from concurrent quinolone and corticosteroid use.(11) In a review of the follow-up to 42 spontaneously reported case of quinolone-associated tendon disorders in the Netherlands between January, 1988 and January, 1998, risk factors for tendon disorders included age older than 60, oral corticosteroid use, and existing joint problems.(12) In a review of the Swiss Drug Monitoring system, four of seven cases of levofloxacin-associated tendon problems also involved concurrent oral or inhaled corticosteroids.(13) In a review of the Medline database from 1966-2001, 98 case reports of tendinopathy associated with quinolones were located. Thirty-two (32.7%) of the patients had received systemic or inhaled corticosteroids before and during quinolone therapy. Of the 40 patients who suffered a tendon rupture, 21 (52.5%) were receiving corticosteroids.(14) Other authors have reported cases of tendon disorders in patients receiving concurrent corticosteroids and ciprofloxacin,(15) levofloxacin, (16-20) and ofloxacin.(21)

Corticosteroids/Selected Strong Cyp3a4 Inducers

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Strong CYP3A4 inducers may induce the metabolism of corticosteroids. Corticosteroids may affect the metabolism of phenytoin.

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent or recent use of strong CYP3A4 inducers may result in decreased levels and effectiveness of corticosteroids. Dexamethasone has been shown to increase and decrease phenytoin levels.

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

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving concurrent therapy with a strong CYP3A4 inducer should be monitored for decreased effectiveness of their corticosteroid. Increased dosage of corticosteroid may be required during concurrent therapy and for several weeks after completing concurrent therapy. If concurrent therapy is discontinued, the dosage of the corticosteroid may need to be adjusted. Phenytoin levels should be closely monitored in patients receiving corticosteroids. The dosage of phenytoin may need to be adjusted if corticosteroids are initiated or discontinued.

DISCUSSION: Carbamazepine has been shown to increase the metabolism of methylprednisolone, prednisolone, and prednisone, resulting in decreased levels and effectiveness of these agents. Phenobarbital has been shown to increase the metabolism of dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, and prednisolone. Primidone is metabolized to phenobarbital. Phenytoin has been shown to increase the metabolism of dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, and prednisone, resulting in decreased levels and effectiveness of these agents Rifampin has been shown to increase the metabolism of cortisol, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, and prednisone. Strong CYP3A4 inducers linked to this monograph include: apalutamide, barbiturates, carbamazepine, encorafenib, enzalutamide, fosphenytoin, ivosidenib, lumacaftor, mitotane, phenobarbital, phenytoin, primidone, rifabutin, rifapentine, rifampin, and St. John's wort.

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Cladribine Oncology Inj

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

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

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

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

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

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

Immunosuppressives; Immunomodulators/Ublituximab

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

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

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

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

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

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

Steroids/Bupropion

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Both bupropion and systemic steroids are known to lower the seizure threshold.(1,2)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Concurrent use of bupropion and systemic steroids may result in additive effects on the seizure threshold, increasing the risk of seizures.(1,2)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: 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, antipsychotics, theophylline).(1,2)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The concurrent use of bupropion and systemic steroids should be undertaken only with extreme caution and with low initial bupropion dosing and small gradual dosage increases.(1,2) Single doses should not exceed 150 mg.(1,2) The maximum daily dose of bupropion should not exceed 300 mg for smoking cessation(2) or 450 mg for depression.(1)

DISCUSSION: Because of the risk of seizure from concurrent bupropion and other agents that lower seizure threshold, the manufacturer of bupropion states that the concurrent use of bupropion and systemic steroids should be undertaken only with extreme caution and with low initial bupropion dosing and small gradual dosage increases.(1,2)

Systemic Corticosteroids; Acth/Non-Live Or Non-Rep Vaccines

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

MECHANISM OF ACTION: Corticosteroids and corticotropin suppress the immune system and may alter the immune system's response to vaccines.(1)

CLINICAL EFFECTS: Vaccines administered during or within 2 weeks prior to therapy with corticosteroids or corticotropin may result in decreased effectiveness of the vaccine.(1)

PREDISPOSING FACTORS: Patients receiving immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids or corticotropin for equal to or greater than 14 consecutive days.(1)

PATIENT MANAGEMENT: The Centers for Disease Control's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) states that non-live vaccines should be used with caution in patients who are severely immunosuppressed, including those who are receiving or have received high-dose, systemic steroids for greater than or equal to 14 consecutive days. When initiating immunosuppressives doses of corticosteroids, wait 2 weeks after a non-live vaccines is administered. However, if patients require therapy for chronic inflammatory conditions, do not delay therapy due to past vaccines.(1) The immune response to non-live vaccines should be monitored in patients receiving corticosteroids. Vaccinations given during corticosteroid therapy may need to be repeated.(1) Patients who are vaccinated within the 14 days prior to initiating immunosuppressive therapy should be considered unvaccinated and should be revaccinated at least 3 months after immunosuppressive therapy is discontinued when immune competence is restored.(1)

DISCUSSION: Vaccinations given during and within 2 weeks prior to corticosteroid therapy may be less effective. However they are considered safe to administer.(1) Many clinicians consider a dose equivalent to either 2 mg/kg of body weight or a total of 20 mg/day of prednisone as sufficiently immunosuppressive to raise safety concerns about live-virus vaccines.(1) Immunization procedures may be undertaken in patients receiving corticosteroids when the therapy is short term (less than 2 weeks); low to moderate dose; long-term, alternate-day treatment with short-acting preparations; maintenance physiologic doses (replacement therapy); or administered topically (skin or eyes), by aerosol, or by intra-articular, bursal, or tendon injection.(1)

*Known hypersensitivity to deflazacort or any ingredient in the formulation.

• Cerebral malaria

• Amebae infection
• Chronic heart failure
• Fungal infection
• Inactive tuberculosis
• Intestinal anastomosis
• Measles
• Measles contact
• Ocular herpes simplex
• Osteoporosis
• Sickle cell disease
• Strongyloidiasis
• Untreated active tuberculosis
• Varicella contact
• Varicella zoster virus infection
• Viral hepatitis B

• Cataracts
• Diverticulitis of gastrointestinal tract
• Edema
• Gastritis
• Hyperglycemia
• Hypertension
• Hypothalamic-pituitary insufficiency
• Hypothyroidism
• Immunosuppression
• Infection
• Myopathy
• Myopathy with CK elevation
• Ocular hypertension
• Open angle glaucoma
• Osteopenia
• Peptic ulcer

Adverse effects reported in at least 10% of patients receiving deflazacort in clinical studies and more frequently than with placebo include Cushingoid appearance, increased weight, increased appetite, upper respiratory tract infection, cough, pollakiuria, hirsutism, central obesity, and nasopharyngitis.

More Frequent

• Hypercortisolism
• Infection

Less Frequent

• Gastrointestinal hemorrhage
• Hypocalcemia

Rare or Very Rare

• Acute pancreatitis
• Amebae infection
• Anaphylaxis
• Avascular necrosis of bone
• Cataracts
• Diabetes mellitus
• Drug-induced psychosis
• Fracture
• Fungal infection
• Gastrointestinal perforation
• Gastrointestinal ulcer
• Glaucoma
• Hallucinations
• Heart failure
• Hypertension
• Hypokalemia
• Hypothalamic-pituitary insufficiency
• Hypoventilation
• Idiopathic intracranial hypertension
• Immunosuppression
• Impaired wound healing
• Influenza
• Kaposi's sarcoma
• Leukocytosis
• Mood changes
• Osteopenia
• Peptic ulcer
• Pheochromocytoma
• Reactivation of hepatitis B
• Retinal disorder
• Seizure disorder
• Suicidal ideation
• Thromboembolic disorder
• Toxic epidermal necrolysis

More Frequent

• Central obesity
• Cough
• Erythema
• Headache disorder
• Hirsutism
• Increased appetite
• Pharyngitis
• Polyuria
• Rhinorrhea
• Upper respiratory infection
• Weight gain

Less Frequent

• Acute abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Epistaxis
• Excitement
• Hyperglycemia
• Irritability
• Skin striae
• Steroid-induced hyperglycemia

Rare or Very Rare

• Acneiform eruption
• Acute cognitive impairment
• Alopecia
• Back pain
• Bladder hyperactivity
• Corneal dystrophy
• Delusional disorder
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Dyspepsia
• Dysuria
• Edema
• Euphoria
• Eye tearing
• Flushing
• Glycosuria
• Hordeolum
• Impetigo
• Insomnia
• Memory impairment
• Muscle spasm
• Muscle weakness
• Myalgia
• Nausea
• Neck pain
• Otitis externa
• Polydipsia
• Skin rash
• Sleep disorder
• Symptoms of anxiety
• Testicular pain
• Urinary tract infection
• Urine discoloration
• Vertigo

No enhanced messaging available.

Safety and efficacy of deflazacort have not been established in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age.

Corticosteroids can have adverse effects on growth and development in children, particularly after long-term use. If prolonged therapy is necessary, the growth and development of children should be monitored closely.

Each mL of deflazacort oral suspension contains 10.45 mg of benzyl alcohol as a preservative. Administration of drugs preserved with benzyl alcohol has been associated with toxicity in preterm and low-birthweight infants. In these cases, large amounts (i.e., 100-400 mg/kg daily) of benzyl alcohol were administered. The lower limit for benzyl alcohol toxicity is unknown. Deflazacort oral suspension should not be used in pediatric patients younger than 2 years of age.

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of deflazacort in pregnant women. Adverse developmental effects (e.g., cleft lip with or without cleft palate, intrauterine growth restriction, decreased birth weight) have been reported with maternal use of corticosteroids, including deflazacort, during pregnancy; in some cases, the underlying disease may have contributed to some of the observed effects.

Corticosteroids should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. Some clinicians suggest that deflazacort should be avoided during the second and third trimesters because of the risk of fetal and neonatal adrenal suppression. Infants born to women who received substantial doses of corticosteroids during pregnancy should be carefully monitored for symptoms of adrenal insufficiency.

Corticosteroids are distributed into human milk and can suppress growth, interfere with endogenous corticosteroid production, or cause other adverse effects in nursing infants. The benefits of breast-feeding should be considered along with the woman's clinical need for deflazacort and any potential adverse effects on the breast-fed infant from the drug. Effects of the drug on milk production are not known.

The manufacturer makes no specific dosage recommendations for geriatric patients.

There is no experience with deflazacort in geriatric patients; Duchenne muscular dystrophy is generally a disease of children and young adults.