Drug interactions between amlodipine and Sporanox

MONITOR CLOSELY: Itraconazole exhibits a dose-related negative inotropic effect which may be additive to those of calcium channel blockers (CCBs). Theoretically, coadministration may potentiate the risk of ventricular dysfunction, congestive heart failure, and peripheral and pulmonary edema, particularly in patients with preexisting risk factors (e.g., a history of congestive heart failure; cardiac disease such as ischemic and valvular disease; significant pulmonary disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder; edematous disorders such as renal failure). In addition, both itraconazole and its major metabolite, hydroxyitraconazole, inhibit CYP450 3A4 metabolism and may interfere with the clearance of certain CCBs like the dihydropyridines (amlodipine, felodipine, isradipine, lacidipine, nicardipine, nifedipine, nimodipine, nisoldipine), diltiazem, and verapamil. Significant increases of severalfold in felodipine and nifedipine plasma concentrations have been observed during coadministration with itraconazole, and there have been case reports of leg and ankle edema in patients treated with various itraconazole-dihydropyridine combinations. Itraconazole alone has also been associated with postmarketing reports of congestive heart failure, peripheral edema, and pulmonary edema in patients treated for onychomycosis and/or systemic fungal infections. Heart failure was more frequently reported in patients receiving a dosage of 400 mg/day, although there were also cases reported among those receiving lower daily dosages.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if itraconazole must be used concomitantly with CCBs. Close monitoring of clinical response and tolerance is recommended, and patients should be advised to seek medical attention if they experience edema or swelling of the lower extremities; sudden, unexplained weight gain; difficulty breathing; chest pain or tightness; or hypotension as indicated by dizziness, fainting, or orthostasis. Appropriate dosage adjustment of the CCB may be necessary when used with itraconazole.