Ivacaftor Disease Interactions

Cases of non-congenital lens opacities or cataracts have been reported in pediatric patients treated with products containing ivacaftor. Although other risk factors could be present in some cases (e.g., corticosteroid use or exposure to radiation), a possible risk attributable to this medication cannot be excluded. Baseline and ophthalmological examinations are recommended in pediatric patients initiating treatment

There are no data on the use of ivacaftor in patients with severe liver dysfunction. Ivacaftor should not be used in patients less than 6 months of age with any level of hepatic impairment. Caution is recommended if using products containing ivacaftor in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with advanced liver disease. Use of ivacaftor in these patients has been associated with worsening of liver function, including hepatic encephalopathy. In CF patients with pre-existing cirrhosis with portal hypertension, liver function decompensation, including liver failure leading to death, has been reported. Closely monitor patients as recommended by the manufacturer after initiating treatment, especially in those with liver disease or a history of transaminase/bilirubin elevations.

The use of products containing ivacaftor is associated with an increase in blood pressure. Close monitoring of blood pressure is recommended periodically in all patients, in particular in hypertensive patients.

The use of products containing ivacaftor has not been studied in patients with cystic fibrosis who have undergone organ transplantation. Use in transplanted patients is not recommended due to potential drug-drug interactions with immunosuppressants.

The use of products containing ivacaftor is associated with respiratory events (e.g., chest discomfort, dyspnea, and respiration abnormal). Close monitoring is recommended in patients with advanced lung disease (percent predicted FEV1 less than 40).

Ivacaftor has not been studied in patients with renal impairment. No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with mild or moderate renal impairment, however, caution is recommended in patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease.