Drug Interactions between abrocitinib and nirmatrelvir / ritonavir

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration with food may modestly affect the bioavailability of ritonavir from the various available formulations. When the oral solution was given under nonfasting conditions, peak ritonavir concentrations decreased 23% and the extent of absorption decreased 7% relative to fasting conditions. Dilution of the oral solution (within one hour of dosing) with 240 mL of chocolate milk or a nutritional supplement (Advera or Ensure) did not significantly affect the extent and rate of ritonavir absorption. When a single 100 mg dose of the tablet was administered with a high-fat meal (907 kcal; 52% fat, 15% protein, 33% carbohydrates), approximately 20% decreases in mean peak concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) were observed relative to administration after fasting. Similar decreases in Cmax and AUC were reported when the tablet was administered with a moderate-fat meal. In contrast, the extent of absorption of ritonavir from the soft gelatin capsule formulation was 13% higher when administered with a meal (615 KCal; 14.5% fat, 9% protein, and 76% carbohydrate) relative to fasting.

MANAGEMENT: Ritonavir should be taken with meals to enhance gastrointestinal tolerability.

MONITOR: Smoking during treatment with abrocitinib may increase the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and the risk of developing malignancies. During abrocitinib clinical studies, current or past smokers had an additional increased risk of overall malignancies. Also, abrocitinib may increase patients' risk of MACE, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death.

Administration of abrocitinib with high-fat, high-calorie food increased abrocitinib peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 29% and 26%, respectively, and prolonged the time to reach Cmax by 2 hours. These changes are not considered clinically relevant.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if abrocitinib is prescribed to current or past smokers. Patients should be informed about the symptoms of serious cardiovascular events and the steps to take if they occur. The manufacturer recommends discontinuing abrocitinib in patients that have experienced a myocardial infarction or stroke. Abrocitinib may be taken with or without food.