Drug Interactions between bexarotene and nirogacestat

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Seville oranges, and starfruit may significantly increase the plasma concentrations and pharmacologic effects of nirogacestat. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in these fruits. Coadministration of multiple doses of nirogacestat (150 mg twice daily) with the moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitors erythromycin and fluconazole are predicted to increase the AUC of nirogacestat by 2.73-fold and 3.18-fold, respectively. The interaction has not been studied with grapefruit, Seville oranges, or starfruit. In general, the effect of grapefruit juice is concentration-, dose- and preparation-dependent, and can vary widely among brands. Certain preparations of grapefruit juice (e.g., high dose, double strength) have sometimes demonstrated potent inhibition of CYP450 3A4, while other preparations (e.g., low dose, single strength) have typically demonstrated moderate inhibition. Increased systemic exposure to nirogacestat may increase the risk of adverse effects including diarrhea, ovarian toxicity, hepatotoxicity, electrolyte abnormalities, and non-melanoma skin cancers.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with nirogacestat should avoid consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Seville oranges, starfruit, or any supplement containing grapefruit.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food may enhance the oral bioavailability of bexarotene. In one clinical study, bexarotene peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) resulting from a 75 to 300 mg dose were 35% and 48% higher, respectively, when administered after a fat-containing meal relative to a glucose solution. In all clinical trials, patients were instructed to take bexarotene with or immediately following a meal.

Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 such as grapefruit juice may theoretically increase the plasma concentrations of bexarotene. In vitro studies suggest that bexarotene is metabolized by CYP450 3A4. However, concomitant administration with multiple doses of ketoconazole, a potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, did not alter bexarotene plasma concentrations, which would imply that bexarotene elimination is not substantially dependent on CYP450 3A4 metabolism in vivo.

MANAGEMENT: Because safety and efficacy data are based upon administration with food, bexarotene should be administered once daily with a meal. Patients may want to avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice.