Drug Interactions between bexarotene and pirtobrutinib

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of pirtobrutinib, which is primarily metabolized by CYP450 3A4. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruit. Inhibition of hepatic CYP450 3A4 may also contribute. The interaction has not been studied with grapefruit juice but has been reported for other CYP450 3A4 inhibitors. When pirtobrutinib (200 mg single dose) was administered with itraconazole, a potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, pirtobrutinib systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 49%. Concomitant use of diltiazem or verapamil, moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitors, is predicted to increase pirtobrutinib AUC by 20% and 30%, respectively. 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 exposure to pirtobrutinib may increase the risk of infection, bruising, bleeding, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, diarrhea, edema, and dyspnea.

MANAGEMENT: It may be advisable for patients to avoid consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, or supplements that contain grapefruit during treatment with pirtobrutinib.

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.