Drug Interactions between brincidofovir and E-Mycin

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food may variably affect the bioavailability of different oral formulations and salt forms of erythromycin. The individual product package labeling should be consulted regarding the appropriate time of administration in relation to food ingestion. Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of orally administered erythromycin. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. In an open-label, crossover study consisting of six healthy subjects, the coadministration with double-strength grapefruit juice increased the mean peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) of a single dose of erythromycin (400 mg) by 52% and 49%, respectively, compared to water. The half-life was not affected. The clinical significance of this potential interaction is unknown.

MANAGEMENT: In general, optimal serum levels are achieved when erythromycin is taken in the fasting state, one-half to two hours before meals. However, some erythromycin products may be taken without regard to meals.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration with food decreases the oral bioavailability of brincidofovir. According to the product labeling, administration of brincidofovir tablets with a low-fat meal (approximately 400 calories, 25% of calories from fat) was associated with a reduction in the systemic exposure (AUC) and peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of brincidofovir by 31% and 49%, respectively, compared to administration under fasting. However, no clinically meaningful changes in intracellular concentrations of cidofovir diphosphate were observed. The effect of food on the oral suspension formulation has not been evaluated.

MANAGEMENT: Brincidofovir oral tablets and suspension should be taken on an empty stomach. If necessary, the oral tablets may be taken with a low-fat meal.

Ethanol, when combined with erythromycin, may delay absorption and therefore the clinical effects of the antibiotic. The mechanism appears to be due to slowed gastric emptying by ethanol. Data is available only for erythromycin ethylsuccinate. Patients should be advised to avoid ethanol while taking erythromycin salts.