Drug Interactions between Capozide 50/25 and H.P. Acthar Gel

MONITOR: Although they are frequently combined in clinical practice, diuretics and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may have additive effects. Coadministration makes hypotension and hypovolemia more likely than does either drug alone. Some ACE inhibitors may attenuate the increase in the urinary excretion of sodium caused by some loop diuretics. Some patients on diuretics, especially those on dialysis or a dietary salt restriction, may experience acute hypotension with lightheadedness and dizziness after receiving the first dose of the ACE inhibitor. In addition, ACE inhibitors may cause renal insufficiency or acute renal failure in patients with sodium depletion or renal artery stenosis.

MANAGEMENT: Monitoring of blood pressure, diuresis, electrolytes, and renal function is recommended during coadministration. The possibility of first-dose hypotensive effects may be minimized by initiating therapy with small doses of the ACE inhibitor, or either discontinuing the diuretic temporarily or increasing the salt intake approximately one week prior to initiating an ACE inhibitor. Alternatively, the patient may remain under medical supervision for at least two hours after the first dose of the ACE inhibitor, or until blood pressure has stabilized.

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MONITOR: Corticosteroids may antagonize the effects of antihypertensive medications by inducing sodium and fluid retention. These effects may be more common with the natural corticosteroids (cortisone, hydrocortisone) because they have greater mineralocorticoid activity. Conversely, some calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem and verapamil may increase corticosteroid plasma levels and effects by inhibiting their clearance via CYP450 3A4 metabolism.

MANAGEMENT: Patients on prolonged (i.e., longer than about a week) or high-dose corticosteroid therapy should have blood pressure, electrolyte levels, and body weight monitored regularly, and be observed for the development of edema and congestive heart failure. The dosages of antihypertensive medications may require adjustment.

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MONITOR: The concomitant use of corticosteroids and agents that deplete potassium (e.g., potassium-wasting diuretics, amphotericin B, cation exchange resins) may result in increased risk of hypokalemia. Corticosteroids can produce hypokalemia and other electrolyte disturbances via mineralocorticoid effects, the degree of which varies with the agent (from most to least potent: fludrocortisone - cortisone/hydrocortisone - prednisolone/prednisone - other glucocorticoids) and route of administration (i.e. systemic vs. local). However, large systemic doses of any corticosteroid can demonstrate these effects, particularly if given for longer than brief periods. When used pharmacologically, adrenocorticotropic agents such as corticotropin have similar mineralocorticoid activities as cortisone and hydrocortisone.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving potassium-depleting agents with corticosteroids should be monitored closely for development of hypokalemia, particularly if fludrocortisone or large doses of another corticosteroid or adrenocorticotropic agent is given. Potassium supplementation may be necessary. Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they experience signs of electrolyte disturbances such as weakness, lethargy, and muscle pains or cramps.

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