Drug Interactions between Fleet Prep Kit 3 and pimozide

MONITOR CLOSELY: The following interaction applies only to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for bowel cleansing. It does not apply to products containing sodium biphosphate that are used for other, non-laxative related purposes.

The use of bowel cleansing preparations may increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmia, particularly torsade de pointes, in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Severe and potentially fatal cases of electrolyte disorders and arrhythmias have been reported in elderly patients using bowel cleansing products. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia are known risk factors for torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised when bowel cleansing preparations are prescribed in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Monitoring of baseline and posttreatment serum electrolyte levels is recommended, particularly in the elderly. Patients should be instructed to drink plenty of clear liquids before, during, and after the bowel preparation process. Consideration should be given to consumption of 36 to 48 fluid ounces of a carbohydrate-electrolyte solution in the six hours before the first dose. Patients should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath, or syncope.

MONITOR: Bowel cleansing as well as overuse of certain laxatives may cause electrolyte loss and increase the risk of torsade de pointes ventricular arrhythmia in patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval. Electrolyte disturbances including hypokalemia and hypomagnesemia have been reported with laxative abuse and are known risk factors for torsade de pointes associated with QT interval prolongation.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with drugs that prolong the QT interval should exercise caution when self-medicating with laxatives. The recommended dosage and duration of use should not be exceeded. Patients treated with lactulose for more than six months should be monitored periodically for electrolyte imbalance. Patients should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath, or syncope.