Drug Interactions between itraconazole and taletrectinib

GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of taletrectinib. The proposed mechanism for the interaction 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. In a clinical study, taletrectinib peak plasma concentration (Cmax) increased by 1.8-fold and systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 3.3-fold following concomitant administration of itraconazole, a potent CYP450 3A inhibitor. According to the product labeling, administration of taletrectinib with a moderate CYP450 3A inhibitor is predicted to increase taletrectinib Cmax and AUC by up to 1.5- and 2.6-fold, respectively. Increased exposure to taletrectinib may increase the risk and/or severity of adverse effects such as hepatotoxicity with liver enzyme elevations, lung toxicities, QT prolongation, hyperuricemia, myalgia with creatine phosphokinase elevation, and skeletal fractures.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Coadministration with high-fat food (1000 calories, 50% fat) increased taletrectinib Cmax and AUC by 1.5-fold, and the predicted increase in the QTc interval is 20.5 msec.

MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends avoiding food or drink containing grapefruit during treatment with taletrectinib. In addition, taletrectinib should be administered on an empty stomach at about the same time each day, at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after food intake.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food increases the absorption of itraconazole capsules but decreases the absorption of itraconazole oral solution. Cola beverages may increase the bioavailability of itraconazole capsules. Itraconazole capsules require an acidic gastric pH for adequate dissolution and subsequent absorption. Cola beverages help lower gastric pH and improve absorption.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may impair the absorption of itraconazole capsules, resulting in decreased antifungal effects. In a small, randomized, crossover study, the administration of itraconazole capsules with double-strength grapefruit juice (compared to water) was associated with significantly decreased (43%) plasma concentrations of itraconazole and its pharmacologically active hydroxy metabolite, as well as delayed times to reach peak concentrations of both. The exact mechanism of interaction is unknown but may involve reduced absorption of itraconazole secondary to enhanced activity of intestinal P-glycoprotein drug efflux pumps and delayed gastric emptying induced by certain compounds present in grapefruits. Another study reported no pharmacokinetic changes with single-strength grapefruit juice. Whether or not these observations apply to itraconazole oral solution is unknown.

MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends that the capsules be taken immediately after a full meal and the solution be taken on an empty stomach to ensure maximal absorption. Cola beverages may help increase the bioavailability of itraconazole capsules, particularly in patients with hypochlorhydria or those treated concomitantly with gastric acid suppressants. Until more information is available, it may be advisable to avoid the consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice during itraconazole therapy.