Drug Interactions between Niacin SR and tipiracil / trifluridine

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration of trifluridine-tipiracil with a standardized high-fat, high-calorie meal has been shown to decrease trifluridine peak plasma concentration (Cmax) as well as tipiracil Cmax and systemic exposure (AUC) by approximately 40% compared to administration in a fasting state in patients with cancer given a single 35 mg/m2 dose. No change in trifluridine AUC was observed.

MANAGEMENT: Based on the observed correlation between increases in the Cmax of trifluridine and decreases in neutrophil counts, trifluridine-tipiracil should be taken within one hour after completion of the morning and evening meals.

GENERALLY AVOID: Ethanol can exacerbate the cutaneous flushing that is a common side effect of niacin. At least one case of delirium and lactic acidosis has been reported with coadministration of these drugs, although data are limited.

MANAGEMENT: Coadministration should probably be discouraged, particularly since chronic consumption of large amounts of alcohol is associated with hyperlipidemia.

A single case has been reported in which cutaneous flushing and tremors were noted in a woman who was taking niacin while wearing a nicotine patch. The mechanism is suspected to be synergistic cutaneous vasodilatory effects. The clinical significance of this possible interaction is not known.