Drug Interactions between nirogacestat and sodium phenylbutyrate

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Seville oranges, and starfruit may significantly increase the plasma concentrations and pharmacologic effects of nirogacestat. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in these fruits. Coadministration of multiple doses of nirogacestat (150 mg twice daily) with the moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitors erythromycin and fluconazole are predicted to increase the AUC of nirogacestat by 2.73-fold and 3.18-fold, respectively. The interaction has not been studied with grapefruit, Seville oranges, or starfruit. In general, the effect of grapefruit juice is concentration-, dose- and preparation-dependent, and can vary widely among brands. Certain preparations of grapefruit juice (e.g., high dose, double strength) have sometimes demonstrated potent inhibition of CYP450 3A4, while other preparations (e.g., low dose, single strength) have typically demonstrated moderate inhibition. Increased systemic exposure to nirogacestat may increase the risk of adverse effects including diarrhea, ovarian toxicity, hepatotoxicity, electrolyte abnormalities, and non-melanoma skin cancers.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with nirogacestat should avoid consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, Seville oranges, starfruit, or any supplement containing grapefruit.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Coadministration with a high-fat meal may reduce the rate and extent of absorption of sodium phenylbutyrate. When a single 3 g-1 g dose of sodium phenylbutyrate-taurursodiol (sodium phenylbutyrate-ursodoxicoltaurine) was administered to healthy volunteers in the presence of a high-fat, high-calorie meal (approximately 800 to 1000 calories; 500 to 600 calories from fat, 250 calories from carbohydrate, 150 calories from protein), sodium phenylbutyrate peak plasma concentration (Cmax) decreased by 75% and systemic exposure (AUC) decreased by 55%. The Cmax for taurursodiol was not significantly affected, but AUC was increased by 46%. The clinical significance of these changes has not been established. In premarketing studies, patients were advised to take the drug before a meal.

MANAGEMENT: The prescribing information recommends administration of sodium phenylbutyrate-taurursodiol before a meal or snack, particularly in patients of low body weight (less than 70 kg).