Drug Interactions between Nuedexta and pralsetinib

GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with potent CYP450 2D6 inhibitors (e.g., quinidine, terbinafine) may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of dextromethorphan in patients who are extensive metabolizers of this isoenzyme (approximately 93% of Caucasians and more than 98% of Asians and individuals of African descent). The proposed mechanism is inhibition of the CYP450 2D6-mediated O-demethylation of dextromethorphan. Studies in humans have shown an increase in systemic exposure of dextromethorphan of up to 43-fold when given concurrently with quinidine. Increased plasma concentrations increase the risk of dextromethorphan-related adverse effects (e.g., agitation, confusion, tremor, insomnia, diarrhea, and respiratory depression) and serotonin syndrome. However, this interaction has also been used clinically, with dextromethorphan in combination with quinidine indicated by some authorities for the treatment of pseudobulbar affect. Data evaluating the impact of this interaction in patients who are poor metabolizers of CYP450 2D6 are limited; most studies include extensive metabolizers of this isoenzyme. It is expected that poor metabolizers would have elevated dextromethorphan levels without concurrent quinidine

MANAGEMENT: The combination of dextromethorphan with potent CYP450 2D6 inhibitors should be generally avoided. Some manufacturers consider the concomitant use of dextromethorphan and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors contraindicated. If use is considered necessary, the patient should be monitored for signs of dextromethorphan adverse effects (e.g., agitation, confusion, tremor, insomnia, diarrhea, and respiratory depression) and serotonin syndrome, and advised to notify their health care professional if these adverse effects develop or worsen. Dose reduction of dextromethorphan may also be required.

MONITOR: Pralsetinib can cause prolongation of the QT interval. Theoretically, coadministration with other agents that can prolong the QT interval may result in additive effects and increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsade de pointes and sudden death. In clinical trials, QT prolongation occurred in 5.1% of 528 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) or other solid tumors. Two patients (0.4%) experienced grade 3 QT prolongation, which resolved in each case. There was no life-threatening or fatal QT prolongation. The QT interval prolongation potential of pralsetinib was assessed in 34 patients with rearranged during transfection (RET) altered solid tumors administered 400 mg once daily, and no mean increase in the corrected QT interval (QTc) greater than 20 ms was detected. In general, the risk of an individual agent or a combination of agents causing ventricular arrhythmia in association with QT prolongation is largely unpredictable but may be increased by certain underlying risk factors such as congenital long QT syndrome, cardiac disease, and electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia). Moreover, the extent of drug-induced QT prolongation is dependent on the particular drug(s) involved and dosage(s) of the drug(s).

MANAGEMENT: Some authorities recommend caution if pralsetinib is coadministered with other agents known to prolong the QT interval. 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: Coadministration with pralsetinib may alter the plasma concentrations of drugs that are substrates of CYP450 2C8, 2C9, 3A4, and/or 3A5. In vitro studies indicate that pralsetinib is both an inhibitor as well as an inducer of CYP450 2C8, 2C9, 3A4, and 3A5. Therefore, pralsetinib may decrease clearance via inhibition or increase clearance via induction of these isoenzymes, resulting in increased or decreased plasma concentrations of agents that are metabolized by one or more of these isoenzymes. Clinical and pharmacokinetic data are currently lacking.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if pralsetinib is used concomitantly with drugs that are substrates of CYP450 2C8, 2C9, 3A4, and/or 3A5, particularly sensitive substrates or those with a narrow therapeutic range. Some authorities recommend avoiding coadministration of pralsetinib with CYP450 2C8, 2C9, 3A4, and/or 3A5 substrates for which minimal concentration changes may lead to therapeutic failure or serious toxicities. If coadministration is required, dosage adjustments as well as clinical and laboratory monitoring may be appropriate whenever pralsetinib is added to or withdrawn from therapy. The prescribing information for concomitant medications should be consulted to assess the benefits versus risks of coadministration and for any dosage adjustments that may be required.