Drug Interactions between pazopanib and Tegretol XR

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of pazopanib. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. Although not studied, the interaction may increase the risk of QT interval prolongation and torsade de pointes arrhythmia as well as severe and fatal hepatotoxicity associated with the use of pazopanib.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food increases the oral bioavailability of pazopanib. The mechanism of interaction is unknown. Administration of pazopanib with a high-fat or low-fat meal results in an approximately 2-fold increase in peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC).

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with pazopanib should avoid consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and any supplement containing grapefruit extract. Pazopanib should be administered at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of carbamazepine. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

In a small, randomized, crossover study, the administration of carbamazepine with grapefruit juice (compared to water) increased plasma drug concentrations by approximately 40%. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving carbamazepine should be advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol. Given the drug's narrow therapeutic index, patients receiving carbamazepine therapy should preferably avoid the regular consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice to prevent any undue fluctuations in plasma drug levels. Patients should be advised to report signs of carbamazepine toxicity (nausea, visual disturbances, dizziness, or ataxia) to their physicians.