Drug Interactions between upadacitinib and vadadustat

Consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and supplements that contain grapefruit should be avoided during treatment with upadacitinib as they may increase the blood levels of upadacitinib, which may increase the risk and/or severity of side effects such as low blood cell counts, anemia, serious infections, and elevated blood lipid levels. Contact your doctor if you develop symptoms such as paleness, fatigue, dizziness, fainting, fever, chills, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle aches, shortness of breath, blood in phlegm, weight loss, red or inflamed skin, body sores, or pain or burning during urination.

Smoking during treatment with upadacitinib may increase your risk of serious cardiovascular events and of developing malignancies. Tell your doctor if you are a current or past smoker. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns. Get emergency help right away if you develop any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke during treatment with upadacitinib, including severe tightness, pain, pressure, or heaviness in your chest, neck, or jaw; weakness in one side of your body; slurred speech; shortness of breath or feeling lightheaded. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

MONITOR: Smoking and alcohol consumption during therapy with vadadustat may increase the risk of gastrointestinal erosions. Serious erosions, including gastrointestinal bleeding and the need for red blood cell transfusions, have been reported during vadadustat clinical trials. Patients with a history of gastrointestinal erosion, peptic ulcer disease, and current tobacco smokers and alcohol drinkers may be at higher risk of gastrointestinal injury.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if vadadustat is prescribed to current tobacco smokers or alcohol drinkers. Patients should be advised to contact their physician if they develop potential signs and symptoms of gastrointestinal injury such as abdominal pain, hematemesis, trouble swallowing, chest or throat pain, and/or black, tarry stools.