Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: The risk of peripheral neuropathy may be increased during concurrent use of two or more agents that are associated with this adverse effect. Patient risk factors include diabetes and age older than 60 years. In some cases, the neuropathy may progress or become irreversible despite discontinuation of the medications.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised during concomitant use of agents with neurotoxic effects. Patients should be monitored closely for symptoms of neuropathy such as burning, tingling, pain, or numbness in the hands and feet. Since the development of peripheral neuropathy may be dose-related for many drugs, the recommended dosages should generally not be exceeded. Consideration should be given to dosage reduction or immediate discontinuation of these medications in patients who develop peripheral neuropathy to limit further damage. If feasible, therapy should generally be reinstituted only after resolution of neuropathy symptoms or return of symptoms to baseline status. In some cases, permanent dosage reductions may be required.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of ixabepilone. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with ixabepilone should avoid the consumption of grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

The recommended maximum number of medicines in the 'mitotic inhibitors' category to be taken concurrently is usually one. Your list includes two medicines belonging to the 'mitotic inhibitors' category:

• Etopophos (etoposide)
• ixabepilone

Note: In certain circumstances, the benefits of taking this combination of drugs may outweigh any risks. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications or dosage.