Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration with inducers of CYP450 3A4 may decrease the plasma concentrations and pharmacologic effects of palovarotene, which is primarily metabolized by the isoenzyme. Concomitant use with rifampin, a potent CYP450 3A4 inducer, decreased the peak plasma concentration and systemic exposure of palovarotene by 81% and 89%, respectively. Data are not available for palovarotene in combination with other, less potent CYP450 3A4 inducers.

MANAGEMENT: The potential for diminished pharmacologic effects of palovarotene should be considered during coadministration with CYP450 3A4 inducers. Alternative treatments may be required if an interaction is suspected.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit, pomelo, grapefruit hybrids, and juices or supplements containing these fruits may increase the plasma concentrations of palovarotene. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in these fruits. Inhibition of hepatic CYP450 3A4 may also contribute. The interaction has not been studied with these fruits. Concomitant use of erythromycin, a moderate CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, with palovarotene at steady-state plasma levels increased its peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by 1.6 and 2.5-fold, respectively. 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 concentrations of palovarotene may increase the risk of adverse effects such as dry skin, dry lips, alopecia, pruritus, erythema, paronychia, cellulitis, decubitus ulcer, xerophthalmia, night blindness, depression, mood alterations, and pseudotumour cerebri (benign intracranial hypertension).

ADJUST DOSE: Food increases oral absorption of palovarotene.

MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer advises that concomitant use of palovarotene with grapefruit, pomelo, grapefruit hybrids and juices or supplements containing these fruits should be avoided. To ensure maximal absorption, palovarotene should be administered with food.

MONITOR: Isolated case reports have suggested that the ingestion of alcohol during griseofulvin therapy may rarely cause disulfiram-like reactions, flushing, tachycardia, or increased effects of alcohol. The mechanism is unknown.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should be advised of the possibility of increased adverse effects or a disulfiram-like reaction.