Drug Interaction Report

GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with potent inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of pazopanib, which is primarily metabolized by the isoenzyme. In healthy subjects, administration of a single dose of pazopanib eye drop with the potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole resulted in a 150% increase in pazopanib peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and a 220% increase in systemic exposure (AUC). 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.

MANAGEMENT: Concomitant use of pazopanib with potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitors should generally be avoided. Some authorities recommend avoiding concomitant use of pazopanib during and for 2 weeks after treatment with itraconazole. If coadministration is unavoidable, a reduction of the pazopanib dosage to 400 mg once daily should be considered. Based on pharmacokinetic studies, this dosage is predicted to adjust the pazopanib systemic exposure (AUC) to the range observed without inhibitors. However, clinical data are lacking. Patients should have liver function tests (ALT, AST, bilirubin), electrocardiograms, and serum electrolyte levels performed at baseline and regular intervals as recommended in the product labeling. Further dosage reductions may be needed if adverse effects occur during therapy. Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they experience signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity such as fever, rash, anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, right upper quadrant pain, dark urine, and jaundice. In addition, they should seek medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de pointes such as dizziness, palpitations, or syncope. Following discontinuation of the potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, a washout period of approximately one week should be allowed before the pazopanib dosage is adjusted upward.

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.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food increases the absorption of itraconazole capsules but decreases the absorption of itraconazole oral solution. Cola beverages may increase the bioavailability of itraconazole capsules. Itraconazole capsules require an acidic gastric pH for adequate dissolution and subsequent absorption. Cola beverages help lower gastric pH and improve absorption.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may impair the absorption of itraconazole capsules, resulting in decreased antifungal effects. In a small, randomized, crossover study, the administration of itraconazole capsules with double-strength grapefruit juice (compared to water) was associated with significantly decreased (43%) plasma concentrations of itraconazole and its pharmacologically active hydroxy metabolite, as well as delayed times to reach peak concentrations of both. The exact mechanism of interaction is unknown but may involve reduced absorption of itraconazole secondary to enhanced activity of intestinal P-glycoprotein drug efflux pumps and delayed gastric emptying induced by certain compounds present in grapefruits. Another study reported no pharmacokinetic changes with single-strength grapefruit juice. Whether or not these observations apply to itraconazole oral solution is unknown.

MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends that the capsules be taken immediately after a full meal and the solution be taken on an empty stomach to ensure maximal absorption. Cola beverages may help increase the bioavailability of itraconazole capsules, particularly in patients with hypochlorhydria or those treated concomitantly with gastric acid suppressants. Until more information is available, it may be advisable to avoid the consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice during itraconazole therapy.