Drug Interaction Report

Coadministration with remdesivir may increase the plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized via CYP450 3A4, but many sources indicate that clinically significant interactions are unlikely. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4 by remdesivir. Two drug interaction studies were conducted using the sensitive CYP450 3A4 substrate, midazolam. In the first study, healthy volunteers (n=19) received a single dose of remdesivir (200 mg) and a single dose of midazolam (2.5 mg), which resulted in midazolam's maximum concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) increasing by 29% and 20%, respectively. In the second study, healthy volunteers (n=14) received remdesivir (200 mg once, followed by 100 mg daily) for a total of 10 doses and a single dose of midazolam (2.5 mg) administered with the last dose of remdesivir. Midazolam's Cmax and AUC increased by 45% and 30%, respectively. Both studies indicated that remdesivir is a weak in vivo inhibitor of CYP450 3A4; however, some authorities consider these findings to be clinically insignificant.

GENERALLY AVOID: The concurrent use of levomethadyl acetate and alcohol may result in additive CNS and respiratory depression, hypotension, sedation, or coma. Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of orally administered drugs which are substrates of the CYP450 3A4 isoenzyme, such as levomethadyl acetate. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. The extent and clinical significance are unknown. Moreover, pharmacokinetic alterations associated with interactions involving grapefruit juice are often subject to a high degree of interpatient variability.

MANAGEMENT: Patients who are known to abuse alcohol should be warned of the risk of potentially fatal overdose if these substances are taken concurrently. Patients who regularly consume grapefruits and grapefruit juice should be monitored for adverse effects and altered plasma concentrations of levomethadyl acetate. A 12-lead ECG should be performed before initiating therapy, 12 to 14 days after initiating therapy, and periodically thereafter. Patients should be advised to immediately seek medical attention if they experience palpitations, dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or seizures. Grapefruits and grapefruit juice should be avoided if an interaction is suspected. Orange juice is not expected to interact.