Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Barbiturates may decrease serum levels and therapeutic effects of the methylxanthines. The mechanism is barbiturate induction of CYP450 3A4 and 1A2 hepatic metabolism of methylxanthines.

MANAGEMENT: Close observation for clinical and laboratory evidence of decreased methylxanthine effect is indicated if these drugs must be used together. Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they experience a worsening of their respiratory symptoms.

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MONITOR: Coadministration with drugs that are inducers of CYP450 3A4 may decrease the plasma concentrations of protease inhibitors (PIs), which are primarily metabolized by the isoenzyme.

MANAGEMENT: Given the risk of reduced viral susceptibility and resistance development associated with subtherapeutic antiretroviral drug levels, protease inhibitors should be used cautiously with agents that induce CYP450 3A4, particularly if only one PI is used in the antiretroviral regimen. Coadministration of atazanavir without ritonavir and carbamazepine, phenobarbital, or phenytoin is not recommended. Antiretroviral response should be monitored more closely whenever a CYP450 3A4 inducer is added to or withdrawn from therapy, and the antiretroviral regimen adjusted as necessary.

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Ephedrine-methylxanthine combinations are used for the treatment of asthma but the efficacy of the combination has been questioned. This combination may lead to increased xanthine side effects. The mechanism is unknown, but may be related to synergistic pharmacologic effects. Patients using this combination should be closely monitored for side effects such as nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, nervousness, or insomnia. If side effects are noted, the dosage of the xanthine may need to be decreased.

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GENERALLY AVOID: Concurrent acute use of barbiturates and ethanol may result in additive CNS effects, including impaired coordination, sedation, and death. Tolerance of these agents may occur with chronic use. The mechanism is related to inhibition of microsomal enzymes acutely and induction of hepatic microsomal enzymes chronically.

MANAGEMENT: The combination of ethanol and barbiturates should be avoided.

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ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food does not appear to substantially alter the pharmacokinetics of tipranavir. When tipranavir capsules or oral solution was coadministered with ritonavir capsules at steady-state, no clinically significant changes in tipranavir peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) were observed under fed conditions (500 to 682 kcal, 23% to 25% calories from fat) relative to fasted conditions. The effect of food on tipranavir exposure during coadministration with ritonavir tablets has not been evaluated. High-fat foods may enhance the gastrointestinal absorption of tipranavir. In a multiple-dose study, administration of tipranavir capsules with a high-fat meal (868 kcal, 53% from fat, 31% from carbohydrates) increased the oral bioavailability of tipranavir by 31% compared to administration with toast and skimmed milk, but did not significantly affect tipranavir Cmax. Thus, tipranavir may be safely taken with standard or high-fat meals.

MANAGEMENT: Tipranavir coadministered with low-dose ritonavir should be taken with food to improve the gastrointestinal tolerability of ritonavir. According to the product labeling, tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir capsules or solution can be taken with or without meals, whereas tipranavir coadministered with ritonavir tablets must be taken with meals.

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MONITOR: Coadministration of two or more sympathomimetic agents may increase the risk of adverse effects such as nervousness, irritability, and increased heart rate. Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, particularly amphetamines, can potentiate the adrenergic response to vasopressors and other sympathomimetic agents. Additive increases in blood pressure and heart rate may occur due to enhanced peripheral sympathetic activity.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if two or more sympathomimetic agents are coadministered. Pulse and blood pressure should be closely monitored.

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MONITOR: Coadministration of two or more sympathomimetic agents may increase the risk of adverse effects such as nervousness, irritability, and increased heart rate. Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants, particularly amphetamines, can potentiate the adrenergic response to vasopressors and other sympathomimetic agents. Additive increases in blood pressure and heart rate may occur due to enhanced peripheral sympathetic activity.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if two or more sympathomimetic agents are coadministered. Pulse and blood pressure should be closely monitored.

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