Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration with rifapentine may decrease the plasma concentrations of drugs that are substrates of the CYP450 2C8, 2C9, and/or 3A4 isoenzymes. The mechanism is accelerated clearance due to induction of these isoenzymes by rifapentine. Enzyme activities may be induced within 4 days of the first dose and return to normal 14 days after discontinuation of rifapentine. In vitro and in vivo enzyme studies have suggested rifapentine induction potential to be less than that of rifampin but greater than that of rifabutin. In addition, the magnitude of induction is dependent on dose and dosing frequency.

MANAGEMENT: The possibility of a diminished therapeutic response to drugs that are known substrates of CYP450 2C8, 2C9, and/or 3A4 should be considered during coadministration with rifapentine. Dosage adjustments as well as clinical and laboratory monitoring may be appropriate for some drugs, particularly those with a narrow therapeutic range, whenever rifapentine is added to or withdrawn from therapy.

GENERALLY AVOID: Theoretically, the coadministration with grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of pimozide. The mechanism is decreased clearance of pimozide due to inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. The use of pimozide alone has been associated with dose-dependent prolongation of the QT interval. Although clinical data are lacking, this interaction may result in potentiation of the proarrhythmic effect of pimozide and consequently an increased risk of ventricular arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia and torsade de pointes. In addition, alcohol may potentiate some of the pharmacologic effects of pimozide. Use in combination may result in additive central nervous system depression and/or impairment of judgment, thinking, and psychomotor skills.

MANAGEMENT: The manufacturer recommends avoiding grapefruit juice (and probably grapefruits) during therapy with pimozide. Patients should also be advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration with food may increase the oral bioavailability of rifapentine and reduce the incidence of gastrointestinal adverse events. Administration with a high fat meal typically increases rifapentine's maximum concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) by approximately 40% to 50% over that observed when rifapentine is administered under fasting conditions. Rifapentine is often prescribed in combination with isoniazid. When single doses of rifapentine (900 mg) and isoniazid (900 mg) were administered with a low fat, high carbohydrate breakfast, the Cmax and AUC of rifapentine increased by 47% and 51%, respectively. On the other hand, isoniazid's Cmax and AUC decreased by 46% and 23%, respectively.

MANAGEMENT: Products containing oral rifapentine as the sole ingredient recommend administration with a meal to increase bioavailability and reduce the occurrence of gastrointestinal upset, nausea, and/or vomiting. Consultation of product labeling for combination products and/or relevant guidelines may be helpful if rifapentine is combined with a medication that is typically taken on an empty stomach.