Drug Interaction Report

GENERALLY AVOID: Coadministration with belzutifan may decrease the plasma concentrations and therapeutic effects of drugs that are substrates of CYP450 3A4. The interaction may be significant for sensitive CYP450 3A4 substrates or those that demonstrate a narrow therapeutic index. In addition, the extent of the decrease in concentration and effects may be more pronounced in patients who are dual uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 2B17 and CYP450 2C19 poor metabolizers. The proposed mechanism is increased clearance due to belzutifan-mediated induction of CYP450 3A4. Concomitant use of belzutifan (120 mg once daily) with midazolam (a sensitive CYP450 3A4 substrate) decreased the midazolam systemic exposure (AUC) and peak plasma concentration (Cmax) by 40% and 34%, respectively. In patients with higher belzutifan concentrations (e.g., dual UGT 2B17 and CYP450 2C19 poor metabolizers) the AUC of midazolam is predicted to decrease by up to 70%.

MANAGEMENT: Use of belzutifan with sensitive CYP450 3A4 substrates or those that demonstrate a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., cisapride, ergot alkaloids, colchicine, fentanyl, macrolide immunosuppressants, midazolam, pimozide, triazolam, vinca alkaloids) should generally be avoided. If coadministration is unavoidable, patients should be monitored for diminished therapeutic effects. Clinical and laboratory monitoring should be considered whenever belzutifan is added to or withdrawn from therapy with these drugs, and the dosage of the sensitive CYP450 3A4 substrate drug adjusted as necessary.

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.