Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Concomitant use of remdesivir with other agents that are known to induce hepatotoxicity may theoretically increase the risk of liver injury. Data from investigational use and clinical studies suggest that remdesivir may be associated with transaminase elevations. Transient treatment-emergent Grade 1 or Grade 2 elevations in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were observed during multiple-dose Phase 1 studies in healthy volunteers. The mechanism of potential hepatotoxicity is unknown and the contribution of remdesivir is difficult to determine, as transaminase elevations have also been reported as a component of COVID-19, including in patients receiving placebo in clinical trials of remdesivir.

MANAGEMENT: Caution and increased monitoring may be required if remdesivir is given concurrently with other agents associated with liver injury. Hepatic function should be evaluated prior to starting remdesivir and during treatment as clinically appropriate. The manufacturer of remdesivir recommends considering discontinuation of remdesivir if ALT levels increase to greater than 10 times the upper limit of normal. Additionally, the manufacturer recommends discontinuing remdesivir if ALT elevation is accompanied by signs or symptoms of liver inflammation. The labeling of the other agent(s) involved should also be consulted as they may contain dose adjustment or discontinuation recommendations for those agent(s) in the event of hepatotoxicity.

GENERALLY AVOID: Moderate-to-high dietary intake of potassium can cause hyperkalemia in some patients who are using angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. In some cases, affected patients were using a potassium-rich salt substitute. ACE inhibitors can promote hyperkalemia through inhibition of the renin-aldosterone-angiotensin (RAA) system.

MANAGEMENT: It is recommended that patients who are taking ACE inhibitors be advised to avoid moderately high or high potassium dietary intake. Particular attention should be paid to the potassium content of salt substitutes.

MONITOR: Many psychotherapeutic and CNS-active agents (e.g., anxiolytics, sedatives, hypnotics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, opioids, alcohol, muscle relaxants) exhibit hypotensive effects, especially during initiation of therapy and dose escalation. Coadministration with antihypertensives and other hypotensive agents, in particular vasodilators and alpha-blockers, may result in additive effects on blood pressure and orthostasis.

MANAGEMENT: Caution and close monitoring for development of hypotension is advised during coadministration of these agents. Some authorities recommend avoiding alcohol in patients receiving vasodilating antihypertensive drugs. Patients should be advised to avoid rising abruptly from a sitting or recumbent position and to notify their physician if they experience dizziness, lightheadedness, syncope, orthostasis, or tachycardia. Patients should also avoid driving or operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medications affect them.