Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR CLOSELY: Atazanavir has been shown to prolong the PR interval of the electrocardiogram in some patients. Theoretically, coadministration with other agents that prolong the PR interval (e.g., beta blockers, digoxin, lacosamide, mefloquine, verapamil) may result in elevated risk of conduction disturbances and atrioventricular block. In a pharmacokinetic study, no substantial additive effect on the PR interval was observed during coadministration of atazanavir (400 mg once a day) and atenolol (50 mg once a day). However, an additive effect cannot be excluded because data are limited and atazanavir has not been studied in combination with other agents that prolong the PR interval.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if atazanavir is used concomitantly with other agents that prolong the PR interval, particularly those that are metabolized by CYP450 3A4 (e.g., verapamil), since atazanavir is an inhibitor of that isoenzyme.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Administration of atazanavir with food enhances oral bioavailability and reduces pharmacokinetic variability. According to the manufacturer, administration with a light meal increased the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) of a single 400 mg dose of atazanavir by 57% and 70%, respectively, relative to the fasting state. Administration with a high-fat meal resulted in a mean increase of 35% in atazanavir AUC and no change in Cmax compared to fasting. The coefficient of variation of AUC and Cmax decreased by approximately one-half when given with either a light or high-fat meal compared to the fasting state.

MANAGEMENT: To ensure maximal oral absorption, atazanavir should be administered with or immediately after a meal.