Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Theoretically, coadministration with CYP450 3A4 inhibitors may increase the plasma concentrations of topical tacrolimus. The proposed mechanism involves inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated metabolism of tacrolimus, which is primary metabolized by this isoenzyme. However, systemic exposure from topical tacrolimus is reported to be minimal (less than 1 ng/mL) and so clinically significant drug interactions are not expected. Nevertheless, the possibility of an interaction cannot be ruled out.

MANAGEMENT: According to the manufacturer, caution is advised if topical tacrolimus is prescribed with CYP450 3A4 inhibitors. Patients should be monitored for systemic tacrolimus adverse effects including immunosuppression, infection, hyperkalemia, malignancy, nephrotoxicity, neurotoxicity, and hypertension.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations of nilotinib. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. Because nilotinib is associated with concentration-dependent prolongation of the QT interval, increased levels may potentiate the risk of ventricular arrhythmias such as torsade de pointes and sudden death.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food increases the oral bioavailability of nilotinib. The mechanism of interaction is unknown. Compared to the fast state, nilotinib systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 82% when the dose was given 30 minutes after a high-fat meal. Because nilotinib is associated with concentration-dependent prolongation of the QT interval, increased levels may potentiate the risk of ventricular arrhythmias such as torsade de pointes and sudden death.

MANAGEMENT: Patients treated with nilotinib should avoid consumption of grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and any supplement containing grapefruit extract. In addition, no food should be consumed for at least 2 hours before and 1 hour after a nilotinib dose.