Drug Interaction Report

Consumer information for this interaction is not currently available.

MONITOR: Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein may increase the plasma concentrations of nilotinib, which is a substrate of both the isoenzyme and the efflux transporter. In healthy subjects receiving the potent inhibitor ketoconazole (400 mg once daily for 6 days), nilotinib systemic exposure (AUC) was increased approximately 3-fold. 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. Data are not available for nilotinib in combination with other CYP450 3A4 or P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Theoretically, a reverse interaction may also occur, since many CYP450 3A4 and P-glycoprotein inhibitors are also substrates, and nilotinib is an inhibitor of both.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if nilotinib is prescribed in combination with CYP450 3A4 and/or P-glycoprotein inhibitors. Pharmacologic response to nilotinib should be monitored more closely whenever a CYP450 3A4 or P-glycoprotein inhibitor is added to or withdrawn from therapy, and the nilotinib dosage adjusted as necessary. Patients should have frequent ECGs and be monitored for arrhythmias when QT interval is prolonged. A QTc interval exceeding 480 msec will require suspension of nilotinib therapy and immediate action to correct any concomitant risk factors before resuming treatment. Patients should be advised to seek prompt medical attention if they experience symptoms that could indicate the occurrence of torsade de pointes such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, palpitation, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath, or syncope. Patients should also be monitored for altered efficacy and safety of the concomitant administered drug.

Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with nilotinib unless directed otherwise by your doctor. Grapefruit juice can increase the blood levels of nilotinib to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of an irregular heart rhythm that may be serious. You should seek immediate medical attention if you develop sudden dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations during treatment with nilotinib. Food may also increase the blood levels of nilotinib. Therefore, you should take nilotinib on an empty stomach, meaning no food should be eaten for at least two hours before or one hour after taking nilotinib. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.