Drug Interaction Report

Coadministration with inhibitors of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) may increase the plasma concentrations of fidaxomicin and its main metabolite, OP-1118, both of which are substrates of the intestinal efflux transporter. When fidaxomicin 200 mg was administered in combination with cyclosporine 200 mg in 14 study subjects, fidaxomicin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) increased by an average of 4.2- and 1.9-fold, respectively, compared to when administered alone. The Cmax and AUC of OP-1118 was increased by 9.5- and 4.1-fold, respectively, with cyclosporine. Theoretically, concentrations of fidaxomicin and OP-1118 may also be decreased at the site of action (i.e., gastrointestinal tract) due to P-gp inhibition. However, concomitant use of a P-gp inhibitor had no attributable effect on safety or efficacy of fidaxomicin in controlled clinical trials. No dosage adjustment is recommended when fidaxomicin is coadministered with P-gp inhibitors.

GENERALLY AVOID: Some beverages such as tonic water contain varying amounts of quinine. Coadministration of a single 430 mg dose of quinine has been shown to increase plasma concentrations of astemizole and its metabolite, desmethylastemizole. Elevated levels of these agents may cause a prolongation of the electrocardiographic QT interval and potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias. Although pharmacokinetic data have indicated that the amounts of quinine in beverages (up to 80 mg quinine in 32 oz of tonic water) are not sufficient to produce a significant effect, the potential for an interaction exists if large amounts of tonic water are ingested. Also, grapefruit juice has been shown to inhibit CYP450 enzymes, which may lead to increased serum astemizole concentrations. The risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias may be increased.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should be counseled to limit consumption of quinine-containing beverages and avoid grapefruit juice while they are taking astemizole.