Drug Interaction Report

Although they are often combined in clinical practice, the concomitant use of beta-2 adrenergic agonists and corticosteroids may result in additive hypokalemic effects. Since beta-2 agonists can sometimes cause QT interval prolongation, the development of hypokalemia may potentiate the risk of ventricular arrhythmias including torsade de pointes. However, clinical data are limited, and the potential significance is unknown. Patients who are receiving systemic or nebulized formulations of beta-2 agonists, high dosages of inhaled beta-2 agonists, or systemic corticosteroid therapy may be at a greater risk of developing hypokalemia.

GENERALLY AVOID: Grapefruit juice may increase the plasma concentrations and systemic effects of orally administered budesonide. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 3A4-mediated first-pass metabolism in the gut wall by certain compounds present in grapefruits. According to the manufacturer, the systemic exposure of oral budesonide approximately doubles after extensive intake of grapefruit juice.

MANAGEMENT: Patients receiving budesonide should avoid the regular consumption of grapefruits and grapefruit juice to prevent undue increases in plasma budesonide levels and systemic effects.

Food does not appear to significantly affect the absorption and oral bioavailability of lurasidone. In twelve adult volunteers (6 men and 6 women), administration of a single 10 mg oral dose of lorcaserin following a high-fat (approximately 50% of total caloric content of the meal) and high-calorie (approximately 800 to 1000 calories) meal resulted in less than 10% increases in lorcaserin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) compared to administration in the fasted state. The time to reach peak concentration (Tmax) was delayed by approximately 1 hour in the fed state. Lorcaserin may be administered with or without food.