Drug Interaction Report

ADJUST DOSE: Coadministration with potent inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 may significantly increase the plasma concentrations of pimavanserin, which is primarily metabolized by the isoenzyme. According to the product labeling, pimavanserin peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 1.5- and 3-fold, respectively, when given with the potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole. High plasma levels of pimavanserin may increase the risk of QT interval prolongation, which has been associated with ventricular arrhythmias including torsade de pointes and sudden death.

MANAGEMENT: Pimavanserin dosage should be reduced to 10 mg once a day when used with potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitors.

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.