Drug Interaction Report

Coadministration with inducers of CYP450 3A4 may decrease the plasma concentrations of bexarotene. In vitro studies suggest that bexarotene is metabolized by CYP450 3A4. However, concomitant administration with multiple doses of ketoconazole, a potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, did not alter bexarotene plasma concentrations, which would imply that bexarotene elimination is not substantially dependent on CYP450 3A4 metabolism in vivo. The effects of concomitant CYP450 3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, rifampin) on the pharmacokinetics of bexarotene have not been studied.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food may enhance the oral bioavailability of bexarotene. In one clinical study, bexarotene peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) resulting from a 75 to 300 mg dose were 35% and 48% higher, respectively, when administered after a fat-containing meal relative to a glucose solution. In all clinical trials, patients were instructed to take bexarotene with or immediately following a meal.

Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 such as grapefruit juice may theoretically increase the plasma concentrations of bexarotene. In vitro studies suggest that bexarotene is metabolized by CYP450 3A4. However, concomitant administration with multiple doses of ketoconazole, a potent CYP450 3A4 inhibitor, did not alter bexarotene plasma concentrations, which would imply that bexarotene elimination is not substantially dependent on CYP450 3A4 metabolism in vivo.

MANAGEMENT: Because safety and efficacy data are based upon administration with food, bexarotene should be administered once daily with a meal. Patients may want to avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food may increase the extent of tecovirimat absorption following oral administration. When the recommended oral dose of tecovirimat (600 mg every 12 hours) was administered with a meal (approximately 600 calories and 25 g of fat) in healthy adults weighing less than 120 kg, tecovirimat absorption increased by 39% relative to fasting.

MANAGEMENT: Oral tecovirimat should be taken within 30 minutes after a full meal containing moderate or high fat (approximately 600 calories and 25 g of fat) with 6 to 8 ounces of water.