Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 3A4 may 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. The interaction has not been studied with other, less potent inhibitors. 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: Caution is advised when pimavanserin is used with CYP450 3A4 inhibitors. Patients should be monitored for adverse effects such as peripheral edema and QT prolongation, and the pimavanserin dosage adjusted as necessary.

GENERALLY AVOID: Taking stiripentol on an empty stomach may reduce its oral bioavailability. Stiripentol degrades rapidly when exposed to gastric acid in an empty stomach.

GENERALLY AVOID: Alcohol may potentiate the depressant effects of stiripentol on the central nervous system. Concomitant use may result in increased sedation and dizziness as well as impairment of psychomotor skills.

GENERALLY AVOID: It is not known whether stiripentol may reduce theophylline and caffeine metabolism, as data on the potential for inhibition of CYP450 1A2 are limited. Consumption of foods and nutritional products such as cola drinks (which contain significant quantities of caffeine) and chocolate (which contains caffeine and trace amounts of theophylline) may be unsafe during treatment with stiripentol, particularly in children.

MANAGEMENT: Stiripentol should be taken during a meal for optimal absorption; however, it should not be taken with milk, dairy products (e.g., yogurt, soft cream cheese), fruit juice, or carbonated beverages. Patients should be advised to avoid or limit consumption of alcohol and to avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Food and beverages that may contain caffeine or theophylline such as colas, chocolate, coffee, tea, or energy drinks should also be avoided during treatment with stiripentol.