Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Limited data indicate that some cyclooxygenase inhibitors may attenuate the antihypertensive effects of some calcium channel blockers. The mechanism appears to be related to an alteration of vascular tone, which is dependent on prostacyclins and other vasodilatory prostanoids. When a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is added to the regimen of a patient who is already taking a calcium channel blocker, increased blood pressure may result. Also, the clinician should be aware that the risk of hypotension is increased when NSAIDs are withdrawn from the regimen.

MANAGEMENT: Monitoring for altered blood pressure control is recommended.

ADJUST DOSE: In-vivo studies have demonstrated that the absorption of bromfenac is greatly reduced if the drug is taken within three and one-half hours following a high fat meal. The concomitant administration of a high fat meal has led to a 75% reduction in peak plasma concentrations and a 60% reduction in total area under the curve. The mechanism has not been described.

MANAGEMENT: An increased dosage of bromfenac (from 25 to 50 mg) may be needed if a high fat meal is consumed. The clinician may want to warn the patient about subtherapeutic analgesic effects if high fat meals are regularly consumed.