Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration with phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol (ursodoxicoltaurine) may alter the plasma concentrations of drugs that are substrates of CYP450 1A2, 2B6, and/or 3A4. Based on in vitro studies, phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol may decrease clearance via inhibition or increase clearance via induction of these isoenzymes, resulting in increased or decreased plasma concentrations of agents that are metabolized by one or more of these isoenzymes. Clinical and pharmacokinetic data are currently lacking.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol is used concomitantly with drugs that are substrates of CYP450 1A2, 2B6, and/or 3A4, particularly sensitive substrates or those with a narrow therapeutic range. The prescribing information for taurursodiol combined with sodium phenylbutyrate recommends avoiding coadministration with CYP450 1A2, 2B6, and/or 3A4 substrates for which minimal concentration changes may lead to therapeutic failure or serious toxicities. If coadministration is required, dosage adjustments as well as clinical and laboratory monitoring may be appropriate whenever phenylbutyrate/taurursodiol is added to or withdrawn from therapy. The prescribing information for concomitant medications should be consulted to assess the benefits versus risks of coadministration and for any dosage adjustments that may be required.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Coadministration with a high-fat meal may reduce the rate and extent of absorption of sodium phenylbutyrate. When a single 3 g-1 g dose of sodium phenylbutyrate-taurursodiol (sodium phenylbutyrate-ursodoxicoltaurine) was administered to healthy volunteers in the presence of a high-fat, high-calorie meal (approximately 800 to 1000 calories; 500 to 600 calories from fat, 250 calories from carbohydrate, 150 calories from protein), sodium phenylbutyrate peak plasma concentration (Cmax) decreased by 75% and systemic exposure (AUC) decreased by 55%. The Cmax for taurursodiol was not significantly affected, but AUC was increased by 46%. The clinical significance of these changes has not been established. In premarketing studies, patients were advised to take the drug before a meal.

MANAGEMENT: The prescribing information recommends administration of sodium phenylbutyrate-taurursodiol before a meal or snack, particularly in patients of low body weight (less than 70 kg).

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food enhances the oral bioavailability of ganaxolone. When administered with a high-fat meal, ganaxolone peak plasma concentration (Cmax) and systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 3- and 2-fold, respectively, compared to administration under fasted conditions. Ganaxolone was administered with food in the premarketing study population. The efficacy of ganaxolone when administered in the fasted state is unknown.

GENERALLY AVOID: Concomitant use of ganaxolone with central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, may potentiate adverse effects such as somnolence and sedation.

MANAGEMENT: Ganaxolone must be administered with food according to the manufacturer. 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.