Drug Interaction Report

GENERALLY AVOID: Moderate-to-high dietary intake of potassium, especially salt substitutes, may increase the risk of hyperkalemia in some patients who are using angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). ARBs can promote hyperkalemia through inhibition of angiotensin II-induced aldosterone secretion. Patients with diabetes, heart failure, dehydration, or renal insufficiency have a greater risk of developing hyperkalemia.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should receive dietary counseling and be advised to not use potassium-containing salt substitutes or over-the-counter potassium supplements without consulting their physician. If salt substitutes are used concurrently, regular monitoring of serum potassium levels is recommended. Patients should also be advised to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of hyperkalemia such as weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the extremities, or feelings of heaviness in the legs.

ADJUST DOSING INTERVAL: Food increases the systemic exposure of givinostat. An open-label, randomized, crossover, single dose food effect study conducted in 12 healthy males used givinostat liquid filled capsules. Subjects received a single oral dose of givinostat (100 mg) in the fasting state or after a high-fat standard meal, with a washout period of at least 1 week in between. The high-fat standard meal resulted in an increase in systemic exposure (AUC) and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of about 40% and 23%, respectively, when compared to the fasted state. Additionally, the time to maximum concentration (Tmax) was delayed slightly from 2 to 3 hours.

MANAGEMENT: Givinostat should be administered with food to increase its absorption. In the case of the oral suspension, this can also help mask its bitter taste.