Drug Interaction Report

Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 2C9 may increase the plasma concentrations of ensifentrine. According to the prescribing information, ensifentrine's primary routes of metabolism are oxidative (hydroxylation and O-demethylation) followed by conjugation. Additionally, in vitro data indicates ensifentrine is predominantly metabolized by CYP450 2C9, and to a lesser extent by CYP450 2D6. When ensifentrine (3 mg single dose) was coadministered with the CYP450 2C9 inhibitor fluconazole (200 mg twice daily) to 28 healthy volunteers, ensifentrine systemic exposure (AUC) increased by 1.6-fold and peak plasma concentration (Cmax) increased by 1.4-fold. The increase in ensifentrine exposure by fluconazole was not considered clinically relevant.

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.