Drug Interaction Report

MONITOR: Coadministration of glycerol phenylbutyrate may lead to increased concentrations of CYP450 2D6 substrates. The proposed mechanism is inhibition of CYP450 2D6 by phenylbutyrate, the active moiety of glycerol phenylbutyrate, which has been shown to be an in vitro inhibitor of this isoenzyme. In in vitro studies, administration of phenylbutyrate at a concentration of 800 mcg/mL caused greater than 60% reversible inhibition of CYP450 2D6, 2C9, and 3A4/5. The clinical significance of these results has not been established; however, the manufacturer states that a potential interaction with CYP450 2D6 substrates cannot be ruled out.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is recommended if glycerol phenylbutyrate is administered with medicines that are substrates of CYP450 2D6, such as codeine, dextromethorphan, and some beta blockers (including metoprolol, carvedilol, labetalol, propranolol, and nebivolol). Dosage adjustments as well as clinical and laboratory monitoring may be appropriate.

GENERALLY AVOID: Concomitant use of ethanol and a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) may result altered TCA plasma levels and efficacy, and additive impairment of motor skills, especially driving skills. Acute ethanol ingestion may inhibit TCA metabolism, while chronic ingestion of large amounts of ethanol may induce hepatic TCA metabolism.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol during TCA therapy. Alcoholics who have undergone detoxification should be monitored for decreased TCA efficacy. Dosage adjustments may be required.