Wednesday, 30 May 2012

Lichen Sclerosus Medications


Definition of Lichen Sclerosus: Lichen sclerosus is is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder that creates patchy, white and thin skin. Lichen sclerosus may affect skin on any part of the body, but most often involves skin of the vulva, foreskin of the penis or skin around the anus.

Drugs associated with Lichen Sclerosus

The following drugs and medications are in some way related to, or used in the treatment of Lichen Sclerosus. This service should be used as a supplement to, and NOT a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.





Drug List:

Sunday, 27 May 2012

pHisoHex


Generic Name: Hexachlorophene
Class: Local Anti-infectives, Miscellaneous
ATC Class: D08AE01
VA Class: DE400
Chemical Name: Phenol, 2,2'-methylenebis[3,4,6-trichloro-]
Molecular Formula: C13H6Cl6O2
CAS Number: 70-30-4

Introduction

Antibacterial.a b


Uses for pHisoHex


Surgical Hand Antisepsis


Used by health-care personnel as a preoperative hand scrub to prevent spreading of cutaneous microorganisms from hands and forearms during surgery.a b


Antiseptic Skin Cleanser


Used topically as a disinfectant by health-care personnel, food handlers, and other individuals who are in a position to spread infection from their hands.a


Used topically to control cutaneous gram-positive infections where other infection control procedures have been unsuccessful.a b Use only as long as necessary for infection control.a b


Not indicated for bathing infants as prophylaxis against staphylococcal infections because of serious adverse effects.a (See Pediatric Use under Cautions.)


pHisoHex Dosage and Administration


Administration


Topical Administration


Apply topically to skin as a 3% emulsion.a


For external use only; avoid contact with the eyes.a b If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly.a b Do not apply to mucous membranes.a b


Rinse thoroughly after use.b


Apply to the head and periorbital skin areas only in responsive patients with unanesthetized eyes.b


Do not pour into measuring cups, medicine bottles, or similar containers since they may be mistaken for baby formula or other medications.b


Dosage


Adults


Surgical Hand Antisepsis

Topical

Wet hands and forearms with water.a b Apply approximately 5 mL of emulsion onto hands and rub into a copious lather by adding small amounts of water.a b Spread suds over hands and forearms and scrub well with a wet brush for 3 minutes.a b Pay particular attention to nails and interdigital spaces; a separate nail cleanser may be used.a b After scrubbing, rinse hands and forearms thoroughly under running water.a b Apply a second 5-mL application and scrub hands and forearms for an additional 3 minutes.a b Rinse hands and forearms thoroughly with running water and dry.a b


For additional surgical scrubs during the same day, repeat above procedure using 5 mL for 3 minutes only.a b Rinse thoroughly with water and dry.a b


Antiseptic Skin Cleanser

Topical

Wet hands with water; apply approximately 5 mL into the palm, work up a lather with water, and apply to area to be cleansed.a b Rinse thoroughly after each washing.a b


Special Populations


No special population dosage recommendations at this time.a b


Cautions for pHisoHex


Contraindications



  • Application to burned or denuded skin.b




  • Use as an occlusive dressing, wet pack, or lotion.b




  • Routine prophylactic total body bathing.b




  • Use as a vaginal pack or tampon, or on any mucous membranes.b




  • Known primary light sensitivity to halogenated phenol derivatives. b (See Cross-hypersensitivity under Cautions.)




  • Known hypersensitivity to hexachlorophene or any ingredient in the formulation.b



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Neurotoxicity

Possibility of rapid and extensive absorption of hexachlorophene following topical application to generalized dermatologic conditions (e.g., lesions of ichthyosis congenita, dermatitis of Letterer-Siwe syndrome) or burns; may result in toxic serum concentrations and CNS toxicity including potentially fatal neurotoxicity (e.g., CNS stimulation, irritation, seizures).a b Rinse thoroughly after each use.a b


Monitor closely and discontinue promptly if signs or symptoms of cerebral irritability occur.b


Sensitivity Reactions


Cross-hypersensitivity

Possible cross-sensitivity of hexachlorophene and halogenated phenol derivatives; use not recommended in individuals who have demonstrated primary light sensitivity to halogenated phenol derivatives.a b


General Precautions


Administration Precautions

Avoid contact with the eyes.a b If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly.a b Apply to the head and periorbital skin areas only in responsive patients with unanesthetized eyes.b


Rinse thoroughly after use, especially from sensitive areas (e.g., scrotum, perineum).b


Harmful if swallowed, especially to infants and children.b Do not pour into measuring cups, medicine bottles, or similar containers since they may be mistaken for baby formula or other medications.b


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category C.b


Lactation

Not known whether hexachlorophene is distributed into milk.b Use not recommended.b


Pediatric Use

Use with caution and only when necessary on infants.b


Infants, especially premature infants or those with dermatoses, are at greater risk of absorption and subsequent systemic toxicity (i.e., CNS stimulation, convulsions).a b Discontinue at the first signs of neurotoxicity (stimulation of the CNS, convulsions, clonic muscular contractions, decerebrate rigidity) or dermatitis. b (See Neurotoxicity under Cautions.)


Dermatitis, irritability, generalized clonic muscular contractions, and decerebrate rigidity reported in infants following topical application of hexachlorophene.b Do not use routinely for bathing infants.b Positive correlation between hexachlorophene baths and brain lesions in premature infants.b


Geriatric Use

Response in patients ≥65 years of age does not appear to differ from that in younger adults; however, use with caution due to greater frequency of dermatologic disease and peripheral circulatory disease and decreased propensity for wound healing. b


Common Adverse Effects


Dermatitis, photosensitivity, redness and/or mild scaling or dryness of skin.b


pHisoHex Pharmacokinetics


Absorption


Bioavailability


Absorbed from GI tract and intact and denuded skin.a Approximately 3% of a topical dose absorbed systemically.a


Rapid absorption may occur following topical application to burned or inflamed skin.a


Onset


Accumulates on the skin during the first 3 or 4 days of repeated use; concentration on skin remains relatively constant thereafter.a


Duration


Following repeated daily application, residual drug is retained on skin for several days.a Residual drug may be removed by cleansing with non-hexachlorophene-containing soaps or detergents or ethanol or isopropyl alcohol.a


Plasma Concentrations


Concentrations of ≥0.5 mcg/mL have been reported following use of a 3% hexachlorophene preparation as a surgical scrub for hands and forearms 5 times daily for 10 days.a


Serum concentrations of ≥1 mcg/mL in animals associated with CNS toxicity.a (See Neurotoxicity under Cautions.)


Special Populations


Possible greater absorption in infants, especially premature infants or those with dermatoses.a b Serum concentrations of 0.009–4.35 mcg/mL have been reported in neonates bathed daily in hexachlorophene preparations for 1–56 days.a


Distribution


Extent


Hexachlorophene crosses the placenta.a Distributed into milk in rats; not known whether distributed into human milk.b


Elimination


Half-life


6.1–44.2 hours in infants.a


Stability


Storage


Topical


Emulsion

Tight, light-resistant, nonmetallic containers at ≤25°C. b


ActionsActions



  • Potent bacteriostatic activity against staphylococci and other gram-positive bacteria.a b




  • Exact mechanism(s) of action unknown, but at low concentrations appears to interrupt bacterial electron transport and inhibit membrane-bound enzymes.a Higher concentrations rupture bacterial membranes.a




  • Cumulative antibacterial action develops with repeated use.b




  • Rebound bacterial growth occurs following discontinuance.a



Advice to Patients



  • For topical application only; do not apply to mucous membranes or burned or denuded skin.b Importance of avoiding contact with the eyes.b




  • Importance of rinsing skin thoroughly after each use, especially the scrotum and perineum.b




  • Use of products that contain alcohol may decrease antibacterial action.b




  • Importance of women informing their clinician if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed.b




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information. (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.













Hexachlorophene

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Topical



Emulsion (Hexachlorophene Cleansing Emulsion)



3% w/w



pHisoHex



Sanofi-Synthelabo Inc.



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions July 2009. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.




References



a. AHFS drug information 2007. McEvoy GK, ed. Hexachlorophene. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists; 2007:[page 3517-3518].



b. Sanofi-Synthelabo Inc. pHisoHex (Hexachlorophene) Package information. New York, NY; Dated 2006 Aug. Accessed 2008 Jan 3.



More pHisoHex resources


  • PHisoHex Side Effects (in more detail)
  • PHisoHex Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • PHisoHex Drug Interactions
  • PHisoHex Support Group
  • 0 Reviews · Be the first to review/rate this drug


  • pHisoHex MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Phisohex Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Phisohex Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information


Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride


Generic Name: irinotecan (Intravenous route)

ir-in-oh-TEE-kan

Intravenous route(Solution)

Irinotecan can induce both early and late forms of diarrhea that appear to be mediated by different mechanisms, and both forms of diarrhea may be severe. Early diarrhea may be accompanied by cholinergic symptoms that may be prevented or ameliorated by atropine. Late diarrhea (generally occurring more than 24 hours after administration of irinotecan) can be life threatening since it may be prolonged and may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or sepsis. Late diarrhea should be treated promptly with loperamide and administration of irinotecan should be interrupted and subsequent doses reduced if severe diarrhea occurs. Severe myelosuppression may occur with irinotecan administration .



Commonly used brand name(s)

In the U.S.


  • Camptosar

  • Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride

Available Dosage Forms:


  • Solution

Therapeutic Class: Antineoplastic Agent


Pharmacologic Class: Topoisomerase I Inhibitor


Uses For Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride


Irinotecan injection is given together with other medicines to treat patients with metastatic cancer (a cancer that has already spread) of the colon or rectum.


Irinotecan belongs to the group of medicines called antineoplastics (cancer medicines). It interferes with the growth of cancer cells, which are eventually destroyed. Since the growth of normal cells may also be affected by the medicine, other effects may also occur. Some of these may be serious and must be reported to your doctor. Other effects, like hair loss, may not be serious but may cause concern. Some effects may occur after treatment with irinotecan has been stopped. Be sure that you have discussed with your doctor the possible side effects of this medicine as well as the good it can do.


This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.


Once a medicine has been approved for marketing for a certain use, experience may show that it is also useful for other medical problems. Although these uses are not included in product labeling, irinotecan is used in certain patients with the following medical conditions:


  • Carcinoma, lung, non-small cell (treatment of non–small cell cancer of the lung).

  • Extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer, first-line treatment, in combination with cisplatin (treatment of small-cell lung cancer; used together with cisplatin [Platinol®]).

  • Ovarian cancer, platinum-refractory or platinum-resistant (treatment of ovarian cancer that does not respond to platinum-type medicines).

  • Malignant glioma, recurrent or progressive (treatment of brain cancer that has returned or is advancing).

Before Using Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride


In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For this medicine, the following should be considered:


Allergies


Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to this medicine or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.


Pediatric


Appropriate studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of irinotecan injection in the pediatric population. Safety and efficacy have not been established.


Geriatric


Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated geriatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of irinotecan injection in the elderly. However, elderly patients are more likely to have severe diarrhea, which may require caution and an adjustment in the dose for patients receiving irinotecan.


Pregnancy








Pregnancy CategoryExplanation
All TrimestersDStudies in pregnant women have demonstrated a risk to the fetus. However, the benefits of therapy in a life threatening situation or a serious disease, may outweigh the potential risk.

Breast Feeding


There are no adequate studies in women for determining infant risk when using this medication during breastfeeding. Weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks before taking this medication while breastfeeding.


Interactions with Medicines


Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are receiving this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.


  • Atazanavir

  • Ketoconazole

  • Rotavirus Vaccine, Live

  • St John's Wort

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Adenovirus Vaccine Type 4, Live

  • Adenovirus Vaccine Type 7, Live

  • Aprepitant

  • Bacillus of Calmette and Guerin Vaccine, Live

  • Carbamazepine

  • Fosaprepitant

  • Influenza Virus Vaccine, Live

  • Lopinavir

  • Measles Virus Vaccine, Live

  • Mumps Virus Vaccine, Live

  • Phenobarbital

  • Phenytoin

  • Rifabutin

  • Rifampin

  • Rotavirus Vaccine, Live

  • Rubella Virus Vaccine, Live

  • Smallpox Vaccine

  • Typhoid Vaccine

  • Varicella Virus Vaccine

  • Yellow Fever Vaccine

Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.


  • Citalopram

  • Sorafenib

Interactions with Food/Tobacco/Alcohol


Certain medicines should not be used at or around the time of eating food or eating certain types of food since interactions may occur. Using alcohol or tobacco with certain medicines may also cause interactions to occur. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.


Using this medicine with any of the following is usually not recommended, but may be unavoidable in some cases. If used together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use this medicine, or give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco.


  • Tobacco

Other Medical Problems


The presence of other medical problems may affect the use of this medicine. Make sure you tell your doctor if you have any other medical problems, especially:


  • Bleeding problems or

  • Diabetes or

  • Hereditary fructose intolerance, history of or

  • Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or

  • Kidney disease or

  • Liver disease or

  • Lung disease or

  • Severe diarrhea—Use with caution. May make these conditions worse.

  • Bone marrow disease, severe or

  • Bowel blockage or

  • Gilbert's syndrome (an inherited disorder) or

  • Neutropenia (low white blood cells) or

  • Reduced UGT1A1 activity (an enzyme problem)—May increase risk for more serious side effects.

  • Infection—This medicine may decrease your body's ability to fight an infection.

Proper Use of irinotecan

This section provides information on the proper use of a number of products that contain irinotecan. It may not be specific to Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride. Please read with care.


A doctor or other trained health professional will give you this medicine in a hospital or cancer treatment center. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.


Irinotecan often causes nausea and vomiting. However, it is very important that you continue to receive this medicine even if you begin to feel ill. You may receive other medicines to help with the nausea and vomiting. Ask your doctor for other ways to lessen these effects.


Precautions While Using Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride


It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure that this medicine is working properly. Blood tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects.


Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant before you receive this medicine. Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.


This medicine may cause a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Call your doctor right away if you have chills; fever; hives; hoarseness; itching; rash; trouble breathing; trouble swallowing; or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth after you receive the medicine.


While you are being treated with irinotecan, and after you stop treatment, do not have any immunizations (vaccinations) without your doctor's approval. Irinotecan may lower your body's resistance, and there is a chance you might get the infection the immunization is meant to prevent. In addition, other persons living in your household should not get live vaccines (e.g., nasal influenza or flu vaccine). Try to avoid persons who have taken live vaccines. Do not get close to them and do not stay in the same room with them for very long. If you cannot take these precautions, you should wear a protective face mask that covers the nose and mouth.


Irinotecan may cause diarrhea, which can last long enough and be severe enough to cause serious medical problems. If diarrhea occurs while you are being treated with irinotecan:


  • Check with your doctor immediately. Be sure to let your doctor know if the diarrhea started during an irinotecan injection or less than 24 hours afterwards. Also, be sure to tell your doctor if you had any other symptoms, such as stomach cramps or sweating, before the diarrhea started. This means that you are having a certain kind of diarrhea that may need to be treated by your doctor.

  • If diarrhea first occurs more than 24 hours after a dose of irinotecan, start taking loperamide (Imodium A-D®) as soon as you notice that your bowel movements are occurring more often or are more loose than usual. Loperamide is available without a prescription. Buy some of it ahead of time, so that you will have it on hand in case it is needed. Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, take 4 milligrams (mg) of loperamide (2 capsules or tablets, or 4 teaspoonfuls of the oral solution dosage form) for the first dose, then 2 mg (1 capsule or tablet, or 2 teaspoonfuls of the oral solution dosage form) every two hours. To interrupt your sleep less often, you may take 4 mg of loperamide every four hours during the night. Continue taking loperamide, day and night, until you have not had any diarrhea for twelve hours. It is very important that you follow these (or your doctor's) directions, even though they are different from the directions on the nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) loperamide package label. The largest amount of loperamide recommended on the package label for use in a twenty-four-hour period (8 mg) is not enough for treating diarrhea caused by irinotecan. Notify your doctor if the diarrhea is not controlled within 24 hours.

  • Diarrhea causes loss of body fluid, which can lead to dehydration, a serious medical problem. To prevent this, it is very important that you replace the lost fluid. While you have diarrhea, and for a day or two after the diarrhea has stopped, drink plenty of clear liquids, such as ginger ale, caffeine-free cola, decaffeinated tea, and broth. Ask your doctor about the amount of liquid you should be drinking every day. Also, ask your doctor whether you should use a sports drink (e.g., Gatorade®), which contains other substances, such as sodium and potassium, that may be lost along with body fluid. Follow your doctor's directions very carefully.

  • Because alcohol and caffeine can increase fluid loss, you should not drink beverages or take any medicines that contain them while you have diarrhea. Also, avoid eating foods that may make diarrhea worse, such as bran, raw fruits or vegetables, or fatty, fried, or spicy foods.

  • Vomiting can also increase the amount of fluid lost by the body and increase the risk of dehydration. If vomiting occurs at the same time as diarrhea, check with your doctor right away.

  • Signs of too much fluid loss (dehydration) include decreased urination, dizziness or light-headedness, dryness of the mouth, fainting, increased thirst, and wrinkled skin. If any of these occur, check with your doctor immediately.

Irinotecan can temporarily lower the number of white blood cells in your blood, increasing the chance of getting an infection. It can also lower the number of platelets, which are needed for proper blood clotting. If this occurs, there are certain precautions you can take, especially when your blood count is low, to reduce the risk of infection or bleeding:


  • If you can, avoid people with infections. Check with your doctor immediately if you think you are getting an infection or if you get a fever or chills, cough or hoarseness, lower back or side pain, or painful or difficult urination.

  • Check with your doctor immediately if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising; black, tarry stools; blood in the urine or stools; or pinpoint red spots on your skin.

  • Be careful when using a regular toothbrush, dental floss, or toothpick. Your medical doctor, dentist, or nurse may recommend other ways to clean your teeth and gums. Also, check with your medical doctor before having any dental work done.

  • Do not touch your eyes or the inside of your nose unless you have just washed your hands and have not touched anything else in the meantime.

  • Be careful not to cut yourself when you are using sharp objects such as a safety razor or fingernail or toenail cutters.

  • Avoid contact sports or other situations where bruising or injury could occur.

Call your doctor right away if you have an unexplained fever, cough, shortness of breath, trouble with breathing, or wheezing after receiving this medicine. These may be symptoms of a serious lung problem.


This medicine may increase your risk of having blood clots. Tell your doctor right away if you start having a sudden and severe headache, trouble with breathing, or problems with vision, speech, or walking.


This medicine may cause some people to become dizzy, drowsy, or less alert than they are normally. This medicine may also cause blurred vision or other vision problems. If any of these side effects occur, do not drive, use machines, or do anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert or not able to see well. If these reactions are especially bothersome, check with your doctor.


Ketoconazole (Nizoral®) and St. John's wort should not be used while you are receiving irinotecan. If you are using St. John's Wort, it should be discontinued at least 2 weeks before the first cycle of irinotecan. If you are using ketoconazole, it should be discontinued at least 1 week before starting irinotecan treatment.


Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This includes prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter [OTC]) medicines and herbal or vitamin supplements.


Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride Side Effects


Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.


Check with your doctor or nurse immediately if any of the following side effects occur:


More common
  • Anxiety

  • black, tarry stools

  • blood in the urine or stools

  • blurred vision

  • changes in skin color

  • chest pain or discomfort

  • chest tightness or heaviness

  • chills

  • clay colored stools

  • cold hands and feet

  • confusion

  • constricted pupils

  • cough or hoarseness

  • dark urine

  • diarrhea with or without stomach cramps or sweating

  • dizziness

  • fainting

  • fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

  • fever

  • full or bloated feeling or pressure in the stomach

  • headache

  • increased production of saliva

  • increased tear production

  • itching

  • lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

  • loss of appetite

  • low blood pressure or pulse

  • lower back or side pain

  • nausea or vomiting

  • numbness or tingling in the face, arms, or legs

  • pain

  • pain in the chest, groin, or legs, especially calves of the legs

  • pain in the shoulders, arms, jaw, or neck

  • painful or difficult urination

  • pale skin

  • pinpoint red spots on the skin

  • redness or swelling of the leg

  • runny nose

  • severe headache of sudden onset

  • shortness of breath or troubled breathing

  • skin rash

  • slow breathing

  • slurred speech

  • sore throat

  • stomach pain

  • stopping of the heart

  • sudden and severe weakness in the arm or leg on one side of the body

  • sudden loss of coordination

  • sudden vision changes

  • sweating

  • swelling

  • swelling of the abdomen or stomach area

  • temporary blindness

  • tenderness, pain, or swelling of the arm, foot, or leg

  • trouble with speaking or walking

  • ulcers, sores, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

  • unconsciousness

  • unpleasant breath odor

  • unusual bleeding or bruising

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • vomiting of blood

  • warm, red feeling over the body

  • yellow eyes or skin

Less common
  • Bleeding gums

  • coughing up blood

  • decreased urination

  • difficulty with swallowing

  • dryness of the mouth

  • increased menstrual flow or vaginal bleeding

  • increased thirst

  • nosebleeds

  • paralysis

  • prolonged bleeding from cuts

  • sneezing

  • wheezing

  • wrinkled skin

Rare
  • Decreased amount of urine

  • decreased frequency of urination

  • fast, irregular, or troubled breathing

  • hives

  • increased blood pressure

  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

  • rapid weight gain

Incidence not known
  • Abdominal or stomach pain and tenderness

  • agitation

  • bloated or full feeling

  • burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

  • coma

  • constipation

  • depression

  • heartburn or indigestion

  • hostility

  • irritability

  • lethargy

  • muscle pain and cramps

  • muscle twitching

  • pain in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

  • pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

  • rectal bleeding

  • severe abdominal or stomach cramping or burning

  • severe and continuing nausea

  • stupor

  • swelling of the face, lower legs, ankles, fingers, or hands

  • tightness in the chest

  • unusual tiredness or weakness

  • vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:


More common
  • Acid or sour stomach

  • belching

  • blistering, peeling, redness, or swelling of the palms of hands or bottoms of the feet

  • cracked lips

  • excess air or gas in the stomach or intestines

  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

  • numbness, pain, tingling, or unusual sensations in the palms of hands or bottoms of feet

  • passing gas

  • right upper abdominal or stomach pain and fullness

  • sensation of spinning

  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

  • sleeplessness

  • stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

  • trouble sleeping

  • unable to sleep

  • weight loss

Incidence not known
  • Hiccups

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.


Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

See also: Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride side effects (in more detail)



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More Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride resources


  • Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride Drug Interactions
  • Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride Support Group
  • 1 Review for Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride - Add your own review/rating


Compare Novaplus Irinotecan Hydrochloride with other medications


  • Colorectal Cancer

Saturday, 26 May 2012

FUDR


Generic Name: floxuridine (flox URE i deen)

Brand Names: FUDR


What is FUDR (floxuridine)?

Floxuridine is a cancer (antineoplastic) medication. Floxuridine interferes with the growth of cancer cells and slows their growth and spread in the body.


Floxuridine is used in the treatment of digestive system cancers that have spread to the liver.


Floxuridine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about FUDR (floxuridine)?


Floxuridine should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.


Serious side effects have been reported with the use of floxuridine including: allergic reactions (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; fever or chills; or signs of infection); sores in the mouth or throat; severe vomiting or diarrhea; and others. Talk to your doctor about the possible side effects from treatment with floxuridine.


What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using FUDR (floxuridine)?


Do not use floxuridine without first talking to your doctor if you
  • have liver disease;

  • have kidney disease;


  • have an infection;




  • are in a poor nutritional state;




  • have had previous radiation to the pelvic area;




  • have had previous treatment with other chemotherapy medicines; or




  • have poor bone marrow function.



The use of floxuridine may be dangerous if you have any of the conditions listed above.


Floxuridine is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use floxuridine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate use of birth control during treatment with floxuridine. It is not known whether floxuridine passes into breast milk. Do not take floxuridine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast feeding a baby.

How should I use FUDR (floxuridine)?


Floxuridine should only be administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider experienced in the use of cancer chemotherapeutic agents.


Your doctor will determine the correct amount and frequency of treatment with floxuridine depending upon the type of cancer being treated and other factors. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions or concerns regarding the treatment schedule.


Your doctor may want to admit you to the hospital for the first dose or doses of floxuridine to monitor you for any reaction.


Your doctor will probably want you to have regularly scheduled blood tests and other medical evaluations during treatment with floxuridine to monitor progress and side effects.


Your healthcare provider will store floxuridine as directed by the manufacturer. If you are storing floxuridine at home, follow the directions provided by your healthcare provider.


What happens if I miss a dose?


Contact your doctor if you miss a dose of floxuridine.


What happens if I overdose?


If for any reason an overdose of floxuridine is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Symptoms of a floxuridine overdose tend to be similar to side effects caused by the medication, although often more severe.


What should I avoid while using FUDR (floxuridine)?


Floxuridine can lower the activity of your immune system making you susceptible to infections. Avoid contact with people who have colds, the flu, or other contagious illnesses and do not receive vaccines that contain live strains of a virus (e.g., live oral polio vaccine) during treatment with floxuridine. In addition, avoid contact with individuals who have recently been vaccinated with a live vaccine. There is a chance that the virus can be passed on to you.


FUDR (floxuridine) side effects


If you experience any of the following serious side effects from floxuridine, contact your doctor immediately:



  • an allergic reaction (including difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);




  • decreased bone marrow function and blood problems (extreme fatigue; easy bruising or bleeding; black, bloody or tarry stools; or fever, chills, or signs of infection);




  • severe vomiting;




  • diarrhea, frequent bowel movements or watery stools; or




  • sores in the mouth or throat; or




  • stomach pain or heartburn or black, bloody or tarry stools.



Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue taking floxuridine and talk to your doctor if you experience:



  • mild to moderate nausea, vomiting or loss of appetite;




  • redness of the palms of the hands or soles of the feet;




  • increased eye watering;




  • balance problems;




  • confusion;




  • rash and itching; or




  • temporary hair loss.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect FUDR (floxuridine)?


Do not receive "live" vaccines during treatment with floxuridine. Administration of a live vaccine may be dangerous during treatment with floxuridine.

Other drugs may interact with floxuridine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products, during treatment with floxuridine.



More FUDR resources


  • FUDR Side Effects (in more detail)
  • FUDR Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • FUDR Drug Interactions
  • FUDR Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for FUDR - Add your own review/rating


  • FUDR Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • FUDR MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • FUDR Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Floxuridine Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Floxuridine Monograph (AHFS DI)

  • Floxuridine Professional Patient Advice (Wolters Kluwer)



Compare FUDR with other medications


  • Liver Metastasis in Adenocarcinoma


Where can I get more information?


  • Your healthcare provider may have additional information about floxuridine that you may read.

See also: FUDR side effects (in more detail)


Thursday, 17 May 2012

Reyataz 150 mg, 200 mg and 300mg Hard Capsules





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



REYATAZ



REYATAZ



REYATAZ



* Intensive monitoring is requested only when used for the recently-licensed indication extension to paediatric patients.


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each capsule contains 150 mg, 200 mg or 300 mg of atazanavir (as sulphate)



Excipient: 82.18 mg of lactose per 150 mg capsule.



Excipient: 109.57 mg of lactose per 200 mg capsule.



Excipient: 164.36 mg of lactose per 300 mg capsule.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Hard capsule



REYATAZ 150 mg capsules are blue and powder blue capsule printed with white and blue inks, with "BMS 150 mg" on one half and with "3624" on the other half.



REYATAZ 200 mg capsules are opaque blue capsule printed with white ink, with "BMS 200 mg" on one half and with "3631" on the other half.



REYATAZ 300 mg capsules are opaque red and blue capsule printed with white ink, with "BMS 300 mg" on one half and with "3622" on the other half.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



REYATAZ capsules, co-administered with low dose ritonavir, are indicated for the treatment of HIV-1 infected adults and paediatric patients 6 years of age and older in combination with other antiretroviral medicinal products.



Based on available virological and clinical data from adult patients, no benefit is expected in patients with strains resistant to multiple protease inhibitors (



The choice of REYATAZ in treatment experienced adult and paediatric patients should be based on individual viral resistance testing and the patient's treatment history (see sections 4.4 and 5.1).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Posology



Therapy should be initiated by a physician experienced in the management of HIV infection.



Adults: the recommended dose of REYATAZ capsules is 300 mg once daily taken with ritonavir 100 mg once daily and with food. Ritonavir is used as a booster of atazanavir pharmacokinetics (see sections 4.5 and 5.1).



Paediatric population



Paediatric patients (6 years to less than 18 years of age): The dose of REYATAZ capsules for paediatric patients is based on body weight as shown in Table 1 and should not exceed the recommended adult dose. REYATAZ capsules must be taken with ritonavir and have to be taken with food.



















Table 1: Dose for Paediatric Patients (6 years to less than 18 years of age) for REYATAZ capsules with ritonavir


  


Body Weight (kg)




REYATAZ once daily dose




ritonavir once daily dosea




15 to less than 20




150 mg




100 mgb




20 to less than 40




200 mg




100 mg




at least 40




300 mg




100 mg



a Ritonavir capsules, tablets or oral solution.



b Ritonavir oral solution no lower than 80 mg and not more than 100 mg may be used for paediatric patients from 15 kg to less than 20 kg who cannot swallow ritonavir capsules/tablets.



The available data do not support the use of REYATAZ in combination with low dose ritonavir in paediatric patients weighing less than 15 kg.



Paediatric patients (less than 6 years of age): The safety and efficacy of REYAYAZ in children aged 3 months to 6 years has not been established. Currently available data are described in sections 4.8, 5.1, and 5.2 but no recommendation on a posology can be made. REYATAZ should not be used in children less than 3 months because of safety concerns especially taking into account the potential risk of kernicterus.



Special populations



Patients with renal impairment: no dosage adjustment is needed. REYATAZ with ritonavir is not recommended in patients undergoing haemodialysis (see sections 4.4 and 5.2).



Patients with hepatic impairment: REYATAZ with ritonavir has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment. REYATAZ with ritonavir should be used with caution in patients with mild hepatic impairment. REYATAZ must not be used in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (see sections 4.3, 4.4, and 5.2).



Pregnancy and Postpartum



During the second and third trimesters of pregnancy:



REYATAZ 300 mg with ritonavir 100 mg may not provide sufficient exposure to atazanavir, especially when the activity of atazanavir or the whole regimen may be compromised due to drug resistance. Since there are limited data available and due to inter-patient variability during pregnancy, Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) may be considered to ensure adequate exposure.



The risk of a further decrease in atazanavir exposure is expected when atazanavir is given with medicinal products known to reduce its exposure (e.g., tenofovir or H2-receptor antagonists).



• If tenofovir or an H2-receptor antagonist is needed, a dose increase to REYATAZ 400 mg with ritonavir 100 mg with TDM may be considered (see sections 4.6 and 5.2).



• It is not recommended to use REYATAZ with ritonavir for pregnant patients who are receiving both tenofovir and an H2-receptor antagonist.



During postpartum:



Following a possible decrease in atazanavir exposure during the second and third trimester, atazanavir exposures might increase during the first two months after delivery (see section 5.2). Therefore, postpartum patients should be closely monitored for adverse reactions.



• During this time, postpartum patients should follow the same dose recommendation as for non-pregnant patients, including those for co-administration of medicinal products known to affect atazanavir exposure (see section 4.5).



Method of administration: for oral administration. The capsules should be swallowed whole.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients (see section 6.1).



Patients with moderate to severe hepatic insufficiency (see sections 4.2 and 4.4).



Combination of rifampicin and REYATAZ with concomitant low-dose ritonavir is contraindicated (see section 4.5).



The PDE5 inhibitor sildenafil is contraindicated when used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) only (see section 4.5). For co-administration of sildenafil for the treatment of erectile dysfunction see section 4.4 and section 4.5.



REYATAZ with ritonavir must not be used in combination with medicinal products that are substrates of the CYP3A4 isoform of cytochrome P450 and have narrow therapeutic windows (e.g., alfuzosin, astemizole, terfenadine, cisapride, pimozide, quinidine, bepridil, triazolam, midazolam administered orally (for caution on parenterally administered midazolam, see section 4.5), and ergot alkaloids, particularly, ergotamine, dihydroergotamine, ergonovine, methylergonovine) (see section 4.5).



REYATAZ must not be used in combination with products containing St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) (see section 4.5).



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Patients should be advised that current antiretroviral therapy has not been proven to prevent the risk of transmission of HIV to others through blood or sexual contact. Appropriate precautions should continue to be employed.



Co-administration of REYATAZ with ritonavir at doses greater than 100 mg once daily has not been clinically evaluated. The use of higher ritonavir doses may alter the safety profile of atazanavir (cardiac effects, hyperbilirubinaemia) and therefore is not recommended. Only when atazanavir with ritonavir is co-administered with efavirenz, a dose increase of ritonavir to 200 mg once daily could be considered. In this instance, close clinical monitoring is warranted (see Interaction with other Medicinal Products below).



Patients with coexisting conditions



Atazanavir is primarily hepatically metabolised and increased plasma concentrations were observed in patients with hepatic impairment (see sections 4.2 and 4.3). The safety and efficacy of REYATAZ has not been established in patients with significant underlying liver disorders. Patients with chronic hepatitis B or C and treated with combination antiretroviral therapy are at an increased risk for severe and potentially fatal hepatic adverse reactions. In case of concomitant antiviral therapy for hepatitis B or C, please refer also to the relevant Summary of Product Characteristics for these medicinal products (see section 4.8).



Patients with pre-existing liver dysfunction, including chronic active hepatitis, have an increased frequency of liver function abnormalities during combination antiretroviral therapy and should be monitored according to standard practice. If there is evidence of worsening liver disease in such patients, interruption or discontinuation of treatment must be considered.



No dosage adjustment is needed in patients with renal impairment. However, REYATAZ with ritonavir is not recommended in patients undergoing haemodialysis (see sections 4.2 and 5.2).



Dose related asymptomatic prolongations in PR interval with REYATAZ have been observed in clinical studies. Caution should be used with medicinal products known to induce PR prolongations. In patients with pre-existing conduction problems (second degree or higher atrioventricular or complex bundle-branch block), REYATAZ should be used with caution and only if the benefits exceed the risk (see section 5.1). Particular caution should be used when prescribing REYATAZ in association with medicinal products which have the potential to increase the QT interval and/or in patients with pre-existing risk factors (bradycardia, long congenital QT, electrolyte imbalances (see sections 4.8 and 5.3).



There have been reports of increased bleeding, including spontaneous skin haematomas and haemarthroses, in type A and B haemophiliac patients treated with protease inhibitors. In some patients additional factor VIII was given. In more than half of the reported cases, treatment with protease inhibitors was continued or reintroduced if treatment had been discontinued. A causal relationship has been suggested, although the mechanism of action has not been elucidated. Haemophiliac patients should therefore be made aware of the possibility of increased bleeding.



Fat redistribution and metabolic disorders



Combination antiretroviral therapy has been associated with the redistribution of body fat (lipodystrophy) in HIV patients. The long-term consequences of these events are currently unknown. Knowledge about the mechanism is incomplete. A connection between visceral lipomatosis and protease inhibitors and lipoatrophy and nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors has been hypothesised. A higher risk of lipodystrophy has been associated with individual factors such as older age, and with drug related factors such as longer duration of antiretroviral treatment and associated metabolic disturbances. Clinical examination should include evaluation for physical signs of fat redistribution.



Combination antiretroviral therapy (CART), including REYATAZ (with or without ritonavir)-based CART, is associated with dyslipidaemia. Consideration should be given to the measurement of fasting serum lipids and blood glucose. Lipid disorders should be managed as clinically appropriate (see section 4.8).



In clinical studies, REYATAZ (with or without ritonavir) has been shown to induce dyslipidaemia to a lesser extent than comparators. The clinical impact of such findings has not been demonstrated in the absence of specific studies on cardiovascular risk. The selection of antiretroviral therapy must be guided principally by antiviral efficacy. Consultation with standard guidelines for management of dyslipidaemia is recommended.



Hyperglycaemia



New onset diabetes mellitus, hyperglycaemia, and exacerbation of existing diabetes mellitus have been reported in patients receiving protease inhibitors. In some of these, the hyperglycaemia was severe and in some cases also associated with ketoacidosis. Many patients had confounding medical conditions, some of which required therapy with medicinal products that have been associated with development of diabetes or hyperglycaemia.



Hyperbilirubinaemia



Reversible elevations in indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin related to inhibition of UDP-glucuronosyl transferase (UGT) have occurred in patients receiving REYATAZ (see section 4.8). Hepatic transaminase elevations that occur with elevated bilirubin in patients receiving REYATAZ should be evaluated for alternative etiologies. Alternative antiretroviral therapy to REYATAZ may be considered if jaundice or scleral icterus is unacceptable to a patient. Dose reduction of atazanavir is not recommended because it may result in a loss of therapeutic effect and development of resistance.



Indinavir is also associated with indirect (unconjugated) hyperbilirubinaemia due to inhibition of UGT. Combinations of REYATAZ and indinavir have not been studied and co-administration of these medicinal products is not recommended (see section 4.5).



Nephrolithiasis



Nephrolithiasis has been reported in patients receiving REYATAZ (see section 4.8). If signs or symptoms of nephrolithiasis occur, temporary interruption or discontinuation of treatment may be considered.



Immune reactivation syndrome



In HIV-infected patients with severe immune deficiency at the time of institution of combination antiretroviral therapy (CART), an inflammatory reaction to asymptomatic or residual opportunistic pathogens may arise and cause serious clinical conditions, or aggravation of symptoms. Typically, such reactions have been observed within the first few weeks or months of initiation of CART. Relevant examples are cytomegalovirus retinitis, generalised and/or focal mycobacterial infections, and Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia. Any inflammatory symptoms should be evaluated and treatment instituted when necessary.



Osteonecrosis



Although the etiology is considered to be multifactorial (including corticosteroid use, alcohol consumption, severe immunosuppression, higher body mass index), cases of osteonecrosis have been reported particularly in patients with advanced HIV-disease and/or long-term exposure to combination antiretroviral therapy (CART). Patients should be advised to seek medical advice if they experience joint aches and pain, joint stiffness or difficulty in movement.



Rash and associated syndromes



Rashes are usually mild -to-moderate maculopapular skin eruptions that occur within the first 3 weeks of starting therapy with REYATAZ.



Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), erythema multiforme, toxic skin eruptions and drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome have been reported in patients receiving REYATAZ. Patients should be advised of the signs and symptoms and monitored closely for skin reactions. REYATAZ should be discontinued if severe rash develops.



The best results in managing these events come from early diagnosis and immediate interruption of any suspect medicines. If the patient has developed SJS or DRESS associated with the use of REYATAZ, REYATAZ may not be restarted.



Interactions with other medicinal products



Co-administration of REYATAZ with simvastatin or lovastatin is not recommended (see section 4.5).



Co-administration of REYATAZ with nevirapine or efavirenz is not recommended (see section 4.5).



If the co-administration of REYATAZ with an NNRTI is required, an increase in the dose of both REYATAZ and ritonavir to 400 mg and 200 mg, respectively, in combination with efavirenz could be considered with close clinical monitoring.



Atazanavir is metabolised principally by CYP3A4. Co-administration of REYATAZ with ritonavir and medicinal products that induce CYP3A4 is not recommended (see sections 4.3 and 4.5).



PDE5 inhibitors used for the treatment of erectile dysfunction: particular caution should be used when prescribing PDE5-inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil) for the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients receiving REYATAZ with concomitant low-dose ritonavir. Co-administration of REYATAZ with these medicinal products is expected to substantially increase their concentrations and may result in PDE5-associated adverse events such as hypotension, visual changes and priapism (see section 4.5).



Co-administration of voriconazole and REYATAZ with ritonavir is not recommended unless an assessment of the benefit/risk justifies the use of voriconazole (see section 4.5).



Concomitant use of REYATAZ/ritonavir and fluticasone or other glucocorticoids that are metabolized by CYP3A4 is not recommended unless the potential benefit of treatment outweighs the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects, including Cushing's syndrome and adrenal suppression (see section 4.5).



Concomitant use of salmeterol and REYATAZ/ritonavir may result in increased cardiovascular adverse events associated with salmeterol. Co-administration of salmeterol and REYATAZ is not recommended (see section 4.5).



The absorption of atazanavir may be reduced in situations where gastric pH is increased irrespective of cause.



Co-administration of REYATAZ with proton pump inhibitors is not recommended (see section 4.5). If the combination of REYATAZ with a proton pump inhibitor is judged unavoidable, close clinical monitoring is recommended in combination with an increase in the dose of REYATAZ to 400 mg with 100 mg of ritonavir; doses of proton pump inhibitors comparable to omeprazole 20 mg should not be exceeded.



Co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir in combination with tenofovir and an H2-receptor antagonist should be avoided (see section 4.5).



Lactose



Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption should not take this medicinal product.



Paediatric population



Safety



Asymptomatic PR interval prolongation was more frequent in paediatric patients than adults. Asymptomatic first- and second-degree AV block was reported in paediatric patients (see section 4.8). Caution should be used with medicinal products known to induce PR prolongations. In paediatric patients with pre-existing conduction problems (second degree or higher atrioventricular or complex bundle-branch block), REYATAZ should be used with caution and only if the benefits exceed the risk. Cardiac monitoring is recommended based on the presence of clinical findings (e.g., bradycardia).



Efficacy



Atazanavir/ritonavir is not effective in viral strains harbouring multiple mutations of resistance. While in adults no benefit can be expected in patients with



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



When REYATAZ and ritonavir are co-administered, the metabolic drug interaction profile for ritonavir may predominate because ritonavir is a more potent CYP3A4 inhibitor than atazanavir. The Summary of Product Characteristics for ritonavir must be consulted before initiation of therapy with REYATAZ and ritonavir.



Atazanavir is metabolised in the liver through CYP3A4. It inhibits CYP3A4. Therefore, REYATAZ with ritonavir is contraindicated with medicinal products that are substrates of CYP3A4 and have a narrow therapeutic index: astemizole, terfenadine, cisapride, pimozide, quinidine, bepridil, triazolam, orally administered midazolam, and ergot alkaloids, particularly ergotamine and dihydroergotamine (see section 4.3).



Other interactions



Interactions between atazanavir/ritonavir and protease inhibitors, antiretroviral agents other than protease inhibitors, and other non-antiretroviral medicinal products are listed in the tables below (increase is indicated as “↑”, decrease as “



Table 2: Interactions between REYATAZ and other medicinal products









































































































































Medicinal products by therapeutic area




Interaction




Recommendations concerning co-administration




ANTI-RETROVIRALS


  


Protease inhibitors: The co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir and other protease inhibitors has not been studied but would be expected to increase exposure to other protease inhibitors. Therefore, such co-administration is not recommended.


  


Ritonavir 100 mg once daily



(atazanavir 300 mg once daily)



Studies conducted in HIV-infected patients.




Atazanavir AUC: ↑250% (↑144% ↑403%)*



Atazanavir Cmax: ↑120% (↑56% ↑211%)*



Atazanavir Cmin: ↑713% (↑359% ↑1339%)*



* In a combined analysis, atazanavir 300 mg and ritonavir 100 mg (n=33) was compared to atazanavir 400 mg without ritonavir (n=28).



The mechanism of interaction between atazanavir and ritonavir is CYP3A4 inhibition.




Ritonavir 100 mg once daily is used as a booster of atazanavir pharmacokinetics.




Indinavir




Indinavir is associated with indirect unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia due to inhibition of UGT.




Co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir and indinavir is not recommended (see section 4.4).




Nucleoside/nucleotide reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs)


  


Lamivudine 150 mg twice daily + zidovudine 300 mg twice daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily)




No significant effect on lamivudine and zidovudine concentrations was observed.




Based on these data and because ritonavir is not expected to have a significant impact on the pharmacokinetics of NRTIs, the co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir with these medicinal products is not expected to significantly alter the exposure of the co-administered drugs.




Abacavir




The co-administration of REYATAZ/ ritonavir with abacavir is not expected to significantly alter the exposure of abacavir.



 


Didanosine (buffered tablets) 200 mg/stavudine 40 mg, both single dose



(atazanavir 400 mg single dose)




Atazanavir, simultaneous administration with ddI+d4T (fasted)



Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin



Atazanavir, dosed 1 hr after ddI+d4T (fasted)



Atazanavir AUC ↔3% (



Atazanavir Cmax↑12% (



Atazanavir Cmin ↔3% (



Atazanavir concentrations were greatly decreased when co-administered with didanosine (buffered tablets) and stavudine. The mechanism of interaction is a reduced solubility of atazanavir with increasing pH related to the presence of anti-acid agent in didanosine buffered tablets.



No significant effect on didanosine and stavudine concentrations was observed.




Didanosine should be taken at the fasted state 2 hours after REYATAZ/ritonavir taken with food. The co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir with stavudine is not expected to significantly alter the exposure of stavudine.




Didanosine (enteric coated capsules) 400 mg single dose



(atazanavir 300 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Didanosine (with food)



Didanosine AUC



Didanosine Cmax



Didanosine Cmin↑25% (



No significant effect on atazanavir concentrations was observed when administered with enteric-coated didanosine, but administration with food decreased didanosine concentrations.


 


Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg once daily



(atazanavir 300 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)



Studies conducted in HIV-infected patients




Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin



* In a combined analysis from several clinical studies, atazanavir/ritonavir 300/100 mg co-administered with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg (n=39) was compared to atazanavir/ritonavir 300/100 mg (n=33).



The efficacy of REYATAZ/ritonavir in combination with tenofovir in treatment-experienced patients has been demonstrated in clinical study 045 and in treatment naive patients in clinical study 138 (see sections 4.8 and 5.1). The mechanism of interaction between atazanavir and tenofovir is unknown.



 


Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg once daily



(atazanavir 300 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate AUC ↑37% (↑30% ↑45%)



Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate Cmax↑34% (↑20% ↑51%)



Tenofovir disoproxil fumarate Cmin↑29% (↑21% ↑36%)




Patients should be closely monitored for tenofovir-associated adverse events, including renal disorders.




Non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTIs)


  


Efavirenz 600 mg once daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Atazanavir (pm): all administered with food



Atazanavir AUC ↔0%(



Atazanavir Cmax↑17%(↑8% ↑27%)*



Atazanavir Cmin




Co-administration of efavirenz with REYATAZ/ritonavir is not recommended (see section 4.4)




Efavirenz 600 mg once daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily with ritonavir 200 mg once daily)




Atazanavir (pm): all administered with food



Atazanavir AUC ↔6% (



Atazanavir Cmax ↔9% (



Atazanavir Cmin ↔12% (



* When compared to REYATAZ 300 mg/ritonavir 100 mg once daily in the evening without efavirenz. This decrease in atazanavir Cmin, might negatively impact the efficacy of atazanavir. The mechanism of efavirenz/atazanavir interaction is CYP3A4 induction.



** Based on historical comparison.


 


Nevirapine 200 mg twice daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)



Study conducted in HIV infected patients




Nevirapine AUC ↑26% (↑17% ↑36%)



Nevirapine Cmax↑21% (↑11% ↑32%)



Nevirapine Cmin↑35% (↑25% ↑47%)



Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax ↔2% (



Atazanavir Cmin



* When compared to REYATAZ 300 mg and ritonavir 100 mg without nevirapine. This decrease in atazanavir Cmin, might negatively impact the efficacy of atazanavir. The mechanism of nevirapine/atazanavir interaction is CYP3A4 induction.




Co-administration of nevirapine with REYATAZ/ritonavir is not recommended (see section 4.4)




Integrase Inhibitors


  


Raltegravir 400 mg twice daily



(atazanavir/ritonavir)




Raltegravir AUC↑ 41%



Raltegravir Cmax ↑ 24%



Raltegravir C12hr ↑ 77%



The mechanism is UGT1A1 inhibition.




No dose adjustment required for Isentress.




ANTIBIOTICS


  


Clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily)




Clarithromycin AUC ↑94% (↑75% ↑116%)



Clarithromycin Cmax↑50% (↑32% ↑71%)



Clarithromycin Cmin↑160% (↑135% ↑188%)



14-OH clarithromycin



14-OH clarithromycin AUC



14-OH clarithromycin Cmax



14-OH clarithromycin Cmin



Atazanavir AUC ↑28% (↑16% ↑43%)



Atazanavir Cmax ↔6% (



Atazanavir Cmin↑91% (↑66% ↑121%)



A dose reduction of clarithromycin may result in subtherapeutic concentrations of 14-OH clarithromycin. The mechanism of the clarithromycin/atazanavir interaction is CYP3A4 inhibition.




No recommendation regarding dose reduction can be made; therefore, caution should be exercised if REYATAZ/ritonavir is co-administered with clarithromycin.




ANTIFUNGALS


  


Ketoconazole 200 mg once daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily)




No significant effect on atazanavir concentrations was observed.




Ketoconazole and itraconazole should be used cautiously with REYATAZ/ritonavir. High doses of ketoconazole and itraconazole (>200 mg/day) are not recommended.




Itraconazole




Itraconazole, like ketoconazole, is a potent inhibitor as well as a substrate of CYP3A4.


 

 


Based on data obtained with other boosted PIs and ketoconazole, where ketoconazole AUC showed a 3-fold increase, REYATAZ/ritonavir is expected to increase ketoconazole or itraconazole concentrations.


 


Voriconazole




Co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir and voriconazole has not been studied.



The effect of co-administration of oral voriconazole and low dose (100 mg) oral ritonavir was investigated in healthy volunteers. Low doses of ritonavir (100 mg twice daily) decreased the Cmax and AUC of voriconazole (90% CI) by an average of 24% (max and AUC of ritonavir (90% CI) with an average of 24% (




Co-administration of voriconazole and REYATAZ/ritonavir is not recommended unless an assessment of the benefit/risk to the patient justifies the use of voriconazole (see section 4.4). Patients should be carefully monitored for adverse events and/or loss of efficacy during the co-administration of voriconazole and REYATAZ/ritonavir.




Fluconazole 200 mg once daily



(atazanavir 300 mg and ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Atazanavir and fluconazole concentrations were not significantly modified when REYATAZ/ritonavir was co-administered with fluconazole.




No dosage adjustments are needed for REYATAZ/ritonavir and fluconazole.




ANTIMYCOBACTERIAL


  


Rifabutin 150 mg twice weekly



(atazanavir 300 mg and ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Rifabutin AUC ↑48% (↑19% ↑84%) **



Rifabutin Cmax↑149% (↑103% ↑206%) **



Rifabutin Cmin↑40% (↑5% ↑87%) **



25-O-desacetyl-rifabutin AUC ↑990% (↑714% ↑1361%) **



25-O-desacetyl-rifabutin Cmax↑677% (↑513% ↑883%) **



25-O-desacetyl-rifabutin Cmin↑1045% (↑715% ↑1510%) **



** When compared to rifabutin 150 mg once daily alone. Total rifabutin and 25-O-desacetyl-rifabutin AUC ↑119% (↑78% ↑169%).



In previous studies, the pharmacokinetics of atazanavir was not altered by rifabutin.




When given with REYATAZ/ritonavir, the recommended dose of rifabutin is 150 mg 3 times per week on set days (for example Monday-Wednesday-Friday). Increased monitoring for rifabutin-associated adverse reactions including neutropenia and uveitis is warranted due to an expected increase in exposure to rifabutin. Further dosage reduction of rifabutin to 150 mg twice weekly on set days is recommended for patients in whom the 150 mg dose 3 times per week is not tolerated. It should be kept in mind that the twice weekly dosage of 150 mg may not provide an optimal exposure to rifabutin thus leading to a risk of rifamycin resistance and a treatment failure. No dose adjustment is needed for REYATAZ/ritonavir.




Rifampicin




Rifampicin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer and has been shown to cause a 72% decrease in atazanavir AUC which can result in virological failure and resistance development. During attempts to overcome the decreased exposure by increasing the dose of REYATAZ or other protease inhibitors with ritonavir, a high frequency of liver reactions was seen.




The combination of rifampicin and REYATAZ with concomitant low-dose ritonavir is contraindicated (see section 4.3).




ACID REDUCING AGENTS


  


H2-Receptor antagonists


  


Without Tenofovir


  


In HIV-infected patients with atazanavir/ritonavir at the recommended dose 300/100 mg once daily




For patients not taking tenofovir, if REYATAZ 300 mg/ritonavir 100 mg and H2-receptor antagonists are co-administered, a dose equivalent to famotidine 20 mg twice daily should not be exceeded. If a higher dose of an H2-receptor antagonist is required (eg, famotidine 40 mg twice daily or equivalent) an increase of the REYATAZ/ritonavir dose from 300/100 mg to 400/100 mg can be considered.


 


Famotidine 20 mg twice daily




Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin ↔1% (


 


Famotidine 40 mg twice daily




Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin


 


In Healthy volunteers with atazanavir/ritonavir at an increased dose of 400/100 mg once daily


  


Famotidine 40 mg twice daily




Atazanavir AUC ↔3% (



Atazanavir Cmax ↔2% (



Atazanavir Cmin


 


With Tenofovir 300 mg once daily


  


In HIV-infected patients with atazanavir/ritonavir at the recommended dose of 300/100 mg once daily




For patients who are taking tenofovir,



Co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir in combination with tenofovir and an H2-receptor antagonist should be avoided (see section 4.4). If the combination of REYATAZ/ritonavir with both tenofovir and an H2-receptor antagonist is judged unavoidable, close clinical monitoring is recommended. A dose increase of REYATAZ to 400 mg with 100 mg of ritonavir may be considered but is still under evaluation.


 


Famotidine 20 mg twice daily




Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin


 


Famotidine 40 mg twice daily




Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin


 

 


* When compared to atazanavir 300 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg all as a single dose with food. When compared to atazanavir 300 mg with ritonavir 100 mg without tenofovir, atazanavir concentrations are expected to be additionally decreased by about 20%.



The mechanism of interaction is decreased solubility of atazanavir as intra-gastric pH increases with H2 blockers.


 


Proton pump inhibitors


  


Omeprazole 40 mg once daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Atazanavir (am): 2 hr after omeprazole



Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Atazanavir Cmin




Co-administration of REYATAZ/ritonavir with proton pump inhibitors is not recommended. If the combination of REYATAZ/ritonavir with a proton pump inhibitor is judged unavoidable, close clinical monitoring is recommended in combination with an increase in the dose of REYATAZ to 400 mg with 100 mg of ritonavir; doses of proton pump inhibitors comparable to omeprazole 20 mg should not be exceeded (see section 4.4).




Omeprazole 20 mg once daily



(atazanavir 400 mg once daily with ritonavir 100 mg once daily)




Atazanavir (am): 1 hr after omeprazole



Atazanavir AUC



Atazanavir Cmax



Ataz