Pronunciation
(se RI ti nib)
Index TermsLDK378Dosage Forms
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Capsule, Oral:
Zykadia: 150 mg [contains fd&c blue #2 (indigotine)]
Brand Names: U.S.ZykadiaPharmacologic CategoryAntineoplastic Agent, Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase InhibitorAntineoplastic Agent, Tyrosine Kinase InhibitorPharmacology
Ceritinib is a potent inhibitor of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK), a tyrosine kinase involved in the pathogenesis of non-small cell lung cancer. ALK gene abnormalities due to mutations or translocations may result in expression of oncogenic fusion proteins (eg, ALK fusion protein) which alter signaling and expression and result in increased cellular proliferation and survival in tumors which express these fusion proteins. ALK inhibition reduces proliferation of cells expressing the genetic alteration. Ceritinib also inhibits insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), insulin receptor (InsR), and ROS1. Ceritinib has demonstrated activity in crizotinib-resistant tumors in NSCLC xenograft models.
Absorption
AUC and Cmax increased 73% and 41%, respectively, when administered with a high-fat meal, and 58% and 43%, respectively when taken with a low-fat meal (when compared to fasting)
Distribution
4,230 L (following a single dose), with a small preferential distribution to red blood cells versus plasma
Metabolism
Primarily hepatic via CYP3A
Excretion
Feces (~92% with 68% as unchanged drug); urine (~1%)
Time to Peak
~4 to 6 hours
Half-Life Elimination
41 hours
Protein Binding
97% to human plasma proteins
Special Populations: Hepatic Function Impairment
Patients with hepatic impairment may have increased exposure.
Use: Labeled Indications
Non-small cell lung cancer, metastatic: Treatment of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)-positive (as detected by an approved test) metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Contraindications
There are no contraindications listed in the manufacturer’s US labeling.
Canadian labeling: Known hypersensitivity to ceritinib or any component of the formulation; congenital long QT syndrome or persistent Fridericia-corrected electrocardiogram interval (QTcF) of >500 msec.
Dosing: Adult
Note: Ceritinib is associated with a moderate emetic potential (Roila 2016); antiemetics may be needed to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Non-small cell lung cancer (ALK-positive), metastatic: Oral: 750 mg once daily; continue until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity.
Missed doses: If a dose is missed, take the missed dose unless the next dose is due within 12 hours. If vomiting occurs, do not administer an additional dose, patients should continue with the next scheduled dose.
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy:
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors: Avoid concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors; if concurrent administration cannot be avoided, reduce ceritinib dose by approximately one-third (rounded to the nearest multiple of the 150 mg strength). After discontinuation of the strong CYP3A inhibitor, resume ceritinib therapy at the dose used prior to initiation of the CYP3A4 inhibitor.
Strong CYP3A4 inducers: Avoid concurrent use of strong CYP3A inducers (eg, carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and St John’s wort) during treatment with ceritinib.
Dosing: Geriatric
Refer to adult dosing.
Dosing: Renal Impairment
CrCl ≥30 to 90 mL/minute: No dosage adjustment is necessary.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling (has not been studied).
Dosing: Hepatic Impairment
Preexisting mild impairment (total bilirubin ≤ULN and AST >ULN or total bilirubin >1 to 1.5 times ULN and any AST): No dosage adjustment is necessary.
Preexisting moderate or severe impairment: There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer’s labeling (has not been studied). Ceritinib is primarily metabolized and eliminated hepatically; exposure is likely increased in patients with hepatic impairment.
Hepatotoxicity during treatment:
ALT or AST >5 times ULN with total bilirubin ≤2 times ULN: Interrupt therapy until recovery to baseline or ALT/AST ≤3 times ULN, then resume with a 150 mg dose reduction.
ALT or AST >3 times ULN with total bilirubin >2 times ULN in the absence of cholestasis or hemolysis: Permanently discontinue therapy.
Dosing: Adjustment for Toxicity
Recommended ceritinib dosage adjustment levels:
Initial starting dose: 750 mg once daily
First dose reduction: 600 mg once daily
Second dose reduction: 450 mg once daily
Third dose reduction: 300 mg once daily
Discontinue if patients are unable to tolerate 300 mg daily.
Cardiac:
Bradycardia:
Symptomatic bradycardia (not life-threatening): Interrupt therapy and evaluate concomitant medications known to cause bradycardia.
Upon recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate ≥60 beats per minute, adjust the dose.
Alternatively, the following recommendations have been made: Upon recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate ≥60 beats per minute. If concomitant medication is identified and discontinued or its dose adjusted, reinitiate ceritinib at its previous dose. If no concomitant medication is identified or if it is identified but not discontinued or not dose-adjusted, reinitiate ceritinib with the dose reduced by 150 mg (Zykadia Canadian product labeling).
Symptomatic bradycardia (life-threatening or requiring intervention) in patients taking concomitant medications known to cause bradycardia/hypotension: Interrupt therapy until recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate ≥60 beats per minute.
If the concomitant medication can be adjusted or discontinued, resume ceritinib therapy with the dose reduced by 150 mg.
Alternatively, the following recommendations have been made: If concomitant medication can be discontinued or its dose adjusted, resume ceritinib with the dose reduced by 300 mg; monitor frequently; permanently discontinue ceritinib for recurrence (Zykadia Canadian product labeling).
Symptomatic bradycardia (life-threatening) in patients not taking concomitant medications known to cause bradycardia/hypotension: Permanently discontinue therapy.
QTc prolongation:
QTc interval >500 msec on at least 2 separate ECGs: Interrupt therapy until QTc interval is <481 msec or recovers to baseline if baseline QTc is ≥481 msec, then resume therapy with a 150 mg dose reduction.
QTc prolongation in combination with torsades de pointes, polymorphic ventricular tachycardia, or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia: Permanently discontinue therapy.
Gastrointestinal:
Severe or intolerable nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (despite appropriate management): Interrupt therapy until improved, then resume treatment with a 150 mg dose reduction.
Lipase or amylase elevation >2 times ULN: Interrupt therapy and monitor serum lipase and amylase; upon recovery to <1.5 times ULN, resume treatment with a 150 mg dose reduction.
Metabolic: Persistent hyperglycemia >250 mg/dL (despite optimal antihyperglycemic therapy): Interrupt therapy until hyperglycemia is adequately controlled, then resume therapy with a 150 mg dose reduction. If hyperglycemia cannot be controlled (with optimal medical management), discontinue ceritinib.
Pulmonary: Treatment-related interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis (any grade): Permanently discontinue therapy.
Administration
Ceritinib is associated with a moderate emetic potential (Roila 2016); antiemetics may be needed to prevent nausea and vomiting.
Administer orally on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal).
Dietary Considerations
Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice.
Storage
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions are permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F).
Drug Interactions
Abemaciclib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Abemaciclib. Management: In patients taking abemaciclib at a dose of 200 mg or 150 mg twice daily, reduce the dose to 100 mg twice daily when combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. In patients taking abemaciclib 100 mg twice daily, decrease the dose to 50 mg twice daily. Consider therapy modification
Acalabrutinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Acalabrutinib. Avoid combination
Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ado-Trastuzumab Emtansine. Specifically, strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase concentrations of the cytotoxic DM1 component. Avoid combination
Alfuzosin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Alfuzosin. Avoid combination
Alitretinoin (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Alitretinoin (Systemic). Management: Consider reducing the alitretinoin dose to 10 mg when used together with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Monitor for increased alitretinoin effects/toxicities if combined with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
Almotriptan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Almotriptan. Management: Limit initial almotriptan adult dose to 6.25 mg and maximum adult dose to 12.5 mg/24-hrs when used with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Avoid concurrent use in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function. Consider therapy modification
Alosetron: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Alosetron. Monitor therapy
ALPRAZolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of ALPRAZolam. Management: Consider using an alternative agent that is less likely to interact. If combined, monitor for increased therapeutic/toxic effects of alprazolam if combined with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
AmLODIPine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of AmLODIPine.Monitor therapy
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may diminish the therapeutic effect of Antidiabetic Agents. Monitor therapy
Apixaban: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Apixaban. Monitor therapy
Aprepitant: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Aprepitant. Avoid combination
ARIPiprazole: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of ARIPiprazole. Management: See full interaction monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
ARIPiprazole Lauroxil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of ARIPiprazole Lauroxil. Management: Please refer to the full interaction monograph for details concerning the recommended dose adjustments. Consider therapy modification
Astemizole: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Astemizole. Avoid combination
Asunaprevir: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Asunaprevir. Avoid combination
Avanafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Avanafil. Avoid combination
Axitinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Axitinib. Management: Avoid concurrent use of axitinib with any strong CYP3A inhibitor whenever possible. If a strong CYP3A inhibitor must be used with axitinib, a 50% axitinib dose reduction is recommended. Avoid combination
Barnidipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Barnidipine. Avoid combination
Bedaquiline: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bedaquiline. Management: Limit the duration of concomitant administration of bedaquiline with CYP3A4 inhibitors to no more than 14 days, unless the benefit of continued administration is judged to outweigh the possible risks. Monitor for toxic effects of bedaquiline. Consider therapy modification
Blonanserin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Blonanserin. Avoid combination
Bortezomib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bortezomib. Monitor therapy
Bosentan: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers).Monitor therapy
Bosentan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bosentan. Management: Concomitant use of both a CYP2C9 inhibitor and a CYP3A inhibitor or a single agent that inhibits both enzymes with bosentan is likely to cause a large increase in serum concentrations of bosentan and is not recommended. See monograph for details. Monitor therapy
Bosentan: CYP2C9 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of Bosentan. Management: Concomitant use of both a CYP2C9 inhibitor and a CYP3A inhibitor or a single agent that inhibits both enzymes with bosentan is likely to cause a large increase in serum concentrations of bosentan and is not recommended. See monograph for details. Monitor therapy
Bosutinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bosutinib. Avoid combination
Bradycardia-Causing Agents: May enhance the bradycardic effect of Ceritinib. Management: If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for evidence of symptomatic bradycardia, and closely monitor blood pressure and heart rate during therapy. Avoid combination
Brentuximab Vedotin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Brentuximab Vedotin. Specifically, concentrations of the active monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) component may be increased. Monitor therapy
Bretylium: May enhance the bradycardic effect of Bradycardia-Causing Agents. Bretylium may also enhance atrioventricular (AV) blockade in patients receiving AV blocking agents. Monitor therapy
Brexpiprazole: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Brexpiprazole. Management: Reduce brexpiprazole dose to 50% of usual with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor; reduce to 25% of usual if used with both a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor and a CYP2D6 inhibitor, or if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is used in a CYP2D6 poor metabolizer. Consider therapy modification
Brinzolamide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Brinzolamide.Monitor therapy
Bromocriptine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Bromocriptine.Avoid combination
Budesonide (Nasal): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Budesonide (Nasal). Monitor therapy
Budesonide (Oral Inhalation): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Budesonide (Oral Inhalation). Monitor therapy
Budesonide (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Budesonide (Systemic). Avoid combination
Budesonide (Topical): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Budesonide (Topical). Management: Per US prescribing information, avoid this combination. Canadian product labeling does not recommend strict avoidance. If combined, monitor for excessive glucocorticoid effects as budesonide exposure may be increased. Consider therapy modification
Buprenorphine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Buprenorphine.Monitor therapy
BusPIRone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of BusPIRone. Management: Limit the buspirone dose to 2.5 mg daily and monitor patients for increased buspirone effects/toxicities if combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Consider therapy modification
Cabazitaxel: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cabazitaxel. Management: Concurrent use of cabazitaxel with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 should be avoided when possible. If such a combination must be used, consider a 25% reduction in the cabazitaxel dose.Consider therapy modification
Cabozantinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cabozantinib. Management: Avoid use of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with cabozantinib if possible. If combined, cabozantinib dose adjustments are recommended and vary based on the cabozantinib product used and the indication for use. See monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Calcifediol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Calcifediol. Monitor therapy
Cannabidiol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cannabidiol. Monitor therapy
Cannabis: CYP2C9 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of Cannabis. More specifically, tetrahydrocannabinol serum concentrations may be increased. Monitor therapy
Cannabis: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cannabis. More specifically, tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol serum concentrations may be increased. Monitor therapy
Cariprazine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cariprazine. Management: Cariprazine dose reductions of 50% are required; specific recommended management varies slightly for those stable on cariprazine versus those just starting cariprazine. See prescribing information or full interaction monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Cilostazol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cilostazol. Management: Consider reducing the cilostazol dose to 50 mg twice daily in adult patients who are also receiving strong inhibitors of CYP3A4. Consider therapy modification
Cobimetinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Cobimetinib. Avoid combination
Colchicine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Colchicine. Management: Colchicine is contraindicated in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function who are also receiving a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. In those with normal renal and hepatic function, reduce colchicine dose as directed. Consider therapy modification
Conivaptan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Conivaptan. Avoid combination
Conivaptan: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors).Avoid combination
Copanlisib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Copanlisib. Management: If concomitant use of copanlisib and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors cannot be avoided, reduce the copanlisib dose to 45 mg. Monitor patients for increased copanlisib effects/toxicities. Consider therapy modification
Corticosteroids: May enhance the hyperglycemic effect of Ceritinib. Exceptions: Hydrocortisone (Ophthalmic). Monitor therapy
Corticosteroids (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Corticosteroids (Systemic). Exceptions: MethylPREDNISolone; PrednisoLONE (Systemic); PredniSONE.Monitor therapy
Crizotinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Crizotinib. Avoid combination
CycloSPORINE (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of CycloSPORINE (Systemic). Consider therapy modification
CYP2C9 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors): Ceritinib may increase the serum concentration of CYP2C9 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Concurrent use of ceritinib with a CYP2C9 substrate that has a narrow therapeutic index (e.g., warfarin, phenytoin) should be avoided when possible. Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers). Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease the serum concentration of Ceritinib. Avoid combination
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Monitor therapy
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase the serum concentration of Ceritinib. Management: If such combinations cannot be avoided, the ceritinib dose should be reduced by approximately one-third (to the nearest 150 mg). Resume the prior ceritinib dose after cessation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.Avoid combination
CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Exceptions: Alitretinoin (Systemic); AmLODIPine; Buprenorphine; Gefitinib; HYDROcodone; Praziquantel; Telithromycin; Vinorelbine. Consider therapy modification
CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors): Ceritinib may increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Use of ceritinib with a narrow therapeutic index CYP3A substrate (e.g., alfentanil, cyclosporine, dihydroergotamine, ergotamine, fentanyl, pimozide, quinidine, sirolimus, tacrolimus) should be avoided when possible. Monitor therapy
Dabrafenib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dabrafenib. Avoid combination
Daclatasvir: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Daclatasvir. Management: Decrease the daclatasvir dose to 30 mg once daily if combined with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. No dose adjustment is needed when daclatasvir is used with darunavir/cobicistat. Consider therapy modification
Dapoxetine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dapoxetine. Avoid combination
Dasatinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dasatinib. Management: Use of this combination should be avoided; consider reducing dasatinib dose if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be used. If using dasatinib 100 mg/day, consider reduction to 20 mg/day; if using dasatinib 140 mg/day, consider reduction to 40 mg/day. Consider therapy modification
Deferasirox: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers).Monitor therapy
Deflazacort: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Deflazacort. Management: Administer one third of the recommended deflazacort dose when used together with a strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
Delamanid: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Delamanid. Management: Increase electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring frequency if delamanid is combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors because the risk for QTc interval prolongation may be increased. Continue frequent ECG assessments throughout the full delamanid treatment period. Consider therapy modification
Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dexamethasone (Ophthalmic). Monitor therapy
Dienogest: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dienogest. Monitor therapy
DOCEtaxel: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of DOCEtaxel. Management: Avoid the concomitant use of docetaxel and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors when possible. If combined use is unavoidable, consider a 50% docetaxel dose reduction and monitor for increased docetaxel toxicities. Consider therapy modification
Domperidone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Domperidone.Avoid combination
Doxercalciferol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Doxercalciferol. Monitor therapy
DOXOrubicin (Conventional): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of DOXOrubicin (Conventional). Management: Seek alternatives to strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients treated with doxorubicin whenever possible. One U.S. manufacturer (Pfizer Inc.) recommends that these combinations be avoided. Consider therapy modification
Dronabinol: CYP2C9 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of Dronabinol.Monitor therapy
Dronabinol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dronabinol. Monitor therapy
Dronedarone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dronedarone. Avoid combination
Drospirenone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Drospirenone.Monitor therapy
Dutasteride: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Dutasteride. Monitor therapy
Eletriptan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Eletriptan. Avoid combination
Eplerenone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Eplerenone. Avoid combination
Erlotinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Erlotinib. Management: Avoid use of this combination when possible. When the combination must be used, monitor the patient closely for the development of severe adverse reactions, and if such severe reactions occur, reduce the erlotinib dose (in 50 mg decrements). Consider therapy modification
Estazolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Estazolam. Monitor therapy
Eszopiclone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Eszopiclone. Management: Limit the eszopiclone dose to 2 mg daily when combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and monitor for increased eszopiclone effects and toxicities (eg, somnolence, drowsiness, CNS depression). Consider therapy modification
Etizolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Etizolam. Management: Consider use of lower etizolam doses when using this combination; specific recommendations concerning dose adjustment are not available. Monitor clinical response to the combination closely.Consider therapy modification
Everolimus: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Everolimus. Avoid combination
Evogliptin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Evogliptin. Monitor therapy
FentaNYL: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of FentaNYL. Management: Monitor patients closely for several days following initiation of this combination, and adjust fentanyl dose as necessary. Consider therapy modification
Fesoterodine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Fesoterodine. Management: Avoid fesoterodine doses greater than 4 mg daily in adult patients who are also receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Consider therapy modification
Flibanserin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Flibanserin. Avoid combination
Fluticasone (Nasal): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Fluticasone (Nasal). Avoid combination
Fluticasone (Oral Inhalation): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Fluticasone (Oral Inhalation). Management: Use of orally inhaled fluticasone propionate with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is not recommended. Use of orally inhaled fluticasone furoate with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be done with caution. Monitor patients using such a combination more closely.Consider therapy modification
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Avoid combination
Gefitinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Gefitinib. Monitor therapy
Grapefruit Juice: May increase the serum concentration of Ceritinib. Avoid combination
Halofantrine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Halofantrine. Avoid combination
HYDROcodone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of HYDROcodone.Monitor therapy
Hydroxychloroquine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Avoid combination
HydrOXYzine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of HydrOXYzine. Management: This combination is specifically contraindicated in some non-U.S. labeling. Consider therapy modification
Ibrutinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ibrutinib. Management: Avoid concomitant use of ibrutinib and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be used short-term (eg, anti-infectives for 7 days or less), interrupt ibrutinib therapy until the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor is discontinued. Avoid combination
Idelalisib: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Avoid combination
Ifosfamide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ifosfamide. Monitor therapy
Imatinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Imatinib. Monitor therapy
Imidafenacin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Imidafenacin.Monitor therapy
Irinotecan Products: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Irinotecan Products. Specifically, serum concentrations of SN-38 may be increased. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Irinotecan Products. Avoid combination
Isavuconazonium Sulfate: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Isavuconazonium Sulfate. Specifically, CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase isavuconazole serum concentrations. Management: Combined use is considered contraindicated per US labeling. Lopinavir/ritonavir (and possibly other uses of ritonavir doses less than 400 mg every 12 hours) is treated as a possible exception to this contraindication despite strongly inhibiting CYP3A4.Avoid combination
Ivabradine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ivabradine. Avoid combination
Ivacaftor: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ivacaftor. Management: Ivacaftor dose reductions are required; consult full monograph content for specific age- and weight-based recommendations. Consider therapy modification
Ixabepilone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ixabepilone. Consider therapy modification
Lacosamide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lacosamide. Monitor therapy
Lacosamide: Bradycardia-Causing Agents may enhance the AV-blocking effect of Lacosamide. Monitor therapy
Lapatinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lapatinib. Management: If an overlap in therapy cannot be avoided, consider reducing lapatinib adult dose to 500 mg/day during, and within 1 week of completing, treatment with the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Avoid combination
Lercanidipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lercanidipine. Avoid combination
Levobupivacaine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Levobupivacaine.Monitor therapy
Levomilnacipran: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Levomilnacipran. Management: Do not exceed a maximum adult levomilnacipran dose of 80 mg/day in patients also receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Consider therapy modification
Lomitapide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lomitapide. Avoid combination
Lovastatin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lovastatin. Avoid combination
Lurasidone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Lurasidone. Avoid combination
Macitentan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Macitentan. Avoid combination
Manidipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Manidipine. Management: Consider avoiding concomitant use of manidipine and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If combined, monitor closely for increased manidipine effects and toxicities. Manidipine dose reductions may be required. Consider therapy modification
Maraviroc: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Maraviroc. Management: Reduce the adult dose of maraviroc to 150 mg twice daily when used with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Do not use maraviroc with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients with Clcr less than 30 mL/min. Consider therapy modification
MedroxyPROGESTERone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of MedroxyPROGESTERone. Monitor therapy
MethylPREDNISolone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of MethylPREDNISolone. Management: Consider methylprednisolone dose reduction in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and monitor for increased steroid related adverse effects. Consider therapy modification
Midostaurin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Midostaurin. Management: Seek alternatives to the concomitant use of midostaurin and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors if possible. If concomitant use cannot be avoided, monitor patients for increased risk of adverse reactions.Consider therapy modification
MiFEPRIStone: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk).Avoid combination
Mirodenafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Mirodenafil. Management: Consider using a lower dose of mirodenafil when used with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Monitor for increased mirodenafil effects/toxicities with the use of this combination. Consider therapy modification
Naldemedine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Naldemedine.Monitor therapy
Nalfurafine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Nalfurafine. Monitor therapy
Naloxegol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Naloxegol. Avoid combination
Neratinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Neratinib. Avoid combination
Netupitant: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors).Monitor therapy
Nilotinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Nilotinib. Avoid combination
NiMODipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of NiMODipine. Avoid combination
Nisoldipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Nisoldipine. Avoid combination
Olaparib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Olaparib. Management: Avoid use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in patients being treated with olaparib. If such concurrent use cannot be avoided, the dose of olaparib should be reduced to 150 mg twice daily. Avoid combination
Ospemifene: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ospemifene. Monitor therapy
Oxybutynin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Oxybutynin. Monitor therapy
OxyCODONE: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of OxyCODONE. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of OxyCODONE. Serum concentrations of the active metabolite oxymorphone may also be increased. Consider therapy modification
Palbociclib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Palbociclib. Avoid combination
Panobinostat: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Panobinostat. Management: Reduce the panobinostat dose to 10 mg when it must be used with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
Parecoxib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Parecoxib. Monitor therapy
Paricalcitol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Paricalcitol. Monitor therapy
PAZOPanib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of PAZOPanib. Management: Avoid concurrent use of pazopanib with strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 whenever possible. If it is not possible to avoid such a combination, reduce pazopanib adult dose to 400 mg. Further dose reductions may also be required. Consider therapy modification
P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Inhibitors: May increase the serum concentration of P-glycoprotein/ABCB1 Substrates. P-glycoprotein inhibitors may also enhance the distribution of p-glycoprotein substrates to specific cells/tissues/organs where p-glycoprotein is present in large amounts (e.g., brain, T-lymphocytes, testes, etc.). Monitor therapy
Pimecrolimus: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease the metabolism of Pimecrolimus. Monitor therapy
Pimozide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Pimozide. Avoid combination
Pitolisant: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers). Management: Combined use of pitolisant with a CYP3A4 substrate that has a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided. Other CYP3A4 substrates should be monitored more closely when used with pitolisant. Consider therapy modification
PONATinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of PONATinib. Management: Per ponatinib U.S. prescribing information, the adult starting dose of ponatinib should be reduced to 30 mg daily during treatment with any strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
Pranlukast: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Pranlukast. Monitor therapy
Prasugrel: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Prasugrel. Monitor therapy
Praziquantel: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Praziquantel. Monitor therapy
PrednisoLONE (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of PrednisoLONE (Systemic). Monitor therapy
PredniSONE: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of PredniSONE. Monitor therapy
Probucol: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Avoid combination
Promazine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Avoid combination
QTc-Prolonging Agents (Highest Risk): QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk) may enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Highest Risk). Avoid combination
QTc-Prolonging Agents (Indeterminate Risk and Risk Modifying): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Monitor therapy
QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk): May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of other QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Management: Avoid such combinations when possible. Use should be accompanied by close monitoring for evidence of QT prolongation or other alterations of cardiac rhythm. Consider therapy modification
Radotinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Radotinib. Avoid combination
Ramelteon: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ramelteon. Monitor therapy
Ranolazine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ranolazine. Avoid combination
Reboxetine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Reboxetine. Consider therapy modification
Red Yeast Rice: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Red Yeast Rice. Specifically, concentrations of lovastatin and related compounds found in Red Yeast Rice may be increased. Avoid combination
Regorafenib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Regorafenib. Avoid combination
Repaglinide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Repaglinide. Management: The addition of a CYP2C8 inhibitor to this drug combination may substantially increase the magnitude of increase in repaglinide exposure. Monitor therapy
Retapamulin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Retapamulin. Management: Avoid this combination in patients less than 2 years old. No action is required in other populations. Monitor therapy
Rilpivirine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Rilpivirine. Monitor therapy
RomiDEPsin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of RomiDEPsin. Monitor therapy
Rupatadine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Rupatadine. Avoid combination
Ruxolitinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ruxolitinib. Management: This combination should be avoided under some circumstances. See monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Salmeterol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Salmeterol. Avoid combination
Sarilumab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers).Monitor therapy
SAXagliptin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of SAXagliptin. Management: Saxagliptin U.S. product labeling recommends limiting saxagliptin adult dose to 2.5 mg/day when used with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Monitor for increased saxagliptin levels/effects. A similar recommendation is not made in the Canadian product labeling. Consider therapy modification
Sildenafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Sildenafil. Management: Use of sildenafil for pulmonary hypertension should be avoided with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. When used for erectile dysfunction, starting adult dose should be reduced to 25 mg. Maximum adult dose with ritonavir or cobicistat is 25 mg per 48 hours. Consider therapy modification
Silodosin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Silodosin. Avoid combination
Siltuximab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers).Monitor therapy
Simeprevir: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Simeprevir. Avoid combination
Simvastatin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Simvastatin. Avoid combination
Sirolimus: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Sirolimus. Management: Consider avoiding concurrent use of sirolimus with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors in order to minimize the risk for sirolimus toxicity. Concomitant use of sirolimus and voriconazole or posaconazole is contraindicated. Consider therapy modification
Sonidegib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Sonidegib. Avoid combination
SORAfenib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of SORAfenib. Monitor therapy
St John's Wort: May decrease the serum concentration of Ceritinib. Avoid combination
Stiripentol: May increase the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Use of stiripentol with CYP3A4 substrates that are considered to have a narrow therapeutic index should be avoided due to the increased risk for adverse effects and toxicity. Any CYP3A4 substrate used with stiripentol requires closer monitoring. Consider therapy modification
Suvorexant: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Suvorexant. Avoid combination
Tacrolimus (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Management: Monitor clinical tacrolimus response closely and frequently monitor tacrolimus serum concentrations with concurrent use of any strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Tacrolimus dose reductions and/or prolongation of the dosing interval will likely be required. Consider therapy modification
Tadalafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tadalafil. Management: Recommendations regarding use of tadalafil in patients also receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may vary based on indication and/or international labeling. Consult appropriate product labeling. Consider therapy modification
Tamsulosin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tamsulosin. Avoid combination
Tasimelteon: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tasimelteon. Monitor therapy
Temsirolimus: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Temsirolimus.Consider therapy modification
Terfenadine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Terfenadine. Avoid combination
Tetrahydrocannabinol: CYP2C9 Inhibitors (Moderate) may increase the serum concentration of Tetrahydrocannabinol. Monitor therapy
Tetrahydrocannabinol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tetrahydrocannabinol. Monitor therapy
Ticagrelor: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may decrease serum concentrations of the active metabolite(s) of Ticagrelor. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ticagrelor. Avoid combination
Tocilizumab: May decrease the serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inducers).Monitor therapy
Tofacitinib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tofacitinib. Management: Reduce the adult dose of tofacitinib to 5 mg daily in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Consider therapy modification
Tolterodine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tolterodine. Management: The maximum recommended adult dose of tolterodine is 2 mg/day when used together with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
Tolvaptan: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Tolvaptan. Avoid combination
Toremifene: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may enhance the adverse/toxic effect of Toremifene. CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Toremifene. Avoid combination
Trabectedin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Trabectedin. Avoid combination
TraMADol: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of TraMADol. Monitor therapy
Triazolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Triazolam. Avoid combination
Udenafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Udenafil. Avoid combination
Ulipristal: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Ulipristal. Management: This is specific for when ulipristal is being used for signs/symptoms of uterine fibroids (Canadian indication). When ulipristal is used as an emergency contraceptive, patients receiving this combo should be monitored for ulipristal toxicity. Avoid combination
Valbenazine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Valbenazine. Management: Reduce the valbenazine dose to 40 mg daily when combined with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. Consider therapy modification
Vardenafil: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vardenafil. Management: Recommendations regarding concomitant use of vardenafil with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may vary depending on brand name (e.g., Levitra, Staxyn) or by international labeling. See full drug interaction monograph for details. Consider therapy modification
Vemurafenib: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vemurafenib. Avoid combination
Venetoclax: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Venetoclax. Management: These combinations are contraindicated during venetoclax initiation and ramp-up. In patients receiving steady venetoclax doses after completing ramp-up, reduce the venetoclax by at least 75% if strong CYP3A4 inhibitor use cannot be avoided. Consider therapy modification
Vilazodone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vilazodone. Management: Limit maximum adult vilazodone dose to 20 mg daily in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. The original vilazodone dose can be resumed following discontinuation of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Consider therapy modification
VinCRIStine (Liposomal): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of VinCRIStine (Liposomal). Avoid combination
Vindesine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vindesine. Monitor therapy
Vinflunine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vinflunine. Avoid combination
Vinflunine: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Avoid combination
Vinorelbine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vinorelbine. Monitor therapy
Vorapaxar: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Vorapaxar. Avoid combination
Xipamide: May enhance the QTc-prolonging effect of QTc-Prolonging Agents (Moderate Risk). Monitor therapy
Zolpidem: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Zolpidem. Monitor therapy
Zopiclone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong) may increase the serum concentration of Zopiclone. Management: The initial starting adult dose of zopiclone should not exceed 3.75 mg if combined with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of zopiclone toxicity if these agents are combined. Consider therapy modification
Adverse Reactions
>10%:
Cardiovascular: Prolonged Q-T interval on ECG (4% to 12%)
Central nervous system: Fatigue (45% to 52%), noncardiac chest pain (21%), headache (19%), neuropathy (17%), dizziness (12%)
Dermatologic: Skin rash (16% to 21%), pruritus (11%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Increased gamma-glutamyl transferase (84%), hyperglycemia (49% to 53%), decreased serum phosphate (36% to 38%), weight loss (24%)
Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea (85% to 86%), nausea (69% to 80%), vomiting (60% to 67%), abdominal pain (40% to 54%), increased serum amylase (37%), decreased appetite (34%), constipation (20% to 29%), increased serum lipase (13% to 28%), dyspepsia (≤16%), dysphagia (≤16%), gastroesophageal reflux disease (≤16%)
Hematologic & oncologic: Anemia (67% to 84%; grades 3/4: 4% to 5%), neutropenia (27%; grades 3/4: 2%), thrombocytopenia (16%; grades 3/4: 1%)
Hepatic: Increased serum ALT (80% to 91%; >5x ULN: 28%), increased serum AST (75% to 86%; >5x ULN: 16%), increased serum alkaline phosphatase (81%), increased serum bilirubin (15%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal; Back pain (19%), limb pain (13%), musculoskeletal pain (11%)
Renal: Increased serum creatinine (58% to 77%)
Respiratory: Cough (25%)
Miscellaneous: Fever (19%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Pericarditis (4%), bradycardia (1% to 4%) pericardial effusion (≥2%), sinus bradycardia (1%)
Central nervous system: Seizure (≥2%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Dehydration (≥2%)
Hepatic: Hepatotoxicity (2%)
Ophthalmic: Visual disturbance (4% to 9%)
Renal: Renal failure (2%)
Respiratory: Pleural effusion (4%), pneumonia (4%), interstitial pulmonary disease (2% to 4%), pulmonary infection (≥2%), severe dyspnea (≥2%)
<1% (Limited to important or life-threatening): Pancreatitis
Warnings/Precautions
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Bradycardia: Symptomatic bradycardia has been reported; heart rate <50 beats/minute has occurred. If possible, avoid concurrent use with other agents known to cause bradycardia (eg, beta blockers, nondihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, clonidine, digoxin). Monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly. If symptomatic bradycardia (not life-threatening) occurs, withhold treatment until recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate of ≥60 beats/minute, evaluate concurrent medications, and adjust ceritinib dose. Permanently discontinue for life-threatening bradycardia due to ceritinib; if life-threatening bradycardia occurs and concurrent medications associated with bradycardia can be discontinued or dose adjusted, restart ceritinib at a reduced dose (with frequent monitoring).
• Gastrointestinal toxicity: Severe and/or persistent gastrointestinal toxicity has occurred with ceritinib. Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain occurred in the majority of patients in clinical trials (including some grade 3 and 4 events); over one-third of patients required treatment interruptions or dose reductions due to severe or persistent gastrointestinal toxicity. Manage symptoms medically with appropriate therapy (eg, antidiarrheals, antiemetics, fluid replacement) as indicated. May require therapy interruption and/or dosage reduction. Ceritinib is associated with a moderate emetic potential (Roila 2016); antiemetics may be needed to prevent nausea and vomiting. If vomiting occurs, do not administer an additional dose; continue with the next scheduled dose.
• Hepatotoxicity: Hepatotoxicity has been observed in patients treated with ceritinib in clinical trials, including ALT levels >5 times ULN in over one-quarter of patients and AST elevations in nearly one-fifth of patients. Concurrent ALT elevations >3 times ULN with total bilirubin >2 times ULN (with normal alkaline phosphatase) occurred rarely. Monitor liver function tests (eg, ALT, AST, total bilirubin) monthly and as clinically necessary, more frequently in patients who develop transaminase abnormalities. May require therapy interruption, dosage reduction, and/or permanent discontinuation.
• Hyperglycemia: Hyperglycemia, including grade 3 and 4 toxicity, has been observed in ceritinib-treated patients. Monitor fasting blood glucose levels at baseline and as clinically necessary. May require initiation or optimization of antihyperglycemic therapy. Temporarily interrupt therapy for hyperglycemia until adequately controlled; reduce dose upon recovery. If adequate glycemic control is not possible with medical management, permanently discontinue ceritinib.
• Pancreatitis: Although rare, pancreatitis (with fatality) has been reported. Grade 3 to 4 lipase and amylase elevations occurred in clinical trials. Monitor lipase and amylase prior to treatment and periodically during treatment as clinically necessary. May require treatment interruption and dose reduction.
• Pulmonary toxicity: Severe and life-threatening interstitial lung disease (ILD)/pneumonitis have been reported, including grade 3 or 4 events and fatalities. Monitor for signs/symptoms of pulmonary toxicity; permanently discontinue in patients diagnosed with treatment-related ILD/pneumonitis.
• QTc prolongation: QTc interval prolongation has occurred in clinical studies, and may be concentration-dependent. Based on post-baseline ECG assessment, a QTc interval increase of >60 msec over baseline was observed in a small percentage of patients; some patients experienced a QTc >500 msec. QT prolongation may lead to an increased risk for ventricular tachyarrhythmias (eg, torsades de pointes) or sudden death. Avoid use in patients with congenital long QTc syndrome. Correct electrolyte abnormalities prior to initiating therapy. Periodically monitor ECG and electrolytes in patients with heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, or who are taking medications known to prolong the QTc interval. QT prolongation may require treatment interruption, dosage reduction, or discontinuation. Permanently discontinue in patients who develop QTc interval prolongation in combination with torsades de pointes or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia.
Disease-related concerns:
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment (has not been studied in patients with moderate or severe impairment). Ceritinib is metabolized and eliminated hepatically; systemic exposure and toxicities may be increased in patients with hepatic dysfunction.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
• Drug-drug interactions: Potentially significant interactions may exist, requiring dose or frequency adjustment, additional monitoring, and/or selection of alternative therapy. Consult drug interactions database for more detailed information.
• Drugs affecting gastric pH: In vitro studies indicate that ceritinib solubility and bioavailability may be decreased at higher pH; concurrent use with proton pump inhibitors, H2-receptor antagonists, or antacids has not been evaluated.
Other warnings/precautions:
• Anaplastic lymphoma kinase testing: Approved for use only in patients with metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who test positive for the abnormal anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) gene.
Monitoring Parameters
ALK positivity; renal function, liver function (ALT, AST, total bilirubin monthly and as clinically necessary, more frequently in patients who develop transaminase abnormalities), fasting blood glucose (baseline and as clinically necessary), lipase and amylase (baseline and periodically as clinically necessary); electrolytes (baseline and periodically thereafter); cardiac monitoring (heart rate and QTc interval; ECG in patients with heart failure, bradyarrhythmias, electrolyte abnormalities, or on concomitant medications known to prolong the QTc interval); blood pressure; signs/symptoms of gastrointestinal, pulmonary toxicity, and/or pancreatitis.
Pregnancy Considerations
Based on findings in animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, ceritinib may cause fetal harm if administered to a pregnant woman. Women of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment and for 6 months following therapy discontinuation. Based on the potential for genotoxicity, males with female partners of reproductive potential should use condoms during treatment and for 3 months following completion of therapy.
Patient Education
• Discuss specific use of drug and side effects with patient as it relates to treatment. (HCAHPS: During this hospital stay, were you given any medicine that you had not taken before? Before giving you any new medicine, how often did hospital staff tell you what the medicine was for? How often did hospital staff describe possible side effects in a way you could understand?)
• Patient may experience constipation, heartburn, weight loss, back pain, muscle pain, cough, headache, or lack of appetite. Have patient report immediately to prescriber signs of high blood sugar (confusion, fatigue, increased thirst, increased hunger, polyuria, flushing, fast breathing, or breath that smells like fruit), signs of liver problems (dark urine, fatigue, lack of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or jaundice), signs of pancreatitis (severe abdominal pain, severe back pain, severe nausea, or vomiting), signs of a severe pulmonary disorder (lung or breathing problems like difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or a cough that is new or worse), bruising, bleeding, tachycardia, bradycardia, abnormal heartbeat, angina, passing out, dizziness, burning or numbness feeling, chills, severe loss of strength and energy, severe abdominal pain, severe nausea, severe vomiting, severe diarrhea, change in balance, muscle weakness, or vision changes (HCAHPS).
• Educate patient about signs of a significant reaction (eg, wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat). Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all side effects. Patient should consult prescriber for additional questions.
Intended Use and Disclaimer: Should not be printed and given to patients. This information is intended to serve as a concise initial reference for health care professionals to use when discussing medications with a patient. You must ultimately rely on your own discretion, experience, and judgment in diagnosing, treating, and advising patients.
