LOMITAPIDE Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know

INTERACTIONS CYP3A4 inhibitors increase exposure to lomitapide. Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors are contraindicated with JUXTAPID. Patients must avoid grapefruit juice ( 4 , 5.6 , 7.1 ). When administered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors, the dose of JUXTAPID should be decreased by half. The dosage of JUXTAPID may then be up-titrated to a maximum recommended dosage of 30 mg daily ( 2.3 , 5.6 , 7.2 ). Warfarin: Lomitapide increases plasma concentrations of warfarin. Monitor international normalized ratio (INR) regularly, especially with JUXTAPID dose adjustment ( 5.8 , 7.3 ). Simvastatin and lovastatin exposure increase with JUXTAPID. Limit dose when co-administered with JUXTAPID due to myopathy risk ( 5.7 , 7.4 ). P-glycoprotein (P-gp) Substrates: Consider dose reduction of P-gp substrate because of possible increased absorption with JUXTAPID ( 7.5 ).

Bile Acid

Sequestrants: Separate JUXTAPID dosing by at least 4 hours ( 7.6 ).

7.1 Moderate and Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors A strong CYP3A4 inhibitor has been shown to increase lomitapide exposure approximately 27-fold <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . Concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as boceprevir, clarithromycin, conivaptan, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, posaconazole, ritonavir, saquinavir, telaprevir, telithromycin, tipranavir/ritonavir, voriconazole) with lomitapide is contraindicated. Concomitant use of moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as amprenavir, aprepitant, atazanavir, ciprofloxacin, crizotinib, darunavir/ritonavir, diltiazem, erythromycin, fluconazole, fosamprenavir, imatinib, verapamil) has not been studied, but concomitant use with lomitapide is contraindicated since lomitapide exposure will likely increase significantly in the presence of these inhibitors. Patients must avoid grapefruit juice while taking JUXTAPID <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications (4) , Warnings and Precautions (5.6) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> .

7.2 Weak CYP3A4 Inhibitors Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as alprazolam, amiodarone, amlodipine, atorvastatin, bicalutamide, cilostazol, cimetidine, cyclosporine, fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, ginkgo, goldenseal, isoniazid, lapatinib, nilotinib, pazopanib, ranitidine, ranolazine, ticagrelor, zileuton) can increase lomitapide exposure approximately 2-fold <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . When administered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors, the dose of JUXTAPID should be decreased by half. Careful titration of JUXTAPID may then be considered based on LDL-C response and safety/tolerability to a maximum recommended dosage of 30 mg daily except when coadministered with oral contraceptives, in which case the maximum recommended lomitapide dosage is 40 mg daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.3) , Warnings and Precautions (5.6) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> .

7.3 Warfarin Lomitapide increases plasma concentrations of both R(+)-warfarin and S(-)-warfarin by approximately 30% and increased the INR 22%. Patients taking warfarin should undergo regular monitoring of INR, particularly after any changes in lomitapide dosage. The dose of warfarin should be adjusted as clinically indicated <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ]</span> .

7.4 Simvastatin and Lovastatin The risk of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, with simvastatin and lovastatin monotherapy is dose related. Lomitapide approximately doubles the exposure of simvastatin; therefore, the recommended dose of simvastatin should be reduced by 50% when initiating JUXTAPID <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . While taking JUXTAPID, limit simvastatin dosage to 20 mg daily (or 40 mg daily for patients who have previously tolerated simvastatin 80 mg daily for at least one year without evidence of muscle toxicity). Refer to the simvastatin prescribing information for simvastatin dosing recommendations. Interaction between lovastatin and lomitapide has not been studied. However, the metabolizing enzymes and transporters responsible for the disposition of lovastatin and simvastatin are similar, suggesting that JUXTAPID may increase the exposure of lovastatin; therefore, reducing the dose of lovastatin should be considered when initiating JUXTAPID. 7.5 P-glycoprotein Substrates Lomitapide is an inhibitor of P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Coadministration of lomitapide with P-gp substrates (such as aliskiren, ambrisentan, colchicine, dabigatran etexilate, digoxin, everolimus, fexofenadine, imatinib, lapatinib, maraviroc, nilotinib, posaconazole, ranolazine, saxagliptin, sirolimus, sitagliptin, talinolol, tolvaptan, topotecan) may increase the absorption of P-gp substrates. Dose reduction of the P-gp substrate should be considered when used concomitantly with lomitapide.

7.6 Bile Acid Sequestrants JUXTAPID has not been tested for interaction with bile acid sequestrants. Administration of JUXTAPID and bile acid sequestrants should be separated by at least 4 hours since bile acid sequestrants can interfere with the absorption of oral medications.

JUXTAPID is contraindicated in the following conditions: Pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.1) ] . Concomitant administration of JUXTAPID with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, as this can increase JUXTAPID exposure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) , Drug Interactions (7.1) , and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (based on Child-Pugh category B or C) and patients with active liver disease, including unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ] . Pregnancy ( 4 ). Concomitant use with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors ( 4 ). Moderate or severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease including unexplained persistent abnormal liver function tests ( 4 ).

AND PRECAUTIONS Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: May cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to the fetus and to use effective contraception. Discontinue JUXTAPID if pregnancy detected ( 5.3 , 8.1 , 8.3 ). Gastrointestinal adverse reactions occur in 93% of patients and could affect absorption of concomitant oral medications ( 5.5 ).

5.1 Risk of Hepatotoxicity JUXTAPID can cause elevations in transaminases and hepatic steatosis, as described below <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]</span> . To what extent JUXTAPID-associated hepatic steatosis promotes the elevations in transaminases is unknown. Although cases of hepatic dysfunction (elevated transaminases with increase in bilirubin or INR) or hepatic failure have not been reported, there is concern that JUXTAPID could induce steatohepatitis, which can progress to cirrhosis over several years. The clinical studies supporting the safety and efficacy of JUXTAPID in HoFH would have been unlikely to detect this adverse outcome given their size and duration <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Studies (14) ]</span> . Elevation of Transaminases Elevations in transaminases (alanine aminotransferase [ALT] and/or aspartate aminotransferase [AST]) are associated with JUXTAPID. In the clinical trial, 10 (34%) of the 29 patients with HoFH had at least one elevation in ALT or AST ≥3× ULN, and 4 (14%) of the patients had at least one elevation in ALT or AST ≥5× ULN. There were no concomitant or subsequent clinically meaningful elevations in bilirubin, INR, or alkaline phosphatase <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]</span>. During the 78-week HoFH clinical trial, no patients discontinued prematurely because of elevated transaminases. Among the 19 patients who subsequently enrolled in the HoFH extension study, one discontinued because of increased transaminases that persisted despite several dose reductions, and one temporarily discontinued because of markedly elevated transaminases (ALT 24× ULN, AST 13× ULN) that had several possible causes, including a drug-drug interaction between JUXTAPID and the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor clarithromycin <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions (7.1) ]</span>. Monitoring of Transaminases Before initiating JUXTAPID and during treatment, monitor transaminases as recommended in Table 3.

Table

3: Recommendations for Monitoring Transaminases TIME RECOMMENDATIONS Before initiating treatment Measure ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase, and total bilirubin. If abnormal, consider initiating JUXTAPID only after an appropriate work-up and the baseline abnormalities have been explained or resolved. JUXTAPID is contraindicated in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, or active liver disease, including unexplained persistent elevations of serum transaminases [see Contraindications (4) ] . During the first year Measure liver-related tests (ALT and AST, at a minimum) prior to each increase in dose or monthly, whichever occurs first. After the first year Measure liver-related tests (ALT and AST, at a minimum) at least every 3 months and before any increase in dose. At any time during treatment If transaminases are abnormal, reduce or withhold dosing of JUXTAPID and monitor as recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) ]. Discontinue JUXTAPID for persistent or clinically significant elevations. If transaminase elevations are accompanied by clinical symptoms of liver injury (such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, lethargy, flu-like symptoms), increases in bilirubin ≥2× ULN, or active liver disease, discontinue treatment with JUXTAPID and identify the probable cause.

Hepatic

Steatosis JUXTAPID increases hepatic fat, with or without concomitant increases in transaminases. Hepatic steatosis is a risk factor for progressive liver disease, including steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. The long-term consequences of hepatic steatosis associated with JUXTAPID treatment are unknown. During the HoFH clinical trial, the median absolute increase in hepatic fat was 6% after both 26 weeks and 78 weeks of treatment, from 1% at baseline, measured by magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Clinical data suggest that hepatic fat accumulation is reversible after stopping treatment with JUXTAPID, but whether histological sequelae remain is unknown, especially after long-term use; protocol liver biopsies were not performed in the HoFH clinical trial. Alcohol may increase levels of hepatic fat and induce or exacerbate liver injury. It is recommended that patients taking JUXTAPID should not consume more than one alcoholic drink per day. Caution should be exercised when JUXTAPID is used with other medications known to have potential for hepatotoxicity, such as isotretinoin, amiodarone, acetaminophen (>4 g/day for ≥3 days/week), methotrexate, tetracyclines, and tamoxifen. The effect of concomitant administration of JUXTAPID with other hepatotoxic medications is unknown. More frequent monitoring of liver-related tests may be warranted. JUXTAPID has not been studied concomitantly with other LDL-lowering agents that can also increase hepatic fat. Therefore, the combined use of such agents is not recommended.

5.2 JUXTAPID REMS Program Because of the risk of hepatotoxicity associated with JUXTAPID therapy, JUXTAPID is available through a restricted program under the REMS. Under the JUXTAPID REMS, only certified healthcare providers and pharmacies may prescribe and distribute JUXTAPID. Further information is available at www.JUXTAPIDREMSProgram.com or by telephone at 1-85-JUXTAPID (1-855-898-2743).

5.3 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Based on findings from animal studies, JUXTAPID use is contraindicated in pregnancy since it may cause fetal harm <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Contraindications (4) , Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]</span>. In animal reproduction studies in rats and ferrets, embryonic death and fetal malformations were observed at clinically relevant exposures. Females of reproductive potential should have a negative pregnancy test before starting JUXTAPID. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during therapy with JUXTAPID and for two weeks after the final dose. If pregnancy is detected, discontinue JUXTAPID.

5.4 Reduced Absorption of Fat-Soluble Vitamins and Serum Fatty Acids Given its mechanism of action in the small intestine, JUXTAPID may reduce the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. In the HoFH clinical trial, patients were provided daily dietary supplements of vitamin E, linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). In this trial, the median levels of serum vitamin E, ALA, linoleic acid, EPA, DHA, and arachidonic acid decreased from baseline to Week 26 but remained above the lower limit of the reference range. Adverse clinical consequences of these reductions were not observed with JUXTAPID treatment of up to 78 weeks. Patients treated with JUXTAPID should take daily supplements that contain 400 international units vitamin E and at least 200 mg linoleic acid, 210 mg ALA, 110 mg EPA, and 80 mg DHA <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]</span> . Patients with chronic bowel or pancreatic diseases that predispose to malabsorption may be at increased risk for deficiencies in these nutrients with use of JUXTAPID.

5.5 Gastrointestinal Adverse Reactions Gastrointestinal adverse reactions were reported by 27 (93%) of 29 patients in the HoFH clinical trial. Diarrhea occurred in 79% of patients, nausea in 65%, dyspepsia in 38%, and vomiting in 34%. Other reactions reported by at least 20% of patients include abdominal pain, abdominal discomfort, abdominal distension, constipation, and flatulence <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Adverse Reactions (6) ]</span> . Gastrointestinal adverse reactions of severe intensity were reported by 6 (21%) of 29 patients in the HoFH clinical trial, with the most common being diarrhea (4 patients, 14%); vomiting (3 patients, 10%); and abdominal pain, distension, and/or discomfort (2 patients, 7%). Gastrointestinal reactions contributed to the reasons for early discontinuation from the trial for 4 (14%) patients. There have been postmarketing reports of severe diarrhea with the use of JUXTAPID, including patients being hospitalized because of diarrhea-related complications such as volume depletion. Monitor patients who are more susceptible to complications from diarrhea, such as older patients and patients taking drugs that can lead to volume depletion or hypotension. Instruct patients to stop JUXTAPID and contact their healthcare provider if severe diarrhea occurs or if they experience symptoms of volume depletion such as lightheadedness, decreased urine output, or tiredness. In such cases, consider reducing the dose or suspending use of JUXTAPID. Absorption of concomitant oral medications may be affected in patients who develop diarrhea or vomiting. To reduce the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events, patients should adhere to a low-fat diet supplying &lt;20% of energy from fat and the dosage of JUXTAPID should be increased gradually <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.1) and (2.2) ]</span> .

5.6 Concomitant Use of CYP3A4 Inhibitors CYP3A4 inhibitors increase the exposure of lomitapide, with strong inhibitors increasing exposure approximately 27-fold. Concomitant use of moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors with JUXTAPID is contraindicated <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions (7.1) ]</span>. In the JUXTAPID clinical trials, one patient with HoFH developed markedly elevated transaminases (ALT 24× ULN, AST 13× ULN) within days of initiating the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor clarithromycin. If treatment with moderate or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors is unavoidable, JUXTAPID should be stopped during the course of treatment. Grapefruit juice must be omitted from the diet while being treated with JUXTAPID. Weak CYP3A4 inhibitors can increase the exposure of lomitapide approximately 2-fold; therefore, when JUXTAPID is administered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors, the dose of JUXTAPID should be decreased by half. Careful titration may then be considered based on LDL-C response and safety/tolerability to a maximum recommended dosage of 30 mg daily except when coadministered with oral contraceptives, in which case the maximum recommended lomitapide dosage is 40 mg daily <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Drug Interactions (7.2) ]</span>.

5.7 Risk of Myopathy with Concomitant Use of Simvastatin or Lovastatin The risk of myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, with simvastatin and lovastatin monotherapy is dose related. Lomitapide approximately doubles the exposure to simvastatin; therefore, it is recommended to reduce the dose of simvastatin by 50% when initiating JUXTAPID <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]</span> . While taking JUXTAPID, limit simvastatin dosage to 20 mg daily (or 40 mg daily for patients who have previously tolerated simvastatin 80 mg daily for at least one year without evidence of muscle toxicity). Refer to the simvastatin prescribing information for additional dosing recommendations. Interaction between lovastatin and lomitapide has not been studied. However, the metabolizing enzymes and transporters responsible for the disposition of lovastatin and simvastatin are similar, suggesting that JUXTAPID may increase the exposure of lovastatin; therefore, reducing the dose of lovastatin should be considered when initiating JUXTAPID.

5.8 Risk of Supratherapeutic or Subtherapeutic Anticoagulation with Warfarin JUXTAPID increases the plasma concentrations of warfarin. Increases in the dose of JUXTAPID may lead to supratherapeutic anticoagulation, and decreases in the dose of JUXTAPID may lead to subtherapeutic anticoagulation. Difficulty controlling INR contributed to early discontinuation from the HoFH clinical trial for one of five patients taking concomitant warfarin. Patients taking warfarin should undergo regular monitoring of the INR, especially after any changes in JUXTAPID dosage. The dose of warfarin should be adjusted as clinically indicated <span class="opacity-50 text-xs">[see Drug Interactions (7.3) ]</span> .

5.9 Risk of Malabsorption with Rare Hereditary Disorders of Galactose Intolerance Patients with rare, hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, the Lapp lactase deficiency, or glucose-galactose malabsorption should avoid JUXTAPID as this may result in diarrhea and malabsorption.