Drug Interaction Risks of Crizotinib with Other Medications

Drug Interaction Risks of Crizotinib with Other Medications

Crizotinib has many drug interactions that may increase side effects or reduce efficacy. Medications to avoid include certain antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin, etc.), antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole, etc.), HIV drugs (atazanavir, ritonavir). Meanwhile, antiepileptics (phenytoin, carbamazepine), antituberculosis drugs (rifampin), and herbal products containing St. John's wort may reduce the effectiveness of XALKORI. Conversely, crizotinib can also enhance the side effects of many drugs, such as strong painkillers (fentanyl), antiarrhythmics (quinidine, amiodarone), beta-blockers (atenolol), the antidiabetic metformin, the anticoagulant dabigatran, the lipid-lowering drug pravastatin, the antimalarial mefloquine, the antidepressant bupropion, and the chemotherapy drug irinotecan. Avoid using the above drugs during treatment.

Dietary, Sun Protection, and Driving Advice for Crizotinib

During treatment with crizotinib, avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit, as grapefruit can alter drug levels in the body. The capsules can be taken with or without food. Because this drug may cause photosensitivity (increased sensitivity to sunlight, making sunburn more likely), avoid prolonged sun exposure, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when outdoors. If you experience visual disturbances, dizziness, or extreme fatigue after taking the medication, be cautious when driving or operating machinery to prevent accidents.

Use of Crizotinib in Special Populations

Crizotinib may cause harm to a fetus; therefore, women must not become pregnant and men must not father a child during treatment. Women of childbearing potential must use reliable contraception during treatment and for at least 90 days after the last dose, but should not use oral contraceptives (including combined oral contraceptives and progestin-only pills) because XALKORi reduces their effectiveness. Barrier contraceptive methods are recommended. Pregnant women or those who suspect they are pregnant should consult their doctor before using this medication. Breastfeeding is prohibited during treatment to avoid harming the infant through breast milk.