Erlotinib is an oral, selective epidermal growth factor receptor-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) that is FDA-approved as monotherapy for the treatment of metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations and in combination with gemcitabine for the treatment of locally advanced, unresectable, or metastatic pancreatic cancer. EGFR is expressed, overexpressed, or dysregulated in many cancers; clinically, EGFR expression has been associated with poor prognosis, development of metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and radiation therapy.
General Administration Information
For storage information, see the specific product information within the How Supplied section.
Hazardous Drugs Classification
-NIOSH 2016 List: Group 1
-NIOSH (Draft) 2020 List: Table 2
-Observe and exercise appropriate precautions for handling, preparation, administration, and disposal of hazardous drugs.
-Use gloves. Cutting, crushing, or otherwise manipulating tablets/capsules will increase exposure.
Emetic Risk
-Pediatrics: Doses 35 to 150 mg/m2/day: Low
-Adults: Minimal/Low
-Administer prn antiemetics as necessary.
Route-Specific Administration
Oral Administration
-Erlotinib must be given orally on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after the ingestion of food. Administer at the same time each day.
Decreased lacrimation, abnormal eyelash growth (hypertrichosis), keratoconjunctivitis sicca, or keratitis can occur with erlotinib treatment and can lead to corneal perforation or ulceration. In pooled data, ocular disorders occurred in 17.8% of patients treated with erlotinib monotherapy compared with 4% of patients in the control arms of 3 lung cancer studies, including conjunctivitis (all grade, 12% to 18%; grade 3, less than 1%) and keratoconjunctivitis sicca (grade 1 or 2, 12%). Ocular disorders occurred with a similar incidence in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with gemcitabine plus placebo (12.8% vs. 11.4%). Ocular inflammation including uveitis has also been reported during postmarketing use of erlotinib.
Interstitial lung disease (pneumonitis), including some fatalities, has been reported to occur among patients in uncontrolled studies and studies with concurrent chemotherapy with an overall approximate incidence of 1.1%. Symptoms started from 5 days to more than 9 months (median 39 days) after initiating erlotinib therapy. In the event of acute onset of new or progressive, unexplained pulmonary symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, or fever, interrupt erlotinib therapy pending diagnostic evaluation; permanently discontinue erlotinib if ILD is confirmed. Dyspnea and cough were among the most common adverse reactions in clinical trials of erlotinib monotherapy in lung cancer patients, and occurred more often with erlotinib treatment than with either platinum-based chemotherapy or placebo. As first-line therapy for non-small cell lung cancer, dyspnea occurred in 45% (grade 3 or 4, 8%) of erlotinib-treated patients compared with 30% (grade 3 or 4, 4%) of those receiving platinum-based chemotherapy; cough occurred in 48% versus 40% of patients, respectively (grade 3 or 4, 1% vs. 0%). As second or third line therapy for metastatic lung cancer compared with placebo, while the overall incidence of dyspnea was similar, the incidence of severe dyspnea was much higher (all grade, 41% vs. 35%; grade 3 or 4, 28% vs. 26%). As would be expected, the incidence of mild cough was much lower in a separate trial of patients with pancreatic cancer, with grade 1 or 2 events occurring in 16% of those treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with 11% of those receiving gemcitabine plus placebo.
Hepatotoxicity, including hepatic failure and hepatorenal syndrome, has been reported in patients treated with erlotinib in clinical trials; some cases were fatal. The risk of hepatotoxicity is increased in patients with baseline hepatic impairment. The pooled incidence of hepatic failure in 3 monotherapy lung cancer trials (exclusion criteria included moderate and severe hepatic impairment) was 0.4% in patients treated with erlotinib and 0% in the control arms; the incidence was also 0.4% in patients treated with erlotinib plus gemcitabine as well as in the control arm in patients with pancreatic cancer. In a pharmacokinetic study in patients with moderate hepatic impairment associated with significant liver tumor burden, 10 out of 15 patients died on treatment or within 30 days of receiving their last dose of erlotinib (hepatorenal syndrome, 1; progressive hepatic failure, 1; progressive disease, 8). When used as first-line therapy for metastatic NSCLC, one erlotinib-treated patient experienced fatal hepatic failure and 4 patients had grade 3 or 4 liver test abnormalities. When used as maintenance therapy after a response to platinum-based chemotherapy, elevated hepatic enzymes (grade 2 or higher) occurred in 3% of patients who received erlotinib compared with 1% of those in the placebo arm; grade 2 or higher bilirubin elevations were reported in 5% compared with less than 1% of patients, respectively. In patients receiving erlotinib monotherapy for 2nd or 3rd line NSCLC treatment, increased transaminases and hyperbilirubinemia were mainly transient or associated with liver metastasis; grade 2 ALT elevations were reported in 4% of these patients (grade 3, 0%). Liver test abnormalities were more common among patients who received erlotinib and gemcitabine for pancreatic cancer, including hyperbilirubinemia (all grade, 17%; grade 3 or 4, less than 11%), increased ALT (all grade, 31%; grade 3 or 4, less than 14%), and increased AST (all grade, 24%; grade 3 or 4, less than 11%). Periodic liver function testing is recommended; an interruption or discontinuation of therapy may be necessary if hepatotoxicity occurs.
Stroke/cerebrovascular accident (CVA) occurred in 2.5% of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with erlotinib plus gemcitabine in a randomized clinical trial (gemcitabine/placebo, 0%); one CVA was hemorrhagic and fatal. The pooled incidence of CVA in the 3 monotherapy lung cancer trials was 0.6% in the erlotinib arms, which was not higher than the control arms.
Cases of acute renal failure (unspecified) or renal insufficiency, including fatalities, have been reported with erlotinib therapy. Some cases of renal failure were secondary to baseline hepatic impairment (hepatorenal syndrome), while others were secondary to severe dehydration. The pooled incidence of severe renal impairment in the 3 monotherapy lung cancer studies was 0.5% in the erlotinib arms and 0.8% in the control arms. In the pancreatic cancer study, renal impairment occurred in 1.4% of patients treated with erlotinib plus gemcitabine compared with 0.4% in the control arm. Periodically monitor renal function and serum electrolytes during treatment with erlotinib. If severe renal impairment occurs, withhold erlotinib therapy.
Rash is one of the most common adverse reactions reported with erlotinib treatment, occurring in 70% of patients in clinical trials for the treatment of NSCLC and pancreatic cancer; the onset was typically during the first month of therapy. The rash is typically erythematous and maculopapular (maculopapular rash) and may resemble acne with follicular pustules, but is histopathologically different; skin hyperpigmentation or xerosis with or without skin fissures may occur. The rash commonly occurs on the face, upper chest, and back and may be severe with desquamation; sun may worsen the reaction causing photosensitivity. It often improves with continued treatment, will usually diminish or resolve with temporary cessation of therapy, and may respond to a variety of topical therapies (e.g., erythromycin ointment, oral tetracycline antibiotics). Rash may be an indication of antitumor activity. Bullous, blistering and exfoliative skin conditions (bullous rash), including cases suggestive of Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis, which in some cases were fatal, have also occurred with an overall incidence of 1.2% in the 3 monotherapy lung cancer studies (control arms, 0%) and 0.4% in the pancreatic cancer study in combination with gemcitabine (gemcitabine/placebo, 0%). In patients receiving erlotinib as first, second, or third-line treatment for NSCLC, rash (including acneiform rash, folliculitis, erythema, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (hand and foot syndrome), exfoliative dermatitis, skin toxicity, pigmentation disorder, skin desquamation, and skin ulcer) occurred in 75% to 85% (grade 3 or 4, 8% to 14%) of patients, while xerosis (all grade, 12% to 21%; grade 3 or 4, less than or equal to 1%), pruritus (grade 1 or 2, 12% to 16%; grade 3 or 4, less than or equal to 1%), and paronychia (grade 1 or 2, less than or equal to 14%) were also reported. The incidence of rash was similar when used in combination with gemcitabine for the treatment of pancreatic cancer (all grade, 70%; grade 3, 5%), and occurred at a higher incidence than with gemcitabine plus placebo (all grade, 30%; grade 3, 1%). When used as maintenance therapy for NSCLC after a response to platinum-based chemotherapy and compared with placebo, the incidence of rash (including additional terms, skin fissures, urticaria, eczema, furuncle, and skin hyperpigmentation) was slightly less (all grade, 60% vs. 9%; grade 3 or 4, 9% vs. 0%).
Infection occurred more often in patients receiving second- or third-line treatment for advanced NSCLC with erlotinib compared with placebo in a randomized clinical trial (all grade, 24% vs. 15%; grade 3, 4% vs. 2%). In patients receiving erlotinib as first-line therapy for advanced NSCLC, the incidence was not more than 5% higher than in patients treated with platinum-based chemotherapy. The incidence of infection (bacterial, parasitic, viral, and fungal infections, as well as infections with unspecified pathogens) was also increased in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with gemcitabine plus placebo in a separate randomized, clinical trial (all grade, 39% vs. 30%; grade 3 or 4, 16% vs. 11%); fever occurred in 36% (grade 3, 3%) versus 30% (grade 3, 4%) of patients, respectively.
Diarrhea is one of the most common adverse reactions associated with erlotinib therapy, occurring with an overall incidence of 42% of patients with NSCLC and pancreatic cancer receiving erlotinib in clinical trials; the onset of diarrhea is typically within the first month of treatment. In patients receiving erlotinib monotherapy for NSCLC (first, second, or third-line), diarrhea occurred in 54% to 62% (grade 3 or 4, less than 7%), anorexia in 52% (grade 3 or 4, 9%), nausea in 33% (grade 3, 3%), mucosal inflammation in 18% (grade 3 or 4, 1%), and stomatitis in 17% (grade 3, less than 1%) of erlotinib-treated patients. The incidence of diarrhea was lower in patients receiving erlotinib monotherapy for advanced NSCLC as maintenance after an initial response to platinum-based chemotherapy (all grade, 20%; grade 3, 2%). In patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with gemcitabine plus placebo, diarrhea (all grade, 48% vs. 36%; grade 3 or 4, less than 6% vs. 2%), weight loss (all grade, 39% vs. 29%; grade 3, 2% vs. less than 1%), and stomatitis (all grade, 22% vs. 12%; grade 3, less than 1% vs. 0%) were also reported. Grade 3 or higher ileus and pancreatitis were additionally each reported in less than 5% of erlotinib-treated patients in this trial.
Cases of GI bleeding (e.g., peptic ulcer bleeding, gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers, hematemesis, hematochezia, melena, and hemorrhage from possible colitis) have been reported in patients who received erlotinib therapy; some patients were also taking concomitant warfarin or NSAIDs. INR elevations (prolonged bleeding time) can occur with coadministration of erlotinib and warfarin; the PT/INR should be closely monitored in these patients.
Gastrointestinal (GI) perforation has been reported in patients treated with erlotinib, including some fatalities. As monotherapy in patients with NSCLC, GI perforation was reported in 0.2% of erlotinib-treated patients compared with 0.1% in the control arm; in combination with gemcitabine in the treatment of pancreatic cancer, the incidence was 0.4% in the erlotinib arm and was not reported in the control arm. Permanently discontinue erlotinib if GI perforation occurs.
Asthenia was among the most common adverse reaction in patients receiving erlotinib as first-line therapy for advanced lung cancer, occurring in more than 30% of patients. Additional generalized adverse reactions included back pain (all grade, 19%; grade 3 or 4, 2%), chest pain (unspecified) (all grade, 18%; grade 3 or 4, 1%), arthralgia (all grade, 13%; grade 3 or 4, 1%), and musculoskeletal pain (all grade, 11%; grade 3 or 4, 1%). Fatigue occurred in 52% (grade 3 or 4, 18%) of patients treated with erlotinib monotherapy as second or third-line therapy for advanced NSCLC, compared with 45% (grade 3 or 4, 20%) of those who received placebo, and was also one of the most common adverse reactions in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer receiving treatment with gemcitabine and erlotinib.
Myopathy, including rhabdomyolysis, has occurred with postmarketing use of erlotinib in combination with statin therapy.
Depression was reported in 19% (grade 3, 2%) of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with 14% (grade 3, less than 1%) of those who received gemcitabine plus placebo in a randomized clinical trial.
Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia with thrombocytopenia was reported in 1.4% of patients with pancreatic cancer who received erlotinib plus gemcitabine compared with 0% of those treated with gemcitabine alone in one clinical trial; it was not reported at all in 3 lung cancer studies using erlotinib monotherapy.
Syncope was reported in less than 5% of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib in a randomized clinical trial.
Arrhythmias (including arrhythmia exacerbation) and myocardial infarction/ischemia each occurred in less than 5% of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with erlotinib plus gemcitabine in a randomized clinical trial.
Grade 3 or 4 thrombotic events (thromboembolism), including deep venous thrombosis, occurred in 11% of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib in a randomized clinical trial compared with 9% of those receiving gemcitabine plus placebo. Deep venous thrombosis was reported in 4% versus 1% of patients, respectively.
Headache was reported in 15% (grade 3, less than 1%) of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated with gemcitabine plus erlotinib compared with 10% (grade 3, 0%) of those who received gemcitabine plus placebo in a randomized clinical trial.
Use erlotinib with caution in patients with underlying or chronic lung disease (CLD) or pre-existing pulmonary disease. Interstitial lung disease (ILD; pneumonitis), including fatal cases, has been reported with the use of erlotinib. Monitor patients for new or progressive unexplained pulmonary symptoms such as dyspnea, cough, and fever. If symptoms develop, interrupt erlotinib therapy and evaluate; initiate treatment as appropriate. Permanently discontinue erlotinib if ILD is confirmed. In patients with ILD, symptoms began from 5 days to more than 9 months (median 39 days) after initiating erlotinib therapy in clinical trials.
Hepatotoxicity, hepatic failure, and hepatorenal syndrome (including fatalities) has been reported with erlotinib therapy in patients with normal hepatic function; the risk is increased in patients with baseline hepatic disease. Periodically monitor liver function tests during treatment; monitor more frequently in patients with pre-existing hepatic impairment or biliary obstruction. In patients without baseline hepatic impairment, hold erlotinib therapy for total bilirubin greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or transaminases greater than 5 times ULN. In patients who have pre-existing hepatic impairment or biliary obstruction, hold erlotinib if the bilirubin doubles or transaminases triple over baseline. If liver function tests do not improve significantly or resolve within 3 weeks, discontinue erlotinib therapy.
Use erlotinib with caution in patients with pre-existing ocular disease, as decreased lacrimation, abnormal eyelash growth, keratoconjunctivitis, and keratitis have occurred with erlotinib therapy which can lead to corneal perforation or ulceration. Patients who develop an onset of new eye symptoms such as ocular pain should be evaluated and managed appropriately. Interrupt or discontinue erlotinib if patients present with acute or worsening ocular pain, grade 2 keratitis lasting for more than 2 weeks, or any grade 3 or 4 keratitis. Discontinue erlotinib for corneal perforation or severe ulceration.
Use erlotinib with caution in patients with a history of peptic ulcer disease or diverticulitis or those receiving concomitant anti-angiogenic agents, corticosteroid therapy, NSAIDs, and/or taxane-based chemotherapy as they may be at an increased risk for development of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation. Cases of GI perforation, including some fatal cases, have been reported with the use of erlotinib. Permanently discontinue erlotinib if a GI perforation occurs.
Patients should avoid smoking tobacco if possible while being treated with erlotinib; an erlotinib dosage adjustment may be necessary for patients who continue to smoke. Tobacco smoking reduces the effectiveness of erlotinib by increasing the plasma clearance by about 24% and decreasing erlotinib plasma trough concentrations by about 2-fold in current smokers as compared with values from former or never smokers. Further, erlotinib systemic exposure from time zero to infinity is about one-third the value obtained from either former smokers or never smokers. Sudden smoking cessation may result in a reduced clearance of erlotinib despite the initiation of nicotine replacement products, as the effect of tobacco on hepatic microsomal enzymes is not related to the nicotine component. Determine a patient's smoking status before erlotinib initiation. Inform patients of the importance of communicating a change in their smoking status to their health care professional.
Use erlotinib with caution in patients with pre-existing renal disease including renal impairment or renal failure, hepatic impairment, or dehydration. Hepatorenal syndrome, renal insufficiency, and acute renal failure (including fatal cases) can occur with erlotinib treatment; renal failure may be a result of exacerbation of underlying baseline hepatic impairment or severe dehydration. Periodically monitor renal function and serum electrolytes in patients treated with erlotinib, and maintain adequate hydration. Hold erlotinib therapy until resolution of toxicity if severe renal impairment develops, and consider discontinuation.
Pregnancy should be avoided by females of reproductive potential during erlotinib treatment and for at least 1 month after the last dose. Although there are no adequately controlled studies in pregnant women, erlotinib can cause fetal harm or death when administered during pregnancy based on its mechanism of action and animal studies. Women who are pregnant or who become pregnant while receiving erlotinib should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Erlotinib caused maternal toxicity resulting in embryo-fetal death and abortion in rabbits when given during organogenesis at exposures approximately 3 times those achieved with the recommended dose in humans. There was no increase in embryolethality or abortion in rabbits or rats when erlotinib was given during organogenesis at exposures approximately equal to those achieved with the recommended daily dose in humans. Teratogenicity was not observed with erlotinib administration during organogenesis at exposures up to 3 times the exposure with the recommended dose in humans in rabbits, and up to 0.7 times the exposure with the recommended dose in humans in rats.
Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from erlotinib, advise women to discontinue breast-feeding during treatment and for 2 weeks after the final dose. It is not known if erlotinib is excreted in human breast milk.
Counsel patients about the reproductive risk and contraception requirements during erlotinib treatment. Erlotinib can cause fetal harm or death if taken by the mother during pregnancy. Females of reproductive potential should avoid pregnancy and use effective contraception during and for at least 1 month after treatment with erlotinib. Females of reproductive potential should undergo pregnancy testing prior to initiation of erlotinib. Women who become pregnant while receiving erlotinib should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Although there are no data regarding the effect of erlotinib on human fertility, fertility was not affected by erlotinib in either male or female rats.
For the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC):
-for the first-line treatment of metastatic NSCLC in patients whose tumors have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations, in combination with ramucirumab*:
NOTE: Ramucirumab is FDA-approved in combination with erlotinib for this indication.
NOTE: If EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations are not detected in a plasma specimen, test tumor tissue if available. Information on FDA-approved tests for the detection of EGFR mutations in NSCLC is available at www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics.
Oral dosage:
Adults: 150 mg PO once daily in combination with ramucirumab (10 mg/kg IV over 60 minutes every 2 weeks) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. If the first ramucirumab infusion is tolerated, all subsequent infusions may be administered over 30 minutes. All patients should receive premedication prior to ramucirumab administration with an IV histamine-1 (H1) receptor antagonist (e.g., diphenhydramine); for patients who have had a prior grade 1 or 2 infusion-related reaction, premedicate with an H1-receptor antagonist, dexamethasone (or equivalent), and acetaminophen prior to each ramucirumab infusion. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. In a randomized, double-blind clinical trial (the RELAY study), treatment with ramucirumab in combination with erlotinib significantly improved the median progression-free survival (PFS) compared with erlotinib plus placebo in patients with previously untreated metastatic NSCLC with EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 substitution mutations (19.4 months vs. 12.4 months). The objective response rate was 76% for a median duration of 18 months in the ramucirumab arm compared with 75% for a median duration of 11.1 months in the placebo arm. At the time of the final PFS analysis, data for overall survival were not mature.
-for the treatment of metastatic NSCLC in patients whose tumors have epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations as detected by an FDA-approved test receiving first-line, maintenance, or second or greater line treatment after progression following at least one prior chemotherapy regimen:
NOTE: If EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations are not detected in a plasma specimen, test tumor tissue if available. Information on FDA-approved tests for the detection of EGFR mutations in NSCLC is available at www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics.
Oral dosage:
Adults: 150 mg PO once daily on an empty stomach (i.e., at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food) until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. Despite a high crossover rate (82%), erlotinib monotherapy significantly improved progression-free survival (PFS) compared with platinum-based doublet chemotherapy in a randomized, multicenter, open-label trial of patients with previously untreated metastatic NSCLC and EGFR exon 19 deletions or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations (10.4 months vs. 5.2 months). Median overall survival (22.9 months vs. 19.5 months) and overall response rate (65% vs. 16%) were also improved. In a separate trial, erlotinib maintenance therapy after first-line treatment with platinum-based chemotherapy for metastatic NSCLC minimally but significantly improved median PFS (2.8 months vs. 2.6 months) and OS (12 months vs. 11 months) compared with placebo in a population that was 70% EGFR positive. However, in a separate trial, erlotinib was not effective as maintenance therapy in patients without an EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutation. In a final study of patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC after the failure of at least one prior chemotherapy regimen, OS was also significantly improved with erlotinib compared with placebo (6.7 months vs. 4.7 months). Erlotinib was not effective in patients with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC when administered concurrently with platinum-based chemotherapy.
For the first-line treatment of locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic pancreatic cancer in combination with gemcitabine:
Oral dosage:
Adults: 100 mg PO once daily on an empty stomach (i.e., at least one hour before or two hours after food) in combination with gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV over 30 minutes once weekly for 7 consecutive weeks, followed by 1 week of rest. Beginning with week 9 (day 57), administer gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 IV over 30 minutes on days 1, 8, and 15, repeated every 28 days. Continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. In a Phase 3 trial, the addition of erlotinib to gemcitabine significantly improved overall survival compared with gemcitabine plus placebo in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer.
For the treatment of recurrent or metastatic squamous cell head and neck cancer*:
Oral dosage:
Adults: 150 mg PO once daily has been studied. Coadministration of certain drugs may need to be avoided or dosage adjustments may be necessary; review drug interactions. Further study is needed to define the benefit of erlotinib in the treatment of head and neck cancer. In a phase 2 trial, 115 patients treated with erlotinib had an overall response rate (ORR) of 4.3% with disease stabilization in 38.3% for a median duration of 16.1 months. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 9.6 weeks and the median overall survival (OS) was 6 months. Subgroup analysis revealed a significant difference in overall survival favoring patients who developed at least grade 2 skin rashes compared to those who did not. No difference in response was noted based upon HER1/EGFR expression.
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring:
Dosage Adjustment for Concurrent Cigarette Smoking
-Increase erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2 week intervals, to a maximum dose of 300 mg. Immediately reduce the dose of erlotinib to the recommended dose (150 mg or 100 mg) upon smoking cessation.
Dosage Adjustments for Treatment-Related Toxicities
Dermatologic
-Severe rash, not responsive to medical management: Hold erlotinib therapy. When rash resolves to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1, resume therapy at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements).
-Severe bullous, blistering, or exfoliating skin condition: Discontinue erlotinib therapy.
Gastrointestinal (GI)
-Persistent severe diarrhea not responsive to medical management (e.g., loperamide): Hold erlotinib therapy. When diarrhea resolves to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1, resume therapy at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements).
-GI perforation: Permanently discontinue erlotinib therapy.
Ocular
-Grade 3 or 4 keratitis, or grade 2 keratitis lasting more than 2 weeks: Hold erlotinib therapy. When keratitis resolves to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1, resume therapy at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements).
-Acute / worsening ocular disorders (e.g., eye pain): Hold erlotinib and consider discontinuation of therapy. Alternatively, when ocular disorder resolves to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1, resume therapy at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements).
-Corneal perforation or severe ulceration: Discontinue erlotinib therapy.
Pneumonitis/Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD)
-Acute onset of new or progressive pulmonary symptoms (e.g., dyspnea, cough, or fever): Hold erlotinib therapy pending diagnostic evaluation. If ILD is not diagnosed, resume erlotinib therapy at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements) upon resolution to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1. Permanently discontinue erlotinib and institute appropriate treatment if ILD is confirmed.
Maximum Dosage Limits:
-Adults
NSCLC: 150 mg PO daily.
Pancreatic Cancer: 100 mg PO daily.
-Geriatric
NSCLC: 150 mg PO daily.
Pancreatic Cancer: 100 mg PO daily.
-Adolescents
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
-Children
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Patients with Hepatic Impairment Dosing
Baseline Hepatic Impairment
-No dosage adjustment is necessary.
Treatment-Related Hepatotoxicity
-Total bilirubin more than 3 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or AST/ALT more than 5 times ULN in patients WITHOUT baseline hepatic impairment: Hold erlotinib therapy. Resume erlotinib at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements) when liver function tests resolve to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1. Discontinue erlotinib if resolution or significant improvement does not occur within 3 weeks.
-Total bilirubin 2 times baseline or AST/ALT 3 times baseline in patients WITH pre-existing hepatic impairment, or biliary obstruction: Hold erlotinib therapy. Resume erlotinib at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements) when liver function tests resolve to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1. Discontinue erlotinib if resolution or significant improvement does not occur within 3 weeks.
Patients with Renal Impairment Dosing
Baseline Renal Impairment
-No dosage adjustments are necessary.
Treatment-Induced Nephrotoxicity
-Grade 3 or 4 renal impairment: Hold erlotinib therapy. When nephrotoxicity has resolved to baseline or less than or equal to grade 1, therapy may be resumed at a reduced dose (by 50 mg decrements). Alternatively, consider discontinuation of erlotinib.
*non-FDA-approved indication
Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Adagrasib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with adagrasib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A substrate and adagrasib is a strong CYP3A inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Albuterol; Budesonide: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with budesonide is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant budesonide may be at increased risk.
Aluminum Hydroxide: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Aluminum Hydroxide; Magnesium Carbonate: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Aluminum Hydroxide; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Aluminum Hydroxide; Magnesium Hydroxide; Simethicone: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Aluminum Hydroxide; Magnesium Trisilicate: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Amiodarone: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with amiodarone if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2; amiodarone is a CYP3A and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Amlodipine; Celecoxib: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Amobarbital: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with amobarbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Amobarbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin; Omeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with clarithromycin if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with omeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with omeprazole decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Antacids: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Apalutamide: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with apalutamide if possible due to decreased plasma concentrations of erlotinib. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and apalutamide is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Armodafinil: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with armodafinil; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and armodafinil is a CYP3A4 inducer.
Aspirin, ASA; Butalbital; Caffeine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with butalbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Aspirin, ASA; Citric Acid; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with sodium bicarbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from sodium bicarbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Aspirin, ASA; Omeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with omeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with omeprazole decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Atazanavir: (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with atazanavir due to the risk of increased erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration of erlotinib with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased the erlotinib AUC by 67%.
Atazanavir; Cobicistat: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with atazanavir due to the risk of increased erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and atazanavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration of erlotinib with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased the erlotinib AUC by 67%.
Bexarotene: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with bexarotene; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and bexarotene is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Bosentan: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with bosentan; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and bosentan is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Budesonide: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with budesonide is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant budesonide may be at increased risk.
Budesonide; Formoterol: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with budesonide is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant budesonide may be at increased risk.
Budesonide; Glycopyrrolate; Formoterol: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with budesonide is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant budesonide may be at increased risk.
Bupivacaine; Meloxicam: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with butalbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with butalbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with butalbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Butalbital; Aspirin; Caffeine; Codeine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with butalbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Butalbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Cabazitaxel: (Moderate) The use of taxane-based chemotherapy with erlotinib appears to be one of the risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation with erlotinib. Monitor for symptoms of GI perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with a taxane chemotherapy agent is necessary.
Calcium Carbonate: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Calcium Carbonate; Famotidine; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) If concomitant use of erlotinib with famotidine is necessary, erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of famotidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from famotidine therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a single dose of an H2-antagonist. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of an H2-antagonist and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%. (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Calcium Carbonate; Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Calcium Carbonate; Magnesium Hydroxide; Simethicone: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Calcium Carbonate; Simethicone: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Calcium; Vitamin D: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with calcium carbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from calcium carbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Carbamazepine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with carbamazepine if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Carbamazepine is a strong CYP3A4 inducer as well as a CYP1A2 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Celecoxib: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Celecoxib; Tramadol: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Cenobamate: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cenobamate if possible, due to the risk of decreased erlotinib exposure. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and cenobamate is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Ceritinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ceritinib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ceritinib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Chloramphenicol: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with chloramphenicol if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and chloramphenicol is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Chlorpheniramine; Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Cholera Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the live cholera vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to cholera bacteria after receiving the vaccine.
Cimetidine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cimetidine if possible due to altered plasma concentrations of erlotinib. If concomitant use is unavoidable, separate dosing is required, as the solubility of erlotinib is pH dependent, decreasing as the pH increases. Erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of cimetidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Additionally, monitor for erlotinib-related adverse reactions; a dose reduction may be necessary for severe reactions. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a single dose of an H2-antagonist. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of an H2-antagonist and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Erlotinib is also primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Cimetidine is a weak CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor.
Ciprofloxacin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ciprofloxacin if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Ciprofloxacin is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with ciprofloxacin increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Clarithromycin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with clarithromycin if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Cobicistat: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Cortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with cortisone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant cortisone may be at increased risk.
Dabrafenib: (Major) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with dabrafenib; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and dabrafenib is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Darunavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with darunavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Darunavir; Cobicistat: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with darunavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Darunavir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with darunavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and darunavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Deflazacort: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with deflazacort is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant deflazacort may be at increased risk.
Delavirdine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with delavirdine if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and delavirdine is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Dengue Tetravalent Vaccine, Live: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the dengue virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines at least 2 weeks prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. If vaccine administration is necessary, consider revaccination following restoration of immune competence. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure after receiving the vaccine.
Dexamethasone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with dexamethasone is necessary. Permanently discontinue dexamethasone in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant dexamethasone may be at increased risk.
Dexlansoprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with dexlansoprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Diclofenac: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Diclofenac; Misoprostol: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Diflunisal: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Diphenhydramine; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Docetaxel: (Moderate) The use of taxane-based chemotherapy with erlotinib appears to be one of the risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation with erlotinib. Monitor for symptoms of GI perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with a taxane chemotherapy agent is necessary.
Efavirenz: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with efavirenz; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and efavirenz is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Efavirenz; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with efavirenz; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and efavirenz is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Efavirenz; Lamivudine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with efavirenz; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and efavirenz is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Elagolix: (Major) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with elagolix; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and elagolix is a weak to moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Elagolix; Estradiol; Norethindrone acetate: (Major) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with elagolix; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and elagolix is a weak to moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with cobicistat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and cobicistat is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Encorafenib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with encorafenib if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (Max: 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A substrate, and encorafenib is a strong CYP3A inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Enzalutamide: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with enzalutamide if possible due to decreased plasma concentrations of erlotinib. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Eslicarbazepine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with eslicarbazepine; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and eslicarbazepine is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Esomeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with esomeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Etodolac: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Etravirine: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with etravirine; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and etravirine is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Famotidine: (Major) If concomitant use of erlotinib with famotidine is necessary, erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of famotidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from famotidine therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a single dose of an H2-antagonist. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of an H2-antagonist and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%.
Fenoprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Fludrocortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with fludrocortisone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant fludrocortisone may be at increased risk.
Flurbiprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Fluvoxamine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with fluvoxamine if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Fluvoxamine is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with another moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Fosamprenavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with fosamprenavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and fosamprenavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Fosphenytoin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with fosphenytoin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and fosphenytoin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Grapefruit juice: (Major) Have patients avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice during erlotinib treatment due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and grapefruit juice is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Hydrocodone; Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Hydrocortisone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with hydrocortisone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant hydrocortisone may be at increased risk.
Ibuprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Ibuprofen; Famotidine: (Major) If concomitant use of erlotinib with famotidine is necessary, erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of famotidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from famotidine therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a single dose of an H2-antagonist. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of an H2-antagonist and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%. (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Ibuprofen; Oxycodone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Idelalisib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with idelalisib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and idelalisib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Indinavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with indinavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and indinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Indomethacin: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Isoniazid, INH; Pyrazinamide, PZA; Rifampin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rifampin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and rifampin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with rifampin decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Isoniazid, INH; Rifampin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rifampin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and rifampin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with rifampin decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Itraconazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with itraconazole if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and itraconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Once treatment is stopped, itraconazole plasma concentrations decrease to an almost undetectable concentration within 7 to 14 days, depending on the dose and duration of treatment; the decline in plasma concentrations may be more gradual In patients with cirrhosis or receiving other CYP3A4 inhibitors. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Ketoconazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ketoconazole if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ketoconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with ketoconazole increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Ketoprofen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Ketorolac: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Lansoprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lansoprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Lansoprazole; Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with clarithromycin if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lansoprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Letermovir: (Moderate) An increase in the plasma concentration of erlotinib may occur if given with letermovir. Avoid coadministration in patients also receiving cyclosporine, because the magnitude of the interaction may be amplified. If erlotinib must be coadministered with both letermovir and cyclosporine and the patient experiences a severe reaction, reduce the erlotinib dose by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is predominately metabolized by CYP3A4. Letermovir is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor; however, when given with cyclosporine, the combined effect on CYP3A4 substrates is similar to a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Concurrent administration with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Levoketoconazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ketoconazole if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ketoconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with ketoconazole increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Lonafarnib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lonafarnib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and lonafarnib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Lopinavir; Ritonavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ritonavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Lorazepam: (Moderate) Monitor for an increase in lorazepam-related adverse reactions and consider reducing the dose of lorazepam if concomitant use of lorazepam and erlotinib is necessary. Avoid lorazepam extended-release capsules and utilize lorazepam immediate-release dosage forms that can be easily titrated. Lorazepam is an UGT substrate and erlotinib is an UGT inhibitor.
Lorlatinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lorlatinib if possible, due to the risk of decreased erlotinib exposure. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and lorlatinib is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
Lumacaftor; Ivacaftor: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lumacaftor; ivacaftor if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and lumacaftor is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Lumacaftor; Ivacaftor: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with lumacaftor; ivacaftor if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and lumacaftor is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Magnesium Hydroxide: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Magnesium Salts: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Mavacamten: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with mavacamten if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A substrate, and mavacamten is a moderate CYP3A inducer.
Meclofenamate Sodium: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Mefenamic Acid: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Meloxicam: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Methohexital: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with methohexital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Methohexital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Methylprednisolone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with methylprednisolone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant methylprednisolone may be at increased risk.
Mifepristone: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with chronic mifepristone use if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. The clinical significance of this interaction with the short-term use of mifepristone for termination of pregnancy is unknown. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and mifepristone is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Due to the slow elimination of mifepristone from the body, such interaction may be observed for a prolonged period after its administration. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Mitotane: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with mitotane if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and mitotane is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Modafinil: (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with modafinil if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and modafinil is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Nabumetone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Nafcillin: (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with nafcillin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and nafcillin is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Nanoparticle Albumin-Bound Paclitaxel: (Moderate) The use of taxane-based chemotherapy with erlotinib appears to be one of the risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation with erlotinib. Monitor for symptoms of GI perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with a taxane chemotherapy agent is necessary.
Naproxen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Naproxen; Esomeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with esomeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%. (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Naproxen; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Nefazodone: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with nefazodone if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and nefazodone is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Nelfinavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with nelfinavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and nelfinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Nilotinib: (Moderate) Use caution if coadministration of erlotinib with nilotinib is necessary due to the risk of increased erlotinib-related adverse reactions, and avoid coadministration with erlotinib if the patient is additionally taking a CYP1A2 inhibitor. If the patient is taking both nilotinib and a CYP1A2 inhibitor and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements; the manufacturer of erlotinib makes the same recommendations for toxicity-related dose reductions in patients taking strong CYP3A4 inhibitors without concomitant CYP1A2 inhibitors. Nilotinib is a moderate CYP3A4 inhibitor in vitro. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Coadministration of erlotinib with ketoconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased the erlotinib AUC by 67%. Coadministration of erlotinib with ciprofloxacin, a moderate inhibitor of CYP3A4 and CYP1A2, increased the erlotinib AUC by 39% and the Cmax by 17%; coadministration with nilotinib may also increase erlotinib exposure.
Nirmatrelvir; Ritonavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ritonavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Nizatidine: (Major) If concomitant use of erlotinib with nizatidine is necessary, erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of nizatidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from nizatidine therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a single dose of an H2-antagonist. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of an H2-antagonist and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%.
Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Omeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with omeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with omeprazole decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Omeprazole; Amoxicillin; Rifabutin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with omeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with omeprazole decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%. (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with rifabutin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and rifabutin is a CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Omeprazole; Sodium Bicarbonate: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with omeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with omeprazole decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%. (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with sodium bicarbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from sodium bicarbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Osilodrostat: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with osilodrostat if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Osilodrostat is a weak CYP3A4 and moderate CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Oxaprozin: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Paclitaxel: (Moderate) The use of taxane-based chemotherapy with erlotinib appears to be one of the risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation with erlotinib. Monitor for symptoms of GI perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with a taxane chemotherapy agent is necessary.
Pantoprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with pantoprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Pentobarbital: (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with pentobarbital if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Pentobarbital is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Pexidartinib: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of pexidartinib and erlotinib due to the risk of increased pexidartinib exposure and decreased erlotinib exposure. If concomitant use is necessary, the dose of both drugs will need to be adjusted. Dose adjustments for pexidartinib are as follows: 500 mg/day or 375 mg/day of pexidartinib, reduce to 125 mg twice daily; 250 mg/day of pexidartinib, reduce to 125 mg once daily. For erlotinib, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Pexidartinib is a UGT substrate and moderate CYP3A inducer; erlotinib is a CYP3A substrate and UGT inhibitor. Coadministration of another UGT inhibitor increased pexidartinib exposure by 60%.
Phenobarbital: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with phenobarbital if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and phenobarbital is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Phenobarbital; Hyoscyamine; Atropine; Scopolamine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with phenobarbital if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and phenobarbital is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Phenytoin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with phenytoin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and phenytoin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Piroxicam: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Posaconazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with posaconazole if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and posaconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Prednisolone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with prednisolone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant prednisolone may be at increased risk.
Prednisone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with prednisone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant prednisone may be at increased risk.
Primidone: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with primidone if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and primidone is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Quinine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with quinine if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 300 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Quinine is a CYP1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Rabeprazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rabeprazole if possible due to decreases in erlotinib plasma concentrations. Erlotinib solubility is pH dependent and solubility decreases as pH increases. Coadministration of erlotinib with medications that increase the pH of the upper gastrointestinal tract may decrease the absorption of erlotinib. Separation of doses may not eliminate the interaction since proton pump inhibitors affect the pH of the upper GI tract for an extended period of time. Increasing the dose of erlotinib is also not likely to compensate for the loss of exposure. Coadministration with another proton pump inhibitor decreased erlotinib exposure by 46% and the erlotinib Cmax by 61%.
Ranitidine: (Major) If concomitant use of erlotinib with ranitidine is necessary, erlotinib must be taken 10 hours after the last dose of ranitidine and at least 2 hours before the next dose. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from ranitidine therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. Erlotinib exposure was decreased by 33% and the Cmax by 54% when erlotinib was administered 2 hours after a 300-mg dose of ranitidine. When administered at least 10 hours after an evening dose of ranitidine and 2 hours before the morning dose, erlotinib exposure was decreased by 15% and Cmax by 17%.
Repotrectinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with repotrectinib if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A substrate, and repotrectinib is a moderate CYP3A inducer.
Ribociclib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ribociclib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ribociclib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Ribociclib; Letrozole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ribociclib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ribociclib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Rifabutin: (Major) Avoid the coadministration of erlotinib with rifabutin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and rifabutin is a CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Rifampin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rifampin if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and rifampin is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with rifampin decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Rifapentine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rifapentine if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate, and rifapentine is a strong CYP3A4 inducer. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Ritlecitinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ritlecitinib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2; ritlecitinib is a CYP3A and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Ritonavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with ritonavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and ritonavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Rucaparib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with rucaparib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2; rucaparib is a CYP3A and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Saquinavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with saquinavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and saquinavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) vaccines: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
SARS-CoV-2 Virus (COVID-19) Adenovirus Vector Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
SARS-CoV-2 Virus (COVID-19) mRNA Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
SARS-CoV-2 Virus (COVID-19) Recombinant Spike Protein Nanoparticle Vaccine: (Moderate) Patients receiving immunosuppressant medications may have a diminished response to the SARS-CoV-2 virus vaccine. When feasible, administer indicated vaccines prior to initiating immunosuppressant medications. Counsel patients receiving immunosuppressant medications about the possibility of a diminished vaccine response and to continue to follow precautions to avoid exposure to SARS-CoV-2 virus after receiving the vaccine.
Secobarbital: (Moderate) There may be a risk of reduced erlotinib efficacy when coadministered with secobarbital; however, the risk has not been clearly defined. If coadministration is necessary, consider increasing the erlotinib dose by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated, to a maximum of 450 mg. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4, and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Secobarbital is a CYP3A4 and 1A2 inducer. Coadministration may decrease plasma concentrations of erlotinib.
Sodium Bicarbonate: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib with sodium bicarbonate is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from sodium bicarbonate therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Sotorasib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with sotorasib if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and sotorasib is a moderate CYP3A4 inducer.
St. John's Wort, Hypericum perforatum: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with St. John's Wort if possible due to the risk of decreased erlotinib efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, increase the dose of erlotinib in 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals as tolerated (maximum dose, 450 mg). Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and St. John's Wort is a strong CYP3A4 inducer, although the amount of individual constituents in various products may alter the inducing effects, making drug interactions unpredictable. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inducer decreased erlotinib exposure by 58% to 80%.
Sulindac: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Sumatriptan; Naproxen: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Taxanes: (Moderate) The use of taxane-based chemotherapy with erlotinib appears to be one of the risk factors for gastrointestinal (GI) perforation with erlotinib. Monitor for symptoms of GI perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with a taxane chemotherapy agent is necessary.
Tipranavir: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with tipranavir if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and tipranavir is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Tobacco: (Major) Advise patients to avoid smoking tobacco while taking erlotinib and communicate any changes in smoking status during erlotinib treatment. For patients that continue smoking or begin smoking while taking erlotinib, increase the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg increments at 2-week intervals to a maximum of 300 mg/day. Immediately reduce the dose of erlotinib to the recommended dose upon cessation of smoking. Erlotinib is partially metabolized by CYP1A2; smoking tobacco induces CYP1A2. In a single-dose pharmacokinetics trial in healthy volunteers, cigarette smoking decreased the overall exposure of erlotinib by 64% (95% CI: 46% to 76%) in current smokers compared with former/never smokers. In a separate study of patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), steady-state trough concentrations of erlotinib were approximately 2-fold less in current smokers compared with former/never smokers.
Tolmetin: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases. Patients receiving concomitant NSAIDs may be at increased risk of perforation.
Trandolapril; Verapamil: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with verapamil if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Verapamil is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with another moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Triamcinolone: (Moderate) Monitor for symptoms of gastrointestinal (GI) perforation (e.g., severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting) if coadministration of erlotinib with systemic triamcinolone is necessary. Permanently discontinue erlotinib in patients who develop GI perforation. The pooled incidence of GI perforation clinical trials of erlotinib ranged from 0.1% to 0.4%, including fatal cases; patients receiving concomitant triamcinolone may be at increased risk.
Tucatinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with tucatinib if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and tucatinib is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Verapamil: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with verapamil if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Verapamil is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with another moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Viloxazine: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with viloxazine if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2; viloxazine is a weak CYP3A4 and strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Vonoprazan: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of erlotinib and vonoprazan. Vonoprazan reduces intragastric acidity, which may decrease the absorption of erlotinib reducing its efficacy.
Vonoprazan; Amoxicillin: (Major) Avoid concomitant use of erlotinib and vonoprazan. Vonoprazan reduces intragastric acidity, which may decrease the absorption of erlotinib reducing its efficacy.
Vonoprazan; Amoxicillin; Clarithromycin: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with clarithromycin if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and clarithromycin is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%. (Major) Avoid concomitant use of erlotinib and vonoprazan. Vonoprazan reduces intragastric acidity, which may decrease the absorption of erlotinib reducing its efficacy.
Voriconazole: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with voriconazole if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is a CYP3A4 substrate and voriconazole is a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor. Coadministration with another strong CYP3A4 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 67%.
Warfarin: (Major) Regularly monitor prothrombin time (PT) or INR in patients taking warfarin. Increased INR and bleeding adverse reactions, in some cases fatal, have been reported in patients receiving concomitant therapy. Dose modifications of erlotinib are not recommended.
Zafirlukast: (Major) Avoid coadministration of erlotinib with zafirlukast if possible due to the increased risk of erlotinib-related adverse reactions. If concomitant use is unavoidable and severe reactions occur, reduce the dose of erlotinib by 50 mg decrements. Erlotinib is primarily metabolized by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2. Zafirlukast is a CYP3A4 and CYP1A2 inhibitor. Coadministration with a moderate CYP3A4/CYP1A2 inhibitor increased erlotinib exposure by 39% and increased the erlotinib Cmax by 17%.
Erlotinib is a synthetic quinazolinamine that reversibly inhibits the kinase activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), preventing autophosphorylation of tyrosine residues associated with the receptor and thereby inhibiting further downstream signaling. EGFR is expressed on cell surfaces of both normal and cancer cells. In some tumor cells, signaling through this receptor plays a role in tumor cell survival and proliferation irrespective of EGFR mutation status. Erlotinib has a higher binding affinity for EGFR exon 19 deletion or exon 21 (L858R) substitution mutations compared to its affinity for the wild-type receptor; inhibition of other tyrosine kinase receptors by erlotinib has not been fully characterized.
Erlotinib is administered orally. Binding to plasma proteins, primarily albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, is 93%. The apparent volume of distribution (Vd) is 232 liters. The median elimination half-life of erlotinib when given as second- or third-line monotherapy is 36.2 hours; the time to reach steady state plasma concentration is 7 to 8 days. Excretion is predominantly (83%) via the feces, with only 1% of a dose recovered as intact parent drug; renal elimination of erlotinib accounts for 8% of the administered dose (0.3% as intact parent drug).
Affected cytochrome P450 isoenzymes: CYP3A4, CYP1A2, CYP1A1
Erlotinib undergoes significant hepatic metabolism, predominantly by CYP3A4 and to a lesser extent by CYP1A2 and the extrahepatic isoform CYP1A1. Coadministration with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers are expected to affect erlotinib exposure. Cigarette smoking (moderate CYP1A2 inducer) also significantly increases erlotinib clearance compared to former smokers or never smokers.
-Route-Specific Pharmacokinetics
Oral Route
Peak plasma levels of erlotinib occur 4 hours after dosing with a mean bioavailability of 60%. Bioavailability increases by 100% with the administration of food. Following continuous daily administration of a 150 mg oral dose, the peak concentration of erlotinib is 2,690 ng/mL, and the AUC is 38.4 mcg*hour/mL with significant inter- and intra-patient variability.
The solubility of erlotinib is pH-dependent and decreases as the pH increases. Coadministration with medications that increase gastric pH decrease erlotinib exposure.
-Special Populations
Hepatic Impairment
Erlotinib exposure is similar in patients with moderately impaired hepatic function (Child-Pugh B) compared with patients with adequate hepatic function, including patients with primary liver cancer or hepatic metastases.
Renal Impairment
The pharmacokinetics of erlotinib in patients with compromised renal function is unknown.
Pediatrics
No significant differences in erlotinib clearance are observed based upon patient age. Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of pediatric cancer patients (n = 105), the mean estimate of apparent clearance normalized to body surface area (CL/F/BSA) was comparable across 3 age groups: 2 to 6 years (n = 29), 7 to 16 years (n = 59), and 17 to 21 years (n = 17).
Geriatric
Age does not significantly affect the systemic exposure of erlotinib.
Gender Differences
Gender does not significantly affect the systemic exposure of erlotinib.
Obesity
Body weight does not significantly affect the systemic exposure of erlotinib.
Other
Tobacco Smokers
In a single-dose pharmacokinetic trial in healthy volunteers, cigarette smoking increased erlotinib clearance and decreased the AUC by 64% (95% CI, 46% to 76%) compared with former smokers and never smokers. In a trial of patients with NSCLC, steady-state trough plasma concentrations were approximately 2-fold less in current smokers as compared with in former or never smokers; erlotinib plasma clearance was increased by 24%. There was a dose-proportional increase in erlotinib exposure when the dose was increased from 150 mg to 300 mg in current smokers with NSCLC in another study.