Ivacaftor + Tezacaftor
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for ivacaftor
Cystic Fibrosis
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator Potentiator
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
ivacaftor + tezacaftor
Summary
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor are used to treat cystic fibrosis, which is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and digestive system. This condition is caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to thick mucus buildup in the lungs and digestive problems. By improving the function of the CFTR protein, these medicines help alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life for people with cystic fibrosis.
Ivacaftor works by increasing the activity of the CFTR protein at the cell surface, which helps regulate salt and fluid flow in cells. Tezacaftor helps more CFTR protein reach the cell surface by improving its folding and stability. Together, they enhance the flow of salt and fluids, reducing thick mucus buildup in cystic fibrosis patients.
The usual adult dose involves taking tezacaftor once daily and ivacaftor twice daily. Typically, tezacaftor is taken as a 100 mg tablet in the morning, and ivacaftor as a 150 mg tablet every 12 hours. These medicines should be taken with a fat-containing meal to improve absorption and effectiveness.
Common side effects of ivacaftor and tezacaftor include headache, dizziness, and nausea. Some people may also experience diarrhea or a rash. Significant adverse effects can include liver problems, indicated by symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or stomach pain.
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor can interact with medications affecting liver enzymes, like certain antibiotics and antifungals. They are contraindicated in people with severe liver impairment. Patients should avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges, as these can increase drug levels, leading to side effects. Regular liver function tests are recommended.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor work?
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor work together to improve the function of the CFTR protein, which is defective in people with cystic fibrosis. Ivacaftor acts as a potentiator, which means it helps the CFTR protein work better by increasing its activity at the cell surface. Tezacaftor acts as a corrector, which means it helps more CFTR protein reach the cell surface by improving its folding and stability. Together, they enhance the flow of salt and fluids in and out of cells, reducing the thick mucus buildup that characterizes cystic fibrosis.
How effective is combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor?
Clinical trials have shown that the combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor significantly improves lung function in people with cystic fibrosis. Ivacaftor has been proven to enhance the activity of the CFTR protein, leading to better lung function and fewer respiratory symptoms. Tezacaftor helps more CFTR protein reach the cell surface, complementing ivacaftor's action. Together, they have been shown to reduce pulmonary exacerbations and improve quality of life. The evidence from these trials supports the effectiveness of this combination in treating cystic fibrosis, with both medicines working synergistically to improve outcomes.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor?
The usual adult daily dose for ivacaftor and tezacaftor involves taking tezacaftor once daily and ivacaftor twice daily. Typically, tezacaftor is taken as a single 100 mg tablet in the morning, and ivacaftor is taken as a 150 mg tablet every 12 hours. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions and not to adjust the dose without consulting them. Taking the medicines with a fat-containing meal can help improve their absorption and effectiveness.
How does one take combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor?
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor should be taken with a fat-containing meal to improve absorption and effectiveness. Foods like eggs, cheese, nuts, or avocados can be included in the meal. It's important to avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges while taking these medicines, as they can increase drug levels in the blood, leading to potential side effects. Following these instructions helps ensure the medicines work as intended and reduces the risk of adverse effects.
For how long is combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor taken?
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor are typically used as long-term treatments for cystic fibrosis. The duration of use depends on the individual's response to the medication and the healthcare provider's recommendations. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor the effectiveness and any potential side effects. Patients should not stop taking the medicines without consulting their healthcare provider, as doing so could lead to a worsening of symptoms.
How long does it take for combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor to work?
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor work together to improve lung function in people with cystic fibrosis, which is a genetic disorder affecting the lungs and digestive system. Ivacaftor starts working within hours to improve the function of the CFTR protein, which helps regulate the flow of salt and fluids in and out of cells. Tezacaftor helps correct the folding of the CFTR protein, allowing more of it to reach the cell surface. The combination of these medicines can lead to noticeable improvements in symptoms within a few weeks, although the exact time can vary from person to person.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor?
Common side effects of ivacaftor and tezacaftor include headache, dizziness, and nausea. Some people may also experience diarrhea or a rash. Significant adverse effects can include liver problems, which may be indicated by symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pain in the upper right side of the stomach. Both medicines can also cause an increase in liver enzymes, which are proteins that help speed up chemical reactions in the body. Regular monitoring of liver function is recommended to detect any potential issues early.
Can I take combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor with other prescription drugs?
Ivacaftor and tezacaftor can interact with several prescription drugs, especially those that affect liver enzymes. For instance, strong CYP3A inhibitors like ketoconazole, which is an antifungal medication, can increase the levels of these medicines in the blood, potentially leading to side effects. Conversely, strong CYP3A inducers like rifampin, which is an antibiotic, can decrease their effectiveness. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about all medications they are taking to manage these interactions effectively. Dosage adjustments or alternative medications may be necessary.
Can I take combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor if I am pregnant?
The safety of ivacaftor and tezacaftor during pregnancy is not fully established. Animal studies have shown some risks, but there is limited data on human pregnancies. Both medicines should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits justify the potential risks to the fetus. It's important for pregnant women to discuss with their healthcare provider whether to continue or adjust their treatment. Monitoring may be necessary to ensure the health of both the mother and the developing baby.
Can I take combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor while breastfeeding?
There is limited information on the safety of ivacaftor and tezacaftor during breastfeeding. It is not known if these medicines pass into breast milk or what effects they might have on a nursing infant. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue breastfeeding or to discontinue the medication, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Mothers should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks.
Who should avoid taking combination of ivacaftor and tezacaftor?
People using ivacaftor and tezacaftor should be aware of the risk of liver problems, which can be serious. Symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or stomach pain should be reported to a doctor immediately. Regular liver function tests are recommended. These medicines are contraindicated in people with severe liver impairment. Additionally, patients should avoid grapefruit and Seville oranges, as these can increase drug levels in the blood, leading to potential side effects. It's important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
