Ivacaftor
Why is it prescribed?
Ivacaftor is used for the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) in children age 2 months and older who have certain mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene.
Products that have this ingredient include •Kalydeco® tablets •Orkambi® tablets •Symdeko™ tablets •Trikafta® tablets •Trikafta® granules •Kalydeco® granules •Orkambi® granules •
See other drugs used in the treatment of •cystic fibrosis •
Important potential side effects. These are not common but are possible:
- liver problems
- low blood sugar
- allergic reactions
Contact your doctor if any of these side effects persists or are bothersome:
- diarrhea
- nausea
- stomach (abdominal) pain
- common cold
- runny nose
- upper respiratory tract infection
- changes in the type of bacteria in your sputum
- headache
- dizziness
- nasal congestion
- sinus congestion
- sore throat
- rash
- joint pain
Various mutations of the cystic fibrosis gene block the "gates" that allow the flow of salt across the cell membranes. This causes mucus to become thick and clog the lungs. Ivacaftor helps "open the gates" more often allowing more salt to pass through. The thick mucus is reduced and cystic fibrosis symptoms lessen.
- This medication may cause abnormal blood results. Your doctor will decide if you need blood tests.
- Drive and use machinery with caution as you may feel dizzy.
- Do not take this medication if you are allergic to any part of it.
Take this medication with caution if you:
- have kidney or liver problems
- have cataracts
The following medications may interact with ivacaftor:
- antifungals such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, posaconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole
- some antibiotics such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, rifampin, rifabutin
- some anti-seizure medications such as phenobarbital, carbamazepine, phenytoin
- some medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions such as midazolam, alprazolam, diazepam, triazolam
- digoxin
- medications used after a transplant such as cyclosporine and tacrolimus
- warfarin
- St. John’s wort
- products that contain grapefruit
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding: Little is known about the safety of this medication when used in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.