Wednesday, 28 March 2012

Clobetasol Lotion


Pronunciation: kloe-BAY-ta-sol
Generic Name: Clobetasol
Brand Name: Clobex


Clobetasol Lotion is used for:

Treating inflammation and itching due to certain skin conditions. It is also used to treat moderate to severe psoriasis. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Clobetasol Lotion is a topical adrenocortical steroid. It works by reducing skin inflammation (eg, redness, swelling, itching, irritation) in a way that is not clearly understood.


Do NOT use Clobetasol Lotion if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Clobetasol Lotion or to other corticosteroids (eg, prednisone)

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Clobetasol Lotion:


Some medical conditions may interact with Clobetasol Lotion. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have any kind of skin infection, cuts, scrapes, or lessened blood flow to your skin

  • if you have had a recent vaccination; have measles, tuberculosis, chickenpox, or shingles; or have had a positive tuberculosis test

  • if you are taking prednisone or similar medicines

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Clobetasol Lotion. Because little, if any, of Clobetasol Lotion is absorbed into the blood, the risk of it interacting with another medicine is low.


Ask your health care provider if Clobetasol Lotion may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Clobetasol Lotion:


Use Clobetasol Lotion as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • An extra patient leaflet is available with Clobetasol Lotion. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.

  • Wash and completely dry the affected area before applying Clobetasol Lotion.

  • Turn the bottle upside down and pour a small amount (less than 1 teaspoonful) onto your fingertips or onto the affected area. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Wash your hands after applying Clobetasol Lotion, unless your hands are part of the treated area.

  • Do not bandage or cover the treated skin area unless directed by your doctor. Do not wear tight-fitting clothes over the treated area.

  • If you miss a dose of Clobetasol Lotion, apply it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not apply 2 doses at once.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Clobetasol Lotion.



Important safety information:


  • Clobetasol Lotion is for external use only. Do not get Clobetasol Lotion in your eyes, nose, mouth, or on your lips. If contact is made with the eyes, flush them immediately with tap water.

  • Do not use Clobetasol Lotion on the face, groin, diaper area, or underarms.

  • Do not use Clobetasol Lotion to treat rosacea or conditions around the mouth.

  • Do NOT take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than 2 weeks without checking with your doctor.

  • If your symptoms do not get better within 2 weeks or if they get worse, check with your doctor.

  • Do not use Clobetasol Lotion to treat large areas of your body without first checking with your doctor.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Clobetasol Lotion before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Check with your doctor before having vaccinations while using Clobetasol Lotion.

  • Do not use Clobetasol Lotion for other skin conditions at a later time.

  • Check with your doctor if you experience nausea, vomiting, fever, dizziness, or chest pain after you have stopped using Clobetasol Lotion.

  • Clobetasol Lotion has a corticosteroid in it. Before you start any new medicine, check the label to see if it has a corticosteroid (eg, hydrocortisone) in it too. If it does or if you are not sure, check with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Lab tests, including blood and urine tests, may be performed while you use Clobetasol Lotion. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.

  • Clobetasol Lotion should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 18 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Clobetasol Lotion while you are pregnant. It is not known if Clobetasol Lotion is found in breast milk after topical use. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Clobetasol Lotion, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Clobetasol Lotion:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Dryness; itching; mild burning or stinging.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); acne-like rash; burning, cracking, irritation, or peeling not present before you began using Clobetasol Lotion; dark red blotches on the skin; excessive hair growth; general feeling of being unwell; inflamed hair follicles; inflammation around the mouth; muscle weakness; numbness of fingers; thinning, softening, or discoloration of the skin; unusual weight gain, especially in the face.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: Clobetasol side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include increased thirst or urination; muscle weakness; unusual weight gain, especially in the face.


Proper storage of Clobetasol Lotion:

Store Clobetasol Lotion at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Clobetasol Lotion out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Clobetasol Lotion, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Clobetasol Lotion is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Clobetasol Lotion. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More Clobetasol resources


  • Clobetasol Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Clobetasol Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Clobetasol Drug Interactions
  • Clobetasol Support Group
  • 48 Reviews for Clobetasol - Add your own review/rating


Compare Clobetasol with other medications


  • Anal Itching
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Cutaneous T-cell Lymphoma
  • Dermatitis
  • Lichen Planus
  • Lichen Sclerosus
  • Necrobiosis Lipoidica Diabeticorum
  • Psoriasis
  • Seborrheic Dermatitis

Monday, 26 March 2012

Epirubicin Hydrochloride


Class: Antineoplastic Agents
VA Class: AN200
Chemical Name: (8S - cis) - 10 - [(3 - Amino - 2,3,6 - trideoxy - α - l - arabino - hexopyranosyl)oxy] - 7,8,9,10 - tetrahydro - 6,8,11 - trihydroxy - 8 - (hydroxyacetyl) - 1 - methoxy-5,12-naphthacenedione hydrochloride
Molecular Formula: C27H29NO11•HCl
CAS Number: 56390-09-1
Brands: Ellence



  • Severe local tissue necrosis if extravasation occurs.1 Do not administer IM or sub-Q.1




  • Possible cardiotoxicity and potentially fatal CHF during or after therapy.1 Increased risk of CHF with cumulative doses >900 mg/m2; exceed this cumulative dose with extreme caution.1 Toxicity may occur at lower cumulative doses, regardless of whether cardiac risk factors are present.1 Cardiac effects of epirubicin and other anthracyclines or anthracenediones may be additive.1




  • Possible secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML); risk of refractory AML increases when epirubicin is combined with other DNA-damaging antineoplastics, after extensive exposure to cytotoxic drugs, or when anthracycline doses have been escalated.1




  • Reduce dosage in patients with hepatic impairment.1 (See Hepatic Impairment under Dosage and Administration.)




  • Severe myelosuppression may occur.1




  • Administer only under the supervision of qualified clinicians experienced in the use of cytotoxic therapy.1




Introduction

Anthracycline glycoside antineoplastic antibiotic; the 4′-epimer of doxorubicin; a semisynthetic derivative of daunorubicin.1 2 3 4 5


Uses for Epirubicin Hydrochloride


Breast Cancer


A component of adjuvant therapy in patients with evidence of axillary node tumor involvement following resection of primary breast carcinoma; efficacy was established in combination with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil.1 2 3 4 5


Epirubicin Hydrochloride Dosage and Administration


General



  • Optimize results and minimize adverse effects by basing dose on clinical, cardiac, hepatic, renal, and hematologic response; patient tolerance; and other chemotherapy or irradiation being used.1




  • Consult specialized references for procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastic drugs.



Administration


Extremely irritating to tissues.1 Administer IV only; do not administer IM or sub-Q.1


IV Administration


For solution and drug compatibility information, see Compatibility under Stability.


Administer slowly into tubing of a freely running IV infusion of 0.9% sodium chloride or 5% dextrose injection.1 Do not use veins over joints or in extremities with compromised venous or lymphatic drainage.1


Avoid extravasation.1 If signs or symptoms of extravasation occur, immediately stop the injection or infusion and restart at another site.1


Handle cautiously (by trained nonpregnant personnel); use protective equipment (e.g., latex gloves) and wash hands after removal of the latex gloves.1


Immediately treat accidental contact with the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes by copious lavage with water, soap and water, or sodium bicarbonate solution, but avoid abrasion of skin by use of a scrub brush; seek prompt medical attention.1


Rate of Administration

Usually administered over 3–20 minutes, depending on the volume of the infusion solution and the dosage.1


Rapid administration may cause local erythematous streaking along the vein and/or facial flushing;1 local phlebitis or thrombophlebitis may follow.1


Dosage


Available as epirubicin hydrochloride; dosage expressed in terms of the salt.1


Adults


Breast Cancer

IV

100–120 mg/m2 in repeated 3- to 4-week cycles; give total dose for each cycle as a single dose on day 1 or as 2 equally divided doses on days 1 and 8.1 4


In clinical trials, the 100-mg/m2 epirubicin hydrochloride regimen included fluorouracil 500 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2, with all drugs administered IV on day 1 of a 21-day cycle and repeated for 6 cycles.1 4


In clinical trials, the 120-mg/m2 epirubicin hydrochloride regimen was given IV as 60 mg/m2 of the anthracycline and fluorouracil 500 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8 of each cycle combined with oral cyclophosphamide 75 mg/m2 on days 1–14 of each cycle, with the cycles being repeated at 28-day intervals, for 6 cycles.1


Adjust dosage after first treatment cycle based on hematologic and nonhematologic toxicities.1


In patients with nadir platelet counts <50,000/mm3, absolute neutrophil counts (ANCs) <250/mm3, neutropenic fevers, or grade 3 or 4 nonhematologic toxicity, reduce day-1 dose of each antineoplastic agent in subsequent cycles to 75% of the day-1 dose given in current cycle.1


Delay day-1 chemotherapy in subsequent cycles until platelet counts are ≥100,000/mm3, ANCs are ≥1500/mm3, and nonhematologic toxicities have recovered to grade 1 or better.1


If epirubicin hydrochloride dose is divided between days 1 and 8, reduce the day-8 dose of each drug to 75% of the day-1 dose if platelet counts and ANCs are 75,000–100,000 and 1000–1499/mm3, respectively.1


If day-8 platelet counts or ANCs are <75,000 or 1000/mm3, respectively, or grade 3 or 4 nonhematologic toxicity has occurred, omit day-8 dose of each drug.1


Special Populations


Hepatic Impairment


In clinical studies, patients with serum bilirubin concentration of 1.2–3 mg/dL or AST concentration 2–4 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) received 50% of recommended initial dosage of epirubicin hydrochloride.1


In clinical studies, patients with serum bilirubin concentration of >3 mg/dL or AST >4 times the ULN received 25% of initial recommended dosage of epirubicin hydrochloride.1


Epirubicin is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment.1


Renal Impairment


Consider dosage reduction if Scr is >5 mg/dL; not studied in those undergoing dialysis.1


Bone Marrow Impairment


Consider decreasing dosage for the initial cycle to 75–90 mg/m2 in patients with bone marrow impairment (e.g., extensive pretreatment, preexisting myelosuppression, neoplastic bone marrow infiltration).1


Cautions for Epirubicin Hydrochloride


Contraindications



  • Known hypersensitivity to epirubicin, other anthracyclines, anthracenediones, or any ingredient in the formulation.1




  • Baseline neutrophil count <1500/mm3.1




  • Severe myocardial or hepatic impairment or recent myocardial infarction.1




  • Previous anthracycline therapy up to the maximum cumulative dose.1



Warnings/Precautions


Warnings


Adequate Patient Evaluation and Monitoring

Administer only under the supervision of qualified clinicians experienced in the use of cytotoxic therapy.1


Patients must have recovered from acute toxicities (e.g., stomatitis, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, generalized infections) of prior cytotoxic therapy before starting treatment with epirubicin.1


Prior to and during therapy, assess hematopoietic, hepatic, renal, and cardiac function; monitor for clinical complications associated with myelosuppression (e.g., granulocytopenia, infections) and potential cardiotoxicity (e.g., CHF), especially with increasing cumulative exposure to anthracyclines.1


Provide supportive care for the treatment of toxicity (e.g., severe neutropenia, severe infectious complications, cardiotoxicity).1


Carcinogenicity

Possible secondary AML; risk of refractory AML increases with concomitant DNA-damaging antineoplastics, extensive exposure to cytotoxic drugs, or escalation of anthracycline doses.1


The cumulative risk for adjuvant epirubicin therapy-related leukemia is estimated as 0.2 and 0.8% at 3 and 5 years, respectively.1


Fertility

Possible chromosomal damage in human spermatozoa; males should utilize effective contraceptive methods.1


Possible irreversible amenorrhea in premenopausal women.1


Local Effects

Local pain, severe tissue lesions, and severe local necrosis if extravasation occurs.1 Must not be given IM or sub-Q (see IV Administration under Dosage and Administration).1


Possible venous sclerosis if injected into a small vessel or injected repeatedly into the same vein.1


Tumor Lysis Syndrome

Tumor lysis syndrome may result from extensive purine catabolism accompanying rapid cellular destruction; monitor serum uric acid concentration.1


Minimize or prevent by adequate hydration, alkalinization of the urine, and/or administration of allopurinol.1


Major Toxicities


Hematologic Effects

Possible dose-dependent, reversible leukopenia and/or granulocytopenia (most common acute dose-limiting toxicity).1


Leukocyte nadir at day 10–14, with return to baseline by day 21.1


Possible severe myelosuppression.1


Cardiac Effects

Early (acute) cardiotoxicity (e.g, sinus tachycardia, ECG abnormalities such as nonspecific ST-T wave changes, AV block, ventricular tachycardia) does not predict subsequent development of delayed cardiotoxicity, is rarely of clinical importance, and generally is not an indication for suspension of therapy.1


Delayed cardiotoxicity (cardiomyopathy), manifested by reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and CHF, may be life-threatening.1 Active or occult cardiovascular disease, prior or concomitant irradiation to the mediastinal/pericardial area, previous therapy with other anthracyclines or anthracenediones, or concomitant use of other cardiotoxic drugs may increase risk.1


Monitor LVEF during therapy and discontinue epirubicin at the first sign of impaired cardiac function.1


Strictly monitor cardiac function in patients with risk factors for cardiotoxicity; evaluate risk versus benefit of continued therapy in those with impaired cardiac function.1


Cardiotoxicity is a cumulative dose-limiting toxicity of the drug.1 Probability of developing CHF estimated as 0.9, 1.6, and 3.3% at cumulative epirubicin hydrochloride dosages of 550, 700, and 900 mg/m2, respectively.1 Risk of CHF increases rapidly with total cumulative dose >900 mg/m2; exceed this dose with extreme caution.1 Possible toxicity at lower cumulative doses, regardless of whether cardiac risk factors are present.1


Cardiac effects of epirubicin and other anthracyclines or anthracenediones may be additive.1


Cardiovascular Effects

Thrombophlebitis and thromboembolic phenomena, including pulmonary embolism, sometimes fatal, have been reported.1


GI Effects

Possible nausea and vomiting; consider prophylaxis with antiemetics.1


Possible dose-dependent mucositis (e.g., oral stomatitis, esophagitis); may be severe.1


Irradiation

Possible additive cytotoxicity with combined epirubicin and radiation therapy; in clinical studies with epirubicin, radiation therapy was delayed until after completion of the chemotherapy.1


Possible inflammatory recall reaction at the site of prior irradiation.1


Prophylactic Anti-infective Therapy

In clinical studies, prophylactic anti-infective therapy with co-trimoxazole or a fluoroquinolone was used with the 120-mg/m2 regimen (see Dosage under Dosage and Administration).1


Specific Populations


Pregnancy

Category D.1


Lactation

Discontinue nursing because of potential risk to nursing infants.1


Pediatric Use

Safety and efficacy not established.1


Possible increased risk of acute or delayed cardiotoxicity.1


Geriatric Use

Careful monitoring for toxicity is recommended.1


Hepatic Impairment

Use not recommended in severe impairment.1 Dosage adjustment for mild to moderate impairment (see Hepatic Impairment under Dosage and Administration).1


Common Adverse Effects


Alopecia, nausea/vomiting, myelosuppression (leukopenia, neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia), amenorrhea, mucositis, lethargy, hot flushes (flashes), diarrhea, infection, local effects (e.g., venous irritation), conjunctivitis/keratitis, rash/pruritus, skin changes, fever, anorexia.1


Interactions for Epirubicin Hydrochloride


Antineoplastic Agents


Potential pharmacodynamic interaction (additive pharmacologic and toxic effects).1


Cardioactive Agents


Potential pharmacodynamic interaction (potentiation of cardiotoxicity); monitor cardiac function closely with concurrent use of cardioactive drugs that may precipitate CHF (e.g., verapamil).1


Cimetidine


Potential pharmacokinetic interaction (increased epirubicin concentrations); discontinue during epirubicin therapy.1


Hepatoactive Drugs


Potential pharmacologic or pharmacokinetic interaction.1


Epirubicin Hydrochloride Pharmacokinetics


Distribution


Extent


Rapidly and widely distributed into body tissues following IV administration.1 Appears to concentrate in red blood cells; concentrations in whole blood are approximately twice those in plasma.1 Distributed into milk in rats; not known whether the drug is distributed into milk in humans.1


Plasma Protein Binding


Approximately 77% bound to plasma proteins, principally albumin.1


Elimination


Metabolism


Extensively and rapidly metabolized in the liver; also is metabolized in other organs and cells, including erythrocytes.1 Four main metabolic pathways have been identified.1 Only the metabolite epirubicinol appears to have cytotoxic activity; however, epirubicinol is unlikely to reach in vivo concentrations sufficient to produce cytotoxic effects.1


Elimination Route


Epirubicin and its major metabolites are eliminated in feces via biliary excretion and to a lesser extent in urine.1


Half-life


Plasma concentrations of epirubicin decline in a triphasic manner, with mean half-lives for the α, β, and γ phases of about 3 minutes, 2.5 hours, and 33 hours, respectively.1


Special Populations


Clearance is reduced in geriatric women and in patients with hepatic impairment.1


Stability


Storage


Parenteral


Injection, for IV Use

2–8° C.1 Do not freeze; protect from light.1 Discard unused solution within 24 hours after initial entry into vial.1 HID


Compatibility


For information on systemic interactions resulting from concomitant use, see Interactions.


Parenteral


Incompatible with any alkaline pH solution (hydrolysis of drug).1


Solution CompatibilityHID







Compatible



Dextrose 3.3% in sodium chloride 0.3%



Dextrose 5% in water



Ringer’s injection, lactated



Sodium chloride 0.9%


Drug Compatibility






Admixture Compatibility

Compatible



Ifosfamide



Incompatible



Fluorouracil





Y-Site CompatibilityHID

Compatible



Oxaliplatin


Manufacturer states that epirubicin hydrochloride should not be mixed with other drugs in the same syringe.1









Compatibility in Syringe1HID

Compatible



Ifosfamide



Incompatible



Fluorouracil



Heparin sodium



Ifosfamide with mesna


ActionsActions



  • Pharmacologic actions similar to those of daunorubicin and doxorubicin.1 2 3 4




  • Intercalates between base pairs causing template disordering and steric obstruction; thereby inhibits DNA synthesis, DNA-dependent RNA synthesis, and protein synthesis 1 2 4 and triggers DNA cleavage by topoisomerase II.1 2 3 4 Also inhibits DNA helicase and generates cytotoxic free radicals.1 2 3 4




  • Compared with doxorubicin, is more lipophilic, may have improved therapeutic index, 3 4 and is less toxic;2 3 similar spectrum of activity against a wide variety of solid tumors and hematologic malignancies, and complete cross-resistance.2 3 4



Advice to Patients



  • Importance of recognizing and reporting adverse effects of epirubicin, including GI and myelosuppressive effects (and related precautions), infectious complications, CHF symptoms, and injection site pain.1




  • Risk of irreversible myocardial toxicity and leukemia.1




  • Importance of women informing clinicians immediately if they are or plan to become pregnant or plan to breast-feed; necessity for clinicians to advise women to avoid pregnancy during therapy, advise pregnant women of risk to the fetus, and advise males to utilize effective contraception during therapy.1 Inform women of risk of irreversible amenorrhea or premature menopause.1




  • Importance of patients informing clinicians of existing or contemplated concomitant therapy, including prescription and OTC drugs, as well as concomitant illnesses.1




  • Probable alopecia; reddish appearance of urine for 1–2 days (harmless).1




  • Importance of informing patients of other important precautionary information.1 (See Cautions.)



Preparations


Excipients in commercially available drug preparations may have clinically important effects in some individuals; consult specific product labeling for details.













Epirubicin Hydrochloride

Routes



Dosage Forms



Strengths



Brand Names



Manufacturer



Parenteral



Injection, for IV use only



2 mg/mL (50 and 200 mg)



Ellence (preservative-free)



Pharmacia



Disclaimer

This report on medications is for your information only, and is not considered individual patient advice. Because of the changing nature of drug information, please consult your physician or pharmacist about specific clinical use.


The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com represent that the information provided hereunder was formulated with a reasonable standard of care, and in conformity with professional standards in the field. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com make no representations or warranties, express or implied, including, but not limited to, any implied warranty of merchantability and/or fitness for a particular purpose, with respect to such information and specifically disclaims all such warranties. Users are advised that decisions regarding drug therapy are complex medical decisions requiring the independent, informed decision of an appropriate health care professional, and the information is provided for informational purposes only. The entire monograph for a drug should be reviewed for a thorough understanding of the drug's actions, uses and side effects. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc. and Drugs.com do not endorse or recommend the use of any drug. The information is not a substitute for medical care.

AHFS Drug Information. © Copyright, 1959-2011, Selected Revisions August 2007. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc., 7272 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, Maryland 20814.




References



1. Pharmacia. Ellence (epirubicin hydrochloride) injection prescribing information. Kalamazoo, MI; 2002 Jan.



2. Coukell AJ, Faulds D. Epirubicin: an updated review of its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties and therapeutic efficacy in the management of breast cancer. Drugs. 19997; 53:453-82.



3. Bonadonna G, Giannia L, Santoro A et al. Drugs ten years later: epirubicin. Ann Oncol. 1993; 4:359-69. [PubMed 8353070]



4. Pharmacia & Upjohn Co. Oncologic Drugs Advisory Committee (ODAC) brochure: NDA 21-010, epirubicin hydrochloride injection, amendment 019. Kalamazoo, MI; 1999 Jun 7.



5. Anon. Drugs of choice for cancer chemotherapy. Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2000; 42:83-92. [PubMed 10994034]



HID. Trissel LA. Handbook on injectable drugs. 14th ed. Bethesda, MD: American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc; 2007:626-8.



More Epirubicin Hydrochloride resources


  • Epirubicin Hydrochloride Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Epirubicin Hydrochloride Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Epirubicin Hydrochloride Drug Interactions
  • Epirubicin Hydrochloride Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Epirubicin Hydrochloride - Add your own review/rating


  • Epirubicin Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Ellence Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Ellence Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Ellence MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Ellence Consumer Overview



Compare Epirubicin Hydrochloride with other medications


  • Breast Cancer, Adjuvant

Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day


Generic Name: clotrimazole vaginal (kloe TRIM a zole)

Brand Names: Clotrimazole-3, Clotrimazole-7, Femcare, Gyne-Lotrimin, Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day, Gyne-Lotrimin Combo Pack


What is Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?

Clotrimazole is an antifungal antibiotic that fights infections caused by fungus.


Clotrimazole vaginal is used to treat vaginal candida (yeast) infections.


Clotrimazole vaginal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?


You should not use clotrimazole vaginal if you are allergic to it.

Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time, even during your menstrual period. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared.


Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn't allow air circulation. Wear clothing made of loose cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.


Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?


You should not use clotrimazole vaginal if you are allergic to it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have:

  • fever;




  • stomach pain;




  • foul-smelling vaginal discharge




  • diabetes; or




  • HIV or AIDS.



If this is the first time you have ever had symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection, ask your doctor before using clotrimazole vaginal.


It is not known whether clotrimazole vaginal will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Do not use clotrimazole vaginal without medical advice if you are breast-feeding a baby. Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice.

How should I use Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?


Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.


Wash your hands before and after using this medication.

Insert the tablet, suppository, or cream into the vagina using the applicator as directed.


Use this medication for the full prescribed length of time, even during your menstrual period. Your symptoms may improve before the infection is completely cleared. If the infection does not clear up, or if it appears to get worse, see your doctor.


You can use a sanitary napkin to prevent the medication from staining your clothing but do not use a tampon.


Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?


Use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?


Avoid getting this medication in your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting, synthetic clothing that doesn't allow air circulation. Wear clothing made of loose cotton and other natural fibers until the infection is healed.


Avoid sexual intercourse or use a condom to prevent the infection from spreading to your partner.


Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Less serious side effects are more likely, and you may have none at all.


This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day (clotrimazole vaginal)?


There may be other drugs that can interact with clotrimazole vaginal. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day resources


  • Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day Support Group
  • 0 Reviews for Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day - Add your own review/rating


  • Canesten Topical Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

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  • Mycelex Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day with other medications


  • Vaginal Yeast Infection


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about clotrimazole vaginal.

See also: Gyne-Lotrimin 3 Day side effects (in more detail)


Fluvoxamine





Dosage Form: tablet
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
Suicidality and Antidepressant Drugs

Antidepressants increased the risk compared to placebo of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets or any other antidepressant in a child, adolescent, or young adult must balance this risk with the clinical need. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior. Families and caregivers should be advised of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets are not approved for use in pediatric patients except for patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS-Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk [5.1].)




Indications and Usage for Fluvoxamine



Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder


Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, USP are indicated for the treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), as defined in DSM-III-R or DSM-IV. The obsessions or compulsions cause marked distress, are time-consuming, or significantly interfere with social or occupational functioning.


Obsessive compulsive disorder is characterized by recurrent and persistent ideas, thoughts, impulses or images (obsessions) that are ego-dystonic and/or repetitive, purposeful, and intentional behaviors (compulsions) that are recognized by the person as excessive or unreasonable.


The efficacy of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, USP was established in three trials in outpatients with OCD: two 10-week trials in adults, one 10-week trial in pediatric patients (ages 8-17). (See CLINICAL STUDIES [14].)



Fluvoxamine Dosage and Administration



Adults


The recommended starting dose for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in adult patients is 50 mg, administered as a single daily dose at bedtime. In the controlled clinical trials establishing the effectiveness of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in OCD, patients were titrated within a dose range of 100 to 300 mg/day. Consequently, the dose should be increased in 50 mg increments every 4 to 7 days, as tolerated, until maximum therapeutic benefit is achieved, not to exceed 300 mg per day. It is advisable that a total daily dose of more than 100 mg should be given in two divided doses. If the doses are not equal, the larger dose should be given at bedtime.



Pediatric Population (children and adolescents)


The recommended starting dose for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in pediatric populations (ages 8-17 years) is 25 mg, administered as a single daily dose at bedtime. In a controlled clinical trial establishing the effectiveness of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in OCD, pediatric patients (ages 8-17) were titrated within a dose range of 50 to 200 mg/day. Physicians should consider age and gender differences when dosing pediatric patients. The maximum dose in children up to age 11 should not exceed 200 mg/day. Therapeutic effect in female children may be achieved with lower doses. Dose adjustment in adolescents (up to the adult maximum dose of 300 mg) may be indicated to achieve therapeutic benefit. The dose should be increased in 25 mg increments every 4 to 7 days, as tolerated, until maximum therapeutic benefit is achieved. It is advisable that a total daily dose of more then 50 mg should be given in two divided doses. If the two divided doses are not equal, the larger dose should be given at bedtime.



Elderly or Hepatically Impaired Patients


Elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment have been observed to have a decreased clearance of Fluvoxamine maleate. Consequently, it may be appropriate to modify the initial dose and the subsequent dose titration for these patient groups.



Pregnant Women During the Third Trimester


Neonates exposed to Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and other SSRIs or SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding and may be at risk for persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). (See USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS [8.1].) When treating pregnant women with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. The physician may consider tapering Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in the third trimester.



Switching Patients To or From a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor


At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of an MAOI and initiation of therapy with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets. Similarly, at least 14 days should be allowed after stopping Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets before starting an MAOI.



Discontinuation of Treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets


Symptoms associated with discontinuation of other SSRIs or SNRIs have been reported. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS [5.9].) Patients should be monitored for these symptoms when discontinuing treatment. A gradual reduction in the dose rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose but at a more gradual rate.



Dosage Forms and Strengths


Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, USP are available as:


Tablets 25 mg: oval, beige, biconvex film-coated tablets with “357” debossed on one side and plain on the other side


Tablets 50 mg: oval, yellow, biconvex film-coated tablets with “361” debossed on one side and scored on the other side


Tablets 100 mg: oval, red, biconvex film-coated tablets with “362” debossed on one side and scored on the other side



Contraindications


Coadministration of tizanidine, thioridazine, alosetron, or pimozide with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets is contraindicated. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS [5.4-5.7].)


The use of MAOIs concomitantly with or within 14 days of treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets is contraindicated. (See WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS [5.2].)



Warnings and Precautions



Clinical Worsening and Suicide Risk


Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications, and this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. There has been a long-standing concern, however, that antidepressants may have a role in inducing worsening of depression and the emergence of suicidality in certain patients during the early phases of treatment. Pooled analyses of short-term placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) showed that these drugs increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18-24) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older.


The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents with MDD, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 24 short-term trials of 9 antidepressant drugs in over 4400 patients. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in adults with MDD or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 295 short-term trials (median duration of 2 months) of 11 antidepressant drugs in over 77,000 patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidality among drugs, but a tendency toward an increase in the younger patients for almost all drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidality across the different indications, with the highest incidence in MDD. The risk differences (drug vs placebo), however, were relatively stable within age strata and across indications. These risk differences (drug-placebo difference in the number of cases of suicidality per 1000 patients treated) are provided in Table 1.















TABLE 1 DRUG-PLACEBO DIFFERENCES IN NUMBER OF CASES OF SUICIDALITY PER 1000 PATIENTS TREATED
  Age Range  Increases Compared to Placebo
<1814 ADDITIONAL CASES
18-245 ADDITIONAL CASES
Age RangeDecreases Compared to Placebo
25-641 FEWER CASE
≥656 FEWER CASES

No suicides occurred in any of the pediatric trials. There were suicides in the adult trials, but the number was not sufficient to reach any conclusion about the drug effect on suicide.


It is unknown whether the suicidality risk extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond several months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with depression that the use of antidepressants can delay the recurrence of depression.


All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases.


The following symptoms, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, and mania, have been reported in adult and pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants for major depressive disorder as well as for other indications, both psychiatric and nonpsychiatric. Although a causal link between the emergence of such symptoms and either the worsening of depression and/or the emergence of suicidal impulses has not been established, there is concern that such symptoms may represent precursors to emerging suicidality.


Consideration should be given to changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing the medication, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidality or symptoms that might be precursors to worsening depression or suicidality, especially if these symptoms are severe, abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient’s presenting symptoms.


If the decision has been made to discontinue treatment, medication should be tapered, as rapidly as is feasible, but with recognition that abrupt discontinuation can be associated with certain symptoms (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION – Discontinuation of Treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets [5.9], for a description of the risks of discontinuation of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets).


Families and caregivers of patients being treated with antidepressants for major depressive disorder or other indications, both psychiatric and nonpsychiatric, should be alerted about the need to monitor patients for the emergence of agitation, irritability, unusual changes in behavior, and the other symptoms described above, as well as the emergence of suicidality, and to report such symptoms immediately to healthcare providers. Such monitoring should include daily observation by families and caregivers. Prescriptions for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets should be written for the smallest quantity of tablets consistent with good patient management, in order to reduce the risk of overdose.


Screening Patients for Bipolar Disorder: A major depressive episode may be the initial presentation of bipolar disorder. It is generally believed (though not established in controlled trials) that treating such an episode with an antidepressant alone may increase the likelihood of precipitation of a mixed/manic episode in patients at risk for bipolar disorder. Whether any of the symptoms described above represent such a conversion is unknown. However, prior to initiating treatment with an antidepressant, patients with depressive symptoms should be adequately screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder; such screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression. It should be noted that Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets are not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.



Potential for Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Interaction


In patients receiving another serotonin reuptake inhibitor drug in combination with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), there have been reports of serious, sometimes fatal, reactions including hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability with possible rapid fluctuations of vital signs, and mental status changes that include extreme agitation progressing to delirium and coma. These reactions have also been reported in patients who have discontinued that drug and have been started on an MAOI. Some cases presented with features resembling a serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant syndrome.

Therefore, Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets should not be used in combination with an MAOI, or within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with an MAOI. Similarly, at least 14 days should be allowed after stopping Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets before starting an MAOI. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION [2.5] and CONTRAINDICATIONS [4].)



Serotonin Syndrome or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)-like Reactions


The development of a potentially life-threatening serotonin syndrome or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)-like reactions have been reported with SNRIs and SSRIs alone, including Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets treatment, but particularly with concomitant use of serotonergic drugs (including triptans) with drugs which impair metabolism of serotonin (including MAOIs), or with antipsychotics or other dopamine antagonists. Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, hyperthermia), neuromuscular aberrations (e.g., hyperreflexia, incoordination) and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Serotonin syndrome, in its most severe form can resemble neuroleptic malignant syndrome, which includes hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, autonomic instability with possible rapid fluctuation of vital signs, and mental status changes. Patients should be monitored for the emergence of serotonin syndrome or NMS-like signs and symptoms.


The concomitant use of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets with MAOIs intended to treat depression is contraindicated.


If concomitant treatment of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets with a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor agonist (triptan) is clinically warranted, careful observation of the patient is advised, particularly during treatment initiation and dose increases.


The concomitant use of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets with serotonin precursors (such as tryptophan) is not recommended.

Treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and any concomitant serotonergic or antidopaminergic agents, including antipsychotics, should be discontinued immediately if the above events occur and supportive symptomatic treatment should be initiated.



Potential Thioridazine Interaction


The effect of Fluvoxamine (25 mg b.i.d. for one week) on thioridazine steady-state concentrations was evaluated in 10 male inpatients with schizophrenia. Concentrations of thioridazine and its two active metabolites, mesoridazine and sulforidazine, increased threefold following coadministration of Fluvoxamine.


Thioridazine administration produces a dose-related prolongation of the QTc interval, which is associated with serious ventricular arrhythmias, such as torsades de pointes-type arrhythmias, and sudden death. It is likely that this experience underestimates the degree of risk that might occur with higher doses of thioridazine. Moreover, the effect of Fluvoxamine may be even more pronounced when it is administered at higher doses.


Therefore, Fluvoxamine and thioridazine should not be coadministered. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS [4].)



Potential Tizanidine Interaction


Fluvoxamine is a potent inhibitor of CYP1A2 and tizanidine is a CYP1A2 substrate. The effect of Fluvoxamine (100 mg daily for 4 days) on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of a single 4 mg dose of tizanidine has been studied in 10 healthy male subjects. Tizanidine Cmax was increased approximately 12-fold (range 5-fold to 32-fold), elimination half-life was increased by almost 3-fold, and AUC increased 33-fold (range 14-fold to 103-fold). The mean maximal effect on blood pressure was a 35 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure, a 20 mm Hg decrease in diastolic blood pressure, and a 4 beat/min decrease in heart rate. Drowsiness was significantly increased and performance on the psychomotor task was significantly impaired. Fluvoxamine and tizanidine should not be used together. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS [4].)



Potential Pimozide Interaction


Pimozide is metabolized by the cytochrome P4503A4 isoenzyme, and it has been demonstrated that ketoconazole, a potent inhibitor of CYP3A4, blocks the metabolism of this drug, resulting in increased plasma concentrations of parent drug. An increased plasma concentration of pimozide causes QT prolongation and has been associated with torsades de pointes-type ventricular tachycardia, sometimes fatal. As noted below, a substantial pharmacokinetic interaction has been observed for Fluvoxamine in combination with alprazolam, a drug that is known to be metabolized by CYP3A4. Although it has not been definitively demonstrated that Fluvoxamine is a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, it is likely to be, given the substantial interaction of Fluvoxamine with alprazolam. Consequently, it is recommended that Fluvoxamine not be used in combination with pimozide. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS [4].)



Potential Alosetron Interaction


Because alosetron is metabolized by a variety of hepatic CYP drug metabolizing enzymes, inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes may change the clearance of alosetron. Fluvoxamine is a known potent inhibitor of CYP1A2 and also inhibits CYP3A4, CYP2C9, and CYP2C19. In a pharmacokinetic study, 40 healthy female subjects received Fluvoxamine in escalating doses from 50 mg to 200 mg a day for 16 days, with coadministration of alosetron 1 mg on the last day. Fluvoxamine increased mean alosetron plasma concentration (AUC) approximately 6-fold and prolonged the half-life by approximately 3-fold. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS [4] and LotronexTM (alosetron) package insert.)



Other Potentially Important Drug Interactions


Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines metabolized by hepatic oxidation (e.g., alprazolam, midazolam, triazolam, etc.) should be used with caution because the clearance of these drugs is likely to be reduced by Fluvoxamine. The clearance of benzodiazepines metabolized by glucuronidation (e.g., lorazepam, oxazepam, temazepam) is unlikely to be affected by Fluvoxamine.


Alprazolam -When Fluvoxamine maleate (100 mg q.d.) and alprazolam (1 mg q.i.d.) were coadministered to steady state, plasma concentrations and other pharmacokinetic parameters (AUC, Cmax, T1/2) of alprazolam were approximately twice those observed when alprazolam was administered alone; oral clearance was reduced by about 50%. The elevated plasma alprazolam concentrations resulted in decreased psychomotor performance and memory. This interaction, which has not been investigated using higher doses of Fluvoxamine, may be more pronounced if a 300 mg daily dose is coadministered, particularly since Fluvoxamine exhibits non-linear pharmacokinetics over the dosage range 100-300 mg. If alprazolam is coadministered with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, the initial alprazolam dosage should be at least halved and titration to the lowest effective dose is recommended. No dosage adjustment is required for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets.


Diazepam - The coadministration of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and diazepam is generally not advisable. Because Fluvoxamine reduces the clearance of both diazepam and its active metabolite, N-desmethyldiazepam, there is a strong likelihood of substantial accumulation of both species during chronic coadministration.


Evidence supporting the conclusion that it is inadvisable to coadminister Fluvoxamine and diazepam is derived from a study in which healthy volunteers taking 150 mg/day of Fluvoxamine were administered a single oral dose of 10 mg of diazepam. In these subjects (N=8), the clearance of diazepam was reduced by 65% and that of N-desmethyldiazepam to a level that was too low to measure over the course of the 2 week long study.


It is likely that this experience significantly underestimates the degree of accumulation that might occur with repeated diazepam administration. Moreover, as noted with alprazolam, the effect of Fluvoxamine may even be more pronounced when it is administered at higher doses.


Accordingly, diazepam and Fluvoxamine should not ordinarily be coadministered.


Clozapine: Elevated serum levels of clozapine have been reported in patients taking Fluvoxamine maleate and clozapine. Since clozapine-related seizures and orthostatic hypotension appear to be dose related, the risk of these adverse events may be higher when Fluvoxamine and clozapine are coadministered. Patients should be closely monitored when Fluvoxamine maleate and clozapine are used concurrently.


Methadone: Significantly increased methadone (plasma level:dose) ratios have been reported when Fluvoxamine maleate was administered to patients receiving maintenance methadone treatment, with symptoms of opioid intoxication in one patient. Opioid withdrawal symptoms were reported following Fluvoxamine maleate discontinuation in another patient.


Mexiletine: The effect of steady-state Fluvoxamine (50 mg b.i.d. for 7 days) on the single dose pharmacokinetics of mexiletine (200 mg) was evaluated in 6 healthy Japanese males. The clearance of mexiletine was reduced by 38% following coadministration with Fluvoxamine compared to mexiletine alone. If Fluvoxamine and mexiletine are coadministered, serum mexiletine levels should be monitored.


Ramelteon: When Fluvoxamine 100 mg twice daily was administered for 3 days prior to single-dose coadministration of ramelteon 16 mg and Fluvoxamine, the AUC for ramelteon increased approximately 190-fold and the Cmax increased approximately 70-fold compared to ramelteon administered alone. Ramelteon should not be used in combination with Fluvoxamine.


Theophylline: The effect of steady-state Fluvoxamine (50 mg bid) on the pharmacokinetics of a single dose of theophylline (375 mg as 442 mg aminophylline) was evaluated in 12 healthy non-smoking, male volunteers. The clearance of theophylline was decreased approximately 3-fold. Therefore, if theophylline is coadministered with Fluvoxamine maleate, its dose should be reduced to one-third of the usual daily maintenance dose and plasma concentrations of theophylline should be monitored. No dosage adjustment is required for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets.


Warfarin and Other Drugs That Interfere With Hemostasis (NSAIDs, Aspirin, etc.): Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies of the case-control and cohort design have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. These studies have also shown that concurrent use of an NSAID or aspirin may potentiate this risk of bleeding. Thus, patients should be cautioned about the use of such drugs concurrently with Fluvoxamine (see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, Abnormal Bleeding [5.10]).


Warfarin - When Fluvoxamine maleate (50 mg t.i.d.) was administered concomitantly with warfarin for two weeks, warfarin plasma concentrations increased by 98% and prothrombin times were prolonged. Thus patients receiving oral anticoagulants and Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets should have their prothrombin time monitored and their anticoagulant dose adjusted accordingly. No dosage adjustment is required for Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets.



Discontinuation of Treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets


During marketing of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and other SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), there have been spontaneous reports of adverse events occurring upon discontinuation of these drugs, particularly when abrupt, including the following: dysphoric mood, irritability, agitation, dizziness, sensory disturbances (e.g., paresthesias, such as electric shock sensations), anxiety, confusion, headache, lethargy, emotional lability, insomnia, and hypomania. While these events are generally self-limiting, there have been reports of serious discontinuation symptoms.


Patients should be monitored for these symptoms when discontinuing treatment with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets. A gradual reduction in the dose rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose but at a more gradual rate. (See DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION [2.7].)



Abnormal Bleeding


SSRIs and SNRIs, including Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may add to this risk. Case reports and epidemiological studies (case-control and cohort design) have demonstrated an association between use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding. Bleeding events related to SSRIs and SNRIs have ranged from ecchymoses, hematomas, epistaxis, and petechiae to life-threatening hemorrhages.


Patients should be cautioned about the risk of bleeding associated with the concomitant use of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and NSAIDs, aspirin, or other drugs that affect coagulation [see section 5.8].



Activation of Mania/Hypomania


During premarketing studies involving primarily depressed patients, hypomania or mania occurred in approximately 1% of patients treated with Fluvoxamine. In a ten week pediatric OCD study, 2 out of 57 patients (4%) treated with Fluvoxamine experienced manic reactions, compared to none of 63 placebo patients. Activation of mania/hypomania has also been reported in a small proportion of patients with major affective disorder who were treated with other marketed antidepressants. As with all antidepressants, Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets should be used cautiously in patients with a history of mania.



Seizures


During premarketing studies, seizures were reported in 0.2% of Fluvoxamine-treated patients. Caution is recommended when the drug is administered to patients with a history of convulsive disorders. Fluvoxamine should be avoided in patients with unstable epilepsy and patients with controlled epilepsy should be carefully monitored. Treatment with Fluvoxamine should be discontinued if seizures occur or if seizure frequency increases.



Hyponatremia


Hyponatremia may occur as a result of treatment with SSRIs and SNRIs, including Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets. In many cases, this hyponatremia appears to be the result of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Cases with serum sodium lower than 110 mmol/L have been reported. Elderly patients may be at greater risk of developing hyponatremia with SSRIs and SNRIs (see USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATION, Geriatric Use [8.5]). Also, patients taking diuretics or who are otherwise volume depleted may be at greater risk. Discontinuation of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets should be considered in patients with symptomatic hyponatremia and appropriate medical intervention should be instituted.


Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness, and unsteadiness, which may lead to falls. Signs and symptoms associated with more severe and/or acute cases have included hallucination, syncope, seizure, coma, respiratory arrest, and death.



Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness


Closely monitored clinical experience with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in patients with concomitant systemic illness is limited. Caution is advised in administering Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets to patients with diseases or conditions that could affect hemodynamic responses or metabolism.


Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets have not been evaluated or used to any appreciable extent in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable heart disease. Patients with these diagnoses were systematically excluded from many clinical studies during the product’s premarketing testing. Evaluation of the electrocardiograms for patients with depression or OCD who participated in premarketing studies revealed no differences between Fluvoxamine and placebo in the emergence of clinically important ECG changes.


Patients with Hepatic Impairment - In patients with liver dysfunction, Fluvoxamine clearance was decreased by approximately 30%. Patients with liver dysfunction should begin with a low dose of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and increase it slowly with careful monitoring.



Laboratory Tests


There are no specific laboratory tests recommended.



Adverse Reactions



Adverse Reactions Leading to Treatment Discontinuation


Of the 1087 OCD and depressed patients treated with Fluvoxamine maleate in controlled clinical trials in North America, 22% discontinued due to an adverse reaction. Adverse reactions that led to discontinuation in at least 2% of Fluvoxamine maleate-treated patients in these trials were: nausea (9%), insomnia (4%), somnolence (4%), headache (3%), and asthenia, vomiting, nervousness, agitation, and dizziness (2% each).



Incidence in Controlled Trials


Commonly Observed Adverse Reactions in Controlled Clinical Trials: Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets have been studied in 10-week short-term controlled trials of OCD (N=320) and depression (N=1350). In general, adverse reaction rates were similar in the two data sets as well as in the pediatric OCD study. The most commonly observed adverse reactions associated with the use of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets and likely to be drug-related (incidence of 5% or greater and at least twice that for placebo) derived from Table 2 were: nausea, somnolence, insomnia, asthenia, nervousness, dyspepsia, abnormal ejaculation, sweating, anorexia, tremor, and vomiting. In a pool of two studies involving only patients with OCD, the following additional reactions were identified using the above rule: anorgasmia, decreased libido, dry mouth, rhinitis, taste perversion, and urinary frequency. In a study of pediatric patients with OCD, the following additional reactions were identified using the above rule: agitation, depression, dysmenorrhea, flatulence, hyperkinesia, and rash.


Adverse Reactions Occurring at an Incidence of 1%: Table 2 enumerates adverse reactions that occurred in adults at a frequency of 1% or more, and were more frequent than in the placebo group, among patients treated with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in two short-term placebo controlled OCD trials (10 week) and depression trials (6 week) in which patients were dosed in a range of generally 100 to 300 mg/day. This table shows the percentage of patients in each group who had at least one occurrence of a reaction at some time during their treatment. Reported adverse reactions were classified using a standard COSTART-based Dictionary terminology.


The prescriber should be aware that these figures cannot be used to predict the incidence of side effects in the course of usual medical practice where patient characteristics and other factors may differ from those that prevailed in the clinical trials. Similarly, the cited frequencies cannot be compared with figures obtained from other clinical investigations involving different treatments, uses, and investigators. The cited figures, however, do provide the prescribing physician with some basis for estimating the relative contribution of drug and non-drug factors to the side-effect incidence rate in the population studied.


































































































































TABLE 2 TREATMENT-EMERGENT ADVERSE REACTION INCIDENCE RATES BY BODY SYSTEM IN ADULT OCD AND DEPRESSION POPULATIONS COMBINED1
BODY SYSTEM/

ADVERSE REACTION
Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction
Fluvoxamine

N = 892
PLACEBO

N = 778


1Reactions for which Fluvoxamine maleate incidence was equal to or less than placebo are not listed in the table above.

2 Includes “toothache,” “tooth extraction and abscess,” and “caries.”

3 Mostly feeling warm, hot, or flushed.

4 Mostly “blurred vision.”

5 Mostly “delayed ejaculation.”

6 Incidence based on number of male patients.
BODY AS WHOLE
    Headache2220
    Asthenia146
    Flu Syndrome32
    Chills21
CARDIOVASCULAR
    Palpitations32
DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
    Nausea4014
    Diarrhea117
    Constipation108
    Dyspepsia105
    Anorexia62
    Vomiting52
    Flatulence43
    Tooth Disorder231
    Dysphagia21
NERVOUS SYSTEM
    Somnolence228
    Insomnia2110
    Dry Mouth1410
    Nervousness125
    Dizziness116
    Tremor51
    Anxiety53
    Vasodilatation331
    Hypertonia21
    Agitation21
    Decreased Libido21
    Depression21
    CNS Stimulation21
RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
    Upper Respiratory Infection95
    Dyspnea21
    Yawn20
SKIN
    Sweating73
SPECIAL SENSES
    Taste Perversion31
    Amblyopia432
UROGENITAL
    Abnormal Ejaculation5,681
    Urinary Frequency32
    Impotence621
    Anorgasmia20
    Urinary Retention10

 

Adverse Reactions in OCD Placebo Controlled Studies Which are Markedly Different (defined as at least a two-fold difference) in Rate from the Pooled Reaction Rates in OCD and Depression Placebo Controlled Studies: The reactions in OCD studies with a two-fold decrease in rate compared to reaction rates in OCD and depression studies were dysphagia and amblyopia (mostly blurred vision). Additionally, there was an approximate 25% decrease in nausea.


The reactions in OCD studies with a two-fold increase in rate compared to reaction rates in OCD and depression studies were: asthenia, abnormal ejaculation (mostly delayed ejaculation), anxiety, rhinitis, anorgasmia (in males), depression, libido decreased, pharyngitis, agitation, impotence, myoclonus/twitch, thirst, weight loss, leg cramps, myalgia, and urinary retention. These reactions are listed in order of decreasing rates in the OCD trials.



Other Adverse Reactions in OCD Pediatric Population


In pediatric patients (N=57) treated with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets, the overall profile of adverse reactions was generally similar to that seen in adult studies, as shown in Table 2. However, the following adverse reactions, not appearing in Table 2, were reported in two or more of the pediatric patients and were more frequent with Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets than with placebo: cough increase, dysmenorrhea, ecchymosis, emotional lability, epistaxis, hyperkinesia, manic reaction, rash, sinusitis, and weight decrease.



Male and Female Sexual Dysfunction with SSRIs


Although changes in sexual desire, sexual performance and sexual satisfaction often occur as manifestations of a psychiatric disorder and with aging, they may also be a consequence of pharmacologic treatment. In particular, some evidence suggests that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can cause such untoward sexual experiences.


Reliable estimates of the incidence and severity of untoward experiences involving sexual desire, performance and satisfaction are difficult to obtain, however, in part because patients and physicians may be reluctant to discuss them. Accordingly, estimates of the incidence of untoward sexual experience and performance cited in product labeling are likely to underestimate their actual incidence.


Table 3 displays the incidence of sexual side effects reported by at least 2% of patients taking Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets in placebo-controlled trials in depression and OCD.



















TABLE 3 PERCENTAGE OF PATIENTS REPORTING SEXUAL ADVERSE REACTIONS IN ADULT PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIALS IN OCD AND DEPRESSION  
  Fluvoxamine Maleate  

  Tablets  

N = 892
   Placebo  

N = 778
* Based on the number of male patients.
     Abnormal Ejaculation*   8%1%
     Impotence*   2%1%
     Decreased Libido   2%1%
     Anorgasmia   2%0%

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies examining sexual dysfunction with Fluvoxamine treatment.


Fluvoxamine treatment has been associated with several cases of priapism. In those cases with a known outcome, patients recovered without sequelae and upon discontinuation of Fluvoxamine.


While it is difficult to know the precise risk of sexual dysfunction associated with the use of SSRIs, physicians should routinely inquire about such possible side effects.



Vital Sign Changes


Comparisons of Fluvoxamine maleate and placebo groups in separate pools of short-term OCD and depression trials on (1) median change from baseline on various vital signs variables and on (2) incidence of patients meeting criteria for potentially important changes from baseline on various vital signs variables revealed no important differences between Fluvoxamine maleate and placebo.



Laboratory Changes


Comparisons of Fluvoxamine maleate and placebo groups in separate pools of short-term OCD and depression trials on (1) median change from baseline on various serum chemistry, hematology, and urinalysis variables and on (2) incidence of patients meeting crit

Sunday, 25 March 2012

Lansoprazole




FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION

Indications and Usage for Lansoprazole



Short-Term Treatment of Active Duodenal Ulcer


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for short-term treatment (for 4 weeks) for healing and symptom relief of active duodenal ulcer. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



H. pylori Eradication to Reduce the Risk of Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence


Triple Therapy

Lansoprazole/amoxicillin/clarithromycin


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules in combination with amoxicillin plus clarithromycin as triple therapy is indicated for the treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or one year history of a duodenal ulcer) to eradicate H. pylori. Eradication of H. pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence [see Clinical Studies (14)].


Please refer to the full prescribing information for amoxicillin and clarithromycin.


Dual Therapy

Lansoprazole/amoxicillin


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules in combination with amoxicillin as dual therapy is indicated for the treatment of patients with H. pylori infection and duodenal ulcer disease (active or one year history of a duodenal ulcer) who are either allergic or intolerant to clarithromycin or in whom resistance to clarithromycin is known or suspected (see the clarithromycin package insert, MICROBIOLOGY section). Eradication of H. pylori has been shown to reduce the risk of duodenal ulcer recurrence [see Clinical Studies (14)].


Please refer to the full prescribing information for amoxicillin.



Maintenance of Healed Duodenal Ulcers


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated to maintain healing of duodenal ulcers. Controlled studies do not extend beyond 12 months. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Short-Term Treatment of Active Benign Gastric Ulcer


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for short-term treatment (up to 8 weeks) for healing and symptom relief of active benign gastric ulcer. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Healing of NSAID-Associated Gastric Ulcer


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of NSAID-associated gastric ulcer in patients who continue NSAID use. Controlled studies did not extend beyond 8 weeks. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Risk Reduction of NSAID-Associated Gastric Ulcer


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for reducing the risk of NSAID-associated gastric ulcers in patients with a history of a documented gastric ulcer who require the use of an NSAID. Controlled studies did not extend beyond 12 weeks. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)


Short-Term Treatment of Symptomatic GERD

Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of heartburn and other symptoms associated with GERD. [See Clinical Studies (14).]


Short-Term Treatment of Erosive Esophagitis

Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for short-term treatment (up to 8 weeks) for healing and symptom relief of all grades of erosive esophagitis. For patients who do not heal with Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules for 8 weeks (5% to 10%), it may be helpful to give an additional 8 weeks of treatment. If there is a recurrence of erosive esophagitis an additional 8-week course of Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules may be considered. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis (EE)


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated to maintain healing of erosive esophagitis. Controlled studies did not extend beyond 12 months. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions Including Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome (ZES)


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are indicated for the long-term treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions, including Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. [See Clinical Studies (14).]



Lansoprazole Dosage and Administration


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are available as capsules in 15 mg and 30 mg strengths. Directions for use specific to the route and available methods of administration is presented below. Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules should be taken before eating. Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules SHOULD NOT BE CRUSHED OR CHEWED. In the clinical trials, antacids were used concomitantly with Lansoprazole.



Recommended Dose


































































































*

Please refer to amoxicillin and clarithromycin full prescribing information for CONTRAINDICATIONS and WARNINGS, and for information regarding dosing in elderly and renally-impaired patients.


Controlled studies did not extend beyond indicated duration.


For patients who do not heal with Lansoprazole for 8 weeks (5% to 10%), it may be helpful to give an additional 8 weeks of treatment. If there is a recurrence of erosive esophagitis, an additional 8 week course of Lansoprazole may be considered.

§

The Lansoprazole dose was increased (up to 30 mg twice daily) in some pediatric patients after 2 or more weeks of treatment if they remained symptomatic. For pediatric patients unable to swallow an intact capsule please see Administration Options.


Varies with individual patient. Recommended adult starting dose is 60 mg once daily. Doses should be adjusted to individual patient needs and should continue for as long as clinically indicated. Dosages up to 90 mg twice daily have been administered. Daily dose of greater than 120 mg should be administered in divided doses. Some patients with Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome have been treated continuously with Lansoprazole for more than 4 years.

IndicationRecommendedFrequency
Dose
Duodenal Ulcers 
   Short-Term Treatment15 mgOnce daily for 4 weeks
     Maintenance of Healed15 mgOnce daily
H. pylori Eradication to Reduce the Risk of Duodenal Ulcer Recurrence*
     Triple Therapy:
          Lansoprazole Delayed-release Capsules30 mgTwice daily (q12h) for 10 or 14 days
          Amoxicillin1 gramTwice daily (q12h) for 10 or 14 days
          Clarithromycin500 mgTwice daily (q12h) for 10 or 14 days
     Dual Therapy:
          Lansoprazole Delayed-release Capsules30 mgThree times daily (q8h) for 14 days
          Amoxicillin1 gramThree times daily (q8h) for 14 days
Benign Gastric Ulcer
     Short-Term Treatment30 mgOnce daily for up to 8 weeks
NSAID-associated Gastric Ulcer
     Healing30 mgOnce daily for 8 weeks
     Risk Reduction15 mgOnce daily for up to 12 weeks
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
     Short-Term Treatment of Symptomatic GERD15 mgOnce daily for up to 8 weeks
     Short -Term Treatment of Erosive Esophagitis30 mgOnce daily for up to 8 weeks
Pediatric
(1 to 11 years of age)
Short-Term Treatment of Symptomatic GERD and Short-Term Treatment of Erosive Esophagitis
     ≤ 30 kg15 mgOnce daily for up to 12 weeks§
     > 30 kg30 mgOnce daily for up to 12 weeks§
(12 to 17 years of age)
Short-Term Treatment of Symptomatic GERD
     Nonerosive GERD15 mgOnce daily for up to 8 weeks
     Erosive Esophagitis30 mgOnce daily for up to 8 weeks
Maintenance of Healing of Erosive Esophagitis15 mgOnce daily
Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions Including Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome60 mgOnce daily

Patients should be instructed that if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as possible. However, if the next scheduled dose is due, the patient should not take the missed dose and should be instructed to take the next dose on time. Patients should be instructed not to take two doses at one time to make up for a missed dose.



Special Populations


Renal impairment patients and geriatric patients do not require dosage adjustment. However, consider dose adjustment in patients with severe liver impairment. [See Use in Specific Populations (8.5, 8.6 and 8.7).]



Important Administration Information


Administration Options

Lansoprazole Delayed-release Capsules -Oral Administration


  • Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules should be swallowed whole.

  • Alternatively, for patients who have difficulty swallowing capsules, Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules can be opened and administered as follows:
    • Open capsule.

    • Sprinkle intact pellets on one tablespoon of either applesauce, ENSURE® pudding, cottage cheese, yogurt or strained pears.

    • Swallow immediately.


  • Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules may also be emptied into a small volume of either apple juice, orange juice or tomato juice and administered as follows:
    • Open capsule.

    • Sprinkle intact pellets into a small volume of either apple juice, orange juice or tomato juice (60 mL – approximately 2 ounces).

    • Mix briefly.

    • Swallow immediately.

    • To ensure complete delivery of the dose, the glass should be rinsed with two or more volumes of juice and the contents swallowed immediately.


Lansoprazole Delayed-release Capsules -Nasogastric Tube (≥ 16 French) Administration


  • For patients who have a nasogastric tube in place, Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules can be administered as follows:
    • Open capsule.

    • Mix intact pellets into 40 mL of apple juice. DO NOT USE OTHER LIQUIDS.

    • Inject through the nasogastric tube into the stomach.

    • Flush with additional apple juice to clear the tube.


USE IN OTHER FOODS AND LIQUIDS HAS NOT BEEN STUDIED CLINICALLY AND IS THEREFORE NOT RECOMMENDED.



Dosage Forms and Strengths


  • 15 mg capsules have a green opaque cap, green opaque body, hard-shell gelatin capsule filled with white to off-white pellets. The capsule is axially printed with MYLAN over 8015 in black ink on both the cap and body.

  • 30 mg capsules have a pink opaque cap, pink opaque body, hard-shell gelatin capsule filled with white to off-white pellets. The capsule is axially printed with MYLAN over 8030 in black ink on both the cap and the body.


Contraindications


Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules are contraindicated in patients with known severe hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation of Lansoprazole. For information on contraindications for amoxicillin or clarithromycin, refer to their full prescribing information, CONTRAINDICATIONS sections.



Warnings and Precautions



Gastric Malignancy


Symptomatic response to therapy with Lansoprazole does not preclude the presence of gastric malignancy.



Bone Fracture


 Several published observational studies suggest that proton pump inhibitor (PPI) therapy may be associated with an increased risk for osteoporosis-related fractures of the hip, wrist or spine. The risk of fracture was increased in patients who received high-dose, defined as multiple daily doses, and long-term PPI therapy (a year or longer). Patients should use the lowest dose and shortest duration of PPI therapy appropriate to the condition being treated. Patients at risk for osteoporosis-related fractures should be managed according to established treatment guidelines [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Adverse Reactions (6.2)].


 For information on warnings and precautions for amoxicillin or clarithromycin, refer to their full prescribing information, WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS sections.



Hypomagnesemia


 Hypomagnesemia, symptomatic and asymptomatic, has been reported rarely in patients treated with PPIs for at least 3 months, in most cases after a year of therapy. Serious adverse events include tetany, arrhythmias and seizures. In most patients, treatment of hypomagnesemia required magnesium replacement and discontinuation of the PPI.


 For patients expected to be on prolonged treatment or who take PPIs with medications such as digoxin or drugs that may cause hypomagnesemia (e.g., diuretics), health care professionals may consider monitoring magnesium levels prior to initiation of PPI treatment and periodically [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].



Adverse Reactions



Clinical


Worldwide, over 10,000 patients have been treated with Lansoprazole in Phase 2 or Phase 3 clinical trials involving various dosages and durations of treatment. In general, Lansoprazole treatment has been well tolerated in both short-term and long-term trials.


Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.


The following adverse reactions were reported by the treating physician to have a possible or probable relationship to drug in 1% or more of Lansoprazole-treated patients and occurred at a greater rate in Lansoprazole-treated patients than placebo-treated patients in Table 1.































Table 1. Incidence of Possibly or Probably Treatment-Related Adverse Reactions in Short-Term, Placebo-Controlled Lansoprazole Studies
LansoprazolePlacebo
(N = 2,768)(N = 1,023)
Body System/Adverse Event%%
Body as a Whole
     Abdominal Pain2.11.2
Digestive System
     Constipation10.4
     Diarrhea3.82.3
     Nausea1.31.2

 


Headache was also seen at greater than 1% incidence but was more common on placebo. The incidence of diarrhea was similar between patients who received placebo and patients who received 15 mg and 30 mg of Lansoprazole, but higher in the patients who received 60 mg of Lansoprazole (2.9%, 1.4%, 4.2% and 7.4%, respectively).


The most commonly reported possibly or probably treatment-related adverse event during maintenance therapy was diarrhea.


In the risk reduction study of Lansoprazole for NSAID-associated gastric ulcers, the incidence of diarrhea for patients treated with Lansoprazole, misoprostol and placebo was 5%, 22% and 3%, respectively.


Another study for the same indication, where patients took either a COX-2 inhibitor or Lansoprazole and naproxen, demonstrated that the safety profile was similar to the prior study. Additional reactions from this study not previously observed in other clinical trials with Lansoprazole included contusion, duodenitis, epigastric discomfort, esophageal disorder, fatigue, hunger, hiatal hernia, hoarseness, impaired gastric emptying, metaplasia and renal impairment.


Additional adverse experiences occurring in less than 1% of patients or subjects who received Lansoprazole in domestic trials are shown below:


Body as a Whole: abdomen enlarged, allergic reaction, asthenia, back pain, candidiasis, carcinoma, chest pain (not otherwise specified), chills, edema, fever, flu syndrome, halitosis, infection (not otherwise specified), malaise, neck pain, neck rigidity, pain, pelvic pain


Cardiovascular System: angina, arrhythmia, bradycardia, cerebrovascular accident/cerebral infarction, hypertension/hypotension, migraine, myocardial infarction, palpitations, shock (circulatory failure), syncope, tachycardia, vasodilation


Digestive System: abnormal stools, anorexia, bezoar, cardiospasm, cholelithiasis, colitis, dry mouth, dyspepsia, dysphagia, enteritis, eructation, esophageal stenosis, esophageal ulcer, esophagitis, fecal discoloration, flatulence, gastric nodules/fundic gland polyps, gastritis, gastroenteritis, gastrointestinal anomaly, gastrointestinal disorder, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, glossitis, gum hemorrhage, hematemesis, increased appetite, increased salivation, melena, mouth ulceration, nausea and vomiting, nausea and vomiting and diarrhea, gastrointestinal moniliasis, rectal disorder, rectal hemorrhage, stomatitis, tenesmus, thirst, tongue disorder, ulcerative colitis, ulcerative stomatitis


Endocrine System: diabetes mellitus, goiter, hypothyroidism


Hemic and Lymphatic System: anemia, hemolysis, lymphadenopathy


Metabolism and Nutritional Disorders: avitaminosis,  gout, dehydration, hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia, peripheral edema, weight gain/loss


Musculoskeletal System: arthralgia, arthritis, bone disorder, joint disorder, leg cramps, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, myasthenia, ptosis, synovitis


Nervous System: abnormal dreams, agitation, amnesia, anxiety, apathy, confusion, convulsion, dementia, depersonalization, depression, diplopia, dizziness, emotional lability, hallucinations, hemiplegia, hostility aggravated, hyperkinesia, hypertonia, hypesthesia, insomnia, libido decreased/increased, nervousness, neurosis, paresthesia, sleep disorder, somnolence, thinking abnormality, tremor, vertigo


Respiratory System: asthma, bronchitis, cough increased, dyspnea, epistaxis, hemoptysis, hiccup, laryngeal neoplasia, lung fibrosis, pharyngitis, pleural disorder, pneumonia, respiratory disorder, upper respiratory inflammation/infection, rhinitis, sinusitis, stridor


Skin and Appendages: acne, alopecia, contact dermatitis, dry skin, fixed eruption, hair disorder, maculopapular rash, nail disorder, pruritus, rash, skin carcinoma, skin disorder, sweating, urticaria


Special Senses: abnormal vision, amblyopia, blepharitis, blurred vision, cataract, conjunctivitis, deafness, dry eyes, ear/eye disorder, eye pain, glaucoma, otitis media, parosmia, photophobia, retinal degeneration/disorder, taste loss, taste perversion, tinnitus, visual field defect


Urogenital System: abnormal menses, breast enlargement, breast pain, breast tenderness, dysmenorrhea, dysuria, gynecomastia, impotence, kidney calculus, kidney pain, leukorrhea, menorrhagia, menstrual disorder, penis disorder, polyuria, testis disorder, urethral pain, urinary frequency, urinary retention, urinary tract infection, urinary urgency, urination impaired, vaginitis



Post-Marketing Experience


Additional adverse experiences have been reported since Lansoprazole has been marketed. The majority of these cases are foreign-sourced and a relationship to Lansoprazole has not been established. Because these reactions were reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, estimates of frequency cannot be made. These events are listed below by COSTART body system.


Body as a Whole: anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions;


Digestive System: hepatotoxicity, pancreatitis, vomiting;


Hemic and Lymphatic System:  agranulocytosis, aplastic anemia, hemolytic anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenia, and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura;


Metabolism and Nutritional Disorders: hypomagnesemia;


Musculoskeletal System: bone fracture, myositis;


Skin and Appendages: severe dermatologic reactions including erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson Syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (some fatal);


Special Senses: speech disorder;


Urogenital System: interstitial nephritis, urinary retention



Combination Therapy with Amoxicillin and Clarithromycin


In clinical trials using combination therapy with Lansoprazole plus amoxicillin and clarithromycin, and Lansoprazole plus amoxicillin, no adverse reactions peculiar to these drug combinations were observed. Adverse reactions that have occurred have been limited to those that had been previously reported with Lansoprazole, amoxicillin or clarithromycin.


Triple Therapy

Lansoprazole/amoxicillin/clarithromycin


The most frequently reported adverse reactions for patients who received triple therapy for 14 days were diarrhea (7%), headache (6%) and taste perversion (5%). There were no statistically significant differences in the frequency of reported adverse reactions between the 10- and 14-day triple therapy regimens. No treatment-emergent adverse reactions were observed at significantly higher rates with triple therapy than with any dual therapy regimen.


Dual Therapy

Lansoprazole/amoxicillin


The most frequently reported adverse reactions for patients who received Lansoprazole 3 times daily plus amoxicillin 3 times daily dual therapy were diarrhea (8%) and headache (7%). No treatment-emergent adverse reactions were observed at significantly higher rates with Lansoprazole 3 times daily plus amoxicillin 3 times daily dual therapy than with Lansoprazole alone.


For information on adverse reactions with amoxicillin or clarithromycin, refer to their full prescribing information, ADVERSE REACTIONS sections.



Laboratory Values


The following changes in laboratory parameters in patients who received Lansoprazole were reported as adverse reactions:


Abnormal liver function tests, increased SGOT (AST), increased SGPT (ALT), increased creatinine, increased alkaline phosphatase, increased globulins, increased GGTP, increased/decreased/abnormal WBC, abnormal AG ratio, abnormal RBC, bilirubinemia, blood potassium increased, blood urea increased, crystal urine present, eosinophilia, hemoglobin decreased, hyperlipemia, increased/decreased electrolytes, increased/decreased cholesterol, increased glucocorticoids, increased LDH, increased/decreased/abnormal platelets, increased gastrin levels and positive fecal occult blood. Urine abnormalities such as albuminuria, glycosuria, and hematuria were also reported. Additional isolated laboratory abnormalities were reported.


In the placebo controlled studies, when SGOT (AST) and SGPT (ALT) were evaluated, 0.4% (4/978) and 0.4% (11/2,677) patients, who received placebo and Lansoprazole, respectively, had enzyme elevations greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal range at the final treatment visit. None of these patients who received Lansoprazole reported jaundice at any time during the study.


In clinical trials using combination therapy with Lansoprazole plus amoxicillin and clarithromycin, and Lansoprazole plus amoxicillin, no increased laboratory abnormalities particular to these drug combinations were observed.


For information on laboratory value changes with amoxicillin or clarithromycin, refer to their full prescribing information, ADVERSE REACTIONS sections.



Drug Interactions



Drugs with pH-Dependent Absorption Kinetics


Lansoprazole causes long-lasting inhibition of gastric acid secretion. Lansoprazole and other PPIs are likely to substantially decrease the systemic concentrations of the HIV protease inhibitor atazanavir, which is dependent upon the presence of gastric acid for absorption, and may result in a loss of therapeutic effect of atazanavir and the development of HIV resistance. Therefore, Lansoprazole and other PPIs should not be coadministered with atazanavir. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]


Lansoprazole and other PPIs may interfere with the absorption of other drugs where gastric pH is an important determinant of oral bioavailability (e.g., ampicillin esters, digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole). [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).] 



Warfarin


In a study of healthy subjects, coadministration of single or multiple 60 mg doses of Lansoprazole and warfarin did not affect the pharmacokinetics of warfarin nor prothrombin time [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. However, there have been reports of increased INR and prothrombin time in patients receiving PPIs and warfarin concomitantly. Increases in INR and prothrombin time may lead to abnormal bleeding and even death. Patients treated with PPIs and warfarin concomitantly may need to be monitored for increases in INR and prothrombin time. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).] 



Tacrolimus


Concomitant administration of Lansoprazole and tacrolimus may increase whole blood levels of tacrolimus, especially in transplant patients who are intermediate or poor metabolizers of CYP2C19.



Theophylline


A minor increase (10%) in the clearance of theophylline was observed following the administration of Lansoprazole concomitantly with theophylline. Although the magnitude of the effect on theophylline clearance is small, individual patients may require additional titration of their theophylline dosage when Lansoprazole is started or stopped to ensure clinically effective blood levels. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).] 



Clopidogrel


Concomitant administration of Lansoprazole and clopidogrel in healthy subjects had no clinically important effect on exposure to the active metabolite of clopidogrel or clopidogrel-induced platelet inhibition [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. No dose adjustment of clopidogrel is necessary when administered with an approved dose of Lansoprazole.


For information on drug interactions for amoxicillin or clarithromycin, refer to their full prescribing information, DRUG INTERACTIONS sections.



USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS



Pregnancy


Teratogenic effects

Pregnancy Category B


Reproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats at oral doses up to 40 times the recommended human dose and in pregnant rabbits at oral doses up to 16 times the recommended human dose and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to Lansoprazole. There are, however, no adequate or well controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)].


See full prescribing information for clarithromycin before using in pregnant women.



Nursing Mothers


Lansoprazole or its metabolites are excreted in the milk of rats. It is not known whether Lansoprazole is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Lansoprazole, and because of the potential for tumorigenicity shown for Lansoprazole in rat carcinogenicity studies, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue Lansoprazole, taking into account the importance of Lansoprazole to the mother.



Pediatric Use


The safety and effectiveness of Lansoprazole have been established in pediatric patients 1 to 17 years of age for short-term treatment of symptomatic GERD and erosive esophagitis.


One to 11 Years of Age

In an uncontrolled, open-label, U.S. multicenter study, 66 pediatric patients (1 to 11 years of age) with GERD were assigned, based on body weight, to receive an initial dose of either Lansoprazole 15 mg daily if < 30 kg or Lansoprazole 30 mg daily if greater than 30 kg administered for 8 to 12 weeks. The Lansoprazole dose was increased (up to 30 mg twice daily) in 24 of 66 pediatric patients after 2 or more weeks of treatment if they remained symptomatic. At baseline 85% of patients had mild to moderate overall GERD symptoms (assessed by investigator interview), 58% had non-erosive GERD and 42% had erosive esophagitis (assessed by endoscopy).


After 8 to 12 weeks of Lansoprazole treatment, the intent-to-treat analysis demonstrated an approximate 50% reduction in frequency and severity of GERD symptoms.


Twenty-one of 27 erosive esophagitis patients were healed at 8 weeks and 100% of patients were healed at 12 weeks by endoscopy (Table 2).

















Table 2. GERD Symptom Improvement and Erosive Esophagitis Healing Rates in Pediatric Patients Age 1 to 11

*

At Week 8 or Week 12


Symptoms assessed by patients diary kept by caregiver.


No data were available for four pediatric patients.

GERDFinal Visit* % (n/N)
Symptomatic GERD
     Improvement in Overall GERD Symptoms76% (47/62)
Erosive Esophagitis
     Improvement in Overall GERD Symptoms 81% (22/27)
     Healing Rate100% (27/27)

 In a study of 66 pediatric patients in the age group 1 year to 11 years old after treatment with Lansoprazole given orally in doses of 15 mg daily to 30 mg twice daily, increases in serum gastrin levels were similar to those observed in adult studies. Median fasting serum gastrin levels increased 89% from 51 pg/mL at baseline to 97 pg/mL [interquartile range (25th to 75th   percentile) of 71 to 130 pg/mL] at the final visit.


The pediatric safety of Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules has been assessed in 66 pediatric patients aged 1 to 11 years of age. Of the 66 patients with GERD 85% (56/66) took Lansoprazole for 8 weeks and 15% (10/66) took it for 12 weeks.


The most frequently reported (two or more patients) treatment-related adverse reactions in patients 1 to 11 years of age (N = 66) were constipation (5%) and headache (3%).


Twelve to 17 Years of Age

In an uncontrolled, open-label, U.S. multicenter study, 87 adolescent patients (12 to 17 years of age) with symptomatic GERD were treated with Lansoprazole for 8 to 12 weeks. Baseline upper endoscopies classified these patients into two groups: 64 (74%) nonerosive GERD and 23 (26%) erosive esophagitis (EE). The nonerosive GERD patients received Lansoprazole 15 mg daily for 8 weeks and the EE patients received Lansoprazole 30 mg daily for 8 to 12 weeks. At baseline, 89% of these patients had mild to moderate overall GERD symptoms (assessed by investigator interviews). During 8 weeks of Lansoprazole treatment, adolescent patients experienced a 63% reduction in frequency and a 69% reduction in severity of GERD symptoms based on diary results.


Twenty-one of 22 (95.5%) adolescent erosive esophagitis patients were healed after 8 weeks of Lansoprazole treatment. One patient remained unhealed after 12 weeks of treatment (Table 3).





















Table 3. GERD Symptom Improvement and Erosive Esophagitis Healing Rates in Pediatric Patients Age 12 to 17

*

Symptoms assessed by patient diary (parents/caregivers as necessary).


No data available for five patients.


Data from one healed patient was excluded from this analysis due to timing of final endoscopy.

GERDFinal Visit % (n/N)
Symptomatic GERD (All Patients)
     Improvement in Overall GERD Symptoms*73.2% (60/82)
Nonerosive GERD
     Improvement in Overall GERD Symptoms*71.2% (42/59) 
Erosive Esophagitis
     Improvement in Overall GERD Symptoms*78.3% (18/23)
     Healing Rate95.5% (21/22)

 


In these 87 adolescent patients, increases in serum gastrin levels were similar to those observed in adult studies, median fasting serum gastrin levels increased 42% from 45 pg/mL at baseline to 64 pg/mL [interquartile range (25th   to 75th   percentile) of 44 to 88 pg/mL] at the final visit. (Normal serum gastrin levels are 25 to 111 pg/mL).


The safety of Lansoprazole delayed-release capsules has been assessed in these 87 adolescent patients. Of the 87 adolescent patients with GERD, 6% (5/87) took Lansoprazole for less than 6 weeks, 93% (81/87) for 6 to 10 weeks, and 1% (1/87) for greater than 10 weeks.


The most frequently reported (at least 3%) treatment-related adverse reactions in these patients were headache (7%), abdominal pain (5%), nausea (3%) and dizziness (3%). Treatment-related dizziness, reported in this package insert as occurring in less than 1% of adult patients, was reported in this study by three adolescent patients with nonerosive GERD, who had dizziness concurrently with other reactions (such as migraine, dyspnea and vomiting).



Geriatric Use


No dosage adjustment of Lansoprazole is necessary in geriatric patients. The incidence rates of Lansoprazole-associated adverse reactions and laboratory test abnormalities are similar to those seen in younger patients. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]



Renal Impairment


No dosage adjustment of Lansoprazole is necessary in patients with renal impairment. The pharmacokinetics of Lansoprazole in patients with various degrees of renal impairment were not substantially different compared to those in subjects with normal renal function. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]



Hepatic Impairment


In patients with various degrees of chronic hepatic impairment, an increase in the mean AUC of up to 500% was observed at steady-state compared to healthy subjects. Consider dose reduction in patients with severe hepatic impairment. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]



Gender


Over 4,000 women were treated with Lansoprazole. Ulcer healing rates in females were similar to those in males. The incidence rates of adverse reactions in females were similar to those seen in males. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]



Race


The pooled mean pharmacokinetic parameters of Lansoprazole from 12 U.S. Phase 1 studies (N = 513) were compared to the mean pharmacokinetic parameters from two Asian studies (N = 20). The mean AUCs of Lansoprazole in Asian subjects were approximately twice those seen in pooled U.S. data; however, the inter-individual variability was high. The Cmax values were comparable.