IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTION
SOLIRIS® increases the risk of meningococcal infections.
Patients should be vaccinated with a meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of SOLIRIS. Revaccinate according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use.
Patients should be monitored closely for early signs of meningococcal infections and evaluated immediately if infection is suspected, and treated with antibiotics if necessary. ----------------------------------------------- 日前,美国FDA正式批准Alexion制药公司的Soliris(又名Eculizumab)用于治疗阵发性睡眠性血红蛋白尿症(PNH),这是目前为止获得FDA批准的唯一一个用于治疗这种罕见血液系统疾病的药物。 阵发性睡眠性血红蛋白尿症是一种以血管内溶血、静脉血栓以及骨髓衰竭为主要表现的后天获得性溶血性疾病,一般多见于成人。患者通常会出现反复的血红蛋白尿,甚至持久的贫血。同时,按照病情严重程度的不同,还会表现出疼痛、体虚乏力、输血需求加大、凝血增多、致死性中风、心脏病以及肠道疾病等。 Soliris是一种特异性针对C5补体的重组人源性单克隆抗体。研究表明:尽管Soliris无法彻底治愈PNH,但是它通过与C5补体结合,阻止补体终末复合物的活化,从而延长了红细胞的寿命,起到治疗PNH的效果。 然而,研究也发现:由于Soliris阻断了机体正常的免疫系统,因此增加了患者对感染(特别是脑膜炎球菌感染)的敏感性。在Soliris的临床实验中,脑膜炎感染是患者表现出的最主要的副作用。为了预防这一副作用,在一项临床实验中,196名PNH患者都在给予Soliris前预先注射了脑膜炎疫苗。 为了解决这一严重的副作用,相关人员已经制定了一项Soliris特殊危险管理计划。 这一危险管理计划主要包括: (1)在产品标签以及包装盒上特别警示患者在使用Soliris前应该预先注射脑膜炎球菌疫苗,并在产品标签上列出详尽的患者用药说明; (2)对医生开展有关Soliris使用方面的教育培训。 目前,PNH在美国的患病率非常低,只有百万分之一。因此,Soliris是被FDA作为罕用药物批准的,而依照美国《罕用药物法案》的规定,获得批准生产这一罕用药物的Alexion制药公司将享有长达七年的对Soliris的市场独占权。 ----------------------------------------------- FDA批准治疗罕见血液病的新药Eculizumab 美国FDA批准治疗罕见血液病阵发性夜间血尿症(PNH)的新药Eculizumab(或叫Soliris)。PNH可导致残疾或早期死亡。这种药物分子中含有的一种活性成份是美国以前未上市的成份。这种药物治疗与输血不同。 PNH是一种成年人疾病。红细胞不正常。一旦这些不正常的红细胞在血流中出现,就可能出现溶血。可导致贫血。根据严重程度不同,患者要忍受不同程度的疼痛,疲劳和虚弱-这就需要对患者频繁输血。Soliris适用于降低溶血率。 Soliris生产企业Alexion。 ------------------------------------------------ 人源型抗C5单克隆抗体Eculizumab Eculizumab(h5G1.1)是抑制末端补体成分活化的重组人源型单克隆抗体,其能特异性地键合到人末端补体蛋白C5,通过抑制人补体C5向C5a和C5b的裂解以阻断炎症因子C5a的释放及C5b-9的形成.临床前研究表明该抗体对C5有高度亲和力,能阻断C5a和C5b-9的形成,并保护哺乳动物细胞不受C5b-9介导的损伤。 ------------------------------------------------ Eculizumab可以安全、有效地用于PNH病人
2月5日《新英格兰医学杂志》(N Engl J Med 2004;350:537-538,552-559)上发表的一项报告表明,Eculizumab――一种阻断终末补体成份激活的抗体,可以安全地治疗阵发性睡眠性血红蛋白尿症(PNH,引起溶血,因此需要输血)。
PNH起因于一种基因突变,以致血细胞对补体系统的破坏更为敏感,引起溶血和血红蛋白尿,通常在夜晚加重,因为此时血液PH的变化让补体更加活跃。英国利兹教学医院的希尔曼(Peter Hillmen)和同事检测了11位病人用eculizumab治疗(每周输液600mg,连续4周,然后每半周输900mg,超过8周)的效果。
治疗减少了溶血,表现为乳酸脱氢酶下降(p = 0.002),PNH型红细胞的百分比降低(p = 0.005)。在开始eculizumab治疗前,每位病人平均每月需要输2.1单位的血,治疗后显著下降到只需0.6单位。其它有显著意义的临床益处包括:血红蛋白尿的发作下降96%,生活品质改善。尽管试验期间所有病人至少都有一次不良事件发生,但都不是eculizumab引起的。
“这些结果不仅证实PNH病人的溶血性贫血与补体有关,而且也指出本病可能还有其它治疗方法”,本杂志的副总编斯奇沃斯(Robert S. Schwartz)在相关评论中说,但本研究还没回答某些问题,如eculizumab应用多长时间,以及本药是否可改善骨髓功能。
【原产地英文商品名】SOLIRIS 300mg/30mL Vial 【原产地英文药品名】Eculizumab 【中文参考商品译名】SOLIRIS 300毫克/30毫升瓶 【中文参考药品译名】人源型抗C5单克隆抗体 【生产厂家英文名】Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc
SOLIRIS(Eculizumab) SOLIRIS (eculizumab) injection [Alexion Pharmaceuticals] HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION These highlights do not include all the information needed to use Soliris safely and effectively. See full prescribing information for Soliris. Soliris® (eculizumab) Concentrated solution for intravenous infusion Initial U.S. Approval: 2007
WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning Soliris increases the risk of meningococcal infections. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early (5.1).
Vaccinate patients with a meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris; revaccinate according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use. Monitor patients for early signs of meningococcal infections, evaluate immediately if infection is suspected, and treat with antibiotics if necessary. |
INDICATIONS AND USAGE Soliris is a complement inhibitor indicated for the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis (1). DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage Regimen: (2.1) 600 mg via 35 minute intravenous infusion every 7 days for the first 4 weeks, followed by 900 mg for the fifth dose 7 days later, then 900 mg every 14 days thereafter Administration: (2.2, 2.3) Do not administer as an intravenous push or bolus. Dilute to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL prior to administration. Administer by intravenous infusion over 35 minutes. DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS 300 mg single-use vials each containing 30 mL of 10 mg/mL sterile, preservative-free solution (3).
CONTRAINDICATIONS Do not initiate Soliris therapy in patients: with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection (4). who are not currently vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis (4). WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Other Infections: Use caution when administering Soliris to patients with any systemic infection (5.2). Monitoring After Soliris Discontinuation: Soliris increases the number of PNH red blood cells (RBCs). All patients who discontinue Soliris therapy should be monitored for signs and symptoms of intravascular hemolysis, including evaluation of serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels (5.3). ADVERSE REACTIONS The most frequently reported adverse reactions (≥10% overall and greater than placebo) are: headache, nasopharyngitis, back pain and nausea (6).
See 17 for PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION and the FDA-approved Medication Guide
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
WARNING: SERIOUS MENINGOCOCCAL INFECTIONS Soliris increases the risk of meningococcal infections. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early (5.1).
Vaccinate patients with a meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris; revaccinate according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use. Monitor patients for early signs of meningococcal infections, evaluate immediately if infection is suspected, and treat with antibiotics if necessary. | 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE
Soliris is indicated for the treatment of patients with paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) to reduce hemolysis.
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Patients must be administered a meningococcal vaccine at least two weeks prior to initiation of Soliris therapy and revaccinated according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
2.1 Recommended Dosage Regimen
Soliris therapy consists of:
- 600 mg every 7 days for the first 4 weeks, followed by
- 900 mg for the fifth dose 7 days later, then
- 900 mg every 14 days thereafter.
Soliris should be administered at the recommended dosage regimen time points, or within two days of these time points. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
2.2 Preparation for Administration
Soliris must be diluted to a final admixture concentration of 5 mg/mL using the following steps:
- Withdraw the required amount of Soliris from the vial into a sterile syringe.
- Transfer the recommended dose to an infusion bag.
- Dilute Soliris to a final concentration of 5 mg/mL by adding the appropriate amount (equal volume of diluent to drug volume) of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP; 0.45% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP; 5% Dextrose in Water Injection, USP; or Ringer’s Injection, USP to the infusion bag.
The final admixed Soliris 5 mg/mL infusion volume is 120 mL for 600 mg doses or 180 mL for 900 mg doses. Gently invert the infusion bag containing the diluted Soliris solution to ensure thorough mixing of the product and diluent. Discard any unused portion left in a vial, as the product contains no preservatives.
Prior to administration, the admixture should be allowed to adjust to room temperature [18°-25° C, 64-77° F]. The admixture must not be heated in a microwave or with any heat source other than ambient air temperature. The Soliris admixture should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.
2.3 Administration
Do Not Administer As An Intravenous Push Or Bolus Injection
The Soliris admixture should be administered by intravenous infusion over 35 minutes via gravity feed, a syringe-type pump, or an infusion pump. Admixed solutions of Soliris are stable for 24 hours at 2-8° C (36-46° F) and at room temperature.
If an adverse reaction occurs during the administration of Soliris, the infusion may be slowed or stopped at the discretion of the physician. If the infusion is slowed, the total infusion time should not exceed two hours. Monitor the patient for at least one hour following completion of the infusion for signs or symptoms of an infusion reaction.
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS
Soliris is supplied as 300 mg single-use vials each containing 30 mL of 10 mg/mL sterile, preservative-free eculizumab solution.
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS
Do not initiate Soliris therapy in patients:
- with unresolved serious Neisseria meningitidis infection.
- who are not currently vaccinated against Neisseria meningitidis.
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS
5.1 Serious Meningococcal Infections
The use of Soliris increases a patient's susceptibility to serious meningococcal infections (septicemia and/or meningitis). All patients without a history of prior meningococcal vaccination must receive the meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris and revaccinated according to current medical guidelines for vaccine use. Quadravalent, conjugated meningococcal vaccines are strongly recommended. Vaccination may not prevent meningococcal infections.
All patients must be monitored for early signs and symptoms of meningococcal infections and evaluated immediately if an infection is suspected. Meningococcal infection may become rapidly life-threatening or fatal if not recognized and treated early. Physicians should strongly consider discontinuation of Soliris during the treatment of serious meningococcal infections.
In clinical studies, 2 out of 196 PNH patients developed serious meningococcal infections while receiving treatment with Soliris; both had been vaccinated [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. In clinical studies among non-PNH patients, meningococcal meningitis occurred in one patient, who was unvaccinated [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
5.2 Other Infections
Soliris blocks terminal complement; therefore patients may have increased susceptibility to infections, especially with encapsulated bacteria. Use caution when administering Soliris to patients with any systemic infection.
5.3 Monitoring After Soliris Discontinuation
Since Soliris therapy increases the number of PNH cells [in study 1, the proportion of PNH RBCs increased among Soliris-treated patients by a median of 28% from baseline (range from -25% to 69%)], patients who discontinue treatment with Soliris may be at increased risk for serious hemolysis. Serious hemolysis is identified by serum LDH levels greater than the pre-treatment level, along with any of the following: greater than 25% absolute decrease in PNH clone size (in the absence of dilution due to transfusion) in one week or less; a hemoglobin level of <5 gm/dL or a decrease of >4 gm/dL in one week or less; angina; change in mental status; a 50% increase in serum creatinine level; or thrombosis. Monitor any patient who discontinues Soliris for at least 8 weeks to detect serious hemolysis and other reactions.
If serious hemolysis occurs after Soliris discontinuation, consider the following procedures/treatments: blood transfusion (packed RBCs), or exchange transfusion if the PNH RBCs are >50% of the total RBCs by flow cytometry; anticoagulation; corticosteroids; or reinstitution of Soliris.
In clinical studies, 16 of 196 PNH patients discontinued treatment with Soliris. Patients were followed for evidence of worsening hemolysis and no serious hemolysis was observed.
5.4 Thrombosis Prevention and Management
The effect of withdrawal of anticoagulant therapy during Soliris treatment has not been established. Therefore, treatment with Soliris should not alter anticoagulant management.
5.5 Laboratory Monitoring
Serum LDH levels increase during hemolysis and may assist in monitoring Soliris effects, including the response to discontinuation of therapy. In clinical studies, six patients achieved a reduction in serum LDH levels only after a decrease in the Soliris dosing interval from 14 to 12 days. All other patients achieved a reduction in serum LDH levels with the 14 day dosing interval [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2) and Clinical Studies (14)].
5.6 Infusion Reactions
As with all protein products, administration of Soliris may result in infusion reactions, including anaphylaxis or other hypersensitivity reactions. In clinical trials, no PNH patients experienced an infusion reaction which required discontinuation of Soliris. Soliris administration should be interrupted in all patients experiencing severe infusion reactions and appropriate medical therapy administered.
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS
6.1 Clinical Trial Experience
Meningococcal infections are the most important adverse reactions experienced by patients receiving Soliris therapy. In PNH clinical studies, two patients experienced meningococcal sepsis. Both patients had previously received a meningococcal vaccine. In clinical studies among patients without PNH, meningococcal meningitis occurred in an unvaccinated patient [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
The data described below reflect exposure to Soliris in 196 adult patients with PNH, age 18-85, of whom 55% were female. All had signs or symptoms of intravascular hemolysis. Soliris was studied in a placebo-controlled clinical study (in which 43 patients received Soliris and 44, placebo); a single arm clinical study and a long term extension study. 182 patients were exposed for greater than one year. All patients received the recommended Soliris dose regimen.
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 practice. Table 1 summarizes the adverse reactions that occurred at a numerically higher rate in the Soliris group than the placebo group and at a rate of 5% or more among patients treated with Soliris.
TABLE 1 ADVERSE REACTIONS REPORTED IN 5% OR MORE OF SOLIRIS TREATED PATIENTS AND GREATER THAN PLACEBO IN THE CONTROLLED CLINICAL STUDY
Reaction |
Soliris
N = 43 N (%) |
Placebo
N = 44 N (%) |
Headache |
19 (44) |
12 (27) |
Nasopharyngitis |
10 (23) |
8 (18) |
Back pain |
8 (19) |
4 (9) |
Nausea |
7 (16) |
5 (11) |
Fatigue |
5 (12) |
1 (2) |
Cough |
5 (12) |
4 (9) |
Herpes simplex infections |
3 (7) |
0 |
Sinusitis |
3 (7) |
0 |
Respiratory tract infection |
3 (7) |
1 (2) |
Constipation |
3 (7) |
2 (5) |
Myalgia |
3 (7) |
1 (2) |
Pain in extremity |
3 (7) |
1 (2) |
Influenza-like illness |
2 (5) |
1 (2) |
In the placebo-controlled clinical study, serious adverse reactions occurred among 4 (9%) patients receiving Soliris and 9 (21%) patients receiving placebo. The serious reactions included infections and progression of PNH. No deaths occurred in the study and no patients receiving Soliris experienced a thrombotic event; one thrombotic event occurred in a patient receiving placebo.
Among 193 patients with PNH treated with Soliris in the single arm, clinical study or the follow-up study, the adverse reactions were similar to those reported in the placebo-controlled clinical study. Serious adverse reactions occurred among 16% of the patients in these studies. The most common serious adverse reactions were: viral infection (2%), headache (2%), anemia (2%), and pyrexia (2%).
6.2 Immunogenicity
As with all proteins there is a potential for immunogenicity. Low titers of antibodies to Soliris were detected in 3/196 (2%) of all PNH patients treated with Soliris. No apparent correlation of antibody development to clinical response was observed. The immunogenicity data reflect the percentage of patients whose test results were considered positive for antibodies to Soliris in an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and are highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody positivity in the assay may be influenced by several factors including sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to Soliris with the incidence of antibodies to other products may be misleading.
6.3 Postmarketing Experience
Cases of serious or fatal meningococcal infections have been reported.
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS
Drug interaction studies have not been performed with Soliris.
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1 Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category C:
PNH is a serious illness. Pregnant women with PNH and their fetuses have high rates of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and the postpartum period. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Soliris in pregnant women. Soliris, a recombinant IgG molecule (humanized anti-C5 antibody), is expected to cross the placenta. Animal studies using a mouse analogue of the Soliris molecule (murine anti-C5 antibody) showed increased rates of developmental abnormalities and an increased rate of dead and moribund offspring at doses 2-8 times the human dose. Soliris should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Animal reproduction studies were conducted in mice using doses of a murine anti-C5 antibody that approximated 2-4 times (low dose) and 4-8 times (high dose) the recommended human Soliris dose, based on a body weight comparison. When animal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from before mating until early gestation, no decrease in fertility or reproductive performance was observed. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred during organogenesis, two cases of retinal dysplasia and one case of umbilical hernia were observed among 230 offspring born to mothers exposed to the higher antibody dose; however, the exposure did not increase fetal loss or neonatal death. When maternal exposure to the antibody occurred in the time period from implantation through weaning, a higher number of male offspring became moribund or died (1/25 controls, 2/25 low dose group, 5/25 high dose group). Surviving offspring had normal development and reproductive performance.
8.2 Labor and Delivery
No information is available on the effects of Soliris during labor and delivery.
8.3 Nursing Mothers
It is not known whether Soliris is secreted into human milk. IgG is excreted in human milk, so it is expected that Soliris will be present in human milk. However, published data suggest that breast milk antibodies do not enter the neonatal and infant circulation in substantial amounts. Caution should be exercised when Soliris is administered to a nursing woman. The unknown risks to the infant from gastrointestinal or limited systemic exposure to Soliris should be weighed against the known benefits of breastfeeding.
8.4 Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of Soliris therapy in pediatric patients below the age of 18 have not been established.
8.5 Geriatric Use
In PNH studies, 15 patients 65 years of age or older were treated with Soliris. Although there were no apparent age-related differences observed in these studies, the number of patients aged 65 and over is not sufficient to determine whether they respond differently from younger patients.
10 OVERDOSAGE
No cases of Soliris overdose have been reported during clinical studies.
11 DESCRIPTION
Soliris is a formulation of eculizumab which is a recombinant humanized monoclonal IgG2/4κ antibody produced by murine myeloma cell culture and purified by standard bioprocess technology. Eculizumab contains human constant regions from human IgG2 sequences and human IgG4 sequences and murine complementarity-determining regions grafted onto the human framework light- and heavy-chain variable regions. Eculizumab is composed of two 448 amino acid heavy chains and two 214 amino acid light chains and has a molecular weight of approximately 148 kDa.
Soliris is a sterile, clear, colorless, preservative-free 10 mg/mL solution for intravenous infusion and is supplied in 30-mL single-use vials. The product is formulated at pH 7 and each vial contains 300 mg of eculizumab, 13.8 mg sodium phosphate monobasic, 53.4 mg sodium phosphate dibasic, 263.1 mg sodium chloride, 6.6 mg polysorbate 80 (vegetable origin) and Water for Injection, USP.
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1 Mechanism of Action
Eculizumab, the active ingredient in Soliris, is a monoclonal antibody that specifically binds to the complement protein C5 with high affinity, thereby inhibiting its cleavage to C5a and C5b and preventing the generation of the terminal complement complex C5b-9. Soliris inhibits terminal complement mediated intravascular hemolysis in PNH patients.
A genetic mutation in PNH patients leads to the generation of populations of abnormal RBCs (known as PNH cells) that are deficient in terminal complement inhibitors, rendering PNH RBCs sensitive to persistent terminal complement-mediated destruction. The destruction and loss of these PNH cells (intravascular hemolysis) results in low RBC counts (anemia), and also fatigue, difficulty in functioning, pain, dark urine, shortness of breath, and blood clots.
12.2 Pharmacodynamics
In the placebo-controlled clinical study, Soliris when administered as recommended reduced hemolysis as shown by the reduction of serum LDH levels from 2200 ± 1034 U/L (mean ± SD) at baseline to 700 ± 388 U/L by week one and maintained the effect through the end of the study at week 26 (327 ± 433 U/L). In the single arm clinical study, Soliris maintained this effect through 52 weeks [see Clinical Studies (14)].
12.3 Pharmacokinetics
A population PK analysis with a standard 1-compartmental model was conducted on the multiple dose PK data from 40 PNH patients receiving the recommended Soliris regimen [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. In this model, the clearance of Soliris for a typical PNH patient weighing 70 kg was 22 mL/hr and the volume of distribution was 7.7 L. The half-life was 272 ± 82 hrs (mean ± SD). The mean observed peak and trough serum concentrations of Soliris by week 26 were 194 ± 76 mcg/mL and 97 ± 60 mcg/mL, respectively.
Studies have not been conducted to evaluate the PK of Soliris in special patient populations identified by gender, race, age (pediatric or geriatric), or the presence of renal or hepatic impairment.
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
Long-term animal studies have not been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic and genotoxic potential of Soliris. Effects of Soliris upon fertility have not been studied in animals. Intravenous injections of male and female mice with a murine anti-C5 antibody at up to 4-8 times the equivalent of the clinical dose of Soliris had no adverse effects on mating or fertility.
14 CLINICAL STUDIES
The safety and efficacy of Soliris in PNH patients with hemolysis were assessed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled 26 week study (Study 1); PNH patients were also treated with Soliris in a single arm 52 week study (Study 2); and in a long term extension study. Patients received meningococcal vaccination prior to receipt of Soliris. In all studies, the dose of Soliris was 600 mg study drug every 7 ± 2 days for 4 weeks, followed by 900 mg 7 ± 2 days later, then 900 mg every 14 ± 2 days for the study duration. Soliris was administered as an intravenous infusion over 25 - 45 minutes.
Study 1:
PNH patients with at least four transfusions in the prior 12 months, flow cytometric confirmation of at least 10% PNH cells and platelet counts of at least 100,000/microliter were randomized to either Soliris (n = 43) or placebo (n = 44). Prior to randomization, all patients underwent an initial observation period to confirm the need for RBC transfusion and to identify the hemoglobin concentration (the "set-point") which would define each patient’s hemoglobin stabilization and transfusion outcomes. The hemoglobin set-point was less than or equal to 9 g/dL in patients with symptoms and was less than or equal to 7 g/dL in patients without symptoms. Endpoints related to hemolysis included the numbers of patients achieving hemoglobin stabilization, the number of RBC units transfused, fatigue, and health-related quality of life. To achieve a designation of hemoglobin stabilization, a patient had to maintain a hemoglobin concentration above the hemoglobin set-point and avoid any RBC transfusion for the entire 26 week period. Hemolysis was monitored mainly by the measurement of serum LDH levels, and the proportion of PNH RBCs was monitored by flow cytometry. Patients receiving anticoagulants and systemic corticosteroids at baseline continued these medications.
Major baseline characteristics were balanced (see Table 2).
TABLE 2 STUDY 1 PATIENT BASELINE CHARACTERISTICS
|
Study 1 |
Parameter |
Placebo N = 44 |
Soliris N = 43 |
Mean age (SD) |
38 (13) |
42 (16) |
Gender - female (%) |
29 (66) |
23 (54) |
History of aplastic anemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (%) |
12 (27) |
8 (19) |
Patients with history of thrombosis (events) |
8 (11) |
9 (16) |
Concomitant anticoagulants (%) |
20 (46) |
24 (56) |
Concomitant steroids/immunosuppressant treatments (%) |
16 (36) |
14 (33) |
Packed RBC units transfused per patient in previous 12 months (median (Q1,Q3)) |
17 (14, 25) |
18 (12, 24) |
Mean hgb level (g/dL) at setpoint (SD) |
8 (1) |
8 (1) |
Pre-treatment LDH levels (median, U/L) |
2,234 |
2,032 |
Free hemoglobin at baseline (median, mg/dL) |
46 |
41 |
Patients treated with Soliris had significantly reduced (p< 0.001) hemolysis resulting in improvements in anemia as indicated by increased hemoglobin stabilization and reduced need for RBC transfusions compared to placebo treated patients (see Table 3). These effects were seen among patients within each of the three pre-study RBC transfusion strata (4 - 14 units; 15 - 25 units; > 25 units). After 3 weeks of Soliris treatment, patients reported less fatigue and improved health-related quality of life. Because of the study sample size and duration, the effects of Soliris on thrombotic events could not be determined.
TABLE 3 STUDY 1 RESULTS
|
Placebo N = 44 |
Soliris N = 43 |
Percentage of patients with stabilized hemoglobin levels |
0 |
49 |
Packed RBC units transfused per patient (median) (range) |
10 (2 - 21) |
0 (0 - 16) |
Transfusion avoidance (%) |
0 |
51 |
LDH levels at end of study (median, U/L) |
2,167 |
239 |
Free hemoglobin at end of study (median, mg/dL) |
62 |
5 |
Study 2 and Extension Study:
PNH patients with at least one transfusion in the prior 24 months and at least 30,000 platelets/microliter received Soliris over a 52-week period. Concomitant medications included anti-thrombotic agents in 63% of the patients and systemic corticosteroids in 40% of the patients. Overall, 96 of the 97 enrolled patients completed the study (one patient died following a thrombotic event). A reduction in intravascular hemolysis as measured by serum LDH levels was sustained for the treatment period and resulted in a reduced need for RBC transfusion and less fatigue. 187 Soliris-treated PNH patients were enrolled in a long term extension study. All patients sustained a reduction in intravascular hemolysis over a total Soliris exposure time ranging from 10 to 54 months. There were fewer thrombotic events with Soliris treatment than during the same period of time prior to treatment. However, the majority of patients received concomitant anticoagulants; the effects of anticoagulant withdrawal during Soliris therapy was not studied [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING
Soliris (eculizumab) is supplied as 300 mg single-use vials containing 30 mL of 10 mg/mL sterile, preservative-free Soliris solution per vial.
Soliris vials must be stored in the original carton until time of use under refrigerated conditions at 2-8º C (36-46º F) and protected from light. Do not use beyond the expiration date stamped on the carton. Refer to Dosage and Administration (2) for information on the stability and storage of diluted solutions of Soliris.
DO NOT FREEZE. DO NOT SHAKE.
NDC 25682-001-01 Single unit 300 mg carton: Contains one (1) 30 mL vial of Soliris (10 mg/mL).
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION
See Medication Guide.
Prior to treatment, patients should fully understand the risks and benefits of Soliris, in particular the risk of meningococcal infection. Ensure that patients receive the Medication Guide.
Patients should be informed that they are required to receive a meningococcal vaccination at least 2 weeks prior to receiving the first dose of Soliris, if they have not previously been vaccinated. They are required to be revaccinated according to current medical guidelines for meningococcal vaccine use while on Soliris therapy. Patients should also be informed that vaccination may not prevent meningococcal infection. Patients should be educated about any of the signs and symptoms of meningococcal infection, and strongly advised to seek immediate medical attention if these signs or symptoms occur. These signs and symptoms are as follows:
- moderate to severe headache with nausea or vomiting
- moderate to severe headache and a fever
- moderate to severe headache with a stiff neck or stiff back
- fever of 103° F (39.4° C) or higher
- fever and a rash
- confusion
- severe muscle aches with flu-like symptoms, and eyes sensitive to light
Patients should be informed that they would be provided with the Patient Safety Card that they should carry with them at all times. This card describes symptoms which, if experienced, should prompt the patient to immediately seek medical evaluation.
Patients should be informed that there is a potential for serious hemolysis when Soliris is discontinued and that they will be monitored by their healthcare professional for at least 8 weeks following Soliris discontinuation.
Manufactured by:
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. 352 Knotter Drive Cheshire, CT 06410 USA
US License Number 1743
This product, or its use, may be covered by one or more US patents, including U.S. Patent No. 6,355,245 in addition to others including patents pending.
MEDICATION GUIDE
Soliris® (eculizumab)
(so-leer-is)
Read the Medication Guide before you start Soliris and before each dose (infusion). This Medication Guide does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your condition or your treatment. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about your treatment with Soliris.
What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Soliris?
Soliris is a medicine that affects your immune system. Soliris can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections.
• Soliris increases your chance of getting serious and life-threatening meningococcal infections.
- You must receive a meningococcal vaccine at least 2 weeks before your first dose of Soliris unless you have already had this vaccine.
- If you had a meningococcal vaccine in the past, you might need a booster dose before starting Soliris. Your doctor will decide if you need another dose of a meningococcal vaccine.
- A meningococcal vaccine does not prevent all meningococcal infections. You must be aware of the following signs and symptoms of a meningococcal infection:
- moderate to severe headache with nausea or vomiting
- moderate to severe headache and a fever
- moderate to severe headache with a stiff neck or stiff back
- fever of 103° F (39.4° C) or higher
- fever and a rash
- confusion
- severe muscle aches with flu-like symptoms, and eyes sensitive to light
Call your doctor or get emergency medical care right away if you have any of these symptoms.
You will receive a Patient Safety Card that lists these symptoms and what to do if you have them. Carry it with you at all times. You will need to show the card to any healthcare provider that treats you.
What Is Soliris?
Soliris is a medicine called a monoclonal antibody. Soliris is used for the treatment of patients with a disease that affects red blood cells called Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria (PNH).
Soliris works by blocking part of your immune system. This can help your PNH symptoms but it can also increase your chance for infection. It is important that you:
- have all recommended immunizations and vaccines before you start Soliris
- stay up-to-date with all recommended immunizations and vaccines during treatment with Soliris
Who Should Not Receive Soliris?
Do not receive Soliris if you:
- have a meningococcal infection
- have not been vaccinated with, or you are not up-to-date with a meningococcal vaccine. See “What is the most important information about Soliris?”
Tell your doctor if you:
- have an infection or fever
- are pregnant, become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Soliris has not been studied in pregnant or nursing women.
How Do I Receive Soliris?
- Soliris is given through a vein (I.V. infusion) over 35 minutes.
- You will usually receive a Soliris infusion:
- every 7 days for five weeks, then
- every 14 day
- Following each infusion, you may be monitored for one hour for allergic reactions.
What If I Miss a Dose or Stop Soliris Treatment?
- If you forget or miss a Soliris infusion, call your doctor right away.
- Stopping treatment with Soliris may cause a sudden and serious breakdown of your red blood cells. Symptoms or problems from red blood cell breakdown include:
- a large drop in your red blood cell count causing anemia
- confusion
- chest pain
- kidney problems
- blood clots
- Your doctor will need to monitor you closely for at least 8 weeks after stopping Soliris.
What Are The Possible Side Effects With Soliris?
Serious side effects with Soliris include:
- Serious and life-threatening infections. See “What is the most important information I should know about Soliris?”
Common side effects with Soliris include:
- headaches
- runny nose and colds
- sore throat
- back pain
- nausea
Call your doctor if you have any of these side effects. These are not all the side effects with Soliris. Ask your doctor for more information.
General Information About Soliris
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions other than those listed in a Medication Guide. If you have any concerns about Soliris, ask your doctor. Your doctor or pharmacist can give you information about Soliris that was written for health care professionals.
Soliris contains eculizumab in a solution of water, polysorbate, sodium phosphate and sodium chloride.
Manufactured by Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 352 Knotter Drive, Cheshire, CT 06410 USA.
Revised: June 2009
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration |