AVGEMSI GEMCITABINE AVYXA PHARMA, LLC FDA Approved Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. The chemical name of gemcitabine hydrochloride, is 2'-deoxy-2',2´-difluorocytidine monohydrochloride (β-isomer). The structural formula is as follows: Gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white solid with a molecular formula of C 9 H 11 F 2 N 3 O 4 • HCl and a molecular weight of 299.66 g/mol. It is soluble in water, slightly soluble in methanol, and practically insoluble in ethanol and polar organic solvents. AVGEMSI is a sterile solution in multiple-dose vials for intravenous use. Each vial contains 200 mg, 1 g, or 2 g of gemcitabine equivalent to 227.57 mg, 1.137 g, or 2.275 g of gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP. Each mL contains 38 mg of gemcitabine-free base in water for injection equivalent to 43.26 mg of gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP. Sodium hydroxide is used for pH adjustment. structure
Generic: GEMCITABINE
Mfr: AVYXA PHARMA, LLC FDA Rx Only

Drug Facts

Composition & Profile

Dosage Forms
Injection
Strengths
200 mg/5.26 ml 38 mg/ml 1 g/26.3 ml 2 g/52.6 ml
Quantities
26 ml 3 ml 6 ml
Treats Conditions
1 Indications And Usage Avgemsi Is A Nucleoside Metabolic Inhibitor Indicated In Combination With Carboplatin For The Treatment Of Advanced Ovarian Cancer That Has Relapsed At Least 6 Months After Completion Of Platinum Based Therapy 1 1 In Combination With Paclitaxel For First Line Treatment Of Metastatic Breast Cancer After Failure Of Prior Anthracycline Containing Adjuvant Chemotherapy Unless Anthracyclines Were Clinically Contraindicated 1 2 In Combination With Cisplatin For The Treatment Of Non Small Cell Lung Cancer 1 3 As A Single Agent For The Treatment Of Pancreatic Cancer 1 4 1 1 Ovarian Cancer Avgemsi In Combination With Carboplatin Is Indicated For The Treatment Of Patients With Advanced Ovarian Cancer That Has Relapsed At Least 6 Months After Completion Of Platinum Based Therapy 1 2 Breast Cancer Avgemsi In Combination With Paclitaxel Is Indicated For The First Line Treatment Of Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer After Failure Of Prior Anthracycline Containing Adjuvant Chemotherapy Unless Anthracyclines Were Clinically Contraindicated 1 3 Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Avgemsi In Combination With Cisplatin Is Indicated For The First Line Treatment Of Patients With Inoperable Locally Advanced Stage Iiia Or Iiib Or Metastatic Stage Iv Non Small Cell Lung Cancer Nsclc 1 4 Pancreatic Cancer Avgemsi Is Indicated As First Line Treatment For Patients With Locally Advanced Nonresectable Stage Ii Or Stage Iii Or Metastatic Stage Iv Adenocarcinoma Of The Pancreas Avgemsi Is Indicated For Patients Previously Treated With Fluorouracil

Identifiers & Packaging

Container Type BOTTLE
UPC
0383831124016
UNII
U347PV74IL
Packaging

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING AVGEMSI TM Injection, is a clear and colorless to light straw-colored solution available in sterile multiple-dose vials individually packaged in a carton as follows: 200 mg/5.26 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-122-01 1 g/26.3 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-123-01 2 g/52.6 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-124-01 Store unopened multiple-dose vials at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). Do not freeze. AVGEMSI is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures .1; PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 83831-123-01 AVGEMSI TM (gemcitabine) Injection 1 g/26.3 mL (38 mg/mL) For Intravenous Infusion After Dilution WARNING: Hazardous Drug One Multiple-Dose Vial Rx Only Label Carton NDC 83831-124-01 AVGEMSI TM (gemcitabine) Injection 2 g/52.6 mL (38 mg/mL) For Intravenous Infusion After Dilution WARNING: Hazardous Drug One Multiple-Dose Vial Rx Only Label Carton image description image description image description image description

Package Descriptions
  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING AVGEMSI TM Injection, is a clear and colorless to light straw-colored solution available in sterile multiple-dose vials individually packaged in a carton as follows: 200 mg/5.26 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-122-01 1 g/26.3 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-123-01 2 g/52.6 mL (38 mg/mL), NDC 83831-124-01 Store unopened multiple-dose vials at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). Do not freeze. AVGEMSI is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures .1
  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL NDC 83831-123-01 AVGEMSI TM (gemcitabine) Injection 1 g/26.3 mL (38 mg/mL) For Intravenous Infusion After Dilution WARNING: Hazardous Drug One Multiple-Dose Vial Rx Only Label Carton NDC 83831-124-01 AVGEMSI TM (gemcitabine) Injection 2 g/52.6 mL (38 mg/mL) For Intravenous Infusion After Dilution WARNING: Hazardous Drug One Multiple-Dose Vial Rx Only Label Carton image description image description image description image description

Overview

Gemcitabine is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. The chemical name of gemcitabine hydrochloride, is 2'-deoxy-2',2´-difluorocytidine monohydrochloride (β-isomer). The structural formula is as follows: Gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP is a white to off-white solid with a molecular formula of C 9 H 11 F 2 N 3 O 4 • HCl and a molecular weight of 299.66 g/mol. It is soluble in water, slightly soluble in methanol, and practically insoluble in ethanol and polar organic solvents. AVGEMSI is a sterile solution in multiple-dose vials for intravenous use. Each vial contains 200 mg, 1 g, or 2 g of gemcitabine equivalent to 227.57 mg, 1.137 g, or 2.275 g of gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP. Each mL contains 38 mg of gemcitabine-free base in water for injection equivalent to 43.26 mg of gemcitabine hydrochloride, USP. Sodium hydroxide is used for pH adjustment. structure

Indications & Usage

AVGEMSI is a nucleoside metabolic inhibitor indicated: in combination with carboplatin, for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy. ( 1.1 ) in combination with paclitaxel, for first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated. ( 1.2 ) in combination with cisplatin, for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer. ( 1.3 ) as a single agent for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. ( 1.4 ) 1.1 Ovarian Cancer AVGEMSI in combination with carboplatin is indicated for the treatment of patients with advanced ovarian cancer that has relapsed at least 6 months after completion of platinum-based therapy. 1.2 Breast Cancer AVGEMSI in combination with paclitaxel is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer after failure of prior anthracycline-containing adjuvant chemotherapy, unless anthracyclines were clinically contraindicated. 1.3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer AVGEMSI in combination with cisplatin is indicated for the first-line treatment of patients with inoperable, locally advanced (Stage IIIA or IIIB) or metastatic (Stage IV) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). 1.4 Pancreatic Cancer AVGEMSI is indicated as first-line treatment for patients with locally advanced (nonresectable Stage II or Stage III) or metastatic (Stage IV) adenocarcinoma of the pancreas. AVGEMSI is indicated for patients previously treated with fluorouracil.

Dosage & Administration

AVGEMSI is for intravenous use only. Ovarian Cancer: 1,000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.1 ) Breast Cancer: 1,250 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.2 ) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: 1,000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle or 1,250 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle. ( 2.3 ) Pancreatic Cancer: 1,000 mg/m 2 over 30 minutes once weekly for the first 7 weeks, then one-week rest, then once weekly for 3 weeks of each 28-day cycle. ( 2.4 ) 2.1 Ovarian Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule The recommended dosage of AVGEMSI is 1,000 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle, in combination with carboplatin AUC 4 administered intravenously on Day 1 after AVGEMSI administration. Refer to carboplatin prescribing information for additional information. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for AVGEMSI for myelosuppression are described in Tables 1 and 2 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. Table 1: Recommended Dosage Modifications for AVGEMSI for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Ovarian Cancer Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (x 10 6 /L) Platelet Count (x 10 6 /L) Dosage Modification Day 1 Greater than or equal to 1,500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None Less than 1,500 Or Less than 100,000 Delay Treatment Cycle Day 8 Greater than or equal to 1,500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None 1,000 to 1,499 Or 75,000 to 99,999 50% of full dose Less than 1,000 Or Less than 75,000 Hold Table 2: Recommended Dosage Modifications for AVGEMSI for Myelosuppression in Previous Cycle in Ovarian Cancer Occurrence Myelosuppression During Treatment Cycle Dosage Modification Initial Occurrence Absolute neutrophil count less than 500 x 10 6 /L for more than 5 days or Absolute neutrophil count less than 100 x 10 6 /L for more than 3 days or Febrile neutropenia or Platelets less than 25,000 x 10 6 /L Cycle delay for more than one week due to toxicity Permanently reduce AVGEMSI to 800 mg/m 2 on Days 1 and 8 Subsequent Occurrence If any of the above toxicities occur after the initial dose reduction Permanently reduce AVGEMSI to 800 mg/m 2 on Days 1 only 2.2 Breast Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule The recommended dosage of AVGEMSI is 1,250 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with paclitaxel 175 mg/m 2 on Day 1 before AVGEMSI administration. Refer to paclitaxel prescribing information for additional information. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for AVGEMSI for myelosuppression are described in Table 3 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . Table 3: Recommended Dosage Modifications for AVGEMSI for Myelosuppression on Day of Treatment in Breast Cancer Treatment Day Absolute Neutrophil Count (x 10 6 /L) Platelet Count (x 10 6 /L) Dosage Modification Day 1 Greater than or equal to 1,500 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None Less than 1,500 Or Less than 100,000 Hold Day 8 Greater than or equal to 1,200 And Greater than 75,000 None 1,000 to 1,199 Or 50,000 to 75,000 75% of full dose 700 to 999 And Greater than or equal to 50,000 50% of full dose Less than 700 Or Less than 50,000 Hold 2.3 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule 28-day schedule The recommended dosage of AVGEMSI is 1,000 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle in combination with cisplatin 100 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on Day 1 after AVGEMSI administration. 21-day schedule The recommended dosage of AVGEMSI is 1,250 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes on Days 1 and 8 of each 21-day cycle in combination with cisplatin 100 mg/m 2 administered intravenously on Day 1 after AVGEMSI administration. Refer to cisplatin prescribing information for additional information. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for AVGEMSI myelosuppression are described in Table 4 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. 2.4 Pancreatic Cancer Recommended Dose and Schedule The recommended dosage of AVGEMSI is 1,000 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes. The recommended treatment schedule is as follows: Weeks 1 to 8: weekly dosing for the first 7 weeks followed by one-week rest. After week 8: weekly dosing on Days 1, 8, and 15 of each 28-day cycle. Dosage Modifications Recommended dosage modifications for AVGEMSI for myelosuppression are described in Table 4 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Refer to the recommended dosage modifications for non-hematologic adverse reactions [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ]. Table 4: Recommended Dosage Modifications for AVGEMSI for Myelosuppression in Pancreatic Cancer and Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Absolute Neutrophil Count (x 10 6 /L) Platelet Count (x 10 6 /L) Dosage Modification Greater than or equal to 1,000 And Greater than or equal to 100,000 None 500 to 999 Or 50,000 to 99,999 75% of full dose Less than 500 Or Less than 50,000 Hold 2.5 Dosage Modifications for Non-Hematologic Adverse Reactions Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI for any of the following: Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Unexplained dyspnea or evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) or severe renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Severe hepatic toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] Withhold AVGEMSI or reduce dose by 50% for other Grade 3 or 4 non-hematological adverse reactions until resolved. No dose modifications are recommended for alopecia, nausea, or vomiting. 2.6 Preparation AVGEMSI is a hazardous drug. Follow applicable special handling and disposal procedures. 1 Exercise caution and wear gloves when preparing AVGEMSI solutions. Immediately wash the skin thoroughly or rinse the mucosa with copious amounts of water if AVGEMSI contacts the skin or mucus membranes. Death has occurred in animal studies due to dermal absorption. After first use, store the partially used multiple-dose vial in the original carton, refrigerated at 2°C to 8°C (36ºF to 46°F) for up to 14 days. Discard unused portion of the multiple-dose vial after 14 days. Preparation for Intravenous Infusion Administration Withdraw the calculated dose from the vial. Prior to administration, dilute the appropriate amount of drug with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP to a minimum final concentration of at least 0.1 mg/mL. Store diluted AVGEMSI solution for no more than 24 hours at controlled room temperature of 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Discard AVGEMSI solution if not used within 24 hours after dilution. Visually inspect for particulate matter or discoloration prior to administration and discard if particulate matter or discoloration is observed. No incompatibilities have been observed with infusion bottles or polyvinyl chloride bags and administration sets.

Warnings & Precautions
Schedule-Dependent Toxicity: Increased toxicity with infusion time greater than 60 minutes or dosing more frequently than once weekly. ( 5.1 ) Myelosuppression: Monitor for myelosuppression prior to each cycle and reduce or withhold dose for severe myelosuppression. ( 5.2 ) Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs): Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI if SCARs occur. ( 5.3 ) Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure: Discontinue AVGEMSI for unexplained dyspnea or other evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity. ( 5.4 ) Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS): Monitor renal function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue AVGEMSI for HUS or severe renal impairment. ( 5.5 ) Hepatic Toxicity: Monitor hepatic function prior to initiation and during treatment. Discontinue AVGEMSI for severe hepatic toxicity. ( 5.6 ) Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Can cause fetal harm. Advise females and males of reproductive potential to use effective contraception. ( 5.7 , 8.1 ) Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity: May cause severe and life-threatening toxicity when administered during or within 7 days of radiation therapy. ( 5.8 ) Capillary Leak Syndrome: Discontinue AVGEMSI. ( 5.9 ) Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome (PRES): Discontinue AVGEMSI. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Schedule-Dependent Toxicity In clinical trials evaluating the maximum tolerated dose of gemcitabine, prolongation of the infusion time beyond 60 minutes or more frequent than weekly dosing resulted in an increased incidence of clinically significant hypotension, severe flu-like symptoms, myelosuppression, and asthenia. The half-life of gemcitabine is influenced by the length of the infusion [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Refer to the recommended AVGEMSI dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4) ]. 5.2 Myelosuppression Myelosuppression manifested by neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and anemia, occurs with gemcitabine as a single agent and the risks are increased when gemcitabine is combined with other cytotoxic drugs. In clinical trials, Grade 3-4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia occurred in 25%, 8%, and 5%, respectively of the 979 patients who received single agent gemcitabine. The frequencies of Grade 3-4 neutropenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia varied from 48% to 71%, 8% to 28%, and 5% to 55%, respectively, in patients receiving gemcitabine in combination with another drug [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Prior to each dose of AVGEMSI, obtain a complete blood count (CBC) with a differential and a platelet count. Modify the dosage as recommended [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4) ] . 5.3 Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions (SCARs) SCARs, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP), which can be life-threatening or fatal, have been reported in association with gemcitabine treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ] . Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of severe cutaneous adverse reactions. Permanently discontinue gemcitabine in patients who develop SCARs. 5.4 Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure Pulmonary toxicity, including interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary edema, and adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), has been reported. In some cases, these pulmonary events can lead to fatal respiratory failure despite the discontinuation of therapy. The onset of pulmonary symptoms may occur up to 2 weeks after the last dose of gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2) ]. Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI in patients who develop unexplained dyspnea, with or without bronchospasm, or evidence of severe pulmonary toxicity. 5.5 Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), including fatalities from renal failure or the requirement for dialysis, can occur with gemcitabine. In clinical trials, HUS occurred in 0.25% of 2429 patients. Most fatal cases of renal failure were due to HUS [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Serious cases of thrombotic microangiopathy other than HUS have been reported with gemcitabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. Assess renal function prior to initiation of AVGEMSI and periodically during treatment. Consider the diagnosis of HUS in patients who develop anemia with evidence of microangiopathic hemolysis; increased bilirubin or LDH; reticulocytosis; severe thrombocytopenia; or evidence of renal failure (increased serum creatinine or BUN) . Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI in patients with HUS or severe renal impairment. Renal failure may not be reversible even with the discontinuation of therapy. 5.6 Hepatic Toxicity Drug-induced liver injury, including liver failure and death, has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine alone or with other potentially hepatotoxic drugs [see Adverse Reactions (6.1, 6.2) ]. Administration of gemcitabine in patients with concurrent liver metastases or a pre-existing medical history of hepatitis, alcoholism, or liver cirrhosis can lead to exacerbation of the underlying hepatic insufficiency. Assess hepatic function prior to initiation of AVGEMSI and periodically during treatment. Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI in patients who develop severe hepatic toxicity. 5.7 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity Based on animal data and its mechanism of action, AVGEMSI can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Gemcitabine was teratogenic, embryotoxic, and fetotoxic in mice and rabbits. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with AVGEMSI and for 6 months after the final dose. Advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with AVGEMSI and for 3 months following the final dose [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. 5.8 Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity Gemcitabine is not recommended for use in combination with radiation therapy. Concurrent (given together or ≤7 days apart) Life-threatening mucositis, especially esophagitis and pneumonitis occurred in a trial in which gemcitabine was administered at a dose of 1000 mg/m 2 to patients with non-small cell lung cancer for up to 6 consecutive weeks concurrently with thoracic radiation. Non-concurrent (given >7 days apart) Excessive toxicity has not been observed when gemcitabine is administered more than 7 days before or after radiation. Radiation recall has been reported in patients who received gemcitabine after prior radiation. 5.9 Capillary Leak Syndrome Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) with severe consequences has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI if CLS develops during therapy. 5.10 Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) has been reported in patients receiving gemcitabine as a single agent or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents [see Adverse Reactions (6.2) ]. PRES can present with headache, seizure, lethargy, hypertension, confusion, blindness, and other visual and neurologic disturbances. Confirm the diagnosis of PRES with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Permanently discontinue AVGEMSI if PRES develops during therapy.
Contraindications

AVGEMSI is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. Reactions include anaphylaxis [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Patients with a known hypersensitivity to gemcitabine. ( 4 )

Adverse Reactions

The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications (4) ] Schedule-Dependent Toxicity [ see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Myelosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Pulmonary Toxicity and Respiratory Failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Hepatic Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Exacerbation of Radiation Therapy Toxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Capillary Leak Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] The most common adverse reactions for the single agent (≥20%) are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Avyxa Pharma, LLC at 1-888-520-0954 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience 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. Single Agent The data described below reflect exposure to gemcitabine as a single agent administered at doses between 800 mg/m 2 to 1250 mg/m 2 intravenously over 30 minutes once weekly in 979 patients with various malignancies. The most common (≥20%) adverse reactions of single agent gemcitabine are nausea/vomiting, anemia, increased alanine aminotransferase (ALT), increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST), neutropenia, increased alkaline phosphatase, proteinuria, fever, hematuria, rash, thrombocytopenia, dyspnea, and edema. The most common (≥5%) Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions were neutropenia, nausea/vomiting, increased ALT, increased alkaline phosphatase, anemia, increased AST, and thrombocytopenia. Approximately 10% of the 979 patients discontinued gemcitabine due to adverse reactions. Adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in 2% of 979 patients were cardiovascular adverse reactions (myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accident, arrhythmia, and hypertension) and adverse reactions resulting in discontinuation of gemcitabine in <1% of 979 patients were anemia, thrombocytopenia, hepatic dysfunction, renal dysfunction, nausea/vomiting, fever, rash, dyspnea, hemorrhage, infection, stomatitis, somnolence, flu-like syndrome, and edema. Tables 5 and 6 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities reported in patients with various malignancies receiving single agent gemcitabine across 5 clinical trials. Additional clinically significant adverse reactions are provided following Table 6. Table 5: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥10% of Patients Receiving Single Agent Gemcitabine a a Grade based on criteria from the World Health Organization (WHO). b For approximately 60% of patients, non-laboratory adverse reactions were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. c N=699-974; all patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine c All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Nausea and Vomiting 69 13 1 Fever 41 2 0 Rash 30 <1 0 Dyspnea 23 3 <1 Diarrhea 19 1 0 Hemorrhage 17 <1 <1 Infection 16 1 <1 Alopecia 15 <1 0 Stomatitis 11 <1 0 Somnolence 11 <1 <1 Paresthesias 10 <1 0 Table 6: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Single Agent Gemcitabine a a Grade based on criteria from the WHO. b Regardless of causality. c N=699-974; all patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine c All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Anemia 68 7 1 Neutropenia 63 19 6 Thrombocytopenia 24 4 1 Hepatic Increased ALT 68 8 2 Increased AST 67 6 2 Increased Alkaline Phosphatase 55 7 2 Hyperbilirubinemia 13 2 <1 Renal Proteinuria 45 <1 0 Hematuria 35 <1 0 Increased BUN 16 0 0 Increased Creatinine 8 <1 0 Additional adverse reactions include the following: Transfusion requirements: Red blood cell transfusions (19%); platelet transfusions (<1%) Edema: Edema (13%), peripheral edema (20%), generalized edema (<1%) Flu-like symptoms: Fever, asthenia, anorexia, headache, cough, chills, myalgia, insomnia, rhinitis, sweating, and/or malaise (19%) Infection: Sepsis (<1%) Extravasation: Injection-site reactions (4%) Allergic: Bronchospasm (<2%); anaphylactoid reactions Ovarian Cancer Tables 7 and 8 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with carboplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 1) of gemcitabine with carboplatin (n=175) compared to carboplatin alone (n=174) for the second-line treatment of ovarian cancer in women with disease that had relapsed more than 6 months following first-line platinum-based chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Additional clinically significant adverse reactions, occurring in <10% of patients, are provided following Table 8. The proportion of patients with dose adjustments for carboplatin (1.8% versus 3.8%), doses of carboplatin omitted (0.2% versus 0) and discontinuing treatment for adverse reactions (11% versus 10%), were similar between arms. Dose adjustment for gemcitabine occurred in 10% of patients and gemcitabine dose was omitted in 14% of patients in the gemcitabine /carboplatin arm. Table 7: Adverse Reactions Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Carboplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Carboplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 1 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N = 175) Carboplatin (N=174) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Nausea 69 6 0 61 3 0 Alopecia 49 0 0 17 0 0 Vomiting 46 6 0 36 2 <1 Constipation 42 6 1 37 3 0 Fatigue 40 3 <1 32 5 0 Diarrhea 25 3 0 14 <1 0 Stomatitis/Pharyngitis 22 <1 0 13 0 0 Table 8: Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Carboplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Carboplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 1 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. c Percent of patients receiving transfusions. Transfusions are not CTC-graded events. Blood transfusions included both packed red blood cells and whole blood. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine/Carboplatin (N = 175) Carboplatin (N=174) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Neutropenia 90 42 29 58 11 1 Anemia 86 22 6 75 9 2 Thrombocytopenia 78 30 5 57 10 1 RBC Transfusions c 38 - - 15 - - Platelet Transfusions c 9 - - 3 - - Hematopoietic growth factors were administered more frequently in the gemcitabine-containing arm: leukocyte growth factor (24% and 10%) and erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (7% and 3.9%). The following clinically relevant, Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in the gemcitabine with carboplatin arm: dyspnea (3.4% versus 2.9%), febrile neutropenia (1.1% versus 0), hemorrhagic event (2.3% versus 1.1%), motor neuropathy (1.1% versus 0.6%), and rash/desquamation (0.6% versus 0). Breast Cancer Tables 9 and 10 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with paclitaxel arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 2) of gemcitabine with paclitaxel (n=262) compared to paclitaxel alone (n=259) for the first-line treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) in women who received anthracycline-containing chemotherapy in the adjuvant/neo-adjuvant setting or for whom anthracyclines were contraindicated [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Additional clinically significant adverse reactions, occurring in <10% of patients, are provided following Table 10. The requirement for dose reduction of paclitaxel were higher for patients in the gemcitabine /paclitaxel arm (5% versus 2%). The number of paclitaxel doses omitted (<1%), the proportion of patients discontinuing treatment for adverse reactions (7% versus 5%) and the number of treatment-related deaths (1 patient in each arm) were similar between the two arms. Table 9: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Paclitaxel and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Paclitaxel [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 2 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N=262) Paclitaxel (N=259) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Alopecia 90 14 4 92 19 3 Neuropathy-Sensory 64 5 <1 58 3 0 Nausea 50 1 0 31 2 0 Fatigue 40 6 <1 28 1 <1 Vomiting 29 2 0 15 2 0 Diarrhea 20 3 0 13 2 0 Anorexia 17 0 0 12 <1 0 Neuropathy-Motor 15 2 <1 10 <1 0 Stomatitis/Pharyngitis 13 1 <1 8 <1 0 Fever 13 <1 0 3 0 0 Rash/Desquamation 11 <1 <1 5 0 0 Febrile Neutropenia 6 5 <1 2 1 0 Table 10: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Paclitaxel and at a Higher Incidence than Patients Receiving Single Agent Paclitaxel [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 2 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine/Paclitaxel (N = 262) Paclitaxel (N=259) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Anemia 69 6 1 51 3 <1 Neutropenia 69 31 17 31 4 7 Thrombocytopenia 26 5 <1 7 <1 <1 Hepatobiliary Increased ALT 18 5 <1 6 <1 0 Increased AST 16 2 0 5 <1 0 Clinically relevant Grade 3 or 4 dyspnea occurred with a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with paclitaxel arm compared with the paclitaxel arm (1.9% versus 0). Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Tables 11 and 12 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities, occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 3) of gemcitabine with cisplatin (n=260) administered in 28-day cycles as compared to cisplatin alone (n=262) in patients receiving first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Patients randomized to gemcitabine with cisplatin received a median of 4 cycles of treatment and those randomized to cisplatin alone received a median of 2 cycles of treatment. In this trial, the requirement for dose adjustments (>90% versus 16%), discontinuation of treatment for adverse reactions (15% versus 8%), and the proportion of patients hospitalized (36% versus 23%) were all higher for patients receiving gemcitabine with cisplatin compared to those receiving cisplatin alone. The incidence of febrile neutropenia (3% versus <1%), sepsis (4% versus 1%), Grade 3 cardiac dysrhythmias (3% versus <1%) were all higher in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm compared to the cisplatin alone arm. The two-drug combination was more myelosuppressive with 4 (1.5%) possibly treatment-related deaths, including 3 resulting from myelosuppression with infection and one case of renal failure associated with pancytopenia and infection. No deaths due to treatment were reported on the cisplatin arm. Table 11: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Cisplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 3 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC). b Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. c N=217-253; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. d N=213-248; all cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine/Cisplatin c Cisplatin d All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Nausea 93 25 2 87 20 <1 Vomiting 78 11 12 71 10 9 Alopecia 53 1 0 33 0 0 Neuro Motor 35 12 0 15 3 0 Diarrhea 24 2 2 13 0 0 Neuro Sensory 23 1 0 18 1 0 Infection 18 3 2 12 1 0 Fever 16 0 0 5 0 0 Neuro Cortical 16 3 1 9 1 0 Neuro Mood 16 1 0 10 1 0 Local 15 0 0 6 0 0 Neuro Headache 14 0 0 7 0 0 Stomatitis 14 1 0 5 0 0 Hemorrhage 14 1 0 4 0 0 Hypotension 12 1 0 7 1 0 Rash 11 0 0 3 0 0 Table 12: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in >10% of Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin and at Higher Incidence than in Patients Receiving Single Agent Cisplatin [Between Arm Difference of ≥5% (All Grades) or ≥2% (Grades 3-4)] in Study 3 a a Grade based on National Cancer Institute CTC Version 2.0. b Regardless of causality. c N=217-253; all gemcitabine /cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. d N=213-248; all cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. e N=213-248; Percent of patients receiving transfusions. Percent transfusions are not CTC-graded events. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine/Cisplatin c Cisplatin d All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Anemia 89 22 3 67 6 1 Thrombocytopenia 85 25 25 13 3 1 Neutropenia 79 22 35 20 3 1 Lymphopenia 75 25 18 51 12 5 RBC Transfusions e 39 - - 13 - - Platelet Transfusions e 21 - - <1 - - Hepatic Increased Transaminases 22 2 1 10 1 0 Increased Alkaline Phosphatase 19 1 0 13 0 0 Renal Increased Creatinine 38 4 <1 31 2 <1 Proteinuria 23 0 0 18 0 0 Hematuria 15 0 0 13 0 0 Other Laboratory Hyperglycemia 30 4 0 23 3 0 Hypomagnesemia 30 4 3 17 2 0 Hypocalcemia 18 2 0 7 0 <1 Tables 13 and 14 present the incidence of selected adverse reactions and laboratory abnormalities occurring in ≥10% of gemcitabine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in the gemcitabine with cisplatin arm, reported in a randomized trial (Study 4) of gemcitabine with cisplatin (n=69) administered in 21-day cycles as compared to etoposide with cisplatin (n=66) in patients receiving first-line treatment for locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Additional clinically significant adverse reactions are provided following Table 14. Patients in the gemcitabine/cisplatin (GC) arm received a median of 5 cycles and those in the etoposide/cisplatin (EC) arm received a median of 4 cycles. The majority of patients receiving more than one cycle of treatment required dose adjustments; 81% in the GC arm and 68% in the EC arm. The incidence of hospitalizations for adverse reactions was 22% in the GC arm and 27% in the EC arm. The proportion of patients who discontinued treatment for adverse reactions was higher in the GC arm (14% versus 8%). The proportion of patients who were hospitalized for febrile neutropenia was lower in the GC arm (7% versus 12%). There was one death attributed to treatment, a patient with febrile neutropenia and renal failure, which occurred in the GC arm. Table 13: Selected Adverse Reactions in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin in Study 4 a a Grade based on criteria from the WHO. b Non-laboratory events were graded only if assessed to be possibly drug-related. Pain data were not collected. c N=67-69; all gemcitabine/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. d N=57-63; all Etoposide/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. e Flu-like syndrome and edema were not graded. Adverse Reactions b Gemcitabine/Cisplatin c Etoposide/Cisplatin d All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Nausea and Vomiting 96 35 4 86 19 7 Alopecia 77 13 0 92 51 0 Paresthesias 38 0 0 16 2 0 Infection 28 3 1 21 8 0 Stomatitis 20 4 0 18 2 0 Diarrhea 14 1 1 13 0 2 Edema e 12 - - 2 - - Rash 10 0 0 3 0 0 Hemorrhage 9 0 3 3 0 3 Fever 6 0 0 3 0 0 Somnolence 3 0 0 3 2 0 Flu-like Syndrome e 3 - - 0 - - Dyspnea 1 0 1 3 0 0 Table 14: Selected Laboratory Abnormalities Occurring in Patients Receiving Gemcitabine with Cisplatin in Study 4 a a Grade based on criteria from the WHO. b Regardless of causality. c N=67-69; all gemcitabine /cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. d N=57-63; all Etoposide/cisplatin patients with laboratory or non-laboratory data. e WHO grading scale not applicable to proportion of patients with transfusions. Laboratory Abnormality b Gemcitabine/Cisplatin c Etoposide/Cisplatin d All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) All Grades (%) Grade 3 (%) Grade 4 (%) Hematologic Anemia 88 22 0 77 13 2 Neutropenia 88 36 28 87 20 56 Thrombocytopenia 81 39 16 45 8 5 RBC Transfusions e 29 - - 21 - - Platelet Transfusions e 3 - - 8 - - Hepatic Increased Alkaline Phosphatase 16 0 0 11 0 0 Increased ALT 6 0 0 12 0 0 Increased AST 3 0 0 11 0 0 Renal Hematuria 22 0 0 10 0 0 Proteinuria 12 0 0 5 0 0 Increased BUN 6 0 0 4 0 0 Increased Creatinine 2 0 0 2 0 0 6.2 Postmarketing Experience The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of gemcitabine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Blood and Lymphatic System: Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) Cardiovascular: Congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, supraventricular arrhythmias Vascular: Peripheral vasculitis, gangrene, capillary leak syndrome Skin: Cellulitis; pseudocellulitis; severe cutaneous adverse reactions (SCARs), including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS), and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP); desquamation and bullous skin eruptions Hepatic: Hepatic failure, hepatic veno-occlusive disease Pulmonary: Interstitial pneumonitis, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary edema, adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pulmonary eosinophilia Nervous System: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)


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