Monday, 28 May 2012

Calfovit D3






CALFOVIT D3 1200 mg/ 800 I.U. powder for oral suspension


Calcium and Colecalciferol



Read all of this leaflet carefully before you start taking this medicine.


Keep this leaflet. You may need to read it again.


If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.


This medicine has been prescribed for you. Do not pass it on to others. It may harm them, even if their symptoms are similar to yours.


If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.




In this leaflet:


  • 1. What Calfovit D3 is and what it is used for

  • 2. Before you take Calfovit D3

  • 3. How to take Calfovit D3

  • 4. Possible side effects

  • 5. How to store Calfovit D3

  • 6. Further information




What Calfovit D3 Is And What It Is Used For


Calfovit D3 is a calcium and vitamin D3 supplement for the treatment of certain bone conditions in the elderly.


Both calcium and vitamin D are found in the diet and vitamin D is also produced in the skin following exposure to the sun.


A lack of vitamin D and calcium may lead to reduced bone density and bone fractures. Calfovit D3 may be taken to make up for this deficiency of calcium and vitamin D.




Before You Take Calfovit D3



Do not take Calfovit D3 if you:


  • have an allergy (hypersensitivity) to calcium, colecalciferol or any of the other ingredients of Calfovit D3 (see "Important information about some of the ingredients" section below and Section 6)

  • are inactive and have high levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcaemia) or urine (hypercalciuria)

  • have calcium deposits in the tissues of your body

  • have serious kidney problems

  • have kidney stones or calcium stones in general

  • have abnormally high levels of vitamin D.

  • are pregnant or breast feeding

  • if you are less than 12 year of age



Take special care with Calfovit D3 if you:


  • have kidney problems, or a tendency to form urinary stones. Your doctor will check your blood and urine calcium levels to make sure they do not get too high

  • are currently being treated for heart problems. You will be closely supervised by your doctor if you take cardiac glycosides (e.g. digitalis), since their effect may be enhanced by taking Calfovit D3

  • suffer from sarcoidosis (an immune system disorder of inflamed lesions of liver, lung, skin or lymph nodes).Your doctor will monitor your blood and urine calcium levels, which may increase due to a possible increased Vitamin D activity



Taking other medicines


Please tell your doctor if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines (including medicines obtained without a prescription), especially:


Medicines that decrease the absorption or effect of Calfovit D3:


  • colestyramine (used to treat high blood cholesterol levels), steroids (such as cortisone), mineral oils (such as paraffin oil used as a laxative or stool softener): these medicines may decrease the absorption of the vitamin D3

  • phenytoin and barbiturates (e.g. phenobarbital), which are used to treat epilepsy: they may decrease the activity of vitamin D3

  • some diuretics (water pills e.g. furosemide and ethacrynic acid), antacids (used for indigestion) that contain aluminium salts and thyroid hormones: these medicines can decrease the absorption of calcium and increase its elimination in the stools or urine

Medicines that increase the absorption or effect of Calfovit D3:


  • some other diuretics (of the thiazide kind, e.g. hydrochlorothiazide) can decrease the elimination of calcium in the urine and thus cause too high calcium levels in the blood

  • antibiotic drugs, such as penicillin, neomycin and chloramphenicol can increase the absorption of calcium: your doctor may tell you to check your blood calcium during prolonged treatment with Calfovit D3 and any of these drugs

Medicines whose absorption is decreased by Calfovit D3:


  • tetracycline antibiotics: when taking these leave at least three hours before taking Calfovit D3. Do not take them at the same time

  • bisphosphonates (medicines used to treat or prevent osteoporosis) and sodium fluoride: when taking these leave at least three hours before taking Calfovit D3

Medicines whose effect is increased by Calfovit D3:


  • digitoxin (e.g. Lanoxin) or other cardiac glycosides used to treat heart disorders: calcium may increase their effect on the heart

Tell your doctor and ask for his/her advice before taking any other product containing vitamin D or its derivatives while taking Calfovit D3.




Taking Calfovit D3 with food and drink


Take Calfovit D3 preferably with your evening meal.


Tell your doctor if you usually eat food that contains oxalic acid (e.g. spinach and rhubarb), phosphates (especially from food additives) or phytinic acid (whole cereals), since these may reduce the absorption of calcium contained in Calfovit D3.


Tell your doctor and ask for his/her advice before taking foodstuffs which may be fortified with vitamin D.




Pregnancy and breast-feeding


Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine.


Do not use Calfovit D3 if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.




Children


Calfovit D3 is not recommended for children under 12 years old.




Driving and using machines


Calfovit D3 has no influence on your ability to drive or use machines.




Important information about some of the ingredients of Calfovit D3


Calfovit D3 contains the colouring agent sunset yellow (E 110) which may cause allergic reactions.


Calfovit D3 contains sucrose, if you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.





How To Take Calfovit D3


Always take Calfovit D3 exactly as your doctor has told you. You should check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.


Take 1 sachet of Calfovit D3 once a day, preferably during the evening meal.


Pour the contents of the sachet into a glass of non-carbonated water. Stir with a spoon to obtain a pleasant-tasting suspension. Drink the suspension immediately after mixing.



If you take more Calfovit D3 than you should


Contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency department if you or someone near you has taken too much Calfovit D3. Remember to take with you any remaining sachets and the box or this leaflet so that doctors know what has been taken.




If you forget to take Calfovit D3


If you forget to take Calfovit D3, take it as soon as you remember. In any case, you should never take a double dose in the same day to make up for forgotten sachets.





Calfovit D3 Side Effects


Like all medicines, Calfovit D3 can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.


Stop taking Calfovit D3 and contact a doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:


  • swelling of face, lips and throat

  • sudden difficulty breathing

  • severe itching and/or rash (hives).

Tell your doctor promptly if you experience the following side effects, which may indicate that calcium levels in your blood or urine are too high:


  • anorexia, nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, headache, weakness, apathy and drowsiness;

  • thirst, dehydration, passing water frequently throughout the day or night, abdominal pain, lack of bowel movement, irregular heart beat.

In addition, the following side effects may occur with the use of Calfovit D3:


  • skin allergy

  • constipation

  • diarrhoea

  • nausea (feeling sick) or vomiting

  • stomach ache.

If any of the side effects gets serious, or if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet, please tell your doctor or pharmacist.




How To Store Calfovit D3


Keep out of the reach and sight of children.


Store Calfovit D3 in the original package.


Do not store above 25°C.


Do not use Calfovit D3 after the expiry date which is stated on the sachet and carton.


The expiry date [“EXP”] refers to the last day of that month.


Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.




Further Information



What Calfovit D3 contains


The active substances are: calcium and colecalciferol


Each sachet contains calcium 1200 mg (as calcium phosphate) and colecalciferol (Vitamin D3) 20 micrograms (equivalent to 800 I.U).


The other ingredients are: propylene glycol, sunset yellow FCF (E110), lemon flavouring (containing: natural flavourings, maltodextrin, gum arabic), saccharin sodium, anhydrous citric acid, microcrystalline cellulose and carmellose sodium, monopalmitate sucrose, silica colloidal anhydrous, mannitol, α-tocopherol, edible fats, gelatin, sucrose and maize starch (see Section 2 'Important information about some of the ingredients of Calfovit D3').




What Calfovit D3 looks like and contents of the pack


Calfovit D3 sachets contains white or slightly orange, granular powder for oral suspension. The obtained suspension is an orange opaque liquid containing white granules.


The sachets are packaged in cardboard boxes containing 2, 30 or 60 sachets.


Not all pack sizes may be marketed.




Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer



Marketing Authorisation Holder



Menarini International Operations Luxembourg S.A.

1, Avenue de la Gare

L-1611

Luxembourg



Manufacturer



A Menarini Manufacturing Logistics and Services s.r.l.

Florence

Italy


or



Sigmar Italia S.r.l.

Almé (Bg)

Italy




This medicinal product is authorised in the Member States of the EEA under the following names :


United Kingdom (RMS): Calfovit D3


Austria: Detrikalz


Germany: Calfovit D3


Denmark: Calfovit D3


Greece: Decal


Spain: Trabex


Finland: Calfovit D3


Ireland: Calfovit D3


Luxembourg: Calfovit D3


Sweden: Calfovit D3



This leaflet was last approved in 04/2010.





Saturday, 26 May 2012

Capoten 12.5 mg Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Capoten Tablets 12.5mg


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains 12.5mg captopril.



For excipients, see 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablets



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Hypertension: Capoten is indicated for the treatment of hypertension.



Heart Failure: Capoten is indicated for the treatment of chronic heart failure with reduction of systolic ventricular function, in combination with diuretics and, when appropriate, digitalis and beta-blockers.



Myocardial Infarction:



- short-term (4 weeks) treatment: Capoten is indicated in any clinically stable patient within the first 24 hours of an infarction.



- long-term prevention of symptomatic heart failure: Capoten is indicated in clinically stable patients with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction



Type I Diabetic Nephropathy: Capoten is indicated for the treatment of macroproteinuric diabetic nephropathy in patients with type I diabetes.



(See Section 5.1).



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Dose should be individualised according to patient's profile (see 4.4) and blood pressure response. The recommended maximum daily dose is 150 mg.



Capoten may be taken before, during and after meals.



Hypertension: the recommended starting dose is 25-50 mg daily in two divided doses. The dose may be increased incrementally, with intervals of at least 2 weeks, to 100-150 mg/day in two divided doses as needed to reach target blood pressure. Captopril may be used alone or with other antihypertensive agents, especially thiazide diuretics. A once-daily dosing regimen may be appropriate when concomitant antihypertensive medication such as thiazide diuretics is added.



In patients with a strongly active renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (hypovolaemia, renovascular hypertension, cardiac decompensation) it is preferable to commence with a single dose of 6.25 mg or 12.5 mg. The inauguration of this treatment should preferably take place under close medical supervision. These doses will then be administered at a rate of two per day. The dosage can be gradually increased to 50 mg per day in one or two doses and if necessary to 100 mg per day in one or two doses.



Heart failure: treatment with captopril for heart failure should be initiated under close medical supervision. The usual starting dose is 6.25 mg - 12.5 mg BID or TID. Titration to the maintenance dose (75 - 150 mg per day) should be carried out based on patient's response, clinical status and tolerability, up to a maximum of 150 mg per day in divided doses. The dose should be increased incrementally, with intervals of at least 2 weeks to evaluate patient's response.



Myocardial infarction:



- short-term treatment: Capoten treatment should begin in hospital as soon as possible following the appearance of the signs and/or symptoms in patients with stable haemodynamics. A 6.25 mg test dose should be administered, with a 12.5 mg dose being administered 2 hours afterwards and a 25 mg dose 12 hours later. From the following day, captopril should be administered in a 100 mg/day dose, in two daily administrations, for 4 weeks, if warranted by the absence of adverse haemodynamic reactions. At the end of the 4 weeks of treatment, the patient's state should be reassessed before a decision is taken concerning treatment for the post-myocardial infarction stage.



- chronic treatment: if captopril treatment has not begun during the first 24 hours of the acute myocardial infarction stage, it is suggested that treatment be instigated between the 3rd and 16th day post-infarction once the necessary treatment conditions have been attained (stable haemodynamics and management of any residual ischaemia). Treatment should be started in hospital under strict surveillance (particularly of blood pressure) until the 75 mg dose is reached. The initial dose must be low (see 4.4), particularly if the patient exhibits normal or low blood pressure at the initiation of therapy. Treatment should be initiated with a dose of 6.25 mg followed by 12.5 mg 3 times daily for 2 days and then 25 mg 3 times daily if warranted by the absence of adverse haemodynamic reactions. The recommended dose for effective cardioprotection during long-term treatment is 75 to 150 mg daily in two or three doses. In cases of symptomatic hypotension, as in heart failure, the dosage of diuretics and/or other concomitant vasodilators may be reduced in order to attain the steady state dose of captopril. Where necessary, the dose of captopril should be adjusted in accordance with the patient's clinical reactions. Captopril may be used in combination with other treatments for myocardial infarction such as thrombolytic agents, beta-blockers and acetylsalicylic acid.



Type I Diabetic nephropathy: in patients with type I diabetic nephropathy, the recommended daily dose of captopril is 75-100 mg in divided doses. If additional lowering of blood pressure is desired, additional antihypertensive medications may be added.



Renal impairment: since captopril is excreted primarily via the kidneys, dosage should be reduced or the dosage interval should be increased in patients with impaired renal function. When concomitant diuretic therapy is required, a loop diuretic (e.g. furosemide), rather than a thiazide diuretic, is preferred in patients with severe renal impairment.



In patients with impaired renal function, the following daily dose may be recommended to avoid accumulation of captopril.



















Creatinine clearance



(ml/min/1.73 m²)




Daily starting dose



(mg)




Daily maximum dose



(mg)




>40




25-50




150




21-40




25




100




10-20




12.5




75




<10




6.25




37.5



Elderly patients: as with other antihypertensive agents, consideration should be given to initiating therapy with a lower starting dose (6.25 mg BID) in elderly patients who may have reduced renal function and other organ dysfunctions (see above and section 4.4).



Dosage should be titrated against the blood pressure response and kept as low as possible to achieve adequate control.



Children and adolescents: the efficacy and safety of captopril have not been fully established. The use of captopril in children and adolescents should be initiated under close medical supervision. The initial dose of captopril is about 0.3 mg/kg body weight. For patients requiring special precautions (children with renal dysfunction, premature infants, new-borns and infants, because their renal function is not the same with older children and adults) the starting dose should be only 0.15 mg captopril/kg weight. Generally, captopril is administered to children 3 times a day, but dose and interval of dose should be adapted individually according to patient's response.



4.3 Contraindications



1. History of hypersensitivity to captopril, to any of the excipients or any other ACE inhibitor.



2. History of angioedema associated with previous ACE inhibitor therapy.



3. Hereditary / idiopathic angioneurotic oedema.



4. Second and third trimester of pregnancy (see 4.6)



5. Lactation (see 4.6).



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Hypotension: rarely hypotension is observed in uncomplicated hypertensive patients. Symptomatic hypotension is more likely to occur in hypertensive patients who are volume and/or sodium depleted by vigorous diuretic therapy, dietary salt restriction, diarrhoea, vomiting or haemodialysis. Volume and/or sodium depletion should be corrected before the administration of an ACE inhibitor and a lower starting dose should be considered.



Patients with heart failure are at higher risk of hypotension and a lower starting dose is recommended when initiating therapy with an ACE inhibitor. Caution should be used whenever the dose of captopril or diuretic is increased in patients with heart failure.



As with any antihypertensive agent, excessive blood pressure lowering in patients with ischaemic cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease may increase the risk of myocardial infarction or stroke. If hypotension develops, the patient should be placed in a supine position. Volume repletion with intravenous normal saline may be required.



Renovascular hypertension: there is an increased risk of hypotension and renal insufficiency when patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis of the artery to a single functioning kidney are treated with ACE inhibitors. Loss of renal function may occur with only mild changes in serum creatinine. In these patients, therapy should be initiated under close medical supervision with low doses, careful titration and monitoring of renal function.



Renal impairment: in cases of renal impairment (creatinine clearance



Angioedema: angioedema of the extremities, face, lips, mucous membranes, tongue, glottis or larynx may occur in patients treated with ACE inhibitors particularly during the first weeks of treatment. However, in rare cases, severe angioedema may develop after long-term treatment with an ACE inhibitor. Treatment should be discontinued promptly. Angioedema involving the tongue, glottis or larynx may be fatal. Emergency therapy should be instituted. The patient should be hospitalised and observed for at least 12 to 24 hours and should not be discharged until complete resolution of symptoms has occurred.



Intestinal angioedema has also been reported very rarely in patients treated with ACE inhibitors and should be included in the differential diagnosis of patients on ACE inhibitors presenting with abdominal pain



Cough: cough has been reported with the use of ACE inhibitors. Characteristically, the cough is non-productive, persistent and resolves after discontinuation of therapy.



Hepatic failure: rarely, ACE inhibitors have been associated with a syndrome that starts with cholestatic jaundice and progresses to fulminant hepatic necrosis and (sometimes) death. The mechanism of this syndrome is not understood. Patients receiving ACE inhibitors who develop jaundice or marked elevations of hepatic enzymes should discontinue the ACE inhibitor and receive appropriate medical follow-up.



Hyperkalaemia: elevations in serum potassium have been observed in some patients treated with ACE inhibitors, including captopril. Patients at risk for the development of hyperkalaemia include those with renal insufficiency, diabetes mellitus, or those using concomitant potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes; or those patients taking other drugs associated with increases in serum potassium (e.g. heparin). If concomitant use of the above mentioned agents is deemed appropriate, regular monitoring of serum potassium is recommended.



Lithium: the combination of lithium and captopril is not recommended (see 4.5)



Aortic and mitral valve stenosis/Obstructive hypertropic cardiomyopathy: ACE inhibitors should be used with caution in patients with left ventricular valvular and outflow tract obstruction and avoided in cases of cardiogenic shock and haemodynamically significant obstruction.



Neutropenia/Agranulocytosis: neutropenia/agranulocytosis, thrombocytopenia and anaemia have been reported in patients receiving ACE inhibitors, including captopril. In patients with normal renal function and no other complicating factors, neutropenia occurs rarely. Captopril should be used with extreme caution in patients with collagen vascular disease, immunosuppressant therapy, treatment with allopurinol or procainamide, or a combination of these complicating factors, especially if there is pre-existing impaired renal function. Some of these patients developed serious infections which in a few instances did not respond to intensive antibiotic therapy.



If captopril is used in such patients, it is advised that white blood cell count and differential counts should be performed prior to therapy, every 2 weeks during the first 3 months of captopril therapy, and periodically thereafter. During treatment all patients should be instructed to report any sign of infection (e.g. sore throat, fever) when a differential white blood cell count should be performed. Captopril and other concomitant medication (see 4.5) should be withdrawn if neutropenia (neutrophils less than 1000/mm³) is detected or suspected.



In most patients neutrophil counts rapidly return to normal upon discontinuing captopril.



Proteinuria: proteinuria may occur particularly in patients with existing renal function impairment or on relatively high doses of ACE inhibitors.



Total urinary proteins greater than 1 g per day were seen in about 0.7% of patients receiving captopril. The majority of patients had evidence of prior renal disease or had received relatively high doses of captopril (in excess of 150 mg/day), or both. Nephrotic syndrome occurred in about one-fifth of proteinuric patients. In most cases, proteinuria subsided or cleared within six months whether or not captopril was continued. Parameters of renal function, such as BUN and creatinine, were seldom altered in the patients with proteinuria.



Patients with prior renal disease should have urinary protein estimations (dip-stick on first morning urine) prior to treatment, and periodically thereafter.



Anaphylactoid reactions during desensitisation: sustained life-threatening anaphylactoid reactions have been rarely reported for patients undergoing desensitising treatment with hymenoptera venom while receiving another ACE inhibitor. In the same patients, these reactions were avoided when the ACE inhibitor was temporarily withheld, but they reappeared upon inadvertent rechallenge. Therefore, caution should be used in patients treated with ACE inhibitors undergoing such desensitisation procedures.



Anaphylactoid reactions during high-flux dialysis / lipoprotein apheresis membrane exposure: anaphylactoid reactions have been reported in patients haemodialysed with high-flux dialysis membranes or undergoing low-density lipoprotein apheresis with dextran sulphate absorption. In these patients, consideration should be given to using a different type of dialysis membrane or a different class of medication.



Surgery/Anaesthesia: hypotension may occur in patients undergoing major surgery or during treatment with anaesthetic agents that are known to lower blood pressure. If hypotension occurs, it may be corrected by volume expansion.



Diabetic patients: the glycaemia levels should be closely monitored in diabetic patients previously treated with oral antidiabetic drugs or insulin, namely during the first month of treatment with an ACE inhibitor.



Lactose: Capoten contains lactose, therefore it should not be used in cases of congenital galactosaemia, glucose and galactose malabsorption or lactase deficiency syndromes (rare metabolic diseases).



Ethnic differences: as with other angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, captopril is apparently less effective in lowering blood pressure in black people than in non-blacks, possibly because of a higher prevalence of low-renin states in the black hypertensive population.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Potassium sparing diuretics or potassium supplements: ACE inhibitors attenuate diuretic induced potassium loss. Potassium sparing diuretics (e.g. spironolactone, triamterene or amiloride), potassium supplements, or potassium-containing salt substitutes may lead to significant increases in serum potassium. If concomitant use is indicated because of demonstrated hypokalaemia they should be used with caution and with frequent monitoring of serum potassium (see 4.4).



Diuretics (thiazide or loop diuretics): prior treatment with high dose diuretics may result in volume depletion and a risk of hypotension when initiating therapy with captopril (see 4.4). The hypotensive effects can be reduced by discontinuation of the diuretic, by increasing volume or salt intake or by initiating therapy with a low dose of captopril. However, no clinically significant drug interactions have been found in specific studies with hydrochlorothiazide or furosemide.



Other antihypertensive agents: captopril has been safely co-administered with other commonly used anti-hypertensive agents (e.g. beta-blockers and long-acting calcium channel blockers). Concomitant use of these agents may increase the hypotensive effects of captopril. Treatment with nitroglycerine and other nitrates, or other vasodilators, should be used with caution.



Treatments of acute myocardial infarction: captopril may be used concomitantly with acetylsalicylic acid (at cardiologic doses), thrombolytics, beta-blockers and/or nitrates in patients with myocardial infarction.



Lithium: reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported during concomitant administration of lithium with ACE inhibitors. Concomitant use of thiazide diuretics may increase the risk of lithium toxicity and enhance the already increased risk of lithium toxicity with ACE inhibitors. Use of captopril with lithium is not recommended, but if the combination proves necessary, careful monitoring of serum lithium levels should be performed (see 4.4)



Tricyclic antidepressants / Antipsychotics: ACE inhibitors may enhance the hypotensive effects of certain tricyclic antidepressants and antipsychotics (see 4.4). Postural hypotension may occur.



Allopurinol, procainamide, cytostatic or immunosuppressive agents: concomitant administration with ACE inhibitors may lead to an increased risk for leucopenia especially when the latter are used at higher than currently recommended doses.



Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicinal products: it has been described that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicinal products (NSAIDs) and ACE inhibitors exert an additive effect on the increase in serum potassium whereas renal function may decrease. These effects are, in principle, reversible. Rarely, acute renal failure may occur, particularly in patients with compromised renal function such as the elderly or dehydrated. Chronic administration of NSAIDs may reduce the antihypertensive effect of an ACE inhibitor.



Sympathomimetics: may reduce the antihypertensive effects of ACE inhibitors; patients should be carefully monitored.



Antidiabetics: pharmacological studies have shown that ACE inhibitors, including captopril, can potentiate the blood glucose-reducing effects of insulin and oral antidiabetics such as sulphonylurea in diabetics. Should this very rare interaction occur, it may be necessary to reduce the dose of the antidiabetic during simultaneous treatment with ACE inhibitors.



Clinical Chemistry



Captopril may cause a false-positive urine test for acetone.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy: Capoten is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy. When a pregnancy is planned or confirmed, the switch to an alternative treatment should be initiated as soon as possible. Controlled studies with ACE inhibitors have not been done in humans, but limited number of cases of first trimester exposures have not shown malformations.



Capoten is contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Prolonged captopril exposure during the second and third trimesters is known to induce toxicity in foetuses (decreased renal function, oligohydramnios, skull ossification retardation) and in neonates (neonatal renal failure, hypotension, hyperkalaemia) (see also 5.3).



Lactation: Capoten is contraindicated in the lactation period.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



As with other antihypertensives, the ability to drive and use machines may be reduced, namely at the start of the treatment, or when posology is modified, and also when used in combination with alcohol, but these effects depend on the individual's susceptibility.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



Undesirable effects reported for captopril and/or ACE inhibitor therapy include:



Blood and lymphatic disorders:



very rare: neutropenia/agranulocytosis (see 4.4), pancytopenia particularly in patients with renal dysfunction (see 4.4), anaemia (including aplastic and haemolytic), thrombocytopenia, lymphadenopathy, eosinophilia, auto-immune diseases and/or positive ANA-titres.



Metabolism and nutrition disorders:



rare: anorexia



very rare: hyperkalaemia, hypoglycaemia (see 4.4)



Psychiatric disorders:



common: sleep disorders



very rare: confusion, depression.



Nervous system disorders:



common: taste impairment, dizziness



rare: drowsiness, headache and paraesthesia



very rare: cerebrovascular incidents, including stroke, and syncope.



Eye disorders:



very rare: blurred vision



Cardiac disorders:



uncommon: tachycardia or tachyarrhythmia, angina pectoris, palpitations.



very rare: cardiac arrest, cardiogenic shock



Vascular disorders:



uncommon: hypotension (see 4.4), Raynaud syndrome, flush, pallor



Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders:



common: dry, irritating (non-productive) cough (see 4.4) and dyspnoea



very rare: bronchospasm, rhinitis, allergic alveolitis / eosinophilic pneumonia



Gastrointestinal disorders:



common: nausea, vomiting, gastric irritations, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, dry mouth.



rare: stomatitis/aphthous ulcerations



very rare: glossitis, peptic ulcer, pancreatitis.



Hepato-biliary disorders:



very rare: impaired hepatic function and cholestasis (including jaundice), hepatitis including necrosis, elevated liver enzymes and bilirubin.



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:



common: pruritus with or without a rash, rash, and alopecia.



uncommon: angioedema (see 4.4)



very rare: urticaria, Stevens Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, photosensitivity, erythroderma, pemphigoid reactions and exfoliative dermatitis.



Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders:



very rare: myalgia, arthralgia.



Renal and urinary disorders:



rare: renal function disorders including renal failure, polyuria, oliguria, increased urine frequency.



very rare: nephrotic syndrome.



Reproductive system and breast disorders:



very rare: impotence, gynaecomastia.



General disorders:



uncommon: chest pain, fatigue, malaise



very rare: fever



Investigations:



very rare: proteinuria, eosinophilia, increase of serum potassium, decrease of serum sodium, elevation of BUN, serum creatinine and serum bilirubin, decreases in haemoglobin, haematocrit, leucocytes, thrombocytes, positive ANA-titre, elevated ESR.



4.9 Overdose



Symptoms of overdosage are severe hypotension, shock, stupor, bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances and renal failure.



Measures to prevent absorption (e.g. gastric lavage, administration of adsorbents and sodium sulphate within 30 minutes after intake) and hasten elimination should be applied if ingestion is recent. If hypotension occurs, the patient should be placed in the shock position and salt and volume supplementations should be given rapidly. Treatment with angiotensin-II should be considered. Bradycardia or extensive vagal reactions should be treated by administering atropine. The use of a pacemaker may be considered.



Captopril may be removed from circulation by haemodialysis.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: ACE inhibitors, plain, ATC code: C09AA01.



Captopril is a highly specific, competitive inhibitor of angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE inhibitors).



The beneficial effects of ACE inhibitors appear to result primarily from the suppression of the plasma renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. Renin is an endogenous enzyme synthesised by the kidneys and released into the circulation where it converts angiotensinogen to angiotensin-I a relatively inactive decapeptide. Angiotensin-I is then converted by angiotensin converting enzyme, a peptidyldipeptidase, to angiotensin-II. Angiotensin-II is a potent vasoconstrictor responsible for arterial vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure, as well as for stimulation of the adrenal gland to secrete aldosterone. Inhibition of ACE results in decreased plasma angiotensin-II, which leads to decreased vasopressor activity and to reduced aldosterone secretion. Although the latter decrease is small, small increases in serum potassium concentrations may occur, along with sodium and fluid loss. The cessation of the negative feedback of angiotensin-II on the renin secretion results in an increase of the plasma renin activity.



Another function of the converting enzyme is to degrade the potent vasodepressive kinin peptide bradykinin to inactive metabolites. Therefore, inhibition of ACE results in an increased activity of circulating and local kallikrein-kinin-system which contributes to peripheral vasodilation by activating the prostaglandin system; it is possible that this mechanism is involved in the hypotensive effect of ACE inhibitors and is responsible for certain adverse reactions.



Reductions of blood pressure are usually maximal 60 to 90 minutes after oral administration of an individual dose of captopril. The duration of effect is dose related. The reduction in blood pressure may be progressive, so to achieve maximal therapeutic effects, several weeks of therapy may be required. The blood pressure lowering effects of captopril and thiazide-type diuretics are additive.



In patients with hypertension, captopril causes a reduction in supine and erect blood pressure, without inducing any compensatory increase in heart rate, nor water and sodium retention.



In haemodynamic investigations, captopril caused a marked reduction in peripheral arterial resistance. In general there were no clinically relevant changes in renal plasma flow or glomerular filtration rate. In most patients, the antihypertensive effect began about 15 to 30 minutes after oral administration of captopril; the peak effect was achieved after 60 to 90 minutes. The maximum reduction in blood pressure of a defined captopril dose was generally visible after three to four weeks.



In the recommended daily dose, the antihypertensive effect persists even during long-term treatment. Temporary withdrawal of captopril does not cause any rapid, excessive increase in blood pressure (rebound). The treatment of hypertension with captopril leads also to a decrease in left ventricular hypertrophy.



Haemodynamic investigations in patients with heart failure, showed that captopril caused a reduction in peripheral systemic resistance and a rise in venous capacity. This resulted in a reduction in pre-load and after-load of the heart (reduction in ventricular filling pressure). In addition, rises in cardiac output, work index and exercise capacity have been observed during treatment with captopril. In a large, placebo-controlled study in patients with left ventricular dysfunction (LVEF



A retrospective analysis showed that captopril reduced recurrent infarcts and cardiac revascularisation procedures (neither were target criteria of the study).



Another large, placebo-controlled study in patients with myocardial infarction showed that captopril (given within 24 hours of the event and for a duration of one month) significantly reduced overall mortality after 5 weeks compared to placebo. The favourable effect of captopril on total mortality was still detectable even after one year. No indication of a negative effect in relation to early mortality on the first day of treatment was found.



Captopril cardioprotection effects are observed regardless of the patient's age or gender, location of the infarction and concomitant treatments with proven efficacy during the post-infarction period (thrombolytic agents, beta-blockers and acetylsalicylic acid).



Type I diabetic nephropathy



In a placebo-controlled, multicentre double blind clinical trial in insulin-dependent (Type I) diabetes with proteinuria, with or without hypertension (simultaneous administration of other antihypertensives to control blood pressure was allowed), captopril significantly reduced (by 51%) the time to doubling of the baseline creatinine concentration compared to placebo; the incidence of terminal renal failure (dialysis, transplantation) or death was also significantly less common under captopril than under placebo (51%). In patients with diabetes and microalbuminuria, treatment with captopril reduced albumin excretion within two years.



The effects of treatment with captopril on the preservation of renal function are in addition to any benefit that may have been derived from the reduction in blood pressure.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Captopril is an orally active agent that does not require biotransformation for activity. The average minimal absorption is approximately 75%. Peak plasma concentrations are reached within 60-90 minutes. The presence of food in the gastrointestinal tract reduces absorption by about 30-40%. Approximately 25-30% of the circulating drug is bound to plasma proteins.



The apparent elimination half-life of unchanged captopril in blood is about 2 hours. Greater than 95% of the absorbed dose is eliminated in the urine within 24 hours; 40-50% is unchanged drug and the remainder are inactive disulphide metabolites (captopril disulphide and captopril cysteine disulphide). Impaired renal function could result in drug accumulation. Therefore, in patients with impaired renal function the dose should be reduced and/or dosage interval prolonged (see 4.2).



Studies in animals indicate that captopril does not cross the blood-brain barrier to any significant extent.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Animal studies performed during organogenesis with captopril have not shown any teratogenic effect but captopril has produced foetal toxicity in several species, including foetal mortality during late pregnancy, growth retardation and postnatal mortality in the rat. Preclinical data reveal no other specific hazard for humans based on conventional studies of safety pharmacology, repeated dose toxicology, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Lactose, maize starch, microcrystalline cellulose, stearic acid.



6.2 Incompatibilities



None.



6.3 Shelf Life



48 Months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 30°C.



Store in the original package.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



The tablets are packaged in PVC/aluminium blisters in packs of 56 or 84 tablets.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special instructions.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



E.R. Squibb & Sons Limited



Uxbridge Business Park



Sanderson Road



Uxbridge



Middlesex UB8 1DH



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 0034/0221



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



20th September 1989



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



23rd July 2008




Thursday, 24 May 2012

Canesten Cream Combi Internal & External Creams





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Canesten Cream Combi Internal & External Creams


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Canesten Combi 10% Internal Cream contains Clotrimazole 10% w/w.



Canesten Combi 2% External Cream contains Clotrimazole 2% w/w.



For excipients, see 6.1



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Cream.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



The internal cream is recommended for the treatment of candidal vaginitis.



The external cream is recommended for the treatment of candidal vulvitis. It should be used as an adjunct to treatment of candidal vaginitis.



These products should only be used if candidal vulvovaginitis (thrush) was previously diagnosed by a doctor.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Adults



The internal cream should be administered intravaginally using the applicator supplied. The contents of the filled applicator (5g) should be inserted as deeply as possible into the vagina, preferably at night.



The external cream should be thinly applied to the vulva and surrounding area, two or three times daily and rubbed in gently.



Treatment with the external cream should be continued until symptoms of the infection disappear. However, if after concomitant treatment of the vaginitis, the symptoms do not improve within seven days, the patient should consult a physician.



Generally:



Treatment during the menstrual period should be avoided due to the risk of the cream being washed out by the menstrual flow. The treatment should be finished before the onset of menstruation.



Do not use tampons, intravaginal douches, spermicides or other vaginal products while using this product.



Children



Not for use in children under 16.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to clotrimazole and any of the other ingredients.



Hypersensitivity to cetostearyl alcohol.



Do not use to treat nail or scalp infections.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



These products contain cetostearyl alcohol, which may cause local skin reactions (e.g. contact dermatitis).



Before using Canesten Cream Combi Internal & External Creams medical advice must be sought if any of the following are applicable: -



- more than two infections of candidal vaginitis in the last 6 months



- previous history of a sexually transmitted disease or exposure to partner with sexually transmitted disease



- pregnancy or suspected pregnancy



- aged under 16 or over 60 years



- known hypersensitivity to imidazoles or other vaginal antifungal products



The creams should not be used if the patient has any of the following symptoms whereupon medical advice should be sought: -



- irregular vaginal bleeding



- abnormal vaginal bleeding or a blood-stained discharge



- vulval or vaginal ulcers, blisters or sores



- lower abdominal pain or dysuria



- any adverse events such as redness, irritation or swelling associated with the treatment



- fever or chills



- nausea or vomiting



- diarrhoea



- foul smelling vaginal discharge



If no improvement in symptoms is seen after 7 days the patient should consult their doctor.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Laboratory tests have suggested that this product may cause damage to latex contraceptives. Consequently the effectiveness of such contraceptives may be reduced. Patients should be advised to use alternative precautions for at least five days after using this product.



Concomitant medication with vaginal clotrimazole and oral tacrolimus (FK-506; immunosuppressant) might lead to increased tacrolimus plasma levels. Patients should thus be closely monitored for signs and symptoms of tacrolimus overdosage, if necessary by determination of the respective plasma levels.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Data on a large number of exposed pregnancies indicate no adverse effects of Clotrimazole on pregnancy or on the health of the foetus/newborn child. To date, no relevant epidemiological data are available.



Well-conducted epidemiological studies indicate no adverse effects of clotrimazole on pregnancy or on the health of the fetus/newborn child.



Clotrimazole can be used during pregnancy, but only under the supervision of a physician or midwife.



During pregnancy the treatment should be carried out with clotrimazole pessary, since these can be inserted without using an applicator.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Not applicable.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



As the listed undesirable effects are based on spontaneous reports, assigning accurate frequency of occurrence for each is not possible.



Immune system disorders:



allergic reaction (syncope, hypotension, dyspnea, urticaria, pruritus)



Canesten Internal Cream



Reproductive system and breast disorders:



genital peeling, pruritus, rash, oedema, discomfort, burning, irritation, pelvic pain



Gastrointestinal disorders:



abdominal pain



Canesten Cream



Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: blisters, discomfort/pain, oedema, irritation, peeling/exfoliation, pruritus, rash, stinging/burning



4.9 Overdose



In the event of accidental oral ingestion, routine measures such as gastric lavage should be performed only if clinical symptoms of overdose become apparent (e.g. dizziness, nausea or vomiting). It should be carried out only if the airway can be protected adequately.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



ATC Code: G01A F18 Gynecological antiinfectives and antiseptics – imidazole derivative.



Clotrimazole is an imidazole derivative with a broad spectrum of antimycotic activity.



Mechanism of Action



Clotrimazole acts against fungi by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis. Inhibition of ergosterol synthesis leads to structural and functional impairment of the cytoplasmic membrane.



Pharmacodynamic Effects



Clotrimazole has a broad antimycotic spectrum of action in vitro and in vivo, which includes dermatophytes, yeasts, moulds, etc.



The mode of action of clotrimazole is fungistatic or fungicidal depending on the concentration of clotrimazole at the site of infection. In-vitro activity is limited to proliferating fungal elements; fungal spores are only slightly sensitive.



Primarily resistant variants of sensitive fungal species are very rare; the development of secondary resistance by sensitive fungi has so far only been observed in very isolated cases under therapeutic conditions.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Pharmacokinetic investigations after vaginal application have shown that only a small amount of clotrimazole (3 – 10% of the dose) is absorbed. Due to the rapid hepatic metabolism of absorbed clotrimazole into pharmacologically inactive metabolites the resulting peak plasma concentrations of clotrimazole after vaginal application of a 500mg dose were less than 10 ng/ml, reflecting that clotrimazole applied intravaginally does not lead to measurable systemic effects or side effects.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



There are no pre-clinical data of relevance to the prescriber which are additional to the information included in other sections of the SPC.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Canesten Combi 10% Internal Cream contains:



Sorbitan stearate



Polysorbate 60



Cetyl palmitate



Cetostearyl alcohol



Isopropyl myristate



Benzyl alcohol



Purified water



Canesten Combi 2% External Cream contains:



Sorbitan stearate



Polysorbate 60



Cetyl palmitate



Cetostearyl alcohol



Octyldodecanol



Benzyl alcohol



Purified Water



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



24 months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 25°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Canesten Combi 10% Internal Cream:



A single dose applicator consisting of a body of HDPE (lupolene or hostalene), piston of LDPE, cap of LDPE, with a separate plunger of polystyrene. One applicator is contained in a blister pack. Pack size 5g.



Canesten Combi 2% External Cream:



The cream is filled into Aluminium tubes (10g) with internal lacquer coating, latex stopper and HDPE screw top.



The blister pack and tube are enclosed in a cardboard carton.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Canesten Combi 10% Internal Cream:



1. Remove applicator from package. Insert plunger (A) into applicator (B).







 
 

 


2. Remove red cap (C) by turning.







 
 

 


3. Introduce applicator (B) as deeply as possible into the vagina (this is best done with the patient lying on her back with the knees bent up) and empty its contents into the vagina by pushing the plunger (A).







 
 

 


4. Remove the applicator and dispose of it hygienically.



Canesten Combi 2% External Cream:



There are no special instructions for use of the cream.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Bayer plc



Bayer House



Strawberry Hill



Newbury, Berkshire



RG14 1JA.



Trading as Bayer plc, Consumer Care Division



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 0010/0301



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



03/08/2009



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



12/08/2010



LEGAL CATEGORY


GSL




Monday, 21 May 2012

Tracleer



bosentan

Dosage Form: tablet, film coated
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
WARNING: RISKS OF LIVER INJURY and TERATOGENICITY

Because of the risk of liver injury and birth defects, Tracleer is available only through a special restricted distribution program called the Tracleer Access Program (T.A.P.), by calling 1 866 228 3546. Only prescribers and pharmacies registered with T.A.P. may prescribe and distribute Tracleer. In addition, Tracleer may be dispensed only to patients who are enrolled in and meet all conditions of T.A.P. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].


Liver Injury


In clinical studies, Tracleer caused at least 3-fold upper limit of normal (ULN) elevation of liver aminotransferases (ALT and AST) in about 11% of patients, accompanied by elevated bilirubin in a small number of cases. Because these changes are a marker for potential serious liver injury, serum aminotransferase levels must be measured prior to initiation of treatment and then monthly [see Dosage and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. In the postmarketing period, in the setting of close monitoring, rare cases of unexplained hepatic cirrhosis were reported after prolonged (> 12 months) therapy with Tracleer in patients with multiple co-morbidities and drug therapies. There have also been reports of liver failure. The contribution of Tracleer in these cases could not be excluded.


In at least one case, the initial presentation (after > 20 months of treatment) included pronounced elevations in aminotransferases and bilirubin levels accompanied by non-specific symptoms, all of which resolved slowly over time after discontinuation of Tracleer. This case reinforces the importance of strict adherence to the monthly monitoring schedule for the duration of treatment and the treatment algorithm, which includes stopping Tracleer with a rise of aminotransferases accompanied by signs or symptoms of liver dysfunction [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].


Elevations in aminotransferases require close attention [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Tracleer should generally be avoided in patients with elevated aminotransferases (> 3 × ULN) at baseline because monitoring liver injury may be more difficult. If liver aminotransferase elevations are accompanied by clinical symptoms of liver injury (such as nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, or unusual lethargy or fatigue) or increases in bilirubin ≥ 2 × ULN, treatment with Tracleer should be stopped. There is no experience with the re-introduction of Tracleer in these circumstances.


Teratogenicity


Tracleer is likely to cause major birth defects if used by pregnant females based on animal data [see Contraindications (4.1)]. Therefore, pregnancy must be excluded before the start of treatment with Tracleer. Throughout treatment and for one month after stopping Tracleer, females of childbearing potential must use two reliable methods of contraception unless the patient has a tubal sterilization or Copper T 380A IUD or LNg 20 IUS inserted, in which case no other contraception is needed. Hormonal contraceptives, including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable contraceptives should not be used as the sole means of contraception because these may not be effective in patients receiving Tracleer [see Drug Interactions (7.2)]. Monthly pregnancy tests should be obtained.




1. INDICATIONS AND USAGE



Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension


Tracleer® is indicated for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) (WHO Group 1) to improve exercise ability and to decrease clinical worsening. Studies establishing effectiveness included predominately patients with NYHA Functional Class II-IV symptoms and etiologies of idiopathic or heritable PAH (60%), PAH associated with connective tissue diseases (21%), and PAH associated with congenital systemic-to-pulmonary shunts (18%) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].



Considerations for use


Patients with WHO Class II symptoms showed reduction in the rate of clinical deterioration and a trend for improvement in walk distance. Physicians should consider whether these benefits are sufficient to offset the risk of liver injury in WHO Class II patients, which may preclude future use as their disease progresses.



2. DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION



Recommended Dosing


Tracleer treatment should be initiated at a dose of 62.5 mg twice daily for 4 weeks and then increased to the maintenance dose of 125 mg twice daily. Doses above 125 mg twice daily did not appear to confer additional benefit sufficient to offset the increased risk of liver injury.


Tablets should be administered morning and evening with or without food.



Required Monitoring


Liver aminotransferase levels must be measured prior to initiation of treatment and then monthly. If elevated aminotransferase levels are seen, changes in monitoring and treatment must be initiated.



Dosage Adjustments for Patients Developing Aminotransferase Elevations


The table below summarizes the dosage adjustment and monitoring recommendations for patients who develop aminotransferase elevations >3 × ULN during therapy with Tracleer. If liver aminotransferase elevations are accompanied by clinical symptoms of liver injury (such as nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, or unusual lethargy or fatigue) or increases in bilirubin ≥ 2 × ULN, treatment with Tracleer should be stopped. There is no experience with the re-introduction of Tracleer in these circumstances.















Table 1: Dosage Adjustment and Monitoring in Patients Developing Aminotransferase Elevations >3 × ULN
ALT/AST levelsTreatment and monitoring recommendations
> 3 and ≤ 5 × ULNConfirm by another aminotransferase test; if confirmed, reduce the daily dose to 62.5 mg twice daily or interrupt treatment, and monitor aminotransferase levels at least every 2 weeks. If the aminotransferase levels return to pre-treatment values, continue or re-introduce the treatment as appropriate (see below).
  
> 5 and ≤ 8 × ULNConfirm by another aminotransferase test; if confirmed, stop treatment and monitor aminotransferase levels at least every 2 weeks. Once the aminotransferase levels return to pre-treatment values, consider re-introduction of the treatment (see below).
  
> 8 × ULNTreatment should be stopped and re-introduction of Tracleer should not be considered. There is no experience with re-introduction of Tracleer in these circumstances.

If Tracleer is re-introduced it should be at the starting dose; aminotransferase levels should be checked within 3 days and thereafter according to the recommendations above.



Use in Females of Childbearing Potential


Initiate treatment in females of child-bearing potential only after a negative pregnancy test and only in females who are using two reliable methods of contraception. Females who have had a tubal sterilization or a Copper T 380A IUD or LNg 20 IUS inserted do not require other forms of contraception. Effective contraception must be practiced throughout treatment and for one month after stopping Tracleer. Females should seek contraceptive advice as needed from a gynecologist or similar expert. Urine or serum pregnancy tests should be obtained monthly in females of childbearing potential taking Tracleer [see Boxed Warning, Contraindications (4.1), Drug Interactions (7.2)].



Use in Patients with Pre-existing Hepatic Impairment


Tracleer should generally be avoided in patients with moderate or severe liver impairment. There are no specific data to guide dosing in hepatically impaired patients; caution should be exercised in patients with mildly impaired liver function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].



Patients with Low Body Weight


In patients with a body weight below 40 kg but who are over 12 years of age the recommended initial and maintenance dose is 62.5 mg twice daily. There is limited information about the safety and efficacy of Tracleer in children between the ages of 12 and 18 years.



Use with Ritonavir



Co-administration of Tracleer in Patients on Ritonavir


In patients who have been receiving ritonavir for at least 10 days, start Tracleer at 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based upon individual tolerability [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].



Co-administration of Ritonavir in Patients on Tracleer


Discontinue use of Tracleer at least 36 hours prior to initiation of ritonavir. After at least 10 days following the initiation of ritonavir, resume Tracleer at 62.5 mg once daily or every other day based upon individual tolerability [see Dosage and Administration (2.8) and Drug Interactions (7.5)].



Treatment Discontinuation


There is limited experience with abrupt discontinuation of Tracleer. No evidence for acute rebound has been observed. Nevertheless, to avoid the potential for clinical deterioration, gradual dose reduction (62.5 mg twice daily for 3 to 7 days) should be considered.



3. DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS


Tracleer is available as 62.5 mg and 125 mg film-coated, unscored tablets for oral administration.


62.5 mg tablets: film-coated, round, biconvex, orange-white tablets, embossed with identification marking "62,5"


125 mg tablets: film-coated, oval, biconvex, orange-white tablets, embossed with identification marking "125"



4. CONTRAINDICATIONS



Pregnancy Category X


[see BOXED WARNING]


Use of Tracleer is contraindicated in females who are or may become pregnant. While there are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant females, animal studies show that Tracleer is likely to cause major birth defects when administered during pregnancy. In animal studies, bosentan caused teratogenic effects including malformations of the head, mouth, face, and large blood vessels. Therefore, pregnancy must be excluded before the start of treatment with Tracleer. Throughout treatment and for one month after stopping Tracleer, females of child bearing potential must use two reliable methods of contraception unless the patient has a tubal sterilization or Copper T 380A IUD or LNg 20 IUS inserted, in which case no other contraception is needed. Monthly pregnancy tests should also be obtained. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if a patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].



Use with Cyclosporine A


Co-administration of cyclosporine A and bosentan resulted in markedly increased plasma concentrations of bosentan. Therefore, concomitant use of Tracleer and cyclosporine A is contraindicated [see Drug Interactions (7.3)].



Use with Glyburide


An increased risk of liver enzyme elevations was observed in patients receiving glyburide concomitantly with bosentan. Therefore co-administration of glyburide and Tracleer is contraindicated [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].



Hypersensitivity


Tracleer is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to bosentan or any component of the product. Observed reactions include rash and angioedema [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].



Warnings and Precautions



Potential Liver Injury


Elevations in ALT or AST by more than 3 × ULN were observed in 11% of bosentan-treated patients (N = 658) compared to 2% of placebo-treated patients (N = 280). Three-fold increases were seen in 12% of 95 pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients on 125 mg twice daily and 14% of 70 PAH patients on 250 mg twice daily. Eight-fold increases were seen in 2% of PAH patients on 125 mg twice daily and 7% of PAH patients on 250 mg twice daily. Bilirubin increases to ≥3 × ULN were associated with aminotransferase increases in 2 of 658 (0.3%) of patients treated with bosentan. The combination of hepatocellular injury (increases in aminotransferases of > 3 × ULN) and increases in total bilirubin (≥ 3 × ULN) is a marker for potential serious liver injury.


Elevations of AST and/or ALT associated with bosentan are dose-dependent, occur both early and late in treatment, usually progress slowly, are typically asymptomatic, and usually have been reversible after treatment interruption or cessation. Aminotransferase elevations also may reverse spontaneously while continuing treatment with Tracleer.


Liver aminotransferase levels must be measured prior to initiation of treatment and then monthly. If elevated aminotransferase levels are seen, changes in monitoring and treatment must be initiated. If liver aminotransferase elevations are accompanied by clinical symptoms of liver injury (such as nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, jaundice, or unusual lethargy or fatigue) or increases in bilirubin ≥ 2 × ULN, treatment should be stopped. There is no experience with the re-introduction of Tracleer in these circumstances [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].



Patients with Pre-existing Hepatic Impairment


Liver aminotransferase levels must be measured prior to initiation of treatment and then monthly. Tracleer should generally be avoided in patients with moderate or severe liver impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. In addition, Tracleer should generally be avoided in patients with elevated aminotransferases (> 3 × ULN) because monitoring liver injury in these patients may be more difficult [see Boxed Warning].



Fluid Retention


Peripheral edema is a known clinical consequence of PAH and worsening PAH and is also a known effect of other endothelin receptor antagonists. In PAH clinical trials with Tracleer, combined adverse events of fluid retention or edema were reported in 1.7 percent (placebo-corrected) of patients [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].


In addition, there have been numerous post-marketing reports of fluid retention in patients with pulmonary hypertension occurring within weeks after starting Tracleer. Patients required intervention with a diuretic, fluid management, or hospitalization for decompensating heart failure.


If clinically significant fluid retention develops, with or without associated weight gain, further evaluation should be undertaken to determine the cause, such as Tracleer or underlying heart failure, and the possible need for treatment or discontinuation of Tracleer therapy.



Decreased Sperm Counts


An open-label, single arm, multicenter, safety study evaluated the effect on testicular function of Tracleer 62.5 mg twice daily for 4 weeks, followed by 125 mg twice daily for 5 months. Twenty-five male patients with WHO functional class III and IV PAH and normal baseline sperm count were enrolled. Twenty-three completed the study and 2 discontinued due to adverse events not related to testicular function. There was a decline in sperm count of at least 50% in 25% of the patients after 3 or 6 months of treatment with Tracleer. Sperm count remained within the normal range in all 22 patients with data after 6 months and no changes in sperm morphology, sperm motility, or hormone levels were observed. One patient developed marked oligospermia at 3 months and the sperm count remained low with 2 follow-up measurements over the subsequent 6 weeks. Tracleer was discontinued and after two months the sperm count had returned to baseline levels. Based on these findings and preclinical data from endothelin receptor antagonists, it cannot be excluded that endothelin receptor antagonists such as Tracleer have an adverse effect on spermatogenesis.



Decreases in Hemoglobin and Hematocrit


Treatment with Tracleer can cause a dose-related decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit. It is recommended that hemoglobin concentrations be checked after 1 and 3 months, and every 3 months thereafter. If a marked decrease in hemoglobin concentration occurs, further evaluation should be undertaken to determine the cause and need for specific treatment.


The overall mean decrease in hemoglobin concentration for bosentan-treated patients was 0.9 g/dL (change to end of treatment). Most of this decrease of hemoglobin concentration was detected during the first few weeks of bosentan treatment and hemoglobin levels stabilized by 4–12 weeks of bosentan treatment. In placebo-controlled studies of all uses of bosentan, marked decreases in hemoglobin (> 15% decrease from baseline resulting in values < 11 g/dL) were observed in 6% of bosentan-treated patients and 3% of placebo-treated patients. In patients with PAH treated with doses of 125 and 250 mg twice daily, marked decreases in hemoglobin occurred in 3% compared to 1% in placebo-treated patients.


A decrease in hemoglobin concentration by at least 1 g/dL was observed in 57% of bosentan-treated patients as compared to 29% of placebo-treated patients. In 80% of those patients whose hemoglobin decreased by at least 1 g/dL, the decrease occurred during the first 6 weeks of bosentan treatment.


During the course of treatment the hemoglobin concentration remained within normal limits in 68% of bosentan-treated patients compared to 76% of placebo patients. The explanation for the change in hemoglobin is not known, but it does not appear to be hemorrhage or hemolysis.



Pulmonary Veno-Occlusive Disease


Should signs of pulmonary edema occur when Tracleer is administered, the possibility of associated pulmonary veno-occlusive disease should be considered and Tracleer should be discontinued.



Prescribing and Distribution Program for Tracleer


Because of the risks of liver injury and birth defects, Tracleer is available only through a special restricted distribution program called the Tracleer Access Program (T.A.P.). Only prescribers and pharmacies registered with T.A.P. may prescribe and distribute Tracleer. In addition, Tracleer may be dispensed only to patients who are enrolled in and meet all conditions of T.A.P. Information about Tracleer and T.A.P. can be obtained by calling 1-866-228-3546.


To enroll in T.A.P., prescribers must complete the T.A.P. Tracleer (bosentan) Enrollment and Renewal Form (see T.A.P. Tracleer (bosentan) Enrollment and Renewal Form for full prescribing physician agreement) indicating agreement to:


  • Read and understand the communication and educational materials for prescribers regarding the risks of Tracleer.

  • Review and discuss the Tracleer Medication Guide and the risks of bosentan (including the risks of teratogenicity and hepatotoxicity) with every patient prior to prescribing Tracleer.

  • Review pretreatment liver function tests (ALT/AST/bilirubin) and, for females of childbearing potential, confirm that the patient is not pregnant.

  • Agree to order and monitor monthly liver function tests and, for females of childbearing potential, pregnancy tests.

  • Enroll all patients in T.A.P. and renew patients' enrollment annually thereafter.

  • Educate and counsel females of childbearing potential to use reliable contraception, as defined on the Tracleer Enrollment and Renewal Form, during treatment with Tracleer and for one month after treatment discontinuation.

  • Counsel patients who fail to comply with the program requirements.

  • Notify Actelion Pharmaceuticals US, Inc. of any adverse events, including liver injury, and report any pregnancy during Tracleer treatment.

Throughout treatment and for one month after stopping Tracleer, females of childbearing potential must use two reliable methods of contraception unless the patient has a tubal sterilization or Copper T 380A IUD or LNg 20 IUS inserted, in which case no other contraception is needed. Hormonal contraceptives, including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable contraceptives should not be used as the sole means of contraception because these may not be effective in patients receiving Tracleer.



6. ADVERSE REACTIONS


The following important adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:


  • Potential liver injury [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]

  • Fluid retention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]


Clinical Studies Experience


Safety data on bosentan were obtained from 13 clinical studies (9 placebo-controlled and 4 open-label) in 870 patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension and other diseases. Doses up to 8 times the currently recommended clinical dose (125 mg twice daily) were administered for a variety of durations. The exposure to bosentan in these trials ranged from 1 day to 4.1 years (N=94 for 1 year; N=61 for 1.5 years and N=39 for more than 2 years). Exposure of pulmonary arterial hypertension patients (N=328) to bosentan ranged from 1 day to 1.7 years (N=174 more than 6 months and N=28 more than 12 months).


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.


Treatment discontinuations due to adverse events other than those related to pulmonary hypertension during the clinical trials in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension were more frequent on bosentan (6%; 15/258 patients) than on placebo (3%; 5/172 patients). In this database the only cause of discontinuations > 1% and occurring more often on bosentan was abnormal liver function.


The adverse drug events that occurred in ≥3% of the bosentan-treated patients and were more common on bosentan in placebo-controlled trials in pulmonary arterial hypertension at doses of 125 or 250 mg twice daily are shown in Table 2:








































































Table 2. Adverse events* occurring in ≥3% of patients treated with bosentan 125-250 mg twice daily and more common on bosentan in placebo-controlled studies in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Adverse EventBosentan

N = 258
Placebo

N = 172

*

Note: only AEs with onset from start of treatment to 1 calendar day after end of treatment are included. All reported events (at least 3%) are included except those too general to be informative, and those not reasonably associated with the use of the drug because they were associated with the condition being treated or are very common in the treated population.

Combined data from Study-351, BREATHE-1 and EARLY

No.%No.%
Respiratory Tract Infection5622%3017%
Headache3915%2514%
Edema2811%169%
Chest Pain135%85%
Syncope125%74%
Flushing104%53%
Hypotension104%32%
Sinusitis94%42%
Arthralgia94%32%
Liver Function Test Abnormal94%32%
Palpitations94%32%
Anemia83%-

Postmarketing Experience


There have been several post-marketing reports of angioedema associated with the use of bosentan. The onset of the reported cases occurred within a range of 8 hours to 21 days after starting therapy. Some patients were treated with an antihistamine and their signs of angioedema resolved without discontinuing Tracleer.


The following additional adverse reactions have been reported during the post approval use of Tracleer. Because these adverse reactions are reported from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to Tracleer exposure:


 

Unexplained hepatic cirrhosis [see Boxed Warning]

 

Liver failure [see Boxed Warning]

 

Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications (4.4)]

 

Thrombocytopenia

 

Rash

 

Jaundice

 

Anemia requiring transfusion

 

Neutropenia and leukopenia


7. DRUG INTERACTIONS



Cytochrome P450 Summary


Bosentan is metabolized by CYP2C9 and CYP3A. Inhibition of these enzymes may increase the plasma concentration of bosentan (see ketoconazole). Concomitant administration of both a CYP2C9 inhibitor (such as fluconazole or amiodarone) and a strong CYP3A inhibitor (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole) or a moderate CYP3A inhibitor (e.g., amprenavir, erythromycin, fluconazole, diltiazem) with bosentan will likely lead to large increases in plasma concentrations of bosentan. Co-administration of such combinations of a CYP2C9 inhibitor plus a strong or moderate CYP3A inhibitor with Tracleer is not recommended.


Bosentan is an inducer of CYP3A and CYP2C9. Consequently plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by these two isozymes will be decreased when Tracleer is co-administered. Bosentan had no relevant inhibitory effect on any CYP isozyme in vitro (CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP3A). Consequently, Tracleer is not expected to increase the plasma concentrations of drugs metabolized by these enzymes.



Hormonal Contraceptives


Hormonal contraceptives, including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable forms, may not be reliable when Tracleer is co-administered. Females should practice additional methods of contraception and not rely on hormonal contraception alone when taking Tracleer [see Boxed Warning, Contraindications (4.1)].


An interaction study demonstrated that co-administration of bosentan and a combination oral hormonal contraceptive produced average decreases of norethindrone and ethinyl estradiol levels of 14% and 31%, respectively. However, decreases in exposure were as much as 56% and 66%, respectively, in individual subjects.



Cyclosporine A


The concomitant administration of bosentan and cyclosporine A is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4.2)].


During the first day of concomitant administration, trough concentrations of bosentan were increased by about 30-fold. The mechanism of this interaction is most likely inhibition of transport protein-mediated uptake of bosentan into hepatocytes by cyclosporine. Steady-state bosentan plasma concentrations were 3- to 4-fold higher than in the absence of cyclosporine A. Co-administration of bosentan decreased the plasma concentrations of cyclosporine A (a CYP3A substrate) by approximately 50%.



Glyburide


An increased risk of elevated liver aminotransferases was observed in patients receiving concomitant therapy with glyburide. Therefore, the concomitant administration of Tracleer and glyburide is contraindicated, and alternative hypoglycemic agents should be considered [see Contraindications (4.3)].


Co-administration of bosentan decreased the plasma concentrations of glyburide by approximately 40%. The plasma concentrations of bosentan were also decreased by approximately 30%. Bosentan is also expected to reduce plasma concentrations of other oral hypoglycemic agents that are predominantly metabolized by CYP2C9 or CYP3A. The possibility of worsened glucose control in patients using these agents should be considered.



Lopinavir/Ritonavir or Other Ritonavir-containing HIV Regimens


In vitro data indicate that bosentan is a substrate of the Organic Anion Transport Protein (OATP), CYP3A and CYP2C9. Ritonavir inhibits OATP and inhibits and induces CYP3A. However, the impact of ritonavir on the pharmacokinetics of bosentan may largely result from its effect on OATP.


In normal volunteers, co-administration of Tracleer 125 mg twice daily and lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily increased the trough concentrations of bosentan on Days 4 and 10 approximately 48-fold and 5-fold, respectively, compared with those measured after Tracleer administered alone. Therefore, adjust the dose of Tracleer when initiating lopinavir/ritonavir [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].


Co-administration of Tracleer 125 mg twice daily had no substantial impact on the pharmacokinetics of lopinavir/ritonavir 400/100 mg twice daily.



Simvastatin and Other Statins


Co-administration of bosentan decreased the plasma concentrations of simvastatin (a CYP3A substrate), and its active β-hydroxy acid metabolite, by approximately 50%. The plasma concentrations of bosentan were not affected. Bosentan is also expected to reduce plasma concentrations of other statins that are significantly metabolized by CYP3A, such as lovastatin and atorvastatin. The possibility of reduced statin efficacy should be considered. Patients using CYP3A-metabolized statins should have cholesterol levels monitored after Tracleer is initiated to see whether the statin dose needs adjustment.



Rifampin


Co-administration of bosentan and rifampin in normal volunteers resulted in a mean 6-fold increase in bosentan trough levels after the first concomitant dose (likely due to inhibition of OATP by rifampin), but about a 60% decrease in bosentan levels at steady-state. The effect of bosentan on rifampin levels has not been assessed. When consideration of the potential benefits and known and unknown risks leads to concomitant use, measure liver function weekly for the first 4 weeks before reverting to normal monitoring.



Tacrolimus


Co-administration of tacrolimus and bosentan has not been studied in humans. Co-administration of tacrolimus and bosentan resulted in markedly increased plasma concentrations of bosentan in animals. Caution should be exercised if tacrolimus and bosentan are used together.



Ketoconazole


Co-administration of bosentan 125 mg twice daily and ketoconazole, a potent CYP3A inhibitor, increased the plasma concentrations of bosentan by approximately 2-fold in normal volunteers. No dose adjustment of bosentan is necessary, but increased effects of bosentan should be considered.



Warfarin


Co-administration of bosentan 500 mg twice daily for 6 days in normal volunteers, decreased the plasma concentrations of both S-warfarin (a CYP2C9 substrate) and R-warfarin (a CYP3A substrate) by 29 and 38%, respectively. Clinical experience with concomitant administration of bosentan and warfarin in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension did not show clinically relevant changes in INR or warfarin dose (baseline vs. end of the clinical studies), and the need to change the warfarin dose during the trials due to changes in INR or due to adverse events was similar among bosentan- and placebo-treated patients.



Digoxin, Nimodipine, and Losartan


Bosentan has no significant pharmacokinetic interactions with digoxin and nimodipine, and losartan has no significant effect on plasma levels of bosentan.



Sildenafil


In normal volunteers, co-administration of multiple doses of 125 mg twice daily bosentan and 80 mg three times daily sildenafil resulted in a reduction of sildenafil plasma concentrations by 63% and increased bosentan plasma concentrations by 50%. The changes in plasma concentrations were not considered clinically relevant and dose adjustments are not necessary. This recommendation holds true when sildenafil is used for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension or erectile dysfunction.



Iloprost


In a small, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 34 patients treated with bosentan 125 mg twice daily for at least 16 weeks tolerated the addition of inhaled iloprost (up to 5 mcg 6 to 9 times per day during waking hours). The mean daily inhaled dose was 27 mcg and the mean number of inhalations per day was 5.6.



8. USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS



Pregnancy


Pregnancy Category X: Teratogenic Effects [see Contraindications (4.1)]


Use of Tracleer is contraindicated in females who are or may become pregnant. While there are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant females, animal studies show that Tracleer is likely to cause major birth defects when administered during pregnancy. Bosentan caused teratogenic effects in animals including malformations of the head, mouth, face, and large blood vessels. If this drug is used during pregnancy or if a patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.


Females of childbearing potential should have a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment with Tracleer. The prescriber should not dispense a prescription for Tracleer without documenting a negative urine or serum pregnancy test performed during the first 5 days of a normal menstrual period and at least 11 days after the last unprotected act of sexual intercourse. Follow-up urine or serum pregnancy tests should be obtained monthly in females of childbearing potential taking Tracleer. The patient should contact her physician immediately for pregnancy testing if onset of menses is delayed or pregnancy is suspected. If the pregnancy test is positive, the physician and patient must discuss the risks to her, the pregnancy, and the fetus.


Drug interaction studies show that Tracleer reduces serum levels of the estrogen and progestin in oral contraceptives. Based on these findings, hormonal contraceptives (including oral, injectable, transdermal, and implantable contraceptives) may be less effective for preventing pregnancy in patients using Tracleer and should not be used as a patient's only contraceptive method [see Drug Interactions (7.2)]. Females of childbearing potential using Tracleer must use two reliable forms of contraception unless she has a tubal sterilization or has a Copper T 380A IUD or LNg 20 IUS. In these cases, no additional contraception is needed. Contraception should be continued until one month after completing Tracleer therapy. Females of childbearing potential using Tracleer should seek contraception counseling from a gynecologist or other expert as needed.


Bosentan was teratogenic in rats given oral doses two times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD] (on a mg/ m2 basis). In an embryo-fetal toxicity study in rats, bosentan showed dose-dependent teratogenic effects, including malformations of the head, mouth, face and large blood vessels. Bosentan increased stillbirths and pup mortality at oral doses 2 and 10 times the MRHD (on a mg/m2 basis). Although birth defects were not observed in rabbits given oral doses of up to the equivalent of 10.5 g/day in a 70 kg person, plasma concentrations of bosentan in rabbits were lower than those reached in the rat. The similarity of malformations induced by bosentan and those observed in endothelin-1 knockout mice and in animals treated with other endothelin receptor antagonists indicates that teratogenicity is a class effect of these drugs [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].



Nursing mothers


It is not known whether Tracleer is excreted into human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Tracleer, a decision should be made to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.



Pediatric use


Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.



Geriatric use


Clinical studies of Tracleer did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between elderly and younger patients. In general, caution should be exercised in dose selection for elderly patients given the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy in this age group.



Hepatic Impairment


Because there is in vitro and in vivo evidence that the main route of excretion of bosentan is biliary, liver impairment could be expected to increase exposure (Cmax and AUC) of bosentan. Mild liver impairment was shown not to impact the pharmacokinetics of bosentan. The influence of moderate or severe liver impairment on the pharmacokinetics of Tracleer has not been evaluated. There are no specific data to guide dosing in hepatically impaired patients; caution should be exercised in patients with mildly impaired liver function. Tracleer should generally be avoided in patients with moderate or severe liver impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].



Renal Impairment


The effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics of bosentan is small and does not require dosing adjustment [see Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].



Patients with Low Body Weight


[See Dosage and Administration (2.6)].



10. OVERDOSAGE


Bosentan has been given as a single dose of up to 2400 mg in normal volunteers, or up to 2000 mg/day for 2 months in patients, without any major clinical consequences. The most common side effect was headache of mild to moderate intensity. In the cyclosporine A interaction study, in which doses of 500 and 1000 mg twice daily of bosentan were given concomitantly with cyclosporine A, trough plasma concentrations of bosentan increased 30-fold, resulting in severe headache, nausea, and vomiting, but no serious adverse events. Mild decreases in blood pressure and increases in heart rate were observed.


In the postmarketing period, there was one reported overdose of 10,000 mg of bosentan taken by an adolescent male patient. He had symptoms of nausea, vomiting, hypotension, dizziness, sweating, and blurred vision. He recovered within 24 hours with blood pressure support.


Bosentan is unlikely to be effectively removed by dialysis due to the high molecular weight and extensive plasma protein binding.



11. DESCRIPTION


Bosentan is an endothelin receptor antagonist, belonging to a class of highly substituted pyrimidine derivatives, with no chiral centers. It is designated chemically as 4-tert-butyl-N-[6-(2-hydroxy-ethoxy)-5-(2-methoxy-phenoxy)-[2,2´]-bipyrimidin-4-yl]- benzenesulfonamide monohydrate and has the following structural formula:



Bosentan has a molecular weight of 569.64 and a molecular formula of C27H29N5O6S•H2O. Bosentan is a white to yellowish powder. It is poorly soluble in water (1.0 mg/100 mL) and in aqueous solutions at low pH (0.1 mg/100 mL at pH 1.1 and 4.0; 0.2 mg/100 mL at pH 5.0). Solubility increases at higher pH values (43 mg/100 mL at pH 7.5). In the solid state, bosentan is very stable, is not hygroscopic and is not light sensitive.


Tracleer is available as 62.5 mg and 125 mg film-coated tablets for oral administration, and contains the following excipients: corn starch, pregelatinized starch, sodium starch glycolate, povidone, glyceryl behenate, magnesium stearate, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, triacetin, talc, titanium dioxide, iron oxide yellow, iron oxide red, and ethylcellulose. Each Tracleer 62.5 mg tablet contains 64.541 mg of bosentan, equivalent to 62.5 mg of anhydrous bosentan. Each Tracleer 125 mg tablet contains 129.082 mg of bosentan, equivalent to 125 mg of anhydrous bosentan.



12. CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY



Mechanism of action


Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a neurohormone, the effects of which are mediated by binding to ETA and ETB receptors in the endothelium and vascular smooth muscle. ET-1 concentrations are elevated in plasma and lung tissue of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, suggesting a pathogenic role for ET-1 in this disease. Bosentan is a specific and competitive antagonist at endothelin receptor types ETA and ETB. Bosentan has a slightly higher affinity for ETA receptors than for ETB receptors. The clinical impact of dual endothelin blockage is unknown.



Pharmacokinetics



General: After oral administration, maximum plasma concentrations of bosentan are attained within 3–5 hours and the terminal elimination half-life (t1/2) is about 5 hours in healthy adult subjects. The exposure to bosentan after intravenous and oral administration is about 2-fold greater in adult patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension than in healthy adult subjects.



Absorption and Distribution: The absolute bioavailability of bosentan in normal volunteers is about 50% and is unaffected by food. The volume of distribution is about 18 L. Bosentan is highly bound (> 98%) to plasma proteins, mainly albumin. Bosentan does not penetrate into erythrocytes.



Metabolism and Elimination: Bosentan has three metabolites, one of which is pharmacologically active and may contribute 10%–20% of the effect of bosentan. Bosentan is an inducer of CYP2C9 and CYP3A and possibly also of CYP2C19. Total clearance after a single intravenous dose is about 4 L/hr in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension. Upon multiple oral dosing, plasma concentrations in healthy adults decrease gradually to 50-65% of those seen after single dose administration, probably the effect of auto-induction of the metabolizing liver enzymes. Steady-state is reached within 3-5 days. Bosentan is eliminated by biliary excretion following metabolism in the liver. Less than 3% of an administered oral dose is recovered in urine.



Special Populations: It is not known whether bosentan's pharmacokinetics is influenced by gender, body weight, race, or age.



Hepatic Impairment: In vitro and in vivo evidence showing extensive hepatic metabolism of bosentan suggests that liver impairment could significantly increase exposure of bosentan. In a study comparing 8 patients with mild liver impairment (as indicated by the Child-Pugh method) to 8 controls, the single- and multiple-dose pharmacokinetics of bosentan was not altered in patients with mild hepatic impairment. The influence of moderate or severe liver impairment on the pharmacokinetics of bosentan has not been evaluated. Bosentan should generally be avoided in patients with moderate or severe liver abnormalities and/or elevated aminotransferases >3 × ULN [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].



Renal Impairment: In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 15–30 mL/min), plasma concentrations of bosentan were essentially unchanged and plasma concentrations of the three metabolites were increased about 2-fold compared to people with normal renal function. These differences do not appear to be clinically important.



13. NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY