Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation

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Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation Drugs

Mekinist

Mekinist

2.1 Patient Selection

Select patients for treatment of unresectable or metastatic melanoma with MEKINIST based on the presence of BRAF V600E or V600K mutation in tumor specimens [see Clinical Studies (14.1)]. Information on FDA-approved tests for the detection of BRAF V600 mutations in melanoma is available at: http://www.fda.gov/CompanionDiagnostics.

2.2 Recommended Dosing

The recommended dosage regimen is MEKINIST 2 mg orally taken once daily at the same time each day as a single agent or with dabrafenib. Continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.

Take MEKINIST at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Do not take a missed dose of MEKINIST within 12 hours of the next dose of MEKINIST.

2.3 Dose Modifications

Review the Full Prescribing Information for dabrafenib for recommended dose modifications. Dose modifications are not recommended for MEKINIST when administered with dabrafenib for the following adverse reactions of dabrafenib: non-cutaneous malignancies and uveitis.

For New Primary Cutaneous Malignancies

No dose modifications are required.
Table 1. Recommended Dose Reductions
Dose Reductions for MEKINIST

First Dose Reduction

1.5 mg orally once daily

Second Dose Reduction

1 mg orally once daily

Subsequent Modification

Permanently discontinue if unable to tolerate MEKINIST 1 mg orally once daily
Table 2. Recommended Dose Modifications for MEKINIST
aNational Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI CTCAE) version 4.0.

bSee Table 1 for recommended dose reductions of MEKINIST.

Severity of Adverse Reactiona

MEKINISTb

Febrile Drug Reaction
• Fever higher than 104°F • Fever complicated by rigors, hypotension, dehydration, or renal failure
Withhold MEKINIST until fever resolves. Then resume MEKINIST at same or lower dose level.

Cutaneous
• Intolerable Grade 2 skin toxicity • Grade 3 or 4 skin toxicity
Withhold MEKINIST for up to 3 weeks.
• If improved, resume at a lower dose level. • If not improved, permanently discontinue.
Cardiac
• Asymptomatic, absolute decrease in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 10% or greater from baseline and is below institutional lower limits of normal (LLN) from pretreatment value Withhold MEKINIST for up to 4 weeks. • If improved to normal LVEF value, resume at a lower dose level. • If not improved to normal LVEF value, permanently discontinue. • Symptomatic congestive heart failure • Absolute decrease in LVEF of greater than 20% from baseline that is below LLN
Permanently discontinue MEKINIST.

Venous Thromboembolism
• Uncomplicated DVT or PE
Withhold MEKINIST for up to 3 weeks.
• If improved to Grade 0-1, resume at a lower dose level. • If not improved, permanently discontinue. • Life threatening PE
Permanently discontinue MEKINIST.

Ocular Toxicities
• Retinal pigment epithelial detachments (RPED)
Withhold MEKINIST for up to 3 weeks.
• If improved, resume MEKINIST at same or lower dose level. • If not improved, discontinue or resume at a lower dose. • Retinal vein occlusion
Permanently discontinue MEKINIST.

Pulmonary
• Interstitial lung disease/pneumonitis
Permanently discontinue MEKINIST.

Other
• Intolerable Grade 2 adverse reactions • Any Grade 3 adverse reactions
Withhold MEKINIST
• If improved to Grade 0-1, resume at a lower dose level. • If not improved, permanently discontinue. • First occurrence of any Grade 4 adverse reaction • Withhold MEKINIST until adverse reaction improves to Grade 0-1. Then resume at a lower dose level.
Or
• Permanently discontinue. • Recurrent Grade 4 adverse reaction
Permanently discontinue MEKINIST.
Justice Vanilla Scent A...

Justice Vanilla Scent Anti-bacterial Hand Sanitizer

2.1     Dosing

ENTRESTO is contraindicated with concomitant use of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. If switching from an ACE inhibitor to ENTRESTO allow a washout period of 36 hours between administration of the two drugs [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

The recommended starting dose of ENTRESTO is 49/51 mg twice-daily.

Double the dose of ENTRESTO after 2 to 4 weeks to the target maintenance dose of 97/103 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient.

2.2     Dose Adjustment for Patients Not Taking an ACE inhibitor or ARB or Previously Taking Low Doses of These Agents

A starting dose of 24/26 mg twice-daily is recommended for patients not currently taking an ACE inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and for patients previously taking low doses of these agents. Double the dose of ENTRESTO every 2 to 4 weeks to the target maintenance dose of 97/103 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient.

2.3     Dose Adjustment for Severe Renal Impairment

A starting dose of 24/26 mg twice-daily is recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2). Double the dose of ENTRESTO every 2 to 4 weeks to the target maintenance dose of 97/103 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient.

No starting dose adjustment is needed for mild or moderate renal impairment.

2.4     Dose Adjustment for Hepatic Impairment

A starting dose of 24/26 mg twice-daily is recommended for patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B classification). Double the dose of ENTRESTO every 2 to 4 weeks to the target maintenance dose of 97/103 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient.

No starting dose adjustment is needed for mild hepatic impairment.

Use in patients with severe hepatic impairment is not recommended.
Odomzo

Odomzo

2.1 Recommended Dosing

The recommended dose of ODOMZO is 200 mg taken orally once daily on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal, administered until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Verify the pregnancy status of females of reproductive potential prior to initiating ODOMZO. Obtain serum creatine kinase (CK) levels and renal function tests prior to initiating ODOMZO in all patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

If a dose of ODOMZO is missed, resume dosing with the next scheduled dose.

2.2 Dose Modifications

Interrupt ODOMZO for
Severe or intolerable musculoskeletal adverse reactions. First occurrence of serum CK elevation between 2.5 and 10 times upper limit of normal (ULN). Recurrent serum CK elevation between 2.5 and 5 times ULN.
Resume ODOMZO at 200 mg daily upon resolution of clinical signs and symptoms.

Permanently discontinue ODOMZO for
Serum CK elevation greater than 2.5 times ULN with worsening renal function. Serum CK elevation greater than 10 times ULN. Recurrent serum CK elevation greater than 5 times ULN. Recurrent severe or intolerable musculoskeletal adverse reactions.
Atenolol

Atenolol

2.1     Transfusional Iron Overload

JADENU therapy should only be considered when a patient has evidence of chronic transfusional iron overload. The evidence should include the transfusion of at least 100 mL/kg of packed red blood cells (e.g., at least 20 units of packed red blood cells for a 40 kg person or more in individuals weighing more than 40 kg), and a serum ferritin consistently greater than 1000 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:
serum ferritin level baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the ClCr (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
The recommended initial dose of JADENU for patients 2 years of age and older is 14 mg per kg body weight orally, once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet. Changes in weight of pediatric patients over time must be taken into account when calculating the dose.

After commencing therapy, monitor serum ferritin monthly and adjust the dose of JADENU, if necessary, every 3 to 6 months based on serum ferritin trends. Make dose adjustments in steps of 3.5 or 7 mg per kg and tailor adjustments to the individual patient’s response and therapeutic goals. In patients not adequately controlled with doses of 21 mg per kg (e.g., serum ferritin levels persistently above 2500 mcg/L and not showing a decreasing trend over time), doses of up to 28 mg per kg may be considered. Doses above 28 mg per kg are not recommended.

If the serum ferritin falls consistently below 500 mcg/L, consider temporarily interrupting therapy with JADENU [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

2.2     Iron Overload in Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

JADENU therapy should only be considered when a patient with NTDT syndrome has an LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw and a serum ferritin greater than 300 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:
LIC by liver biopsy or by an FDA-cleared or approved method for identifying patients for treatment with deferasirox therapy Serum ferritin level on at least 2 measurements 1 month apart [see Clinical Studies (14)] Baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the ClCr (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
Initiating therapy:
The recommended initial dose of JADENU is 7 mg per kg body weight orally once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet. If the baseline LIC is greater than 15 mg Fe/g dw, consider increasing the dose to 14 mg/kg/day after 4 weeks.
During therapy:
Monitor serum ferritin monthly. Interrupt treatment when serum ferritin is less than 300 mcg/L and obtain an LIC to determine whether the LIC has fallen to less than 3 mg Fe/g dw. Monitor LIC every 6 months. After 6 months of therapy, if the LIC remains greater than 7 mg Fe/g dw, increase the dose of deferasirox to a maximum of 14 mg/kg/day. Do not exceed a maximum of 14 mg/kg/day. If after 6 months of therapy, the LIC is 3 to 7 mg Fe/g dw, continue treatment with deferasirox at no more than 7 mg/kg/day. When the LIC is less than 3 mg Fe/g dw, interrupt treatment with deferasirox and continue to monitor the LIC. Monitor blood counts, hepatic function, and renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.4)].
Restart treatment when the LIC rises again to more than 5 mg Fe/g dw.

2.3     Administration

JADENU tablets should be swallowed once daily with water or other liquids, preferably at the same time each day. JADENU tablets may be taken on an empty stomach or with a light meal (contains less than 7% fat content and approximately 250 calories). Examples of light meals include 1 whole wheat English muffin, 1 packet jelly (0.5 ounces), and skim milk (8 fluid ounces) or a turkey sandwich (2 oz. turkey on whole wheat bread w/ lettuce, tomato, and 1 packet mustard). Do not take JADENU with aluminum-containing antacid products [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

For patients who are currently on chelation therapy with Exjade tablets for oral suspension and converting to JADENU tablets, the dose of JADENU should be about 30% lower, rounded to the nearest whole tablet. The table below provides additional information on dosing conversion to JADENU tablets.
EXJADETablets for oral suspension(white round tablet) JADENUTablets(film coated blue oval tablet) Transfusion-Dependent Iron Overload Starting Dose 20 mg/kg/day 14 mg/kg/day Titration Increments 5–10 mg/kg 3.5–7 mg/kg Maximum Dose 20 mg/kg/day 14 mg/kg/day Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes Starting Dose 10 mg/kg/day 7 mg/kg/day Titration Increments 5–10 mg/kg 3.5–7 mg/kg Maximum Dose 40 mg/kg/day 28 mg/kg/day
For patients who have difficulty swallowing whole tablets, JADENU tablets may be crushed and mixed with soft foods (e.g., yogurt or apple sauce) immediately prior to use and administered orally. Commercial crushers with serrated surfaces should be avoided for crushing a single 90 mg tablet. The dose should be immediately and completely consumed and not stored for future use.

2.4     Use in Patients with Baseline Hepatic or Renal Impairment

Patients with Baseline Hepatic Impairment

Mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment is necessary.

Moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment: Reduce the starting dose by 50%.

Severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment: Avoid JADENU [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Patients with Baseline Renal Impairment

For patients with renal impairment (ClCr 40 to 60 mL/min), reduce the starting dose by 50% [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Do not use JADENU in patients with serum creatinine greater than 2 times the upper limit of normal (ULN) or ClCr less than 40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].

2.5     Dose Modifications for Increases in Serum Creatinine

For serum creatinine increases while receiving JADENU [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] modify the dose as follows:

Transfusional Iron Overload

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):
If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, reduce the dose by 7 mg per kg.
Pediatric Patients (ages 2 to 15 years):
Reduce the dose by 7 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate ULN.
All Patients (regardless of age):
Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age-appropriate ULN or for creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min. [see Contraindications (4)]
Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):
If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, interrupt therapy if the dose is 3.5 mg per kg, or reduce by 50% if the dose is 7 or 14 mg per kg.
Pediatric Patients (ages 10 to 15 years):
Reduce the dose by 3.5 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate ULN.
All Patients (regardless of age):
Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age-appropriate ULN or for creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].
2.6     Dose Modifications Based on Concomitant Medications

UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) Inducers

Concomitant use of UGT inducers decreases JADENU systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of potent UGT inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ritonavir) with JADENU. If you must administer JADENU with 1 of these agents, consider increasing the initial dose of JADENU by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Bile Acid Sequestrants

Concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants decreases JADENU systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol) with JADENU. If you must administer JADENU with 1 of these agents, consider increasing the initial dose of JADENU by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.6)].
Cosentyx

Cosentyx

2.1     Recommended Dosage

The recommended dose is 300 mg by subcutaneous injection at Weeks 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4 followed by 300 mg every 4 weeks. Each 300 mg dose is given as 2 subcutaneous injections of 150 mg.

For some patients, a dose of 150 mg may be acceptable.

2.2     Important Administration Instructions

There are three presentations for COSENTYX (i.e., Sensoready pen, prefilled syringe, and lyophilized powder in vial for reconstitution). The COSENTYX “Instructions for Use” for each presentation contains more detailed instructions on the preparation and administration of COSENTYX [see Instructions for Use].

COSENTYX is intended for use under the guidance and supervision of a physician. Patients may self-inject after proper training in subcutaneous injection technique using the Sensoready pen or prefilled syringe and when deemed appropriate. The lyophilized powder for reconstitution is for healthcare provider use only. Administer each injection at a different anatomic location (such as upper arms, thighs or any quadrant of abdomen) than the previous injection, and not into areas where the skin is tender, bruised, erythematous, indurated or affected by psoriasis. Administration of COSENTYX in the upper, outer arm may be performed by a caregiver or healthcare provider.

2.3     Preparation for Use of COSENTYX Sensoready® Pen and Prefilled Syringe

Before injection, remove COSENTYX Sensoready pen or COSENTYX prefilled syringe from the refrigerator and allow COSENTYX to reach room temperature (15 to 30 minutes) without removing the needle cap.

The removable cap of the COSENTYX Sensoready pen and the COSENTYX prefilled syringe contains natural rubber latex and should not be handled by latex-sensitive individuals [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].

Inspect COSENTYX visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. COSENTYX injection is a clear to slightly opalescent, colorless to slightly yellow solution. Do not use if the liquid contains visible particles, is discolored or cloudy. COSENTYX does not contain preservatives; therefore, administer the Sensoready pen or prefilled syringe within 1 hour after removal from the refrigerator. Discard any unused product remaining in the Sensoready pen or prefilled syringe.

2.4     Reconstitution and Preparation of COSENTYX Lyophilized Powder

COSENTYX lyophilized powder should be prepared and reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection by a trained healthcare provider using aseptic technique and without interruption. The preparation time from piercing the stopper until end of reconstitution on average takes 20 minutes and should not exceed 90 minutes.

a) Remove the vial of COSENTYX lyophilized powder from the refrigerator and allow to stand for 15 to 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Ensure the Sterile Water for Injection is at room temperature.

b) Slowly inject 1 mL of Sterile Water for Injection into the vial containing COSENTYX lyophilized powder and direct the stream of Sterile Water for Injection onto the lyophilized powder.

c) Tilt the vial at an angle of approximately 45 degrees and gently rotate between the fingertips for approximately 1 minute. Do not shake or invert the vial.

d) Allow the vial to stand for about 10 minutes at room temperature to allow for dissolution. Note that foaming may occur.

e) Tilt the vial at an angle of approximately 45 degrees and gently rotate between the fingertips for approximately 1 minute. Do not shake or invert the vial.

f) Allow the vial to stand undisturbed at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes. The reconstituted COSENTYX solution should be essentially free of visible particles, clear to opalescent, and colorless to slightly yellow. Do not use if the lyophilized powder has not fully dissolved or if the liquid contains visible particles, is cloudy or discolored.

g) Prepare the required number of vials (1 vial for the 150 mg dose or 2 vials for the 300 mg dose).

h) The COSENTYX reconstituted solution contains 150 mg of secukinumab in 1 mL of solution. After reconstitution, use the solution immediately or store in the refrigerator at 2ºC to 8ºC (36ºF to 46ºF) for up to 24 hours. Do not freeze.

i) If stored at 2ºC to 8ºC (36ºF to 46ºF), allow the reconstituted COSENTYX solution to reach room temperature (15 to 30 minutes) before administration. COSENTYX does not contain preservatives; therefore, administer within 1 hour after removal from 2ºC to 8ºC (36ºF to 46ºF) storage.
Signifor Lar

Signifor Lar

2.1     Important Administration Instructions

SIGNIFOR LAR must be reconstituted by a trained health care professional immediately before use. Illustrations on reconstitution are found below [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

SIGNIFOR LAR must be inspected visually before use. The suspension should appear free of foreign particulates and should be homogeneous after mixing.

SIGNIFOR LAR must be administered by a trained health care professional only by intramuscular injection in the right or left gluteus immediately after reconstitution. SIGNIFOR LAR must never be administered intravenously.

2.2     Recommended Initial Dose

The recommended initial dose of SIGNIFOR LAR is 40 mg administered by intramuscular injection once every 4 weeks (every 28 days) [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].

2.3     Dose Adjustment and Monitoring

The dose may be increased to a maximum of 60 mg for patients who have not normalized growth hormone (GH) and/or age and sex adjusted insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels after 3 months of treatment with SIGNIFOR LAR at 40 mg and who tolerate this dose [see Adverse Reactions (6) and Clinical Studies ( 14)].

Management of SIGNIFOR LAR-related adverse reactions or over-response to treatment (age and sex adjusted IGF-1 less than the lower limit of normal) may require dose reduction. The dose may be decreased, either temporarily or permanently, by 20 mg decrements [see Warnings and Precautions (5)].

2.4     Dose in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

The recommended initial dose for patients with moderately impaired hepatic function (Child-Pugh B) is 20 mg every 4 weeks and the maximum recommended dose is 40 mg every 4 weeks. Avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

2.5     Recommended Baseline Evaluations Prior to Initiation of SIGNIFOR LAR

Prior to the initiation of SIGNIFOR LAR, it is recommended that patients have the following baseline evaluations:
Fasting plasma glucose and hemoglobin A1c [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Liver tests [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Electrocardiogram, serum potassium and serum magnesium levels [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]
Patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus who have inadequate glucose control should have anti-diabetic therapy optimized prior to starting SIGNIFOR LAR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

2.6     Reconstitution and Intramuscular Injection Instructions

After reconstitution of the 20 mg, 40 mg, or 60 mg SIGNIFOR LAR vials with the provided 2 mL diluent, the injectable suspension will have a final concentration of 10 mg/mL, 20 mg/mL and 30 mg/mL and should be delivered in its entirety.
PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION: There are 2 critical steps in the reconstitution of SIGNIFOR LAR. Not following these two steps could result in failure to deliver the drug appropriately. 1) The injection kit must reach room temperature (see Step 1 in figure below). Remove the injection kit from the fridge and let the kit stand at room temperature for a minimum of 30 minutes before reconstitution, but do not exceed 24 hours. 2) After adding the diluent solution, shake the vial moderately in a horizontal direction for a minimum of 30 seconds until uniform suspension is formed (see Step 4 in figure below).
The following items are included in the injection kit:
One vial containing SIGNIFOR LAR powder One prefilled syringe containing the diluent solution for reconstitution One vial adapter for drug product reconstitution One safety injection needle (20G x 1.5”)
Figure 1: Items Included in Injection Kit

SIGNIFOR LAR suspension must only be reconstituted immediately before administration.

Follow the instructions in the figures below to ensure proper reconstitution of SIGNIFOR LAR before intramuscular injection.

SIGNIFOR LAR should only be administered by a trained healthcare professional.
Step 1 Remove the SIGNIFOR LAR for injectable suspension kit from refrigerated storage. PAY PARTICULAR ATTENTION: It is essential to start the reconstitution process only after the injection kit has reached room temperature. Let the kit stand at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before starting reconstitution, but not more than 24 hours. Note: The kit can be re-refrigerated if needed. Step 2 Remove the plastic cap from the vial and clean the rubber stopper with an alcohol wipe. Remove the lid film of the vial adapter packaging, but do NOT remove the vial adapter from its packaging.Holding the vial adapter packaging, position the vial adapter on top of the vial and push it fully down so that it snaps in place. You will hear an an audible “click” when the vial adapter snaps in place. Lift the packaging off the vial adapter with a vertical movement. Step 3 Remove the cap from the syringe prefilled with diluent solution and screw the syringe onto the vial adapter. Slowly push the plunger all the way down to transfer all the diluent solution in the vial. Step 4 ATTENTION: Keep the plunger pressed and shake the vial moderately in a horizontal direction for a minimum of 30 seconds so that the powder is completely suspended. Repeat moderate shaking for another 30 seconds if the powder is not completely suspended. Step 5 Turn the syringe and vial upside down, slowly pull the plunger back and draw the entire content from the vial into the syringe. Unscrew the syringe from the vial adapter. Step 6 Screw the safety injection needle onto the syringe. Pull the protective cover straight off the needle.To avoid sedimentation and maintain a uniform suspension, you may gently shake the syringe.Gently tap the syringe to remove any visible bubbles and expel them from the syringe.The reconstituted SIGNIFOR LAR is now ready for immediate administration. Step 7 SIGNIFOR LAR must only be given by intramuscular injection and NEVER intravenously.Prepare the injection site by wiping with an alcohol wipe.Insert the needle fully into the left or right gluteus at a 90° angle to the skin.Slowly pull back the plunger to check that no blood vessel has been penetrated (reposition if a blood vessel has been penetrated).Slowly depress the plunger until the syringe is empty. Withdraw the needle from the injection site and activate the safety guard (as shown in Step 8). Step 8 Activate the safety guard over the needle using one of the 2 methods shown:• either press the hinged section of the safety guard down onto a hard surface (figure A),• or push the hinge forward with your finger (figure B).An audible “click” will confirm proper activation of the safety guard.Dispose of syringe immediately in a sharps container. Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.
2.7     Missed Dose

If a dose is missed and the patient returns prior to the next scheduled dose, a dose may be given up to but no later than 14 days prior to the next dose.
Valsartan And Hydrochlo...

Valsartan And Hydrochlorothiazide

2.1       Recommended Dosage Range

The recommended dosage range of SIGNIFOR is 0.3 to 0.9 mg by subcutaneous injection twice a day. The recommended initial dose is either 0.6 mg or 0.9 mg twice a day. Titrate dose based on response and tolerability.

Patients should be evaluated for a treatment response [clinically meaningful reduction in 24-hour urinary free cortisol (UFC) levels and/or improvement in signs or symptoms of the disease] and should continue receiving therapy with SIGNIFOR as long as benefit is derived [see Clinical Studies (14)]. Maximum urinary free cortisol reduction is typically seen by two months of treatment [see Clinical Studies (14)]. For patients who are started on 0.6 mg twice a day, a dosage increase to 0.9 mg twice a day may be considered based on the response to the treatment, as long as the 0.6 mg dosage is well tolerated by the patient.

Management of suspected adverse reactions may require temporary dose reduction of SIGNIFOR. Dose reduction by 0.3 mg decrements per injection is suggested.

2.2       Recommendations Prior to Initiation of SIGNIFOR

Prior to the start of SIGNIFOR, patients should have baseline levels of the following:
fasting plasma glucose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] hemoglobin A1c [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] liver tests [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] serum potassium and magnesium levels [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
Patients should also have a baseline electrocardiogram and gallbladder ultrasound [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.5)].

Treatment of patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus should be intensively optimized with anti-diabetic therapy prior to starting SIGNIFOR [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

2.3       Dosage in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

For patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B), the recommended initial dosage is 0.3 mg twice a day and the maximum dosage is 0.6 mg twice a day. Avoid the use of SIGNIFOR in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

2.4       Important Administration Instructions

Instruct patients to:
Refer to the FDA-approved patient labeling (Instructions for Use) for detailed administration instructions. Prior to injection, visually inspect the product for particulate matter and discoloration. Do not use if particulates and/or discoloration are observed. Avoid injection in sites showing signs of inflammation or irritation. Prior to injection, gently pinch the skin at the injection site and hold the needle/syringe at an angle of approximately 45 degrees. Administer SIGNIFOR subcutaneously by self-injection into the top of the thigh or the abdomen. Avoid multiple subcutaneous injections at the same site within short periods of time. Use of the same injection site for two consecutive injections is not recommended.
Estraderm

Estraderm

The adhesive side of the Estraderm® (estradiol transdermal system) system should be placed on a clean, dry area of the skin on the trunk of the body (including the buttocks and abdomen). The site selected should be one that is not exposed to sunlight. Estraderm should not be applied to the breasts. The Estraderm system should be replaced twice weekly. The sites of application must be rotated, with an interval of at least 1 week allowed between applications to a particular site. The area selected should not be oily, damaged, or irritated. The waistline should be avoided, since tight clothing may rub the system off. The system should be applied immediately after opening the pouch and removing the protective liner. The system should be pressed firmly in place with the palm of the hand for about 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact, especially around the edges. In the unlikely event that a system should fall off, the same system may be reapplied. If necessary, a new system may be applied. In either case, the original treatment schedule should be continued.

Initiation of Therapy

When estrogen is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, progestin should also be initiated to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. A woman without a uterus does not need progestin. Use of estrogen alone or in combination with a progestin, should be with the lowest effective dose and the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Patients should be reevaluated periodically as clinically appropriate (e.g., 3-month to 6-month intervals) to determine whether treatment is still necessary (See BOXED WARNING and WARNINGS). For women who have a uterus, adequate diagnostic measures, such as endometrial sampling, when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in cases of undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal vaginal bleeding.

   Estraderm is currently available in two dosage forms – 0.05 mg and 0.1 mg. Patients should be started at the lowest dose. The lowest effective dose of Estraderm has not been determined.

   For treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms or moderate to severe symptoms of vulvar and vaginal atrophy associated with the menopause, initiate therapy with Estraderm 0.05 applied to the skin twice weekly.

   Prophylactic therapy with Estraderm to prevent postmenopausal bone loss should be initiated with the 0.05 mg/day dosage as soon as possible after menopause. The dosage may be adjusted if necessary. Discontinuation of estrogen therapy may reestablish bone loss at a rate comparable to the immediate postmenopausal period.

   In women not currently taking oral estrogens, treatment with Estraderm may be initiated at once. In women who are currently taking oral estrogen, treatment with Estraderm should be initiated 1 week after withdrawal of oral hormone therapy, or sooner if menopausal symptoms reappear in less than 1 week.

Therapeutic Regimen

Estraderm therapy may be given continuously in patients who do not have an intact uterus. In those patients with an intact uterus, Estraderm may be given on a cyclic schedule (e.g., 3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week off drug).
Zelnorm

Zelnorm

IBS with Constipation: The recommended dosage of Zelnorm® (tegaserod maleate) is 6 mg taken twice daily orally before meals for 4-6 weeks. For those women who respond to therapy at 4-6 weeks, an additional 4-6 week course can be considered.

Chronic Idiopathic Constipation: The recommended dosage of Zelnorm is 6 mg taken twice daily orally before meals. Physicians and patients should periodically assess the need for continued therapy.
Zaditor Antihistamine E...

Zaditor Antihistamine Eye Drops

Adults and children 3 years of age and older: Put 1 drop in the affected eye(s) twice daily, every 8-12 hours, no more than twice per day. Children under 3 years of age: Consult a doctor.
Miochol E

Miochol E

Miochol®-E (acetylcholine chloride intraocular solution) is instilled into the anterior chamber before or after securing one or more sutures. Instillation should be gentle and parallel to the iris face and tangential to pupil border.

      If there are no mechanical hindrances, the pupil starts to constrict in seconds and the peripheral iris is drawn away from the angle of the anterior chamber. Any anatomical hindrance to miosis must be released to permit the desired effect of the drug. In most cases, 0.5 to 2 mL produces satisfactory miosis. Note that the syringe filter supplied with Miochol-E has a priming volume of 0.6 mL (approximately).

      In cataract surgery, use Miochol-E only after delivery of the lens.

      Aqueous solutions of acetylcholine chloride are unstable. Prepare solution immediately before use. Do not use solution which is not clear and colorless. Discard any solution that has not been used.

DIRECTIONS FOR PREPARING MIOCHOL®-E:

STERILE UNLESS PACKAGE OPEN OR BROKEN
Inspect the unopened blister, vial and ampoule to ensure that they are all intact. Peel open the blister under a sterile field. Maintain sterility of the outer containers of the vial and ampoule during preparation of solution. Aseptically attach a sterile 18-20 gauge, beveled needle to the luer tip of a sterile disposable syringe with a twisting motion to assure a secure fit. Break open the ampoule containing the diluent. The One Point Cut (OPC) ampoule must be opened as follows: Hold the bottom part of the ampoule with the thumb pointing to the colored dot. Grasp the top of the ampoule with the other hand, positioning the thumb at the colored dot, and press back to break at the existing cut under the dot. Remove the needle protector and withdraw the diluent from the ampoule into the syringe. Discard the ampoule. Remove and discard the cap from the top of the vial. Insert the needle through the center of the vial stopper, and transfer the diluent from the syringe to the vial. Shake gently to dissolve the powder. Slowly withdraw the solution from the vial through the needle into the syringe. Discard the needle. Aseptically open the syringe filter pouch, and attach the filter onto the luer tip of the syringe with a twisting motion to assure a secure fit. Aseptically attach a sterile blunt tip irrigation cannula to the male luer of the filter prior to intraocular irrigation.
Discard the filter appropriately after use.

Do not reuse the syringe filter.

Do not aspirate and inject through the same filter.
Genteal Severe

Genteal Severe

Put 1 or 2 drops in the affected eye(s) as needed.
Proleukin

Proleukin

The recommended PROLEUKIN® (aldesleukin) for injection treatment regimen is administered by a 15-minute IV infusion every 8 hours. Before initiating treatment, carefully review the “INDICATIONS AND USAGE”, “CONTRAINDICATIONS”, “WARNINGS”, “PRECAUTIONS”, and “ADVERSE REACTIONS” sections, particularly regarding patient selection, possible serious adverse events, patient monitoring and withholding dosage. The following schedule has been used to treat adult patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (metastatic RCC) or metastatic melanoma. Each course of treatment consists of two 5-day treatment cycles separated by a rest period.

      600,000 IU/kg (0.037 mg/kg) dose administered every 8 hours by a 15-minute IV       infusion for a maximum of 14 doses. Following 9 days of rest, the schedule is       repeated for another 14 doses, for a maximum of 28 doses per course, as tolerated.       During clinical trials, doses were frequently withheld for toxicity (see “Clinical       Experience” and “Dose Modifications” subsections). Metastatic RCC patients       treated with this schedule received a median of 20 of the 28 doses during the first       course of therapy. Metastatic melanoma patients received a median of 18 doses       during the first course of therapy.

Retreatment

Patients should be evaluated for response approximately 4 weeks after completion of a course of therapy and again immediately prior to the scheduled start of the next treatment course. Additional courses of treatment should be given to patients only if there is some tumor shrinkage following the last course and retreatment is not contraindicated (see “CONTRAINDICATIONS” section). Each treatment course should be separated by a rest period of at least 7 weeks from the date of hospital discharge.

Dose Modifications

Dose modification for toxicity should be accomplished by withholding or interrupting a dose rather than reducing the dose to be given. Decisions to stop, hold, or restart PROLEUKIN therapy must be made after a global assessment of the patient. With this in mind, the following guidelines should be used:

Retreatment with PROLEUKIN is contraindicated in patients who have experienced the following toxicities:
Body System Cardiovascular Sustained ventricular tachycardia (≥5 beats) Cardiac rhythm disturbances not controlled or unresponsive to management Chest pain with ECG changes, consistent with angina or myocardial infarction Cardiac tamponade Respiratory Intubation for >72 hours Urogenital Renal failure requiring dialysis >72 hours Nervous Coma or toxic psychosis lasting >48 hours Repetitive or difficult to control seizures Digestive Bowel ischemia/perforation GI bleeding requiring surgery
Doses should be held and restarted according to the following:
Body System Hold dose for Subsequent doses may be given if Cardiovascular Atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia or bradycardia that requires treatment or is recurrent or persistent Patient is asymptomatic with full recovery to normal sinus rhythm Systolic bp <90 mm Hg with increasing requirements for pressors Systolic bp ≥90 mm Hg and stable or improving requirements for pressors Any ECG change consistent with MI, ischemia or myocarditis with or without chest pain; suspicion of cardiac ischemia Patient is asymptomatic, MI and myocarditis have been ruled out, clinical suspicion of angina is low; there is no evidence of ventricular hypokinesia Respiratory O2 saturation <90% O2 saturation >90% Nervous Mental status changes, including moderate confusion or agitation Mental status changes completely resolved Body as a Whole Sepsis syndrome, patient is clinically unstable Sepsis syndrome has resolved, patient is clinically stable, infection is under treatment Urogenital Serum creatinine >4.5 mg/dL or a serum creatinine of ≥4 mg/dL in the presence of severe volume overload, acidosis, or hyperkalemia Serum creatinine <4 mg/dL and fluid and electrolyte status is stable Persistent oliguria, urine output of <10 mL/hour for 16 to 24 hours with rising serum creatinine Urine output >10 mL/hour with a decrease of serum creatinine >1.5 mg/dL or normalization of serum creatinine Digestive Signs of hepatic failure including encephalopathy, increasing ascites, liver pain, hypoglycemia All signs of hepatic failure have resolved* Stool guaiac repeatedly >3-4+ Stool guaiac negative Skin Bullous dermatitis or marked worsening of pre-existing skin condition, avoid topical steroid therapy Resolution of all signs of bullous dermatitis * Discontinue all further treatment for that course. A new course of treatment, if warranted, should be initiated no sooner than 7 weeks after cessation of adverse event and hospital discharge.
Reconstitution and Dilution Directions: Reconstitution and dilution procedures other than those recommended may alter the delivery and/or pharmacology of PROLEUKIN and thus should be avoided.

1.       PROLEUKIN® (aldesleukin) is a sterile, white to off-white, preservative-free, lyophilized powder suitable for IV infusion upon reconstitution and dilution. EACH VIAL CONTAINS 22 MILLION IU (1.3 MG) OF PROLEUKIN AND SHOULD BE RECONSTITUTED ASEPTICALLY WITH 1.2 ML OF STERILE WATER FOR INJECTION, USP. WHEN RECONSTITUTED AS DIRECTED, EACH ML CONTAINS 18 MILLION IU (1.1 MG) OF PROLEUKIN. The resulting solution should be a clear, colorless to slightly yellow liquid. The vial is for single-use only and any unused portion should be discarded.

2.       During reconstitution, the Sterile Water for Injection, USP should be directed at the side of the vial and the contents gently swirled to avoid excess foaming. DO NOT SHAKE.

3.       The dose of PROLEUKIN, reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection, USP (without preservative) should be diluted aseptically in 50 mL of 5% Dextrose Injection, USP (D5W) and infused over a 15-minute period.

      In cases where the total dose of PROLEUKIN is 1.5 mg or less (e.g., a patient with a body weight of less than 40 kilograms), the dose of PROLEUKIN should be diluted in a smaller volume of D5W. Concentrations of PROLEUKIN below 30 µg/mL and above 70 µg/mL have shown increased variability in drug delivery. Dilution and delivery of PROLEUKIN outside of this concentration range should be avoided.

4.       Glass bottles and plastic (polyvinyl chloride) bags have been used in clinical trials with comparable results. It is recommended that plastic bags be used as the dilution container since experimental studies suggest that use of plastic containers results in more consistent drug delivery. In-line filters should not be used when administering PROLEUKIN.

5.       Before and after reconstitution and dilution, store in a refrigerator at 2° to 8°C (36° to 46°F). Do not freeze. Administer PROLEUKIN within 48 hours of reconstitution. The solution should be brought to room temperature prior to infusion in the patient.

6.       Reconstitution or dilution with Bacteriostatic Water for Injection, USP, or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP should be avoided because of increased aggregation. PROLEUKIN should not be coadministered with other drugs in the same container.

7.       Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Cataflam

Cataflam

Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Cataflam® (diclofenac potassium immediate-release tablets) and other treatment options before deciding to use Cataflam. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals (see WARNINGS).

After observing the response to initial therapy with Cataflam, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient’s needs.

For treatment of pain or primary dysmenorrhea the recommended dosage is 50 mg t.i.d. With experience, physicians may find that in some patients an initial dose of 100 mg of Cataflam, followed by 50-mg doses, will provide better relief.

For the relief of osteoarthritis the recommended dosage is 100-150 mg/day in divided doses, 50 mg b.i.d. or t.i.d.

For the relief of rheumatoid arthritis the recommended dosage is 150-200 mg/day in divided doses, 50 mg t.i.d. or q.i.d.

Different formulations of diclofenac [Voltaren® (diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets); Voltaren®-XR (diclofenac sodium extended-release tablets); Cataflam® (diclofenac potassium immediate-release tablets)] are not necessarily bioequivalent even if the milligram strength is the same.
Voltaren Xr

Voltaren Xr

Carefully consider the potential benefits and risks of Voltaren®-XR (diclofenac sodium extended-release) tablets, USP and other treatment options before deciding to use Voltaren-XR. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration consistent with individual patient treatment goals (see WARNINGS).

After observing the response to initial therapy with Voltaren-XR, the dose and frequency should be adjusted to suit an individual patient’s needs.

For the relief of osteoarthritis, the recommended dosage is 100 mg q.d.

For the relief of rheumatoid arthritis, the recommended dosage is 100 mg q.d. In the rare patient where Voltaren-XR 100 mg/day is unsatisfactory, the dose may be increased to 100 mg b.i.d. if the benefits outweigh the clinical risks of increased side effects.

Different formulations of diclofenac [Voltaren® (diclofenac sodium enteric-coated tablets); Voltaren®-XR (diclofenac sodium extended-release) tablets, USP; Cataflam® (diclofenac potassium immediate-release tablets)] are not necessarily bioequivalent even if the milligram strength is the same.
Extavia

Extavia

2.1     Dosing Information

The recommended starting dose is 0.0625 mg (0.25 mL) subcutaneously every other day, with dose increases over a six-week period to the recommended dose of 0.25 mg (1 mL) every other day (see Table 1).
Table 1: Schedule for Dose Titration 1 Dosed every other day, subcutaneously
EXTAVIA

Dose1

Percentage ofrecommended dose

Volume

Weeks 1-2

0.0625 mg

25%

0.25 mL

Weeks 3-4

0.125 mg

50%

0.5 mL

Weeks 5-6

0.1875 mg

75%

0.75 mL

Week 7 and thereafter

0.25 mg

100%

1 mL

If a dose of EXTAVIA is missed, then it should be taken as soon as the patient remembers or is able to take it. The patient should not take EXTAVIA on two consecutive days. The next injection should be taken about 48 hours (two days) after that dose. If the patient accidentally takes more than their prescribed dose, or takes it on two consecutive days, they should be instructed to call their healthcare provider immediately.

2.2     Reconstitution of the Lyophilized Powder

(a) Prior to reconstitution, verify that the vial containing lyophilized EXTAVIA is not cracked or damaged. Do not use cracked or damaged vials.

(b) To reconstitute lyophilized EXTAVIA for injection, attach the prefilled syringe containing the diluent (Sodium Chloride, 0.54% Solution) to the EXTAVIA vial using the vial adapter.

(c) Slowly inject 1.2 mL of diluent into the EXTAVIA vial.

(d) Gently swirl the vial to dissolve the lyophilized powder completely; do not shake. Foaming may occur during reconstitution or if the vial is swirled or shaken too vigorously. If foaming occurs, allow the vial to sit undisturbed until the foam settles.

(e) 1 mL of reconstituted EXTAVIA solution contains 0.25 mg of interferon beta-1b.

(f) After reconstitution, if not used immediately, refrigerate the reconstituted EXTAVIA solution at 35°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and use within three hours. Do not freeze.

2.3     Important Administration Instructions

(a) Perform the first EXTAVIA injection under the supervision of an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. If patients or caregivers are to administer EXTAVIA, train them in the proper subcutaneous injection technique and assess their ability to inject subcutaneously to ensure the proper administration of EXTAVIA.

(b) Visually inspect the reconstituted EXTAVIA solution before use; discard if it contains particulate matter or is discolored.

(c) Keeping the syringe and vial adapter in place, turn the assembly over so that the vial is on top. Withdraw the appropriate dose of EXTAVIA solution. Remove the vial from the vial adapter before injecting EXTAVIA.

(d) Use safe disposal procedures for needles and syringes.

(e) Do not re-use needles or syringes.

(f) Advise patients and caregivers to rotate sites for subcutaneous injections to minimize the likelihood of severe injection site reactions, including necrosis or localized infection.

2.4     Premedication for Flu-like Symptoms

Concurrent use of analgesics and/or antipyretics on treatment days may help ameliorate flu-like symptoms associated with EXTAVIA use [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
Rescue Pearls

Rescue Pearls

2.1     Recommended Dosing

The recommended starting dose of FARYDAK is 20 mg, taken orally once every other day for 3 doses per week in Weeks 1 and 2 of each 21-day cycle for up to 8 cycles. Consider continuing treatment for an additional 8 cycles for patients with clinical benefit who do not experience unresolved severe or medically significant toxicity. The total duration of treatment may be up to 16 cycles (48 weeks). FARYDAK is administered in combination with bortezomib and dexamethasone as shown in Table 1 and Table 2.

The recommended dose of bortezomib is 1.3 mg/m2 given as an injection. The recommended dose of dexamethasone is 20 mg taken orally per scheduled day, on a full stomach.
Table 1: Recommended Dosing Schedule of FARYDAK in Combination with Bortezomib and Dexamethasone During Cycles 1 to 8 21-Day Cycle Cycles 1 to 8(3-Week cycles) Week 1Days Week 2Days Week 3 FARYDAK 1 3 5 8 10 12 Rest period Bortezomib 1 4 8 11 Rest period Dexamethasone 1 2 4 5 8 9 11 12 Rest period Table 2: Recommended Dosing Schedule of FARYDAK in Combination with Bortezomib and Dexamethasone During Cycles 9 to 16 21-Day Cycle Cycles 9 to 16(3-Week cycles) Week 1Days Week 2Days Week 3 FARYDAK 1 3 5 8 10 12 Rest period Bortezomib 1 8 Rest period Dexamethasone 1 2 8 9 Rest period
2.2     Administration and Monitoring Instructions

FARYDAK should be taken orally once on each scheduled day at about the same time, either with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

FARYDAK capsules should be swallowed whole with a cup of water. Do not open, crush, or chew the capsules [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].

If a dose is missed it can be taken up to 12 hours after the specified dose time. If vomiting occurs the patient should not repeat the dose, but should take the next usual scheduled dose.

Counsel patients on the correct dosing schedule, technique of administration of FARYDAK, and when to take FARYDAK if dosing adjustments are made.

Prior to the start of FARYDAK treatment and during treatment, monitoring should include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Obtain a CBC before initiating treatment. Verify that the baseline platelet count is at least 100 x 109/L and the baseline absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is at least 1.5 x 109/L. Monitor the CBC weekly (or more often as clinically indicated) during treatment. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. ECG: Perform an ECG prior to the start of therapy and repeat periodically during treatment as clinically indicated. Verify that the QTcF is less than 450 msec prior to initiation of treatment with FARYDAK. If during treatment with FARYDAK, the QTcF increases to ≥480 msec, interrupt treatment. Correct any electrolyte abnormalities. If QT prolongation does not resolve, permanently discontinue treatment with FARYDAK [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. During the clinical trial, ECGs were performed at baseline and prior to initiation of each cycle for the first 8 cycles. Serum Electrolytes: Obtain electrolytes, including potassium and magnesium, at baseline and monitor during therapy. Correct abnormal electrolyte values before treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. During the trial, monitoring was conducted prior to the start of each cycle, at Day 11 of cycles 1 to 8, and at the start of each cycle for cycles 9 to 16.
For additional information please refer to the bortezomib and dexamethasone prescribing information.

2.3     Dose Adjustments and Modifications for Toxicity

Dose and/or schedule modification of FARYDAK may be required based on toxicity. Management of adverse drug reactions may require treatment interruption and/or dose reductions. If dose reduction is required, the dose of FARYDAK should be reduced in increments of 5 mg (i.e., from 20 mg to 15 mg, or from 15 mg to 10 mg). If the dosing of FARYDAK is reduced below 10 mg given 3 times per week, discontinue FARYDAK. Keep the same treatment schedule (3-week treatment cycle) when reducing dose. The table also lists Bortezomib (BTZ) dose modification procedures from the clinical trials.
Table 3: Dose Modifications for Most Common Toxicities BTZ = bortezomibANC = absolute neutrophil countHb = hemoglobinIV = intravenous Thrombocytopenia Platelets <50 x 109/LCTCAE Grade 3 Platelets <50 x 109/L with bleedingCTCAE Grade 3 Platelets <25 x 109/LCTCAE Grade 4 Maintain FARYDAK dose.Monitor platelet counts at least weekly. Interrupt FARYDAK.Monitor platelet counts at least weekly until≥50 x 109/L,then restart at reduced dose Interrupt FARYDAK.Monitor platelet countsat least weekly until≥50 x 109/L, then restart at reduced dose Maintain BTZ dose - Interrupt BTZ until thrombocytopenia resolves to ≥ 75 x 109/L- If only 1 dose was omitted prior to correction to these levels, restart BTZ at same dose - If 2 or more doses were omitted consecutively, or within the same cycle, BTZ should be restarted at a reduced dose Neutropenia ANC 0.75 to 1.0 x 109/LCTCAE Grade 3 ANC 0.5 to 0.75 x 109/LCTCAE Grade 3(2 or more occurrences) ANC <1.0 x 109/L (CTCAE Grade 3) with febrile Neutropenia (any grade) ANC <0.5 x 109/LCTCAE Grade 4 Maintain FARYDAK dose. Interrupt FARYDAK until ANC ≥1.0 x 109/L, then restart at same dose Interrupt FARYDAK untilfebrile neutropenia resolves andANC ≥1.0 x 109/L,then restart at reduced dose Interrupt FARYDAK untilANC ≥1.0 x 109/L, then restart at reduced dose Maintain BTZ dose - Interrupt BTZ until febrile neutropenia resolves and ANC ≥1.0 x 109/L - If only 1 dose was omitted prior to correction to these levels, restart BTZ at same dose - If 2 or more doses were omitted consecutively, or within the same cycle, BTZ should be restarted at a reduced dose Anemia Hb <8 g/dLCTCAE Grade 3 Interrupt FARYDAK until Hb ≥10 g/dLRestart at reduced dose. Diarrhea Moderate Diarrhea4 to 6 stools/dayCTCAE Grade 2 Severe Diarrhea(≥7 stools/day)IV fluids or hospitalization requiredCTCAE Grade 3 Life-threatening DiarrheaCTCAE Grade 4 Interrupt FARYDAK until resolved.Restart at same dose. Interrupt FARYDAK until resolved.Restart at reduced dose. Permanently discontinue FARYDAK Consider Interruption of BTZ until resolved.Restart at same dose. Interrupt BTZ until resolved.Restart at reduced dose. Permanently discontinue BTZ Nausea or Vomiting Severe NauseaCTCAE Grade 3/4 Severe / Life-threatening VomitingCTCAE Grade 3/4 Interrupt FARYDAK until resolved, then restart at reduced dose. Interrupt FARYDAK until resolved, then restart at reduced dose.
Myelosuppression

Interrupt or reduce the dose of FARYDAK in patients who have thrombocytopenia, neutropenia or anemia according to instructions in Table 3. For patients with severe thrombocytopenia, consider platelet transfusions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4), Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. Discontinue FARYDAK treatment if thrombocytopenia does not improve despite the recommended treatment modifications or if repeated platelet transfusions are required.

In the event of Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia, consider dose reduction and/or the use of growth factors (e.g., G-CSF). Discontinue FARYDAK if neutropenia does not improve despite dose modifications, colony-stimulating factors, or in case of severe infection.

Gastrointestinal Toxicity

Gastrointestinal toxicity is common in patients treated with FARYDAK. Patients who experience diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting may require treatment interruption or dose reduction (Table 3). At the first sign of abdominal cramping, loose stools, or onset of diarrhea, patients should be treated with anti-diarrheal medication (e.g., loperamide). Consider and administer prophylactic anti-emetics as clinically indicated.

Other Adverse Drug Reactions

For patients experiencing Grade 3/4 adverse drug reactions other than thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, or gastrointestinal toxicity, the recommendation is the following:
CTC Grade 2 toxicity recurrence and CTC Grade 3 and 4 - omit the dose until recovery to CTC Grade 1 or less and restart treatment at a reduced dose CTC Grade 3 or 4 toxicity recurrence, a further dose reduction may be considered once the adverse events have resolved to CTC Grade 1 or less.
2.4     Dose Modifications for Use in Hepatic Impairment

Reduce the starting dose of FARYDAK to 15 mg in patients with mild hepatic impairment and 10 mg in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. Avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Monitor patients frequently for adverse events and adjust dose as needed for toxicity [see Dosing and Administration (2.2), Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Hepatic Impairment (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.5     Dose Modifications for Use with Strong CYP3A Inhibitors

Reduce the starting dose of FARYDAK to 10 mg when coadministered with strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., boceprevir, clarithromycin, conivaptan, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, lopinavir/ritonavir) [see Drug Interactions (7.1), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Desferal

Desferal

Acute Iron Intoxication

Intramuscular Administration

This route is preferred and should be used for ALL PATIENTS NOT IN SHOCK.

A dose of 1000 mg should be administered initially. This may be followed by 500 mg every 4 hours for two doses. Depending upon the clinical response, subsequent doses of 500 mg may be administered every 4-12 hours. The total amount administered should not exceed 6000 mg in 24 hours. For reconstitution instructions for intramuscular administration see Table 1.

Intravenous Administration

THIS ROUTE SHOULD BE USED ONLY FOR PATIENTS IN A STATE OF CARDIOVASCULAR COLLAPSE AND THEN ONLY BY SLOW INFUSION. THE RATE OF INFUSION SHOULD NOT EXCEED 15 MG/KG/HR FOR THE FIRST 1000 MG ADMINISTERED. SUBSEQUENT IV DOSING, IF NEEDED, MUST BE AT A SLOWER RATE, NOT TO EXCEED 125 MG/HR.

For reconstitution instructions for intravenous administration see Table 2. The reconstituted solution is added to physiologic saline, (e.g., 0.9% sodium chloride, 0.45% sodium chloride), glucose in water, or Ringer’s lactate solution.

An initial dose of 1000 mg should be administered at a rate NOT TO EXCEED 15 mg/kg/hr. This may be followed by 500 mg over 4 hours for two doses. Depending upon the clinical response, subsequent doses of 500 mg may be administered over 4-12 hours. The total amount administered should not exceed 6000 mg in 24 hours.

As soon as the clinical condition of the patient permits, intravenous administration should be discontinued and the drug should be administered intramuscularly.

Chronic Iron Overload

Subcutaneous Administration

A daily dose of 1000-2000 mg (20-40 mg/kg/day) should be administered over 8-24 hours, utilizing a small portable pump capable of providing continuous mini-infusion. The duration of infusion must be individualized. In some patients, as much iron will be excreted after a short infusion of 8-12 hours as with the same dose given over 24 hours. For reconstitution instructions for subcutaneous administration see Table 3.

Intravenous Administration

The standard recommended method of Desferal administration is via slow subcutaneous infusion over 8 – 12 hours. In patients with intravenous access, the daily dose of Desferal can be administered intravenously. The standard dose is 20 – 40 mg/kg/day for children and 40 – 50 mg/kg/day over 8 – 12 hours in adults for 5 – 7 days per week. In children, average doses should not exceed 40 mg/kg/day until growth has ceased. In adults, average doses should not exceed 60 mg/kg/day. The intravenous infusion rate should not exceed 15 mg/kg/hour. For reconstitution instructions for intravenous administration see Table 2.

In patients who are poorly compliant, Desferal may be administered prior to or following same day blood transfusion (for example 1 gram over 4 hours on the day of transfusion); however, the contribution of this mode of administration to iron balance is limited. Desferal should not be administered concurrently with the blood transfusion as this can lead to errors in interpreting side effects such as rash, anaphylaxis and hypotension.

Intramuscular Administration

A daily dose of 500-1000 mg may be administered intramuscularly. The total daily dose should not exceed 1000 mg. For reconstitution instructions for intramuscular administration see Table 1.

Reconstitution and Preparation

Table 1: Preparation for Intramuscular Administration
RECONSTITUTE DESFERAL WITH STERILE WATER FOR INJECTION Vial Size Amount of Sterile Water for Injection Required for Reconstitution Total Drug Content after Reconstitution Final Concentration per mL after Reconstitution 500 mg 2 mL 500 mg/2.35 mL 213 mg/mL 2 grams 8 mL 2 grams/9.4 mL 213 mg/mL
Table 2: Preparation for Intravenous Administrations
RECONSTITUTE DESFERAL WITH STERILE WATER FOR INJECTION Vial Size Amount of Sterile Water for Injection Required for Reconstitution Total Drug Content after Reconstitution Final Concentration per mL after Reconstitution 500 mg 5 mL 500 mg/5.3 mL 95 mg/mL 2 grams 20 mL 2 grams/21.1 mL 95 mg/mL
Table 3: Preparation for Subcutaneous Administration
RECONSTITUTE DESFERAL WITH STERILE WATER FOR INJECTION Vial Size Amount of Sterile Water for Injection Required for Reconstitution Total Drug Content after Reconstitution Final Concentration per mL after Reconstitution 500 mg 5 mL 500 mg/5.3 mL 95 mg/mL 2 grams 20 mL 2 grams/21.1 mL 95 mg/mL
The reconstituted Desferal solution is an isotonic, clear and colorless to slightly- yellowish solution. The drug should be completely dissolved before the solution is withdrawn. Desferal reconstituted with Sterile Water for Injection IS FOR SINGLE USE ONLY. Discard unused portion.

The product should be used immediately after reconstitution (commencement of treatment within 3 hours) for microbiological safety. When reconstitution is carried out under validated aseptic conditions (in a sterile laminar flow hood using aseptic technique), the product may be stored at room temperature for a maximum period of 24 hours before use. Do not refrigerate reconstituted solution. Reconstituting Desferal in solvents or under conditions other than indicated may result in precipitation. Turbid solutions should not be used.
Arcapta Neohaler

Arcapta Neohaler

DO NOT SWALLOW ARCAPTA CAPSULES

FOR USE WITH NEOHALER DEVICE ONLY

FOR ORAL INHALATION ONLY

ARCAPTA capsules must not be swallowed as the intended effects on the lungs will not be obtained. The contents of ARCAPTA capsules are only for oral inhalation and should only be used with the NEOHALER device.

The recommended dosage of ARCAPTA NEOHALER is the once-daily inhalation of the contents of one 75 mcg ARCAPTA capsule using the NEOHALER inhaler.

ARCAPTA NEOHALER should be administered once daily every day at the same time of the day by the orally inhaled route only. If a dose is missed, the next dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. Do not use ARCAPTA NEOHALER more than one time every 24 hours.

ARCAPTA capsules must always be stored in the blister, and only removed IMMEDIATELY BEFORE USE.

No dosage adjustment is required for geriatric patients, patients with mild and moderate hepatic impairment, or renally impaired patients. No data are available for subjects with severe hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Lescol

Lescol

2.1     General Dosing Information

Dose range: 20 mg to 80 mg/ day.

LESCOL/LESCOL XL can be administered orally as a single dose, with or without food.

Do not break, crush or chew LESCOL XL tablets or open LESCOL capsules prior to administration.

Do not take two LESCOL 40 mg capsules at one time.

Since the maximal effect of a given dose is seen within 4 weeks, periodic lipid determinations should be performed at this time and dosage adjusted according to the patient’s response to therapy and established treatment guidelines.

For patients requiring LDL-C reduction to a goal of ≥25%, the recommended starting dose is 40 mg as one capsule in the evening, 80 mg as one LESCOL XL tablet administered as a single dose at any time of the day or 80 mg in divided doses of the 40 mg capsule given twice daily. For patients requiring LDL-C reduction to a goal of <25% a starting dose of 20 mg may be used.

2.2     Adult Patients with Hypercholesterolemia (Heterozygous Familial and Nonfamilial) and Mixed Dyslipidemia

Adult patients can be started on either LESCOL or LESCOL XL. The recommended starting dose for LESCOL is one 40 mg capsule in the evening, or one LESCOL 40 mg capsule twice daily. Do not take two LESCOL 40 mg capsules at one time.

The recommended starting dose for LESCOL XL is one 80 mg tablet administered as a single dose at any time of the day.

2.3     Pediatric Patients (10-16 years of age) with Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

The recommended starting dose is one 20 mg LESCOL capsule. Dose adjustments, up to a maximum daily dose administered either as LESCOL capsules 40 mg twice daily or one LESCOL XL 80 mg tablet once daily should be made at 6 week intervals. Doses should be individualized according to the goal of therapy [see NCEP Pediatric Panel Guidelines and CLINICAL STUDIES (14)]1.

1National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP): Highlights of the Report of the Expert Panel on Blood Cholesterol Levels in Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics. 89(3):495-501. 1992.

2.4     Use with Cyclosporine

Do not exceed a dose of 20 mg b.i.d. LESCOL in patients taking cyclosporine [see Drug Interactions 7.1].

2.5     Use with Fluconazole

Do not exceed a dose of 20 mg b.i.d. LESCOL in patients taking fluconazole [see Drug Interactions 7.2].
Sumatriptan Succinate

Sumatriptan Succinate

AFINITOR is available in two dosage forms: tablets (AFINITOR Tablets) and tablets for oral suspension (AFINITOR DISPERZ).
AFINITOR Tablets may be used for all approved indications. AFINITOR DISPERZ is approved for the treatment of patients with subependymal giant cell astrocytoma (SEGA) and tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).
2.1     Recommended Dose in Advanced Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer, Advanced PNET, Advanced RCC, and Renal Angiomyolipoma with TSC

The recommended dose of AFINITOR Tablets is 10 mg, to be taken once daily at the same time every day. Administer either consistently with food or consistently without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. AFINITOR Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not break or crush tablets.

Continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs.

2.2     Dose Modifications in Advanced Hormone Receptor-Positive, HER2-Negative Breast Cancer, Advanced PNET, Advanced RCC, and Renal Angiomyolipoma with TSC

Adverse Reactions

Management of severe or intolerable adverse reactions may require temporary dose interruption (with or without a dose reduction of AFINITOR therapy) or discontinuation. If dose reduction is required, the suggested dose is approximately 50% lower than the daily dose previously administered [see Warnings and Precautions (5)].

Table 1 summarizes recommendations for dose reduction, interruption or discontinuation of AFINITOR in the management of adverse reactions. General management recommendations are also provided as applicable. Clinical judgment of the treating physician should guide the management plan of each patient based on individual benefit/risk assessment.
Table 1: AFINITOR Dose Adjustment and Management Recommendation for Adverse Reactions a Severity grade description: 1 = mild symptoms; 2 = moderate symptoms; 3 = severe symptoms; 4 = life-threatening symptoms. b If dose reduction is required, the suggested dose is approximately 50% lower than the dose previously administered. c Activities of daily living (ADL) d Avoid using agents containing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine, and thyme derivatives in management of stomatitis as they may worsen mouth ulcers. Adverse Reaction Severitya AFINITOR Dose Adjustmentb and Management Recommendations Non-infectious pneumonitis Grade 1Asymptomatic, radiographic findings only No dose adjustment required.Initiate appropriate monitoring. Grade 2Symptomatic, not interfering with ADLc Consider interruption of therapy, rule out infection and consider treatment with corticosteroids until symptoms improve to ≤ Grade 1.Re-initiate AFINITOR at a lower dose.Discontinue treatment if failure to recover within 4 weeks. Grade 3Symptomatic,interfering with ADLc;O2 indicated Interrupt AFINITOR until symptoms resolve to ≤ Grade 1.Rule out infection, and consider treatment with corticosteroids.Consider re-initiating AFINITOR at a lower dose. If toxicity recurs at Grade 3, consider discontinuation. Grade 4Life-threatening,ventilatory support indicated Discontinue AFINITOR, rule out infection, and consider treatment with corticosteroids. Stomatitis Grade 1Minimal symptoms,normal diet No dose adjustment required.Manage with non-alcoholic or salt water (0.9%) mouth wash several times a day. Grade 2Symptomatic but can eat and swallow modified diet Temporary dose interruption until recovery to Grade ≤1.Re-initiate AFINITOR at the same dose.If stomatitis recurs at Grade 2, interrupt dose until recovery to Grade ≤1. Re-initiate AFINITOR at a lower dose.Manage with topical analgesic mouth treatments (e.g., benzocaine, butyl aminobenzoate, tetracaine hydrochloride, menthol or phenol) with or without topical corticosteroids (i.e., triamcinolone oral paste).d Grade 3Symptomatic and unable to adequately aliment or hydrate orally Temporary dose interruption until recovery to Grade ≤1. Re-initiate AFINITOR at a lower dose.Manage with topical analgesic mouth treatments (i.e., benzocaine, butyl aminobenzoate, tetracaine hydrochloride, menthol or phenol) with or without topical corticosteroids (i.e., triamcinolone oral paste).d Grade 4Symptoms associated with life-threatening consequences Discontinue AFINITOR and treat with appropriate medical therapy. Other non-hematologic toxicities(excluding metabolic events) Grade 1 If toxicity is tolerable, no dose adjustment required.Initiate appropriate medical therapy and monitor. Grade 2 If toxicity is tolerable, no dose adjustment required.Initiate appropriate medical therapy and monitor.If toxicity becomes intolerable, temporary dose interruption until recovery to Grade ≤1. Reinitiate AFINITOR at the same dose.If toxicity recurs at Grade 2, interrupt AFINITOR until recovery to Grade ≤1. Reinitiate AFINITOR at a lower dose. Grade 3 Temporary dose interruption until recovery to Grade ≤1.Initiate appropriate medical therapy and monitor.Consider reinitiating AFINITOR at a lower dose. If toxicity recurs at Grade 3, consider discontinuation. Grade 4 Discontinue AFINITOR and treat with appropriate medical therapy. Metabolic events(e.g. hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia) Grade 1 No dose adjustment required.Initiate appropriate medical therapy and monitor. Grade 2 No dose adjustment required.Manage with appropriate medical therapy and monitor. Grade 3 Temporary dose interruption.Reinitiate AFINITOR at a lower dose.Manage with appropriate medical therapy and monitor. Grade 4 Discontinue AFINITOR and treat with appropriate medical therapy.
Hepatic Impairment

Hepatic impairment will increase the exposure to everolimus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) and Use in Specific Populations (8.8)]. Dose adjustments are recommended:
Mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class A) – The recommended dose is 7.5 mg daily; the dose may be decreased to 5 mg if not well tolerated. Moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class B) – The recommended dose is 5 mg daily; the dose may be decreased to 2.5 mg if not well tolerated. Severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) – If the desired benefit outweighs the risk, a dose of 2.5 mg daily may be used but must not be exceeded.
Dose adjustments should be made if a patient’s hepatic (Child-Pugh) status changes during treatment.

CYP3A4/P-glycoprotein (PgP) Inhibitors

Avoid the use of strong CYP3A4/PgP inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, nefazodone, saquinavir, telithromycin, ritonavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, voriconazole) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Use caution when co-administered with moderate CYP3A4/PgP inhibitors (e.g., amprenavir, fosamprenavir, aprepitant, erythromycin, fluconazole, verapamil, diltiazem). If patients require co-administration of a moderate CYP3A4/PgP inhibitor, reduce the AFINITOR dose to 2.5 mg daily. The reduced dose of AFINITOR is predicted to adjust the area under the curve (AUC) to the range observed without inhibitors. An AFINITOR dose increase from 2.5 mg to 5 mg may be considered based on patient tolerance. If the moderate inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period of approximately 2 to 3 days should be allowed before the AFINITOR dose is increased. If the moderate inhibitor is discontinued, the AFINITOR dose should be returned to the dose used prior to initiation of the moderate CYP3A4/PgP inhibitor.

Grapefruit, grapefruit juice, and other foods that are known to inhibit cytochrome P450 and PgP activity may increase everolimus exposures and should be avoided during treatment.

Strong CYP3A4/PgP Inducers

Avoid the use of concomitant strong CYP3A4/PgP inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital). If patients require co-administration of a strong CYP3A4/PgP inducer, consider doubling the daily dose of AFINITOR using increments of 5 mg or less. This dose of AFINITOR is predicted, based on pharmacokinetic data, to adjust the AUC to the range observed without inducers. However, there are no clinical data with this dose adjustment in patients receiving strong CYP3A4/PgP inducers. If the strong inducer is discontinued, consider a washout period of 3 to 5 days, before the AFINITOR dose is returned to the dose used prior to initiation of the strong CYP3A4/PgP inducer [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Drug Interactions (7.2)].

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) may decrease everolimus exposure unpredictably and should be avoided.

2.3     Recommended Dose in SEGA with TSC

The recommended starting dose is 4.5 mg/m2, once daily. The recommended starting dose for patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) or requiring moderate CYP3A4/PgP inhibitors is 2.5 mg/m2, once daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. The recommended starting dose for patients requiring a concomitant strong CYP3A4 inducer is 9 mg/m2, once daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.5)]. Round dose to the nearest strength of either AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ.

Do not combine AFINITOR Tablets and AFINITOR DISPERZ to achieve the desired total dose.

Use therapeutic drug monitoring to guide subsequent dosing [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)]. Adjust dose at 2 week intervals as needed to achieve and maintain trough concentrations of 5 to 15 ng/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.4, 2.5)].

Continue treatment until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity occurs. The optimal duration of therapy is unknown.

2.4     Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in SEGA with TSC

Monitor everolimus whole blood trough levels routinely in all patients. When possible, use the same assay and laboratory for therapeutic drug monitoring throughout treatment.

Assess trough concentrations approximately 2 weeks after initiation of treatment, a change in dose, a change in co-administration of CYP3A4/PgP inducers and/or inhibitors, a change in hepatic function, or a change in dosage form between AFINITOR Tablets and AFINITOR DISPERZ. Once a stable dose is attained, monitor trough concentrations every 3 to 6 months in patients with changing body surface area or every 6 to 12 months in patients with stable body surface area for the duration of treatment.

Titrate the dose to attain trough concentrations of 5 to 15 ng/mL.
For trough concentrations less than 5 ng/mL, increase the daily dose by 2.5 mg (in patients taking AFINITOR Tablets) or 2 mg (in patients taking AFINITOR DISPERZ). For trough concentrations greater than 15 ng/mL, reduce the daily dose by 2.5 mg (in patients taking AFINITOR Tablets) or 2 mg (in patients taking AFINITOR DISPERZ). If dose reduction is required for patients receiving the lowest available strength, administer every other day.
2.5     Dose Modifications in SEGA with TSC

Adverse Reactions

Temporarily interrupt or permanently discontinue AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ for severe or intolerable adverse reactions. If dose reduction is required when reinitiating therapy, reduce the dose by approximately 50% [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Warnings and Precautions (5)]. If dose reduction is required for patients receiving the lowest available strength, administer every other day.

Hepatic Impairment
Reduce the starting dose of AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ by approximately 50% in patients with SEGA who have severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh class C) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Adjustment to the starting dose for patients with SEGA who have mild (Child-Pugh class A) or moderate (Child-Pugh class B) hepatic impairment may not be needed. Subsequent dosing should be based on therapeutic drug monitoring. Assess everolimus trough concentrations approximately 2 weeks after commencing treatment, a change in dose, or any change in hepatic function [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].
CYP3A4/P-glycoprotein (PgP) Inhibitors

Avoid the use of concomitant strong CYP3A4/PgP inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, nefazodone, saquinavir, telithromycin, ritonavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, voriconazole) in patients receiving AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Drug Interactions (7.1)].

For patients who require treatment with moderate CYP3A4/PgP inhibitors (e.g., amprenavir, fosamprenavir, aprepitant, erythromycin, fluconazole, verapamil, diltiazem):
Reduce the AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ dose by approximately 50%. Administer every other day if dose reduction is required for patients receiving the lowest available strength and maintain trough concentrations of 5 to 15 ng/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)]. Assess everolimus trough concentrations approximately 2 weeks after dose reduction [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)]. Resume the dose that was used prior to initiating the CYP3A4/PgP inhibitor 2 to 3 days after discontinuation of a moderate inhibitor. Assess the everolimus trough concentration approximately 2 weeks later [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].
Do not ingest foods or nutritional supplements (e.g., grapefruit, grapefruit juice) that are known to inhibit cytochrome P450 or PgP activity.

Strong CYP3A4/PgP Inducers

Avoid the use of concomitant strong CYP3A4/PgP inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital) if alternative therapy is available [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Drug Interactions (7.2)]. For patients who require treatment with a strong CYP3A4/PgP inducer:
Double the dose of AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ and assess tolerability [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. Assess the everolimus trough concentration 2 weeks after doubling the dose and adjust the dose if necessary to maintain a trough concentration of 5 to 15 ng/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)]. Return the AFINITOR Tablets or AFINITOR DISPERZ dose to that used prior to initiating the strong CYP3A4/PgP inducer if the strong inducer is discontinued, and assess the everolimus trough concentrations approximately 2 weeks later [see Dosage and Administration (2.3, 2.4)].
Do not ingest foods or nutritional supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)) that are known to induce cytochrome P450 activity.

2.6     Administration of AFINITOR Tablets in SEGA with TSC

Do not combine the 2 dosage forms (AFINITOR Tablets and AFINITOR DISPERZ) to achieve the desired total dose. Use one dosage form or the other.

Administer AFINITOR Tablets orally once daily at the same time every day. Administer either consistently with food or consistently without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

AFINITOR Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not break or crush tablets.

2.7     Administration and Preparation of AFINITOR DISPERZ in SEGA with TSC

Wear gloves to avoid possible contact with everolimus when preparing suspensions of AFINITOR DISPERZ for another person.

Do not combine the 2 dosage forms (AFINITOR Tablets and AFINITOR DISPERZ) to achieve the desired total dose. Use one dosage form or the other.

Administer AFINITOR DISPERZ (everolimus tablets for oral suspension) as a suspension only.

Administer AFINITOR DISPERZ orally once daily at the same time every day. Administer either consistently with food or consistently without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Administer suspension immediately after preparation. Discard suspension if not administered within 60 minutes after preparation.

Prepare suspension in water only.

Using an oral syringe:
Place the prescribed dose of AFINITOR DISPERZ into a 10-mL syringe. Do not exceed a total of 10 mg per syringe. If higher doses are required, prepare an additional syringe. Do not break or crush tablets. Draw approximately 5 mL of water and 4 mL of air into the syringe. Place the filled syringe into a container (tip up) for 3 minutes, until the AFINITOR DISPERZ tablets are in suspension. Gently invert the syringe 5 times immediately prior to administration. After administration of the prepared suspension, draw approximately 5 mL of water and 4 mL of air into the same syringe, and swirl the contents to suspend remaining particles. Administer the entire contents of the syringe.
Using a small drinking glass:
Place the prescribed dose of AFINITOR DISPERZ into a small drinking glass (maximum size 100 mL) containing approximately 25 mL of water. Do not exceed a total of 10 mg of AFINITOR DISPERZ per glass. If higher doses are required, prepare an additional glass. Do not break or crush tablets. Allow 3 minutes for suspension to occur. Stir the contents gently with a spoon, immediately prior to drinking. After administration of the prepared suspension, add 25 mL of water and stir with the same spoon to re-suspend remaining particles. Administer the entire contents of the glass.
Lotrel

Lotrel

2.1     General Considerations

The recommended initial dose of Lotrel is 1 capsule of amlodipine 2.5 mg/benazepril 10 mg orally once-daily.

It is usually appropriate to begin therapy with Lotrel only after a patient has either (a) failed to achieve the desired antihypertensive effect with amlodipine or benazepril monotherapy, or (b) demonstrated inability to achieve adequate antihypertensive effect with amlodipine therapy without developing edema.

The antihypertensive effect of Lotrel is largely attained within 2 weeks. If blood pressure remains uncontrolled, the dose may be titrated up to amlodipine 10 mg/benazepril 40 mg once-daily. The dosing should be individualized and adjusted according to the patient’s clinical response.

Amlodipine is an effective treatment of hypertension in once-daily doses of 2.5 to 10 mg while benazepril is effective in doses of 10 to 80 mg. In clinical trials of amlodipine/benazepril combination therapy using amlodipine doses of 2.5 to 10 mg and benazepril doses of 10 to 40 mg, the antihypertensive effects increased with increasing dose of amlodipine in all patient groups, and the effects increased with increasing dose of benazepril in nonblack groups.

2.2     Dosage Adjustment in Renal Impairment

Renal Impairment:  Lotrel is not recommended in patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) less than or equal to 30 mL/min. No dose adjustment of Lotrel is required in patients with CrCl greater than 30 mL/min/1.73m2 (serum creatinine roughly less than or equal to 3 mg/dL or 265 micromol/L) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), Use in Specific Populations (8.7), and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.3     Replacement Therapy

Lotrel may be substituted for the titrated components.
Starlix

Starlix

Starlix® (nateglinide) should be taken 1 to 30 minutes prior to meals.

Monotherapy and Combination with Metformin or a Thiazolidinedione

The recommended starting and maintenance dose of Starlix, alone or in combination with metformin or a thiazolidinedione, is 120 mg three times daily before meals.

The 60-mg dose of Starlix, either alone or in combination with metformin or a thiazolidinedione, may be used in patients who are near goal HbA1C when treatment is initiated.

Dosage in Geriatric Patients

No special dose adjustments are usually necessary. However, greater sensitivity of some individuals to Starlix therapy cannot be ruled out.

Dosage in Renal and Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with mild-to-severe renal insufficiency or in patients with mild hepatic insufficiency. Dosing of patients with moderate-to-severe hepatic dysfunction has not been studied. Therefore, Starlix should be used with caution in patients with moderate-to-severe liver disease (see PRECAUTIONS, Hepatic Impairment).
Tyzeka

Tyzeka

2.1     Adults and Adolescents (16 years of age and older)

Due to higher rates of resistance that may develop with longer term treatment among patients with incomplete viral suppression, treatment should only be initiated, if pre-treatment HBV DNA and ALT measurements are known, in the following patient populations:

For HBeAg-positive patients, HBV DNA should be less than 9 log10 copies per mL and ALT should be greater than or equal to 2x ULN prior to treatment with Tyzeka.

For HBeAg-negative patients, HBV DNA should be less than 7 log10 copies per mL prior to treatment with Tyzeka.

HBV DNA levels should be monitored at 24 weeks of treatment to assure complete viral suppression (HBV DNA less than 300 copies per mL). Alternate therapy should be initiated for patients who have detectable HBV DNA after 24 weeks of treatment. Optimal therapy should be guided by further resistance testing.

The recommended dose of Tyzeka for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B is 600 mg once daily, taken orally, with or without food.

Tyzeka oral solution (30 mL) may be considered for patients who have difficulty with swallowing tablets.

2.2     Renal Impairment

Tyzeka may be used for the treatment of chronic hepatitis B in patients with impaired renal function. No adjustment to the recommended dose of Tyzeka is necessary in patients whose creatinine clearance is greater than or equal to 50 mL per min. Adjustment of the total daily dose of Tyzeka oral solution or of the interval for administration of Tyzeka tablets is required in patients with creatinine clearance less than 50 mL per min including those with ESRD on hemodialysis (Table 1).
Table 1 Dose Adjustment of Tyzeka in Patients with Renal Impairment Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) Tyzeka Oral Solution Dose (5 mL = 100 mg) Tyzeka Tablet Dose (1 tablet = 600 mg) greater than or equal to 50 30 mL once daily 1 tablet every 24 hrs 30-49 20 mL once daily 1 tablet every 48 hrs less than 30 (not requiring dialysis) 10 mL once daily 1 tablet every 72 hrs ESRD 6 mL once daily 1 tablet every 96 hrs1 1When administered on hemodialysis days, Tyzeka should be administered after hemodialysis.
2.3     Hepatic Impairment

No adjustment to the recommended dose of Tyzeka is necessary in patients with hepatic impairment.

2.4     Duration of Therapy

For patients with incomplete viral suppression (HBV DNA greater than or equal to 300 copies per mL) after 24 weeks of treatment, alternate therapy should be instituted. HBV DNA should be monitored every 6 months to assure continued response. If patients test positive for HBV DNA at any time after their initial response, alternate treatment should be instituted. Optimal therapy should be guided by resistance testing.

The optimal duration of therapy with Tyzeka for patients with chronic hepatitis B is unknown.
Zortress

Zortress

Patients receiving Zortress may require dose adjustments based on everolimus blood concentrations achieved, tolerability, individual response, change in concomitant medications and the clinical situation. Optimally, dose adjustments of Zortress should be based on trough concentrations obtained 4 or 5 days after a previous dosing change. Dose adjustment is required if the trough concentration is below 3 ng/mL. The total daily dose of Zortress should be doubled using the available tablet strengths (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg or 0.75 mg). Dose adjustment is also required if the trough concentration is >8 ng/mL on 2 consecutive measures; the dose of Zortress® should be decreased by 0.25 mg b.i.d. [See Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (2.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]

2.1     Dosage in Adult Kidney Transplant Patients

An initial Zortress dose of 0.75 mg orally twice daily (1.5 mg per day) is recommended for adult kidney transplant patients in combination with reduced dose cyclosporine, administered as soon as possible after transplantation. [See Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (2.3, 2.4), Clinical Studies (14.1)]

Oral prednisone should be initiated once oral medication is tolerated. Steroid doses may be further tapered on an individualized basis depending on the clinical status of patient and function of graft.

2.2     Dosage in Adult Liver Transplant Patients

Start Zortress at least 30 days post-transplant. An initial dose of 1.0 mg orally twice daily (2.0 mg per day) is recommended for adult liver transplant patients in combination with reduced dose tacrolimus. [See Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (2.3 and 2.5), Clinical Studies (14.2)]

Steroid doses may be further tapered on an individualized basis depending on the clinical status of patient and function of graft.

2.3     Therapeutic Drug Monitoring - Everolimus

Routine everolimus whole blood therapeutic drug concentration monitoring is recommended for all patients. The recommended everolimus therapeutic range is 3 to 8 ng/mL. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.7)] Careful attention should be made to clinical signs and symptoms, tissue biopsies, and laboratory parameters. It is important to monitor everolimus blood concentrations, in patients with hepatic impairment, during concomitant administration of CYP3A4 inducers or inhibitors, when switching cyclosporine formulations and/or when cyclosporine dosing is reduced according to recommended target concentrations. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.7, 12.8)]

There is an interaction of cyclosporine on everolimus, and consequently, everolimus concentrations may decrease if cyclosporine exposure is reduced. There is little to no pharmacokinetic interaction of tacrolimus on everolimus, and thus, everolimus concentrations do not decrease if the tacrolimus exposure is reduced. [See Drug Interactions (7.2)]

The everolimus recommended therapeutic range of 3 to 8 ng/mL is based on an LC/MS/MS assay method. Currently in clinical practice, everolimus whole blood trough concentrations may be measured by chromatographic or immunoassay methodologies. Because the measured everolimus whole blood trough concentrations depend on the assay used, individual patient sample concentration values from different assays may not be interchangeable. Consideration of assay results must be made with knowledge of the specific assay used. Therefore, communication should be maintained with the laboratory performing the assay.

2.4     Therapeutic Drug Monitoring- Cyclosporine in Kidney Transplant Patients

Both cyclosporine doses and the target range for whole blood trough concentrations should be reduced, when given in a regimen with Zortress, in order to minimize the risk of nephrotoxicity. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Drug Interactions (7.2), Clinical Pharmacology (12.8)]

The recommended cyclosporine therapeutic ranges when administered with Zortress are 100 to 200 ng/mL through Month 1 post-transplant, 75 to 150 ng/mL at Months 2 and 3 post-transplant, 50 to 100 ng/mL at Month 4 post-transplant, and 25 to 50 ng/mL from Month 6 through Month 12 post-transplant. The median trough concentrations observed in the clinical trial ranged between 161 to 185 ng/mL through Month 1 post-transplant and between 111 to 140 ng/mL at Months 2 and 3 post-transplant. The median trough concentration was 99 ng/mL at Month 4 post-transplant and ranged between 46 to 75 ng/mL from Months 6 through Month 12 post-transplant. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.8) and Clinical Studies (14.1)]

Cyclosporine, USP Modified is to be administered as oral capsules twice daily unless cyclosporine oral solution or intravenous administration of cyclosporine cannot be avoided. Cyclosporine, USP Modified should be initiated as soon as possible - and no later than 48 hours - after reperfusion of the graft and dose adjusted to target concentrations from Day 5 onwards.

If impairment of renal function is progressive the treatment regimen should be adjusted. In renal transplant patients, the cyclosporine dose should be based on cyclosporine whole blood trough concentrations. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.8)]

In renal transplantation, there are limited data regarding dosing Zortress with reduced cyclosporine trough concentrations of 25 to 50 ng/mL after 12 months. Zortress has not been evaluated in clinical trials with other formulations of cyclosporine. Prior to dose reduction of cyclosporine it should be ascertained that steady-state everolimus whole blood trough concentration is at least 3 ng/mL. There is an interaction of cyclosporine on everolimus, and consequently, everolimus concentrations may decrease if cyclosporine exposure is reduced. [See Drug Interactions (7.2)]

2.5     Therapeutic Drug Monitoring- Tacrolimus in Liver Transplant Patients

Both tacrolimus doses and the target range for whole blood trough concentrations should be reduced, when given in a regimen with Zortress, in order to minimize the potential risk of nephrotoxicity. [See Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.9)]

The recommended tacrolimus therapeutic range when administered with Zortress are whole blood trough (C-0h) concentrations of 3 to 5 ng/mL by three weeks after the first dose of Zortress (approximately Month 2) and through Month 12 post transplant.

The median tacrolimus trough concentrations observed in the clinical trial ranged between 8.6 to 9.5 ng/mL at Weeks 2 and 4 post-transplant (prior to initiation of everolimus). The median tacrolimus trough concentrations ranged between 7 to 8.1 ng/mL at Weeks 5 and 6 post-transplant, between 5.2 to 5.6 ng/mL at Months 2 and 3 post-transplant, and between 4.3 to 4.9 ng/mL between Months 4 and 12 post-transplant. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.9), Clinical Studies (14.2)]

Tacrolimus is to be administered as oral capsules twice daily unless intravenous administration of tacrolimus cannot be avoided.

In liver transplant patients, the tacrolimus dose should be based on tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.9)]

In liver transplantation, there are limited data regarding dosing Zortress with reduced tacrolimus trough concentrations of 3 to 5 ng/mL after 12 months. Prior to dose reduction of tacrolimus it should be ascertained that the steady-state everolimus whole blood trough concentration is at least 3 ng/mL. Unlike the interaction between cyclosporine and everolimus, tacrolimus does not affect everolimus trough concentrations, and consequently, everolimus concentrations do not decrease if the tacrolimus exposure is reduced.

2.6     Administration

Zortress tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed before use.

Administer Zortress consistently approximately 12 hours apart with or without food to minimize variability in absorption and at the same time as cyclosporine or tacrolimus. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]

2.7     Hepatic Impairment

Whole blood trough concentrations of everolimus should be closely monitored in patients with impaired hepatic function. For patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A), the initial daily dose should be reduced by approximately one-third of the normally recommended daily dose. For patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C), the initial daily dose should be reduced to approximately one-half of the normally recommended daily dose. Further dose adjustment and/or dose titration should be made if a patient’s whole blood trough concentration of everolimus, as measured by an LC/MS/MS assay, is not within the target trough concentration range of 3 to 8 ng/mL. [See Clinical Pharmacology (12.6)]
Lotensin Hct

Lotensin Hct

Dose once daily. The dosage may then be increased after 2 to 3 weeks as needed to help achieve blood pressure goals. The maximum recommended dose is 20mg/25mg.

Switch Therapy: A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with benazapril alone or with hydrochlorothiazide alone may be switched to combination therapy with Lotensin HCT. The usual recommended starting dose is 10/12.5 mg once daily to control blood pressure.

Replacement Therapy: The combination may be substituted for the titrated individual components.
Lopressor

Lopressor

Hypertension

Individualize the dosage of Lopressor tablets. Lopressor tablets should be taken with or immediately following meals.

The usual initial dosage of Lopressor tablets is 100 mg daily in single or divided doses, whether used alone or added to a diuretic. Increase the dosage at weekly (or longer) intervals until optimum blood pressure reduction is achieved. In general, the maximum effect of any given dosage level will be apparent after 1 week of therapy. The effective dosage range of Lopressor tablets is 100-450 mg per day. Dosages above 450 mg per day have not been studied. While once-daily dosing is effective and can maintain a reduction in blood pressure throughout the day, lower doses (especially 100 mg) may not maintain a full effect at the end of the 24-hour period, and larger or more frequent daily doses may be required. This can be evaluated by measuring blood pressure near the end of the dosing interval to determine whether satisfactory control is being maintained throughout the day. Beta1 selectivity diminishes as the dose of Lopressor is increased.

Angina Pectoris

The dosage of Lopressor tablets should be individualized. Lopressor tablets should be taken with or immediately following meals.

The usual initial dosage of Lopressor tablets is 100 mg daily, given in two divided doses. gradually increase the dosage at weekly intervals until optimum clinical response has been obtained or there is pronounced slowing of the heart rate. The effective dosage range of Lopressor tablets is 100-400 mg per day. Dosages above 400 mg per day have not been studied. If treatment is to be discontinued, gradually decrease the dosage over a period of 1-2 weeks (see WARNINGS).

Myocardial Infarction

Early Treatment: During the early phase of definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction, initiate treatment with Lopressor as soon as possible after the patient’s arrival in the hospital. Such treatment should be initiated in a coronary care or similar unit immediately after the patient’s hemodynamic condition has stabilized.

Begin treatment in this early phase with the intravenous administration of three bolus injections of 5 mg of Lopressor each; give the injections at approximately 2-minute intervals. During the intravenous administration of Lopressor, monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and electrocardiogram.

In patients who tolerate the full intravenous dose (15 mg), initiate Lopressor tablets, 50 mg every 6 hours, 15 minutes after the last intravenous dose and continue for 48 hours. Thereafter, the maintenance dosage is 100 mg twice daily (see Late Treatment below).

Start patients who appear not to tolerate the full intravenous dose on Lopressor tablets either 25 mg or 50 mg every 6 hours (depending on the degree of intolerance) 15 minutes after the last intravenous dose or as soon as their clinical condition allows. In patients with severe intolerance, discontinue Lopressor (see WARNINGS).

Late Treatment: Start patients with contraindications to treatment during the early phase of suspected or definite myocardial infarction, patients who appear not to tolerate the full early treatment, and patients in whom the physician wishes to delay therapy for any other reason on Lopressor tablets, 100 mg twice daily, as soon as their clinical condition allows. Continue therapy for at least 3 months. Although the efficacy of Lopressor beyond 3 months has not been conclusively established, data from studies with other beta blockers suggest that treatment should be continued for 1-3 years.

Special populations

Pediatric patients: No pediatric studies have been performed. The safety and efficacy of Lopressor in pediatric patients have not been established.

Renal impairment: No dose adjustment of Lopressor is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic impairment: Lopressor blood levels are likely to increase substantially in patients with hepatic impairment. Therefore, Lopressor should be initiated at low doses with cautious gradual dose titration according to clinical response.

Geriatric patients (>65 years): In general, use a low initial starting dose in elderly patients given their greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Method of administration:

Parenteral administration of Lopressor (ampoule) should be done in a setting with intensive monitoring.

Note: Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

For oral treatment, the tablets should be swallowed un-chewed with a glass of water. Lopressor should always be taken in standardized relation with meals. If the physician asks the patient to take Lopressor either before breakfast or with breakfast, then the patient should continue taking Lopressor with the same schedule during the course of therapy.
Famvir

Famvir

FAMVIR may be taken with or without food.

2.1     Dosing Recommendation in Immunocompetent Adult Patients

Herpes labialis (cold sores): The recommended dosage of FAMVIR for the treatment of recurrent herpes labialis is 1500 mg as a single dose. Therapy should be initiated at the first sign or symptom of herpes labialis (e.g., tingling, itching, burning, pain, or lesion).

Genital herpes:

Recurrent episodes: The recommended dosage of FAMVIR for the treatment of recurrent episodes of genital herpes is 1000 mg twice daily for 1 day. Therapy should be initiated at the first sign or symptom of a recurrent episode (e.g., tingling, itching, burning, pain, or lesion).

Suppressive therapy: The recommended dosage of FAMVIR for chronic suppressive therapy of recurrent episodes of genital herpes is 250 mg twice daily.

Herpes zoster (shingles): The recommended dosage of FAMVIR for the treatment of herpes zoster is 500 mg every 8 hours for 7 days. Therapy should be initiated as soon as herpes zoster is diagnosed.

2.2     Dosing Recommendation in HIV-Infected Adult Patients

Recurrent orolabial or genital herpes: The recommended dosage of FAMVIR for the treatment of recurrent orolabial or genital herpes in HIV-infected patients is 500 mg twice daily for 7 days. Therapy should be initiated at the first sign or symptom of a recurrent episode (e.g., tingling, itching, burning, pain, or lesion).

2.3     Dosing Recommendation in Patients with Renal Impairment

Dosage recommendations for adult patients with renal impairment are provided in Table 1 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Table 1 Dosage Recommendations for Adult Patients with Renal Impairment Indication and Normal Dosage Regimen Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) Adjusted Dosage Regimen Dose (mg) Dosing Interval Single-Day Dosing Regimens Recurrent Genital Herpes1000 mg every 12 hours for 1 day ≥60 1000 every 12 hours for 1 day 40-59 500 every 12 hours for 1 day 20-39 500 single dose <20 250 single dose HD* 250 single dose following dialysis Recurrent Herpes Labialis1500 mg single dose ≥60 1500 single dose 40-59 750 single dose 20-39 500 single dose <20 250 single dose HD* 250 single dose following dialysis Multiple-Day Dosing Regimens Herpes Zoster500 mg every 8 hours ≥60 500 every 8 hours 40-59 500 every 12 hours 20-39 500 every 24 hours <20 250 every 24 hours HD* 250 following each dialysis Suppression of Recurrent Genital Herpes 250 mg every 12 hours ≥40 250 every 12 hours 20-39 125 every 12 hours <20 125 every 24 hours HD* 125 following each dialysis Recurrent Orolabial or Genital Herpes in HIV-Infected Patients 500 mg every 12 hours ≥40 500 every 12 hours 20-39 500 every 24 hours <20 250 every 24 hours HD* 250 following each dialysis
*Hemodialysis
Ilaris

Ilaris

2.1     General Dosing Information

INJECTION FOR SUBCUTANEOUS USE ONLY.

2.2     Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS)

The recommended dose of ILARIS is 150 mg for CAPS patients with body weight greater than 40 kg. For CAPS patients with body weight greater than or equal to 15 kg and less than or equal to 40 kg, the recommended dose is 2 mg/kg. For children 15 to 40 kg with an inadequate response, the dose can be increased to 3 mg/kg.

ILARIS is administered every eight weeks as a single dose via subcutaneous injection.

2.3     Systemic Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (SJIA)

The recommended dose of ILARIS for SJIA patients with a body weight greater than or equal to 7.5 kg is 4 mg/kg (with a maximum of 300 mg) administered every 4 weeks via subcutaneous injection.

2.4     Four Steps for Preparation and Administration

STEP 1: Using aseptic technique, reconstitute each vial of ILARIS by slowly injecting 1 mL of preservative-free Sterile Water for Injection with a 1 mL syringe and an 18 gauge x 2” needle.

STEP 2: Swirl the vial slowly at an angle of about 45° for approximately 1 minute and allow to stand for 5 minutes. Do not shake. Then gently turn the vial upside down and back again ten times. Avoid touching the rubber stopper with your fingers.

STEP 3: Allow to stand for about 15 minutes at room temperature to obtain a clear solution. The reconstituted solution has a final concentration of 150 mg/mL. Do not shake. Do not use if particulate matter is present in the solution. Tap the side of the vial to remove any residual liquid from the stopper. The reconstituted solution should be essentially free from particulates, and clear to opalescent. The solution should be colorless or may have a slight brownish-yellow tint. If the solution has a distinctly brown discoloration it should not be used. If not used within 60 minutes of reconstitution, the solution should be stored in the refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F) and used within 4 hours. Slight foaming of the product upon reconstitution is not unusual.

STEP 4: Using a sterile syringe and needle carefully withdraw the required volume depending on the dose to be administered (0.2 mL to 1 mL) and subcutaneously inject using a 27 gauge x 0.5” needle.

Injection into scar tissue should be avoided as this may result in insufficient exposure to ILARIS.

ILARIS 180 mg powder for solution for injection is supplied in a single-use vial. Any unused product or waste material should be disposed of in accordance with local requirements.
Stay Awake

Stay Awake

Myocardial Infarction

Early Treatment: During the early phase of definite or suspected acute myocardial infarction, initiate treatment with Lopressor as soon as possible after the patient’s arrival in the hospital. Such treatment should be initiated in a coronary care or similar unit immediately after the patient’s hemodynamic condition has stabilized.

Begin treatment in this early phase with the intravenous administration of three bolus injections of 5 mg of Lopressor each; give the injections at approximately 2-minute intervals. During the intravenous administration of Lopressor, monitor blood pressure, heart rate, and electrocardiogram.

In patients who tolerate the full intravenous dose (15 mg), initiate Lopressor tablets, 50 mg every 6 hours, 15 minutes after the last intravenous dose and continue for 48 hours. Thereafter, the maintenance dosage is 100 mg orally twice daily.

Start patients who appear not to tolerate the full intravenous dose on Lopressor tablets either 25 mg or 50 mg every 6 hours (depending on the degree of intolerance) 15 minutes after the last intravenous dose or as soon as their clinical condition allows. In patients with severe intolerance, discontinue Lopressor (see WARNINGS).

Special Populations

Pediatric patients: No pediatric studies have been performed. The safety and efficacy of Lopressor in pediatric patients have not been established.

Renal impairment: No dose adjustment of Lopressor is required in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic impairment: Lopressor blood levels are likely to increase substantially in patients with hepatic impairment. Therefore, Lopressor should be initiated at low doses with cautious gradual dose titration according to clinical response.

Geriatric patients (>65 years): In general, use a low initial starting dose in elderly patients given their greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Method of Administration

Parenteral administration of Lopressor (ampoule) should be done in a setting with intensive monitoring.

Note: Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
Sandimmune

Sandimmune

Sandimmune Soft Gelatin Capsules (cyclosporine capsules, USP) and Sandimmune Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP)

Sandimmune Soft Gelatin Capsules (cyclosporine capsules, USP) and Sandimmune Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) have decreased bioavailability in comparison to Neoral Soft Gelatin Capsules (cyclosporine capsules, USP) MODIFIED and Neoral Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED. Sandimmune and Neoral are not bioequivalent and cannot be used interchangeably without physician supervision.

The initial oral dose of Sandimmune (cyclosporine) should be given 4 to 12 hours prior to transplantation as a single dose of 15 mg/kg. Although a daily single dose of 14 to 18 mg/kg was used in most clinical trials, few centers continue to use the highest dose, most favoring the lower end of the scale. There is a trend towards use of even lower initial doses for renal transplantation in the ranges of 10 to 14 mg/kg/day. The initial single daily dose is continued postoperatively for 1 to 2 weeks and then tapered by 5% per week to a maintenance dose of 5 to 10 mg/kg/day. Some centers have successfully tapered the maintenance dose to as low as 3 mg/kg/day in selected renal transplant patients without an apparent rise in rejection rate.

(See Blood Concentration Monitoring, below)

Specific Populations

Renal Impairment

Cyclosporine undergoes minimal renal elimination and its pharmacokinetics do not appear to be significantly altered in patients with end-stage renal disease who receive routine hemodialysis treatments (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). However, due to its nephrotoxic potential (See WARNINGS), careful monitoring of renal function is recommended; cyclosporine dosage should be reduced if indicated. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

Hepatic Impairment

The clearance of cyclosporine may be significantly reduced in severe liver disease patients (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with severe liver impairment to maintain blood concentrations within the recommended target range. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

Pediatrics

In pediatric usage, the same dose and dosing regimen may be used as in adults although in several studies, children have required and tolerated higher doses than those used in adults.

Adjunct therapy with adrenal corticosteroids is recommended. Different tapering dosage schedules of prednisone appear to achieve similar results. A dosage schedule based on the patient’s weight started with 2.0 mg/kg/day for the first 4 days tapered to 1.0 mg/kg/day by 1 week, 0.6 mg/kg/day by 2 weeks, 0.3 mg/kg/day by 1 month, and 0.15 mg/kg/day by 2 months and thereafter as a maintenance dose. Another center started with an initial dose of 200 mg tapered by 40 mg/day until reaching 20 mg/day. After 2 months at this dose, a further reduction to 10 mg/day was made. Adjustments in dosage of prednisone must be made according to the clinical situation.

To make Sandimmune Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) more palatable, the oral solution may be diluted with milk, chocolate milk, or orange juice preferably at room temperature. Patients should avoid switching diluents frequently. Sandimmune Soft Gelatin Capsules and Oral Solution should be administered on a consistent schedule with regard to time of day and relation to meals.

Take the prescribed amount of Sandimmune (cyclosporine) from the container using the dosage syringe supplied after removal of the protective cover, and transfer the solution to a glass of milk, chocolate milk, or orange juice. Stir well and drink at once. Do not allow to stand before drinking. It is best to use a glass container and rinse it with more diluent to ensure that the total dose is taken. After use, replace the dosage syringe in the protective cover. Do not rinse the dosage syringe with water or other cleaning agents either before or after use. If the dosage syringe requires cleaning, it must be completely dry before resuming use. Introduction of water into the product by any means will cause variation in dose.

Sandimmune® Injection (cyclosporine injection, USP)

FOR INFUSION ONLY

Note: Anaphylactic reactions have occurred with Sandimmune Injection (cyclosporine injection, USP). (See WARNINGS)

Patients unable to take Sandimmune Soft Gelatin Capsules or Oral Solution pre- or postoperatively may be treated with the intravenous (IV) concentrate. Sandimmune Injection (cyclosporine injection, USP) is administered at 1/3 the oral dose. The initial dose of Sandimmune Injection (cyclosporine injection, USP) should be given 4 to 12 hours prior to transplantation as a single intravenous dose of 5 to 6 mg/kg/day. This daily single dose is continued postoperatively until the patient can tolerate the soft gelatin capsules or oral solution. Patients should be switched to Sandimmune Soft Gelatin Capsules or Oral Solution as soon as possible after surgery. In pediatric usage, the same dose and dosing regimen may be used, although higher doses may be required.

Adjunct steroid therapy is to be used. (See aforementioned.)

Immediately before use, the intravenous concentrate should be diluted 1 mL Sandimmune Injection (cyclosporine injection, USP) in 20 mL to 100 mL 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection or 5% Dextrose Injection and given in a slow intravenous infusion over approximately 2 to 6 hours.

Diluted infusion solutions should be discarded after 24 hours.

The Cremophor® EL (polyoxyethylated castor oil) contained in the concentrate for intravenous infusion can cause phthalate stripping from PVC.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

Blood Concentration Monitoring

Several study centers have found blood concentration monitoring of cyclosporine useful in patient management. While no fixed relationships have yet been established, in one series of 375 consecutive cadaveric renal transplant recipients, dosage was adjusted to achieve specific whole blood 24-hour trough concentrations of 100 to 200 ng/mL as determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Of major importance to blood concentration analysis is the type of assay used. The above concentrations are specific to the parent cyclosporine molecule and correlate directly to the new monoclonal specific radioimmunoassays (mRIA-sp). Nonspecific assays are also available which detect the parent compound molecule and various of its metabolites. Older studies often cited concentrations using a nonspecific assay which were roughly twice those of specific assays. Assay results are not interchangeable and their use should be guided by their approved labeling. If plasma specimens are employed, concentrations will vary with the temperature at the time of separation from whole blood. Plasma concentrations may range from 1/2 to 1/5 of whole blood concentrations. Refer to individual assay labeling for complete instructions. In addition, Transplantation Proceedings (June 1990) contains position papers and a broad consensus generated at the Cyclosporine-Therapeutic Drug Monitoring conference that year. Blood concentration monitoring is not a replacement for renal function monitoring or tissue biopsies.
Coartem

Coartem

2.1     Administration Instructions

Coartem Tablets should be taken with food. Patients with acute malaria are frequently averse to food. Patients should be encouraged to resume normal eating as soon as food can be tolerated since this improves absorption of artemether and lumefantrine.

For patients who are unable to swallow the tablets such as infants and children, Coartem Tablets may be crushed and mixed with a small amount of water (1 to 2 teaspoons) in a clean container for administration immediately prior to use. The container can be rinsed with more water and the contents swallowed by the patient. The crushed tablet preparation should be followed whenever possible by food/drink (e.g., milk, formula, pudding, broth, and porridge).

In the event of vomiting within 1 to 2 hours of administration, a repeat dose should be taken. If the repeat dose is vomited, the patient should be given an alternative antimalarial for treatment.

2.2     Dosage in Adult Patients (>16 years of age)

A 3-day treatment schedule with a total of 6 doses is recommended for adult patients with a bodyweight of 35 kg and above:

Four tablets as a single initial dose, 4 tablets again after 8 hours and then 4 tablets twice-daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total course of 24 tablets).

For patients weighing less than 35 kg, see Dosage in Pediatric Patients (2.3).

2.3     Dosage in Pediatric Patients

A 3-day treatment schedule with a total of 6 doses is recommended as below:

5 kg to less than 15 kg bodyweight: One tablet as an initial dose, 1 tablet again after 8 hours and then 1 tablet twice-daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total course of 6 tablets).

15 kg to less than 25 kg bodyweight: Two tablets as an initial dose, 2 tablets again after 8 hours and then 2 tablets twice-daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total course of 12 tablets).

25 kg to less than 35 kg bodyweight: Three tablets as an initial dose, 3 tablets again after 8 hours and then 3 tablets twice-daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total course of 18 tablets).

35 kg bodyweight and above: Four tablets as a single initial dose, 4 tablets again after 8 hours and then 4 tablets twice-daily (morning and evening) for the following 2 days (total course of 24 tablets).

2.4     Dosage in Patients with Hepatic or Renal Impairment

No specific pharmacokinetic studies have been carried out in patients with hepatic or renal impairment. Most patients with acute malaria present with some degree of related hepatic and/or renal impairment. In clinical studies, the adverse event profile did not differ in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function. No specific dose adjustments are needed for patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment.

In clinical studies, the adverse event profile did not differ in patients with mild or moderate renal impairment compared to patients with normal renal function. There were few patients with severe renal impairment in clinical studies. There is no significant renal excretion of lumefantrine, artemether and dihydroartemisinin (DHA) in healthy volunteers and while clinical experience in this population is limited, no dose adjustment is recommended.

Caution should be exercised when administering Coartem Tablets in patients with severe hepatic or renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Mefloquine Hydrochlorid...

Mefloquine Hydrochloride

Neoral Soft Gelatin Capsules (cyclosporine capsules, USP) MODIFIED and Neoral Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED

Neoral has increased bioavailability in comparison to Sandimmune. Neoral and Sandimmune are not bioequivalent and cannot be used interchangeably without physician supervision.

The daily dose of Neoral should always be given in two divided doses (BID). It is recommended that Neoral be administered on a consistent schedule with regard to time of day and relation to meals. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice affect metabolism, increasing blood concentration of cyclosporine, thus should be avoided.

Specific Populations

Renal Impairment in Kidney, Liver, and Heart Transplantation

Cyclosporine undergoes minimal renal elimination and its pharmacokinetics do not appear to be significantly altered in patients with end-stage renal disease who receive routine hemodialysis treatments (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). However, due to its nephrotoxic potential (See WARNINGS), careful monitoring of renal function is recommended; cyclosporine dosage should be reduced if indicated. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

Renal Impairment in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Psoriasis

Patients with impaired renal function should not receive cyclosporine. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

Hepatic Impairment

The clearance of cyclosporine may be significantly reduced in severe liver disease patients (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY). Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with severe liver impairment to maintain blood concentrations within the recommended target range (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS).

Newly Transplanted Patients

The initial oral dose of Neoral can be given 4 to 12 hours prior to transplantation or be given postoperatively. The initial dose of Neoral varies depending on the transplanted organ and the other immunosuppressive agents included in the immunosuppressive protocol. In newly transplanted patients, the initial oral dose of Neoral is the same as the initial oral dose of Sandimmune. Suggested initial doses are available from the results of a 1994 survey of the use of Sandimmune in US transplant centers. The mean ± SD initial doses were 9±3 mg/kg/day for renal transplant patients (75 centers), 8±4 mg/kg/day for liver transplant patients (30 centers), and 7±3 mg/kg/day for heart transplant patients (24 centers). Total daily doses were divided into two equal daily doses. The Neoral dose is subsequently adjusted to achieve a pre-defined cyclosporine blood concentration. (See Blood Concentration Monitoring in Transplant Patients, below) If cyclosporine trough blood concentrations are used, the target range is the same for Neoral as for Sandimmune. Using the same trough concentration target range for Neoral as for Sandimmune results in greater cyclosporine exposure when Neoral is administered. (See Pharmacokinetics, Absorption) Dosing should be titrated based on clinical assessments of rejection and tolerability. Lower Neoral doses may be sufficient as maintenance therapy.

Adjunct therapy with adrenal corticosteroids is recommended initially. Different tapering dosage schedules of prednisone appear to achieve similar results. A representative dosage schedule based on the patient’s weight started with 2.0 mg/kg/day for the first 4 days tapered to 1.0 mg/kg/day by 1 week, 0.6 mg/kg/day by 2 weeks, 0.3 mg/kg/day by 1 month, and 0.15 mg/kg/day by 2 months and thereafter as a maintenance dose. Steroid doses may be further tapered on an individualized basis depending on status of patient and function of graft. Adjustments in dosage of prednisone must be made according to the clinical situation.

Conversion from Sandimmune to Neoral in Transplant Patients

In transplanted patients who are considered for conversion to Neoral from Sandimmune, Neoral should be started with the same daily dose as was previously used with Sandimmune (1:1 dose conversion). The Neoral dose should subsequently be adjusted to attain the pre-conversion cyclosporine blood trough concentration. Using the same trough concentration target range for Neoral as for Sandimmune results in greater cyclosporine exposure when Neoral is administered. (See Pharmacokinetics, Absorption) Patients with suspected poor absorption of Sandimmune require different dosing strategies. (See Transplant Patients with Poor Absorption of Sandimmune, below) In some patients, the increase in blood trough concentration is more pronounced and may be of clinical significance.

Until the blood trough concentration attains the pre-conversion value, it is strongly recommended that the cyclosporine blood trough concentration be monitored every 4 to 7 days after conversion to Neoral. In addition, clinical safety parameters such as serum creatinine and blood pressure should be monitored every two weeks during the first two months after conversion. If the blood trough concentrations are outside the desired range and/or if the clinical safety parameters worsen, the dosage of Neoral must be adjusted accordingly.

Transplant Patients with Poor Absorption of Sandimmune

Patients with lower than expected cyclosporine blood trough concentrations in relation to the oral dose of Sandimmune may have poor or inconsistent absorption of cyclosporine from Sandimmune. After conversion to Neoral, patients tend to have higher cyclosporine concentrations. Due to the increase in bioavailability of cyclosporine following conversion to Neoral, the cyclosporine blood trough concentration may exceed the target range. Particular caution should be exercised when converting patients to Neoral at doses greater than 10 mg/kg/day. The dose of Neoral should be titrated individually based on cyclosporine trough concentrations, tolerability, and clinical response. In this population the cyclosporine blood trough concentration should be measured more frequently, at least twice a week (daily, if initial dose exceeds 10 mg/kg/day) until the concentration stabilizes within the desired range.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

The initial dose of Neoral is 2.5 mg/kg/day, taken twice daily as a divided (BID) oral dose. Salicylates, NSAIDs, and oral corticosteroids may be continued. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions) Onset of action generally occurs between 4 and 8 weeks. If insufficient clinical benefit is seen and tolerability is good (including serum creatinine less than 30% above baseline), the dose may be increased by 0.5–0.75 mg/kg/day after 8 weeks and again after 12 weeks to a maximum of 4 mg/kg/day. If no benefit is seen by 16 weeks of therapy, Neoral therapy should be discontinued.

Dose decreases by 25%-50% should be made at any time to control adverse events, e.g., hypertension elevations in serum creatinine (30% above patient’s pretreatment level) or clinically significant laboratory abnormalities. (See WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS)

If dose reduction is not effective in controlling abnormalities or if the adverse event or abnormality is severe, Neoral should be discontinued. The same initial dose and dosage range should be used if Neoral is combined with the recommended dose of methotrexate. Most patients can be treated with Neoral doses of 3 mg/kg/day or below when combined with methotrexate doses of up to 15 mg/week. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Trials)

There is limited long-term treatment data. Recurrence of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity is generally apparent within 4 weeks after stopping cyclosporine.

Psoriasis

The initial dose of Neoral should be 2.5 mg/kg/day. Neoral should be taken twice daily, as a divided (1.25 mg/kg BID) oral dose. Patients should be kept at that dose for at least 4 weeks, barring adverse events. If significant clinical improvement has not occurred in patients by that time, the patient’s dosage should be increased at 2-week intervals. Based on patient response, dose increases of approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day should be made to a maximum of 4.0 mg/kg/day.

Dose decreases by 25% to 50% should be made at any time to control adverse events, e.g., hypertension, elevations in serum creatinine (≥25% above the patient’s pretreatment level), or clinically significant laboratory abnormalities. If dose reduction is not effective in controlling abnormalities, or if the adverse event or abnormality is severe, Neoral should be discontinued. (See Special Monitoring of Psoriasis Patients)

Patients generally show some improvement in the clinical manifestations of psoriasis in 2 weeks. Satisfactory control and stabilization of the disease may take 12 to 16 weeks to achieve. Results of a dose-titration clinical trial with Neoral indicate that an improvement of psoriasis by 75% or more (based on PASI) was achieved in 51% of the patients after 8 weeks and in 79% of the patients after 16 weeks. Treatment should be discontinued if satisfactory response cannot be achieved after 6 weeks at 4 mg/kg/day or the patient’s maximum tolerated dose. Once a patient is adequately controlled and appears stable the dose of Neoral should be lowered, and the patient treated with the lowest dose that maintains an adequate response (this should not necessarily be total clearing of the patient). In clinical trials, cyclosporine doses at the lower end of the recommended dosage range were effective in maintaining a satisfactory response in 60% of the patients. Doses below 2.5 mg/kg/day may also be equally effective.

Upon stopping treatment with cyclosporine, relapse will occur in approximately 6 weeks (50% of the patients) to 16 weeks (75% of the patients). In the majority of patients rebound does not occur after cessation of treatment with cyclosporine. Thirteen cases of transformation of chronic plaque psoriasis to more severe forms of psoriasis have been reported. There were 9 cases of pustular and 4 cases of erythrodermic psoriasis. Long term experience with Neoral in psoriasis patients is limited and continuous treatment for extended periods greater than one year is not recommended. Alternation with other forms of treatment should be considered in the long term management of patients with this life long disease.

Neoral Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED–Recommendations for Administration

To make Neoral Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED more palatable, it should be diluted with orange or apple juice that is at room temperature. Patients should avoid switching diluents frequently. Grapefruit juice affects metabolism of cyclosporine and should be avoided. The combination of Neoral solution with milk can be unpalatable. The effect of milk on the bioavailability of cyclosporine when administered as Neoral Oral Solution has not been evaluated.

Take the prescribed amount of Neoral Oral Solution (cyclosporine oral solution, USP) MODIFIED from the container using the dosing syringe supplied, after removal of the protective cover, and transfer the solution to a glass of orange or apple juice. Stir well and drink at once. Do not allow diluted oral solution to stand before drinking. Use a glass container (not plastic). Rinse the glass with more diluent to ensure that the total dose is consumed. After use, dry the outside of the dosing syringe with a clean towel and replace the protective cover. Do not rinse the dosing syringe with water or other cleaning agents. If the syringe requires cleaning, it must be completely dry before resuming use.

Blood Concentration Monitoring in Transplant Patients

Transplant centers have found blood concentration monitoring of cyclosporine to be an essential component of patient management. Of importance to blood concentration analysis are the type of assay used, the transplanted organ, and other immunosuppressant agents being administered. While no fixed relationship has been established, blood concentration monitoring may assist in the clinical evaluation of rejection and toxicity, dose adjustments, and the assessment of compliance.

Various assays have been used to measure blood concentrations of cyclosporine. Older studies using a nonspecific assay often cited concentrations that were roughly twice those of the specific assays. Therefore, comparison between concentrations in the published literature and an individual patient concentration using current assays must be made with detailed knowledge of the assay methods employed. Current assay results are also not interchangeable and their use should be guided by their approved labeling. A discussion of the different assay methods is contained in Annals of Clinical Biochemistry 1994;31:420-446. While several assays and assay matrices are available, there is a consensus that parent-compound-specific assays correlate best with clinical events. Of these, HPLC is the standard reference, but the monoclonal antibody RIAs and the monoclonal antibody FPIA offer sensitivity, reproducibility, and convenience. Most clinicians base their monitoring on trough cyclosporine concentrations. Applied Pharmacokinetics, Principles of Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (1992) contains a broad discussion of cyclosporine pharmacokinetics and drug monitoring techniques. Blood concentration monitoring is not a replacement for renal function monitoring or tissue biopsies.
Lotensin

Lotensin

Hypertension

Adults

The recommended initial dose for patients not receiving a diuretic is 10 mg once a day. The usual maintenance dosage range is 20-40 mg per day administered as a single dose or in two equally divided doses. A dose of 80 mg gives an increased response, but experience with this dose is limited. The divided regimen was more effective in controlling trough (pre-dosing) blood pressure than the same dose given as a once-daily regimen. Dosage adjustment should be based on measurement of peak (2-6 hours after dosing) and trough responses. If a once-daily regimen does not give adequate trough response, an increase in dosage or divided administration should be considered. If blood pressure is not controlled with Lotensin alone, a diuretic can be added.

Total daily doses above 80 mg have not been evaluated.

Concomitant administration of Lotensin with potassium supplements, potassium salt substitutes, or potassium-sparing diuretics can lead to increases of serum potassium (see PRECAUTIONS).

In patients who are currently being treated with a diuretic, symptomatic hypotension occasionally can occur following the initial dose of Lotensin. To reduce the likelihood of hypotension, the diuretic should, if possible, be discontinued two to three days prior to beginning therapy with Lotensin (see WARNINGS). Then, if blood pressure is not controlled with Lotensin alone, diuretic therapy should be resumed.

If the diuretic cannot be discontinued, an initial dose of 5 mg Lotensin should be used to avoid excessive hypotension.

Pediatrics

In children, doses of Lotensin between 0.1 and 0.6 mg/kg once daily have been studied, and doses greater than 0.1 mg/kg were shown to reduce blood pressure (see Pharmacodynamics). Based on this, the recommended starting dose of Lotensin is 0.2 mg/kg once per day as monotherapy. Doses above 0.6 mg/kg (or in excess of 40 mg daily) have not been studied in pediatric patients.

For pediatric patients who cannot swallow tablets, or for whom the calculated dosage (mg/kg) does not correspond to the available tablet strengths for Lotensin, follow the suspension preparation instructions below to administer benazepril HCl as a suspension.

Treatment with Lotensin is not advised for children below the age of 6 years (see PRECAUTIONS, Pediatric Use) and in pediatric patients with glomerular filtration rate <30 mL, as there are insufficient data available to support a dosing recommendation in these groups.

For Hypertensive Patients with Renal Impairment

For patients with a creatinine clearance <30 mL/min/1.73 m2 (serum creatinine >3 mg/dL), the recommended initial dose is 5 mg Lotensin once daily. Dosage may be titrated upward until blood pressure is controlled or to a maximum total daily dose of 40 mg (see WARNINGS).

Preparation of Suspension (for 150 mL of a 2 mg/mL suspension)

Add 75 mL of Ora-Plus®* oral suspending vehicle to an amber polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle containing fifteen Lotensin 20 mg tablets, and shake for at least 2 minutes. Allow the suspension to stand for a minimum of 1 hour. After the standing time, shake the suspension for a minimum of 1 additional minute. Add 75 mL of Ora-Sweet®* oral syrup vehicle to the bottle and shake the suspension to disperse the ingredients. The suspension should be refrigerated at 2-8°C (36-46°F) and can be stored for up to 30 days in the PET bottle with a child-resistant screw-cap closure. Shake the suspension before each use.

*Ora-Plus® and Ora-Sweet® are registered trademarks of Paddock Laboratories, Inc. Ora-Plus® contains carrageenan, citric acid, methylparaben, microcrystalline cellulose, carboxymethylcellulose sodium, potassium sorbate, simethicone, sodium phosphate monobasic, xanthan gum, and water. Ora-Sweet® contains citric acid, berry citrus flavorant, glycerin, methylparaben, potassium sorbate, sodium phosphate monobasic, sorbitol, sucrose, and water.
Parlodel

Parlodel

General

It is recommended that Parlodel® (bromocriptine mesylate) be taken with food. Patients should be evaluated frequently during dose escalation to determine the lowest dosage that produces a therapeutic response.

Hyperprolactinemic Indications

The initial dosage of Parlodel SnapTabs® in adults is ½ to one 2½ mg scored tablet daily. An additional 2½ mg tablet may be added to the treatment regimen as tolerated every 2-7 days until an optimal therapeutic response is achieved. The therapeutic dosage ranged from 2.5-15 mg daily in adults studied clinically.

Based on limited data in children of age 11 to 15, (see Pediatric Use) the initial dose is ½ to one 2½ mg scored tablet daily. Dosing may need to be increased as tolerated until a therapeutic response is achieved. The therapeutic dosage ranged from 2.5-10 mg daily in children with prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas.

In order to reduce the likelihood of prolonged exposure to Parlodel should an unsuspected pregnancy occur, a mechanical contraceptive should be used in conjunction with Parlodel therapy until normal ovulatory menstrual cycles have been restored. Contraception may then be discontinued in patients desiring pregnancy.

Thereafter, if menstruation does not occur within 3 days of the expected date, Parlodel therapy should be discontinued and a pregnancy test performed.

Acromegaly

Virtually all acromegalic patients receiving therapeutic benefit from Parlodel also have reductions in circulating levels of growth hormone. Therefore, periodic assessment of circulating levels of growth hormone will, in most cases, serve as a guide in determining the therapeutic potential of Parlodel. If, after a brief trial with Parlodel therapy, no significant reduction in growth hormone levels has taken place, careful assessment of the clinical features of the disease should be made, and if no change has occurred, dosage adjustment or discontinuation of therapy should be considered.

The initial recommended dosage is ½ to one 2½ mg Parlodel SnapTabs tablet on retiring (with food) for 3 days. An additional ½ to 1 SnapTabs tablet should be added to the treatment regimen as tolerated every 3-7 days until the patient obtains optimal therapeutic benefit. Patients should be reevaluated monthly and the dosage adjusted based on reductions of growth hormone or clinical response. The usual optimal therapeutic dosage range of Parlodel varies from 20-30 mg/day in most patients. The maximal dosage should not exceed 100 mg/day.

Patients treated with pituitary irradiation should be withdrawn from Parlodel therapy on a yearly basis to assess both the clinical effects of radiation on the disease process as well as the effects of Parlodel therapy. Usually a 4-8 week withdrawal period is adequate for this purpose. Recurrence of the signs/symptoms or increases in growth hormone indicate the disease process is still active and further courses of Parlodel should be considered.

Parkinson’s Disease

The basic principle of Parlodel therapy is to initiate treatment at a low dosage and, on an individual basis, increase the daily dosage slowly until a maximum therapeutic response is achieved. The dosage of levodopa during this introductory period should be maintained, if possible. The initial dose of Parlodel is ½ of a 2½ mg SnapTabs tablet twice daily with meals. Assessments are advised at 2-week intervals during dosage titration to ensure that the lowest dosage producing an optimal therapeutic response is not exceeded. If necessary, the dosage may be increased every 14-28 days by 2½ mg/day with meals. Should it be advisable to reduce the dosage of levodopa because of adverse reactions, the daily dosage of Parlodel, if increased, should be accomplished gradually in small (2½ mg) increments.

The safety of Parlodel has not been demonstrated in dosages exceeding 100 mg/day.
Methergine

Methergine

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration.

Intramuscularly

1 mL, 0.2 mg, after delivery of the anterior shoulder, after delivery of the placenta, or during the puerperium. May be repeated as required, at intervals of 2-4 hours.

Intravenously

1 mL, 0.2 mg, administered slowly over a period of no less than 60 seconds (See WARNINGS.)

Orally

One tablet, 0.2 mg, 3 or 4 times daily in the puerperium for a maximum of 1 week.
Myfortic

Myfortic

2.1     Dosage in Adult Kidney Transplant Patients

The recommended dose of Myfortic is 720 mg administered twice daily (1440 mg total daily dose).

2.2     Dosage in Pediatric Kidney Transplant Patients

The recommended dose of Myfortic in conversion (at least 6 months post-transplant) pediatric patients age 5 years and older is 400 mg/m2 body surface area (BSA) administered twice daily (up to a maximum dose of 720 mg administered twice daily).

2.3     Administration

Myfortic tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after food intake [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Myfortic tablets should not be crushed, chewed, or cut prior to ingesting. The tablets should be swallowed whole in order to maintain the integrity of the enteric coating.

Pediatric patients with a BSA of 1.19 to 1.58 m2 may be dosed either with three Myfortic 180 mg tablets, or one 180 mg tablet plus one 360 mg tablet twice daily (1080 mg daily dose). Patients with a BSA of >1.58 m2 may be dosed either with four Myfortic 180 mg tablets, or two Myfortic 360 mg tablets twice daily (1440 mg daily dose). Pediatric doses for patients with BSA <1.19 m2 cannot be accurately administered using currently available formulations of Myfortic tablets.
Lamisil

Lamisil

Fingernail onychomycosis: One 250 mg tablet once daily for 6 weeks.

Toenail onychomycosis: One 250 mg tablet once daily for 12 weeks.

The optimal clinical effect is seen some months after mycological cure and cessation of treatment. This is related to the period required for outgrowth of healthy nail.
Lamisil

Lamisil

Lamisil (terbinafine hydrochloride) Oral Granules should be taken once a day for 6 weeks based upon body weight (See Table 1). Sprinkle the contents of each packet on a spoonful of pudding or other soft, nonacidic food such as mashed potatoes and swallow the entire spoonful (without chewing); do not use applesauce or fruit-based foods. Take with food. If 2 packets (250 mg) are required with each dose, either the content of both packets may be sprinkled on 1 spoonful, or the contents of both packets may be sprinkled on 2 spoonfuls of nonacidic food as directed above.
Table 1: Dosage by Body Weight <25 kg 125 mg/day 25-35 kg 187.5 mg/day >35 kg 250 mg/day
Abraxane

Abraxane

2.1     Transfusional Iron Overload

Exjade therapy should only be considered when a patient has evidence of chronic transfusional iron overload. The evidence should include the transfusion of at least 100 mL/kg of packed red blood cells (e.g., at least 20 units of packed red blood cells for a 40 kg person or more in individuals weighing more than 40 kg), and a serum ferritin consistently greater than 1000 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:
serum ferritin level baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the creatinine clearance (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
The recommended initial dose of Exjade for patients 2 years of age and older is 20 mg per kg body weight orally, once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet.

After commencing therapy, monitor serum ferritin monthly and adjust the dose of Exjade, if necessary, every 3-6 months based on serum ferritin trends. Make dose adjustments in steps of 5 or 10 mg per kg and tailor adjustments to the individual patient’s response and therapeutic goals. In patients not adequately controlled with doses of 30 mg per kg (e.g., serum ferritin levels persistently above 2500 mcg/L and not showing a decreasing trend over time), doses of up to 40 mg per kg may be considered. Doses above 40 mg per kg are not recommended.

If the serum ferritin falls consistently below 500 mcg/L, consider temporarily interrupting therapy with Exjade [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

2.2     Iron Overload in Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

Exjade therapy should only be considered when a patient with NTDT syndrome has an LIC of at least 5 mg Fe/g dw and a serum ferritin greater than 300 mcg/L.

Prior to starting therapy, obtain:
LIC by liver biopsy or by an FDA-cleared or approved method for identifying patients for treatment with deferasirox therapy Serum ferritin level on at least 2 measurements 1 month apart [see Clinical Studies (14)] Baseline serum creatinine in duplicate (due to variations in measurements) and determine the creatinine clearance (Cockcroft-Gault method) [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Serum transaminases and bilirubin [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] Baseline auditory and ophthalmic examinations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
Initiating therapy:
The recommended initial dose of Exjade is 10 mg per kg body weight orally once daily. Calculate doses (mg per kg per day) to the nearest whole tablet. If the baseline LIC is greater than 15 mg Fe/g dw, consider increasing the dose to 20 mg/kg/day after 4 weeks.
During therapy:
Monitor serum ferritin monthly. Interrupt treatment when serum ferritin is less than 300 mcg/L and obtain an LIC to determine whether the LIC has fallen to less than 3 mg Fe/g dw. Monitor LIC every 6 months. After 6 months of therapy, if the LIC remains greater than 7 mg Fe/g dw, increase the dose of deferasirox to a maximum of 20 mg/kg/day. Do not exceed a maximum of 20 mg/kg/day. If after 6 months of therapy, the LIC is 3-7 mg Fe/g dw, continue treatment with deferasirox at no more than 10 mg/kg/day. When the LIC is less than 3 mg Fe/g dw, interrupt treatment with deferasirox and continue to monitor the LIC. Monitor blood counts, hepatic function, and renal function [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2, 5.4)].
Restart treatment when the LIC rises again to more than 5 mg Fe/g dw.

2.3     Administration

Do not chew tablets or swallow them whole.

Take Exjade once daily on an empty stomach at least 30 minutes before food, preferably at the same time each day. Completely disperse tablets by stirring in water, orange juice, or apple juice until a fine suspension is obtained. Disperse doses of less than 1 g in 3.5 ounces of liquid and doses of 1 g or greater in 7 ounces of liquid. After swallowing the suspension, resuspend any residue in a small volume of liquid and swallow. Do not take Exjade with aluminum-containing antacid products [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

2.4     Use in Patients with Baseline Hepatic or Renal Impairment

Patients with Baseline Hepatic Impairment

Mild (Child-Pugh A) hepatic impairment: No dose adjustment is necessary.

Moderate (Child-Pugh B) hepatic impairment: Reduce the starting dose by 50%.

Severe (Child-Pugh C) hepatic impairment: Avoid Exjade [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Patients with Baseline Renal Impairment

For patients with renal impairment (ClCr 40–60 mL/min), reduce the starting dose by 50% [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)]. Do not use Exjade in patients with serum creatinine greater than 2 times the upper limit of normal or creatinine clearance less than 40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].

2.5     Dose Modifications for Increases in Serum Creatinine on Exjade

For serum creatinine increases while receiving Exjade [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] modify the dose as follows:

Transfusional Iron Overload

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):
If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, reduce the dose by 10 mg per kg.
Pediatric Patients (ages 2-15 years):
Reduce the dose by 10 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate upper limit of normal.
All Patients (regardless of age):
Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age-appropriate upper limit of normal or for creatinine clearance <40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].
Non-Transfusion-Dependent Thalassemia Syndromes

Adults and Adolescents (ages 16 years and older):
If the serum creatinine increases by 33% or more above the average baseline measurement, repeat the serum creatinine within 1 week, and if still elevated by 33% or more, interrupt therapy if the dose is 5 mg per kg, or reduce by 50% if the dose is 10 or 20 mg per kg.
Pediatric Patients (ages 10-15 years):
Reduce the dose by 5 mg per kg if serum creatinine increases to greater than 33% above the average baseline measurement and greater than the age appropriate upper limit of normal.
All Patients (regardless of age):
Discontinue therapy for serum creatinine greater than 2 times the age-appropriate upper limit of normal or for creatinine clearance <40 mL/min [see Contraindications (4)].
2.6     Dose Modifications Based on Concomitant Medications

UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT) Inducers

Concomitant use of UGT inducers decreases Exjade systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of potent UGT inducers (e.g., rifampicin, phenytoin, phenobarbital, ritonavir) with Exjade. If you must administer Exjade with 1 of these agents, consider increasing the initial dose of Exjade by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Bile Acid Sequestrants

Concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants decreases Exjade systemic exposure. Avoid the concomitant use of bile acid sequestrants (e.g., cholestyramine, colesevelam, colestipol) with Exjade. If you must administer Exjade with 1 of these agents, consider increasing the initial dose of Exjade by 50%, and monitor serum ferritin levels and clinical responses for further dose modification [see Dosage and Administration (2.1, 2.2), Drug Interactions (7.6)].
Hecoria

Hecoria

2.1 Dosage in Adult Kidney, Liver, or Heart Transplant Patients

The initial oral dosage recommendations for adult patients with kidney, liver, or heart transplants along with recommendations for whole blood trough concentrations are shown in Table 1. The initial dose of Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP) should be administered no sooner than 6 hours after transplantation in the liver and heart transplant patients. In kidney transplant patients, the initial dose of Hecoria may be administered within 24 hours of transplantation, but should be delayed until renal function has recovered. For blood concentration monitoring details see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.6).

Table 1. Summary of Initial Oral Dosage Recommendations and Observed Whole Blood Trough Concentrations in Adults
Patient Population
Recommended Hecoria Initial Oral Dosage
Note: daily doses should be administered as two divided doses, every 12 hours Observed Tacrolimus Whole Blood Trough Concentrations Adult kidney transplant patientsIn combination with azathioprine 0.2 mg/kg/day
month 1 to 3: 7 to 20 ng/mL
month 4 to 12: 5 to 15 ng/mL In combination with MMF/IL-2 receptor antagonista 0.1 mg/kg/day month 1 to 12: 4 to 11 ng/mL Adult liver transplant patients 0.10 to 0.15 mg/kg/day month 1 to 12: 5 to 20 ng/mL Adult heart transplant patients 0.075 mg/kg/day month 1 to 3: 10 to 20 ng/mLmonth ≥4: 5 to 15 ng/mL
aIn a second smaller trial, the initial dose of tacrolimus was 0.15 to 0.2 mg/kg/day and observed tacrolimus concentrations were 6 to 16 ng/mL during months 1 to 3 and 5 to 12 ng/mL during months 4 to 12 [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.1)].

Dosing should be titrated based on clinical assessments of rejection and tolerability. Lower Hecoria dosages than the recommended initial dosage may be sufficient as maintenance therapy. Adjunct therapy with adrenal corticosteroids is recommended early post-transplant.

The data in kidney transplant patients indicate that the Black patients required a higher dose to attain comparable trough concentrations compared to Caucasian patients (Table 2).
Table 2. Comparative Dose and Trough Concentrations Based on Race Time After Transplant
Caucasian
n=114
Black
n=56
Dose
(mg/kg)
Trough Concentrations
(ng/mL)
Dose
(mg/kg) Trough Concentrations (ng/mL) Day 7 0.18 12 0.23 10.9 Month 1 0.17 12.8 0.26 12.9 Month 6 0.14 11.8 0.24 11.5 Month 12 0.13 10.1 0.19 11
Initial Dose – Injection

Tacrolimus injection should be used only as a continuous IV infusion and when the patient cannot tolerate oral administration of Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP). Tacrolimus injection should be discontinued as soon as the patient can tolerate oral administration of Hecoria capsules, usually within 2 to 3 days. In a patient receiving an IV infusion, the first dose of oral therapy should be given 8 to 12 hours after discontinuing the IV infusion.

The observed trough concentrations described above pertain to oral administration of Hecoria only; while monitoring Hecoria concentrations in patients receiving tacrolimus injection as a continuous IV infusion may have some utility, the observed concentrations will not represent comparable exposures to those estimated by the trough concentrations observed in patients on oral therapy.

The recommended starting dose of tacrolimus injection is 0.03 to 0.05 mg/kg/day in kidney and liver transplant and 0.01 mg/kg/day in heart transplant given as a continuous IV infusion. Adult patients should receive doses at the lower end of the dosing range. Concomitant adrenal corticosteroid therapy is recommended early post-transplantation.

Anaphylactic reactions have occurred with injectables containing castor oil derivatives, such as tacrolimus injection [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS (5.11)].

2.2 Dosage in Pediatric Liver Transplant Patients

The initial oral dosage recommendations for pediatric patients with liver transplants along with recommendations for whole blood trough concentrations are shown in Table 3. For blood concentration monitoring details see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.6). If necessary, pediatric patients may start on an IV dose of 0.03 to 0.05 mg/kg/day.
Table 3. Summary of Initial Oral Dosage Recommendations and Observed Whole Blood Trough Concentrations in Children Patient Population
Recommended Hecoria Initial Oral Dosage
Note: daily doses should be administered as two divided doses, every 12 hours Observed Tacrolimus Whole Blood Trough Concentrations Pediatric liver transplant patients 0.15 to 0.20 mg/kg/day Month 1 to 12: 5 to 20 ng/mL
Pediatric liver transplantation patients without pre-existing renal or hepatic dysfunction have required and tolerated higher doses than adults to achieve similar blood concentrations.

Experience in pediatric kidney and heart transplantation patients is limited.

2.3 Dosage Adjustment in Patients with Renal Impairment

Due to its potential for nephrotoxicity, consideration should be given to dosing Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP) at the lower end of the therapeutic dosing range in patients who have received a liver or heart transplant and have pre-existing renal impairment. Further reductions in dose below the targeted range may be required.

In kidney transplant patients with post-operative oliguria, the initial dose of Hecoria should be administered no sooner than 6 hours and within 24 hours of transplantation, but may be delayed until renal function shows evidence of recovery.

2.4 Dosage Adjustments in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Due to the reduced clearance and prolonged half-life, patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child Pugh ≥ 10) may require lower doses of Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP). Close monitoring of blood concentrations is warranted.

The use of Hecoria in liver transplant recipients experiencing post-transplant hepatic impairment may be associated with increased risk of developing renal insufficiency related to high whole-blood concentrations of tacrolimus. These patients should be monitored closely and dosage adjustments should be considered. Some evidence suggests that lower doses should be used in these patients [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.1), USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS (8.7) and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)].

2.5 Administration Instructions

It is recommended that patients initiate oral therapy with Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP) if possible.

Initial dosage and observed tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations for adults are shown in Table 1 and for pediatrics in Table 3 [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.1, 2.2)]; for blood concentration monitoring details in kidney transplant patients [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION (2.1)].

It is important to take Hecoria capsules consistently every day either with or without food because the presence and composition of food decreases the bioavailability of Hecoria [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY (12.3)].

Patients should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice in combination with Hecoria [see DRUG INTERACTIONS (7.2)].

Hecoria should not be used simultaneously with cyclosporine. Hecoria or cyclosporine should be discontinued at least 24 hours before initiating the other. In the presence of elevated Hecoria or cyclosporine concentrations, dosing with the other drug usually should be further delayed.

In patients unable to take oral Hecoria (tacrolimus capsules, USP), therapy may be initiated with tacrolimus injection as a continuous IV infusion. If IV therapy is necessary, conversion from IV to oral tacrolimus is recommended as soon as oral therapy can be tolerated. This usually occurs within 2 to 3 days. In patients receiving an IV infusion, the first dose of oral therapy should be given 8 to 12 hours after discontinuing the IV infusion.

2.6 Therapeutic Drug Monitoring

Monitoring of tacrolimus blood concentrations in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical parameters is considered an essential aid to patient management for the evaluation of rejection, toxicity, dose adjustments and compliance. Observed whole blood trough concentrations can be found in Table 1. Factors influencing frequency of monitoring include but are not limited to hepatic or renal dysfunction, the addition or discontinuation of potentially interacting drugs and the post-transplant time. Blood concentration monitoring is not a replacement for renal and liver function monitoring and tissue biopsies. Data from clinical trials show that tacrolimus whole blood concentrations were most variable during the first week post-transplantation.

The relative risks of toxicity and efficacy failure are related to tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations. Therefore, monitoring of whole blood trough concentrations is recommended to assist in the clinical evaluation of toxicity and efficacy failure.

Methods commonly used for the assay of tacrolimus include high performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometric detection (HPLC/MS/MS) and immunoassays. Immunoassays may react with metabolites as well as parent compound. Therefore assay results obtained with immunoassays may have a positive bias relative to results of HPLC/MS. The bias may depend upon the specific assay and laboratory. Comparison of the concentrations in published literature to patient concentrations using the current assays must be made with detailed knowledge of the assay methods and biological matrices employed. Whole blood is the matrix of choice and specimens should be collected into tubes containing ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA) anti-coagulant. Heparin anti-coagulation is not recommended because of the tendency to form clots on storage. Samples which are not analyzed immediately should be stored at room temperature or in a refrigerator and assayed within 7 days; see assay instructions for specifics. If samples are to be kept longer they should be deep frozen at -20°C. One study showed drug recovery >90% for samples stored at -20°C for 6 months, with reduced recovery observed after 6 months.
Ritalin La

Ritalin La

Focalin XR is for oral administration once daily in the morning.

Focalin XR may be swallowed as whole capsules or alternatively may be administered by sprinkling the capsule contents on a small amount of applesauce (see specific instructions below). Focalin XR capsules and/or their contents should not be crushed, chewed, or divided.

The capsules may be carefully opened and the beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce. The mixture of drug and applesauce should be consumed immediately in its entirety. The drug and applesauce mixture should not be stored for future use.

Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient.

2.1     Patients New to Methylphenidate

The recommended starting dose of Focalin XR for patients who are not currently taking dexmethylphenidate or racemic methylphenidate, or for patients who are on stimulants other than methylphenidate, is 5 mg/day for pediatric patients and 10 mg/day for adult patients.

Dosage may be adjusted in 5 mg increments for pediatric patients and in 10 mg increments for adult patients. In general, dosage adjustments may proceed at approximately weekly intervals. The patient should be observed for a sufficient duration at a given dose to ensure that a maximal benefit has been achieved before a dose increase is considered. In dose-response (fixed-dose) studies (pediatric from 10 to 30 mg/day and adult from 20 to 40 mg/day), all doses were effective vs. placebo. There was no clear finding, however, of greater average benefits for the higher doses compared to the lower doses. Adverse events and discontinuations, however, were dose-related. Doses above 30 mg/day in pediatrics and 40 mg/day in adults have not been studied and are not recommended.

2.2     Patients Currently Using Methylphenidate

For patients currently using methylphenidate, the recommended starting dose of Focalin XR is half the total daily dose of racemic methylphenidate. Patients currently using Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) may be switched to the same daily dose of Focalin XR.

2.3     Maintenance/Extended Treatment

There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to indicate how long the patient with ADHD should be treated with Focalin XR. It is generally agreed, however, that pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use Focalin XR for extended periods in patients with ADHD should periodically reevaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient with periods off medication to assess the patient’s functioning without pharmacotherapy. Improvement may be sustained when the drug is either temporarily or permanently discontinued.

2.4     Dose Reduction and Discontinuation

If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse events occur, the dosage should be reduced, or, if necessary, the drug should be discontinued.

If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a 1-month period, the drug should be discontinued.
Ritalin

Ritalin

Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient.

Adults

Tablets: Administer in divided doses 2 or 3 times daily, preferably 30 to 45 minutes before meals. Average dosage is 20 to 30 mg daily. Some patients may require 40 to 60 mg daily. In others, 10 to 15 mg daily will be adequate. Patients who are unable to sleep if medication is taken late in the day should take the last dose before 6 p.m.

SR Tablets: Ritalin-SR tablets have a duration of action of approximately 8 hours. Therefore, Ritalin-SR tablets may be used in place of Ritalin tablets when the 8-hour dosage of Ritalin-SR corresponds to the titrated 8-hour dosage of Ritalin. Ritalin-SR tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed.

Children (6 years and over)

Ritalin should be initiated in small doses, with gradual weekly increments. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended.

If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a 1-month period, the drug should be discontinued.

Tablets: Start with 5 mg twice daily (before breakfast and lunch) with gradual increments of 5 to 10 mg weekly.

SR Tablets: Ritalin-SR tablets have a duration of action of approximately 8 hours. Therefore, Ritalin-SR tablets may be used in place of Ritalin tablets when the 8-hour dosage of Ritalin-SR corresponds to the titrated 8-hour dosage of Ritalin. Ritalin-SR tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed.

If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse effects occur, reduce dosage, or, if necessary, discontinue the drug.

Ritalin should be periodically discontinued to assess the child’s condition. Improvement may be sustained when the drug is either temporarily or permanently discontinued.

Drug treatment should not and need not be indefinite and usually may be discontinued after puberty.
Focalin

Focalin

Focalin is administered twice daily, at least 4 hours apart. Focalin may be administered with or without food.

Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patient.

Patients New to Methylphenidate

The recommended starting dose of Focalin for patients who are not currently taking racemic methylphenidate, or for patients who are on stimulants other than methylphenidate, is 5 mg/day (2.5 mg twice daily).

Dosage may be adjusted in 2.5 to 5 mg increments to a maximum of 20 mg/day (10 mg twice daily). In general, dosage adjustments may proceed at approximately weekly intervals.

Patients Currently Using Methylphenidate

For patients currently using methylphenidate, the recommended starting dose of Focalin is half the dose of racemic methylphenidate. The maximum recommended dose is 20 mg/day (10 mg twice daily).

Maintenance/Extended Treatment

There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to indicate how long the patient with ADHD should be treated with Focalin. It is generally agreed, however, that pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use Focalin for extended periods in patients with ADHD should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient with periods off medication to assess the patient’s functioning without pharmacotherapy. Improvement may be sustained when the drug is either temporarily or permanently discontinued.

Dose Reduction and Discontinuation

If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse events occur, the dosage should be reduced, or, if necessary, the drug should be discontinued.

If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a 1-month period, the drug should be discontinued.
Femara

Femara

2.1     Recommended Dose

The recommended dose of Femara is one 2.5 mg tablet administered once a day, without regard to meals.

2.2     Use in Adjuvant Treatment of Early Breast Cancer

In the adjuvant setting, the optimal duration of treatment with letrozole is unknown. The planned duration of treatment in the study was 5 years with 73% of the patients having completed adjuvant therapy. Treatment should be discontinued at relapse [see Clinical Studies (14.1)].

2.3     Use in Extended Adjuvant Treatment of Early Breast Cancer

In the extended adjuvant setting, the optimal treatment duration with Femara is not known. The planned duration of treatment in the study was 5 years. In the final updated analysis, conducted at a median follow-up of 62 months, the median treatment duration was 60 months. Seventy-one percent of patients were treated for at least 3 years and 58% of patients completed at least 4.5 years of extended adjuvant treatment. The treatment should be discontinued at tumor relapse [see Clinical Studies (14.2)].

2.4     Use in First and Second-Line Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer

In patients with advanced disease, treatment with Femara should continue until tumor progression is evident [see Clinical Studies (14.4, 14.5)].

2.5     Use in Hepatic Impairment

No dosage adjustment is recommended for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, although Femara blood concentrations were modestly increased in subjects with moderate hepatic impairment due to cirrhosis. The dose of Femara in patients with cirrhosis and severe hepatic dysfunction should be reduced by 50% [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. The recommended dose of Femara for such patients is 2.5 mg administered every other day. The effect of hepatic impairment on Femara exposure in noncirrhotic cancer patients with elevated bilirubin levels has not been determined.

2.6     Use in Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustment is required for patients with renal impairment if creatinine clearance is ≥10 mL/min [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Dextroamphetamine Sacch...

Dextroamphetamine Saccharate

2.1     Required Laboratory Testing Prior to Initiation and During Therapy

Prior to initiating treatment with CLOZARIL, a baseline ANC must be obtained. The baseline ANC must be at least 1500/µL for the general population, and at least 1000/µL for patients with documented Benign Ethnic Neutropenia (BEN). To continue treatment, the ANC must be monitored regularly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

2.2     Dosing Information

The starting dose is 12.5 mg once daily or twice daily. The total daily dose can be increased in increments of 25 mg to 50 mg per day, if well-tolerated, to achieve a target dose of 300 mg to 450 mg per day (administered in divided doses) by the end of 2 weeks. Subsequently, the dose can be increased once weekly or twice weekly, in increments of up to 100 mg. The maximum dose is 900 mg per day. To minimize the risk of orthostatic hypotension, bradycardia, and syncope, it is necessary to use this low starting dose, gradual titration schedule, and divided dosages [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

CLOZARIL can be taken with or without food [see Pharmacokinetics (12.3)].

2.3     Maintenance Treatment

Generally, patients responding to CLOZARIL should continue maintenance treatment on their effective dose beyond the acute episode.

2.4     Discontinuation of Treatment

Method of treatment discontinuation will vary depending on the patient’s last ANC:
See Tables 2 or 3 for appropriate ANC monitoring based on the level of neutropenia if abrupt treatment discontinuation is necessary because of moderate to severe neutropenia. Reduce the dose gradually over a period of 1 to 2 weeks if termination of CLOZARIL therapy is planned and there is no evidence of moderate to severe neutropenia. For abrupt clozapine discontinuation for a reason unrelated to neutropenia, continuation of the existing ANC monitoring is recommended for general population patients until their ANC is ≥1500/µL and for BEN patients until their ANC is ≥1000/µL or above their baseline. Additional ANC monitoring is required for any patient reporting onset of fever (temperature of 38.5°C or 101.3°F, or greater) during the 2 weeks after discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Monitor all patients carefully for the recurrence of psychotic symptoms and symptoms related to cholinergic rebound such as profuse sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2.5     Re-Initiation of Treatment

When restarting CLOZARIL in patients who have discontinued CLOZARIL (i.e., 2 days or more since the last dose), re-initiate with 12.5 mg once daily or twice daily. This is necessary to minimize the risk of hypotension, bradycardia, and syncope [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. If that dose is well-tolerated, the dose may be increased to the previously therapeutic dose more quickly than recommended for initial treatment.

2.6     Dosage Adjustments with Concomitant use of CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP3A4 Inhibitors or CYP1A2, CYP3A4 Inducers

Dose adjustments may be necessary in patients with concomitant use of: strong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin, or enoxacin); moderate or weak CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., oral contraceptives, or caffeine); CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., cimetidine, escitalopram, erythromycin, paroxetine, bupropion, fluoxetine, quinidine, duloxetine, terbinafine, or sertraline); CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine, St. John’s wort, and rifampin); or CYP1A2 inducers (e.g., tobacco smoking) (Table 1) [see Drug Interactions (7)].
Table 1. Dose Adjustment in Patients Taking Concomitant Medications Co-medications Scenarios Initiating CLOZARIL while taking a co-medication Adding a co-medication while taking CLOZARIL Discontinuing a co-medication while continuing CLOZARIL Strong CYP1A2 Inhibitors Use one-third of the CLOZARIL dose. Increase CLOZARIL dose based on clinical response. Moderate or Weak CYP1A2 Inhibitors Monitor for adverse reactions.Consider reducing the CLOZARIL dose if necessary. Monitor for lack of effectiveness. Consider increasing CLOZARIL dose if necessary. CYP2D6 or CYP3A4 Inhibitors Strong CYP3A4 Inducers Concomitant use is not recommended.However, if the inducer is necessary, it may be necessary to increase the CLOZARIL dose.Monitor for decreased effectiveness. Reduce CLOZARIL dose based on clinical response. Moderate or weak CYP1A2 or CYP3A4 Inducers Monitor for decreased effectiveness. Consider increasing the CLOZARIL dose if necessary. Monitor for adverse reactions.Consider reducing the CLOZARIL dose if necessary.
2.7     Renal or Hepatic Impairment or CYP2D6 Poor Metabolizers

It may be necessary to reduce the CLOZARIL dose in patients with significant renal or hepatic impairment, or in CYP2D6 poor metabolizers [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6, 8.7)].
Sandostatin

Sandostatin

Sandostatin® (octreotide acetate) may be administered subcutaneously or intravenously. Subcutaneous injection is the usual route of administration of Sandostatin for control of symptoms. Pain with subcutaneous administration may be reduced by using the smallest volume that will deliver the desired dose. Multiple subcutaneous injections at the same site within short periods of time should be avoided. Sites should be rotated in a systematic manner.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. Do not use if particulates and/or discoloration are observed. Proper sterile technique should be used in the preparation of parenteral admixtures to minimize the possibility of microbial contamination. Sandostatin is not compatible in Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) solutions because of the formation of a glycosyl octreotide conjugate which may decrease the efficacy of the product.

Sandostatin is stable in sterile isotonic saline solutions or sterile solutions of dextrose 5% in water for 24 hours. It may be diluted in volumes of 50-200 mL and infused intravenously over 15-30 minutes or administered by IV push over 3 minutes. In emergency situations (e.g., carcinoid crisis) it may be given by rapid bolus.

The initial dosage is usually 50 mcg administered twice or three times daily. Upward dose titration is frequently required. Dosage information for patients with specific tumors follows.

Acromegaly

Dosage may be initiated at 50 mcg t.i.d. Beginning with this low dose may permit adaptation to adverse gastrointestinal effects for patients who will require higher doses. IGF-I (somatomedin C) levels every 2 weeks can be used to guide titration. Alternatively, multiple growth hormone levels at 0-8 hours after Sandostatin® (octreotide acetate) administration permit more rapid titration of dose. The goal is to achieve growth hormone levels less than 5 ng/mL or IGF-I (somatomedin C) levels less than 1.9 U/mL in males and less than 2.2 U/mL in females. The dose most commonly found to be effective is 100 mcg t.i.d., but some patients require up to 500 mcg t.i.d. for maximum effectiveness. Doses greater than 300 mcg/day seldom result in additional biochemical benefit, and if an increase in dose fails to provide additional benefit, the dose should be reduced. IGF-I (somatomedin C) or growth hormone levels should be re-evaluated at 6-month intervals.

Sandostatin should be withdrawn yearly for approximately 4 weeks from patients who have received irradiation to assess disease activity. If growth hormone or IGF-I (somatomedin C) levels increase and signs and symptoms recur, Sandostatin therapy may be resumed.

Carcinoid Tumors

The suggested daily dosage of Sandostatin during the first 2 weeks of therapy ranges from 100-600 mcg/day in 2-4 divided doses (mean daily dosage is 300 mcg). In the clinical studies, the median daily maintenance dosage was approximately 450 mcg, but clinical and biochemical benefits were obtained in some patients with as little as 50 mcg, while others required doses up to 1500 mcg/day. However, experience with doses above 750 mcg/day is limited.

VIPomas

Daily dosages of 200-300 mcg in 2-4 divided doses are recommended during the initial 2 weeks of therapy (range 150-750 mcg) to control symptoms of the disease. On an individual basis, dosage may be adjusted to achieve a therapeutic response, but usually doses above 450 mcg/day are not required.
Miacalcin

Miacalcin

2.1     Paget’s Disease of Bone

The recommended dose of Miacalcin injection for treatment of symptomatic Paget's disease of bone is 100 International Units (0.5 mL) per day administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly.

2.2     Hypercalcemia

The recommended starting dose of Miacalcin injection for early treatment of hypercalcemia is 4 International Units/kg body weight every 12 hours by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. If the response to this dose is not satisfactory after one or two days, the dose may be increased to 8 International Units/kg every 12 hours. If the response remains unsatisfactory after two more days, the dose may be further increased to a maximum of 8 International Units/kg every 6 hours.

2.3     Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

The recommended dose of Miacalcin injection for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis in women greater than 5 years postmenopause is 100 International Units (0.5 mL) per day administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The minimum effective dose of Miacalcin injection for the prevention of vertebral bone mineral density loss has not been established.

2.4     Preparation and Administration

Visually inspect Miacalcin vials. Miacalcin injection is a clear, colorless, solution. If the solution is not clear and colorless, or contains any particles, or if the vial is damaged, do not administer the solution.

If the volume of Miacalcin injection to be injected exceeds 2 mL, intramuscular injection is preferable and the total dose should be distributed across multiple sites of injection.

Instruct patients to use sterile injection technique when administering Miacalcin injection, and to dispose of needles properly.

2.5     Recommendations for Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation

Patients who use Miacalcin injection for treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis should receive adequate calcium (at least 1000 mg elemental calcium per day) and vitamin D (at least 400 International Units per day).
Miacalcin

Miacalcin

2.1     Basic Dosing Information

The recommended dose of Miacalcin nasal spray is 1 spray (200 International Units) per day administered intranasally, alternating nostrils daily.

2.2     Priming (Activation) of Pump

Unopened Miacalcin nasal spray should be stored in the refrigerator. Before using the first dose of Miacalcin nasal spray, the patient should wait until it has reached room temperature. To prime the pump before it is used for the first time, the bottle should be held upright and the two white side arms of the pump depressed toward the bottle, repeat until a full spray is released. The pump is primed once the first full spray is emitted. To administer, the nozzle should first be carefully placed into the nostril while the patient’s head is in the upright position, then the pump should be firmly depressed toward the bottle. The pump should not be primed before each daily dose.

2.3     Recommendations for Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation

Patients who use Miacalcin nasal spray should receive adequate calcium (at least 1000 mg elemental calcium per day) and vitamin D (at least 400 International Units per day).
Exelon

Exelon

2.1     Recommended Dosing

Initial Dose

Initiate treatment with one 4.6 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH applied to the skin once daily [see Dosage and Administration (2.4)].

Dose Titration

Increase the dose only after a minimum of 4 weeks at the previous dose, and only if the previous dose has been tolerated. For mild to moderate AD and PDD patients, continue the effective dose of 9.5 mg/24 hours for as long as therapeutic benefit persists. Patients can then be increased to the maximum effective dose of 13.3 mg/24 hours dose. For patients with severe AD, 13.3 mg/24 hours is the effective dose. Doses higher than 13.3 mg/24 hours confer no appreciable additional benefit, and are associated with an increase in the incidence of adverse reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2), Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease and Mild to Moderate Parkinson’s Disease Dementia

The effective dosage of EXELON PATCH is 9.5 mg/24 hours or 13.3 mg/24 hours administered once per day; replace with a new patch every 24 hours.

Severe Alzheimer’s Disease

The effective dosage of EXELON PATCH in patients with severe Alzheimer’s disease is 13.3 mg/24 hours administered once per day; replace with a new patch every 24 hours.

Interruption of Treatment

If dosing is interrupted for 3 days or fewer, restart treatment with the same or lower strength EXELON PATCH. If dosing is interrupted for more than 3 days, restart treatment with the 4.6 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH and titrate as described above.

2.2     Dosing in Specific Populations

Dosing Modifications in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Consider using the 4.6 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH as both the initial and maintenance dose in patients with mild (Child-Pugh score 5 to 6) to moderate (Child-Pugh score 7 to 9) hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Dosing Modifications in Patients with Low Body Weight

Carefully titrate and monitor patients with low body weight (<50 kg) for toxicities (e.g., excessive nausea, vomiting) and consider reducing the maintenance dose to the 4.6 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH if such toxicities develop.

2.3     Switching to EXELON PATCH from Exelon Capsules or Exelon Oral Solution

Patients treated with Exelon Capsules or Oral Solution may be switched to EXELON PATCH as follows:
A patient who is on a total daily dose of <6 mg of oral rivastigmine can be switched to the 4.6 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH. A patient who is on a total daily dose of 6 mg to 12 mg of oral rivastigmine can be switched to the 9.5 mg/24 hours EXELON PATCH.
Instruct patients or caregivers to apply the first patch on the day following the last oral dose.

2.4     Important Administration Instructions

EXELON PATCH is for transdermal use on intact skin.

(a) Do not use the patch if the pouch seal is broken or the patch is cut, damaged, or changed in any way.

(b) Apply the EXELON PATCH once a day
Press down firmly for 30 seconds until the edges stick well when applying to clean, dry, hairless, intact healthy skin in a place that will not be rubbed against by tight clothing. Use the upper or lower back as the site of application because the patch is less likely to be removed by the patient. If sites on the back are not accessible, apply the patch to the upper arm or chest. Do not apply to a skin area where cream, lotion, or powder has recently been applied.
(c) Do not apply to skin that is red, irritated, or cut.

(d) Replace the EXELON PATCH with a new patch every 24 hours. Instruct patients to only wear 1 patch at a time (remove the previous day’s patch before applying a new patch) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Overdosage (10)]. If a patch falls off or if a dose is missed, apply a new patch immediately and then replace this patch the following day at the usual application time.

(e) Change the site of patch application daily to minimize potential irritation, although a new patch can be applied to the same general anatomic site (e.g., another spot on the upper back) on consecutive days. Do not apply a new patch to the same location for at least 14 days.

(f) May wear the patch during bathing and in hot weather. But avoid long exposure to external heat sources (excessive sunlight, saunas, solariums).

(g) Place used patches in the previously saved pouch and discard in the trash, away from pets or children.

(h) Wash hands with soap and water after removing the patch. In case of contact with eyes or if the eyes become red after handling the patch, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical advice if symptoms do not resolve.
Tekturna Hct

Tekturna Hct

2.1     Dose Selection

The recommended once-daily doses of Tekturna HCT in order of increasing mean effect are 150/12.5 mg, 150/25 mg or 300/12.5 mg, and 300/25 mg.

2.2     Dose Titration

The antihypertensive effect of Tekturna HCT is largely manifested within 1 week, with maximal effects generally seen at around 4 weeks. If blood pressure remains uncontrolled after 2 to 4 weeks of therapy, the dose may be titrated up to a maximum of aliskiren 300 mg/HCTZ 25 mg.

2.3     Add-On Therapy

A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with aliskiren alone or hydrochlorothiazide alone may be switched to combination therapy with Tekturna HCT. The usual recommended starting dose is 150/12.5 mg once daily as needed to control blood pressure. The dose may be titrated up to a maximum of aliskiren 300 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg once daily.

2.4     Replacement Therapy

Tekturna HCT may be substituted for the individually titrated components.

2.5     Initial Therapy

The usual recommended starting dose is 150/12.5 mg once daily as needed to control blood pressure. The dose may be titrated up to a maximum of aliskiren 300 mg/HCTZ 25 mg once daily.

Tekturna HCT is not recommended for use as initial therapy in patients with intravascular volume depletion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

2.6     Relationship to Meals

Patients should establish a routine pattern for taking Tekturna HCT with regard to meals. High-fat meals decrease absorption substantially [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Tekturna

Tekturna

2.1 Hypertension

The usual recommended starting dose of Tekturna is 150 mg once daily. In patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled, the daily dose may be increased to 300 mg. Doses above 300 mg did not give an increased blood pressure response but resulted in an increased rate of diarrhea. The antihypertensive effect of a given dose is substantially attained (85% to 90%) by 2 weeks.

2.2 Relationship to Meals

Patients should establish a routine pattern for taking Tekturna with regard to meals. High fat meals decrease absorption substantially [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Amturnide

Amturnide

2.1     General Considerations

Dose once-daily. The dosage may be increased after 2 weeks of therapy. The maximum recommended dose of Amturnide is 300/10/25 mg.

2.2     Add-on/Switch Therapy

Use Amturnide for patients not adequately controlled with any 2 of the following: aliskiren, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, and thiazide diuretics.

Switch a patient who experiences dose-limiting adverse reactions attributed to an individual component—while on any dual combination of the components of Amturnide—to Amturnide at a lower dose of that component to achieve similar blood pressure reductions.

2.3     Replacement Therapy

For patients receiving aliskiren, amlodipine, and HCTZ from separate tablets, substitute Amturnide containing the same component doses.

2.4     Relationship to Meals

Patients should establish a routine pattern for taking Amturnide, either with or without a meal. High-fat meals decrease absorption of aliskiren substantially [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Tekamlo

Tekamlo

2.1     General Considerations

The recommended initial once-daily dose of Tekamlo is 150 mg/5 mg. Titrate as needed to a maximum of 300 mg/10 mg.

The blood pressure lowering effects are largely attained within 1 to 2 weeks. If blood pressure remains uncontrolled after 2 to 4 weeks of therapy, titrate the dose to a maximum of Tekamlo 300 mg/10 mg once daily.

2.2     Add-on Therapy

Use Tekamlo for patients not adequately controlled with aliskiren alone or amlodipine besylate (or another dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker) alone.

Switch a patient who experiences dose-limiting adverse reactions on either component alone to Tekamlo containing a lower dose of that component in combination with the other to achieve similar blood pressure reductions.

2.3     Replacement Therapy

Switch patients receiving aliskiren and amlodipine besylate from separate tablets to a single tablet of Tekamlo containing the same component doses. When substituting for individual components, increase the dose of one or both of the components if blood pressure control has not been satisfactory.

2.4     Relationship to Meals

Patients should establish a routine pattern for taking Tekamlo, either with or without a meal. High-fat meals decrease absorption substantially [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Zometa

Zometa

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

2.1     Hypercalcemia of Malignancy

The maximum recommended dose of Zometa in hypercalcemia of malignancy (albumin-corrected serum calcium greater than or equal to 12 mg/dL [3.0 mmol/L]) is 4 mg. The 4-mg dose must be given as a single-dose intravenous infusion over no less than 15 minutes. Patients who receive Zometa should have serum creatinine assessed prior to each treatment.

Dose adjustments of Zometa are not necessary in treating patients for hypercalcemia of malignancy presenting with mild-to-moderate renal impairment prior to initiation of therapy (serum creatinine less than 400 µmol/L or less than 4.5 mg/dL).

Patients should be adequately rehydrated prior to administration of Zometa [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

Consideration should be given to the severity of, as well as the symptoms of, tumor-induced hypercalcemia when considering use of Zometa. Vigorous saline hydration, an integral part of hypercalcemia therapy, should be initiated promptly and an attempt should be made to restore the urine output to about 2 L/day throughout treatment. Mild or asymptomatic hypercalcemia may be treated with conservative measures (i.e., saline hydration, with or without loop diuretics). Patients should be hydrated adequately throughout the treatment, but overhydration, especially in those patients who have cardiac failure, must be avoided. Diuretic therapy should not be employed prior to correction of hypovolemia.

Retreatment with Zometa 4 mg may be considered if serum calcium does not return to normal or remain normal after initial treatment. It is recommended that a minimum of 7 days elapse before retreatment, to allow for full response to the initial dose. Renal function must be carefully monitored in all patients receiving Zometa and serum creatinine must be assessed prior to retreatment with Zometa [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

2.2     Multiple Myeloma and Metastatic Bone Lesions of Solid Tumors

The recommended dose of Zometa in patients with multiple myeloma and metastatic bone lesions from solid tumors for patients with creatinine clearance (CrCl) greater than 60 mL/min is 4 mg infused over no less than 15 minutes every 3 to 4 weeks. The optimal duration of therapy is not known.

Upon treatment initiation, the recommended Zometa doses for patients with reduced renal function (mild and moderate renal impairment) are listed in Table 1. These doses are calculated to achieve the same area under the curve (AUC) as that achieved in patients with creatinine clearance of 75 mL/min. CrCl is calculated using the Cockcroft-Gault formula [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Table 1: Reduced Doses for Patients with Baseline CrCl Less than or Equal to 60 mL/min *Doses calculated assuming target AUC of 0.66(mg•hr/L) (CrCl=75 mL/min) Baseline Creatinine Clearance (mL/min) Zometa Recommended Dose* greater than 60 4 mg 50-60 3.5 mg 40-49 3.3 mg 30-39 3 mg
During treatment, serum creatinine should be measured before each Zometa dose and treatment should be withheld for renal deterioration. In the clinical studies, renal deterioration was defined as follows:       For patients with normal baseline creatinine, increase of 0.5 mg/dL       For patients with abnormal baseline creatinine, increase of 1.0 mg/dL

In the clinical studies, Zometa treatment was resumed only when the creatinine returned to within 10% of the baseline value. Zometa should be reinitiated at the same dose as that prior to treatment interruption.

Patients should also be administered an oral calcium supplement of 500 mg and a multiple vitamin containing 400 international units of vitamin D daily.

2.3     Preparation of Solution

Zometa must not be mixed with calcium or other divalent cation-containing infusion solutions, such as Lactated Ringer’s solution, and should be administered as a single intravenous solution in a line separate from all other drugs.

4 mg/100 mL Single-Use Ready-to-Use Bottle

Bottles of Zometa ready-to-use solution for infusion contain overfill allowing for the administration of 100 mL of solution (equivalent to 4 mg zoledronic acid). This solution is ready-to-use and may be administered directly to the patient without further preparation. For single use only.

To prepare reduced doses for patients with baseline CrCl less than or equal to 60 mL/min, withdraw the specified volume of the Zometa solution from the bottle (see Table 2) and replace with an equal volume of sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP, or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP. Administer the newly-prepared dose-adjusted solution to the patient by infusion. Follow proper aseptic technique. Properly discard previously withdrawn volume of ready-to-use solution - do not store or reuse.
Table 2: Preparation of Reduced Doses–Zometa Ready-to-Use Bottle Remove and discard the following Zometa ready-to-use solution (mL) Replace with the following volume of sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP (mL) Dose (mg) 12.0 12.0 3.5 18.0 18.0 3.3 25.0 25.0 3.0
If not used immediately after dilution with infusion media, for microbiological integrity, the solution should be refrigerated at 2°C–8°C (36°F–46°F). The refrigerated solution should then be equilibrated to room temperature prior to administration. The total time between dilution, storage in the refrigerator, and end of administration must not exceed 24 hours.

4 mg/5 mL Single-Use Vial

Vials of Zometa concentrate for infusion contain overfill allowing for the withdrawal of 5 mL of concentrate (equivalent to 4 mg zoledronic acid). This concentrate should immediately be diluted in 100 mL of sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP, or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP, following proper aseptic technique, and administered to the patient by infusion. Do not store undiluted concentrate in a syringe, to avoid inadvertent injection.

To prepare reduced doses for patients with baseline CrCl less than or equal to 60 mL/min, withdraw the specified volume of the Zometa concentrate from the vial for the dose required (see Table 3).
Table 3: Preparation of Reduced Doses – Zometa Concentrate Remove and Use Zometa Volume (mL) Dose (mg) 4.4 3.5 4.1 3.3 3.8 3.0
The withdrawn concentrate must be diluted in 100 mL of sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP, or 5% Dextrose Injection, USP.

If not used immediately after dilution with infusion media, for microbiological integrity, the solution should be refrigerated at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F). The refrigerated solution should then be equilibrated to room temperature prior to administration. The total time between dilution, storage in the refrigerator, and end of administration must not exceed 24 hours.

2.4     Method of Administration

Due to the risk of clinically significant deterioration in renal function, which may progress to renal failure, single doses of Zometa should not exceed 4 mg and the duration of infusion should be no less than 15 minutes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. In the trials and in postmarketing experience, renal deterioration, progression to renal failure and dialysis, have occurred in patients, including those treated with the approved dose of 4 mg infused over 15 minutes. There have been instances of this occurring after the initial Zometa dose.
Fanapt

Fanapt

2.1     Usual Dose

FANAPT must be titrated slowly from a low starting dose to avoid orthostatic hypotension due to its alpha-adrenergic blocking properties. The recommended starting dose for FANAPT tablets is 1 mg twice daily. Dose increases to reach the target range of 6 to 12 mg twice daily (12 to 24 mg/day) may be made with daily dosage adjustments not to exceed 2 mg twice daily (4 mg/day). The maximum recommended dose is 12 mg twice daily (24 mg/day). FANAPT doses above 24 mg/day have not been systematically evaluated in the clinical trials. Efficacy was demonstrated with FANAPT in a dose range of 6 to 12 mg twice daily. Prescribers should be mindful of the fact that patients need to be titrated to an effective dose of FANAPT. Thus, control of symptoms may be delayed during the first 1 to 2 weeks of treatment compared to some other antipsychotic drugs that do not require similar titration. Prescribers should also be aware that some adverse effects associated with FANAPT use are dose related.

FANAPT can be administered without regard to meals.

2.2     Dosage in Special Populations

Dosage adjustments are not routinely indicated on the basis of age, gender, race, or renal impairment status [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6, 8.7)].

Dosage adjustment for patients taking FANAPT concomitantly with potential CYP2D6 inhibitors: FANAPT dose should be reduced by one-half when administered concomitantly with strong CYP2D6 inhibitors such as fluoxetine or paroxetine. When the CYP2D6 inhibitor is withdrawn from the combination therapy, FANAPT dose should then be increased to where it was before [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Dosage adjustment for patients taking FANAPT concomitantly with potential CYP3A4 inhibitors: FANAPT dose should be reduced by one-half when administered concomitantly with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole or clarithromycin. When the CYP3A4 inhibitor is withdrawn from the combination therapy, FANAPT dose should be increased to where it was before [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Dosage adjustment for patients taking FANAPT who are poor metabolizers of CYP2D6: FANAPT dose should be reduced by one-half for poor metabolizers of CYP2D6 [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Hepatic Impairment: No dose adjustment to FANAPT is needed in patients with mild hepatic impairment. Exercise caution when administering it to patients with moderate hepatic impairment. FANAPT is not recommended for patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

2.3     Maintenance Treatment

Although there is no body of evidence available to answer the question of how long the patient treated with FANAPT should be maintained, it is generally recommended that responding patients be continued beyond the acute response. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for maintenance treatment.

2.4     Reinitiation of Treatment in Patients Previously Discontinued

Although there are no data to specifically address reinitiation of treatment, it is recommended that the initiation titration schedule be followed whenever patients have had an interval off FANAPT of more than 3 days.

2.5     Switching from Other Antipsychotics

There are no specific data to address how patients with schizophrenia can be switched from other antipsychotics to FANAPT or how FANAPT can be used concomitantly with other antipsychotics. Although immediate discontinuation of the previous antipsychotic treatment may be acceptable for some patients with schizophrenia, more gradual discontinuation may be most appropriate for others. In all cases, the period of overlapping antipsychotic administration should be minimized.
Combipatch

Combipatch

When estrogen therapy is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, a progestin should be initiated to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. A woman without a uterus does not need progestin. Use of estrogen-alone or in combination with a progestin, should be with the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Patients should be reevaluated periodically as clinically appropriate (for example at 3-month to 6-month intervals) to determine whether treatment is still necessary. Adequate diagnostic measures, such as directed or random endometrial sampling, when indicated, should be undertaken to rule out malignancy in a postmenopausal woman with a uterus with undiagnosed persistent or recurring abnormal genital bleeding.

Initiation of Therapy

Patients should be started at the lowest dose. Estrogens with or without progestins should be prescribed at the lowest effective doses and for the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. The lowest effective dose of CombiPatch has not been determined in clinical trials.

Women not currently using continuous estrogen or combination estrogen plus progestin therapy may start therapy with CombiPatch at any time. However, women currently using continuous estrogen or combination estrogen plus progestin therapy should complete the current cycle of therapy, before initiating CombiPatch therapy.

Women often experience withdrawal bleeding at the completion of the cycle. The first day of this bleeding would be an appropriate time to begin CombiPatch therapy.

Therapeutic Regimens

Combination estrogen plus progestin regimens are indicated for women with an intact uterus. Two CombiPatch (estradiol/NETA) transdermal delivery systems are available: 0.05 mg estradiol with 0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm2) and 0.05 mg estradiol with 0.25 mg NETA per day (16 cm2). The lowest effective dose should be used. For all regimens, women should be reevaluated at 3- to 6-month intervals to determine if changes in hormone therapy or if continued hormone therapy is appropriate.

Continuous Combined Regimen

A CombiPatch 0.05 mg estradiol/0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm2) matrix transdermal system is worn continuously on the lower abdomen. Additionally, a dose of 0.05 mg estradiol/0.25 mg NETA (16 cm2 system) is available if a greater progestin dose is desired. A new system should be applied twice weekly during a 28-day cycle. Irregular bleeding may occur particularly in the first six months, but generally decreases with time, and often to an amenorrheic state.

Continuous Sequential Regimen

CombiPatch can be applied as a sequential regimen in combination with an estradiol-only transdermal delivery system.

In this treatment regimen, a 0.05 mg per day (nominal delivery rate) estradiol transdermal system (Vivelle) is worn for the first 14 days of a 28-day cycle, replacing the system twice weekly according to product directions. For the remaining 14 days of the 28-day cycle, CombiPatch 0.05 mg estradiol/0.14 mg NETA per day (9 cm2) transdermal system should be applied to the lower abdomen. Additionally, a dose of 0.05 mg estradiol/0.25 mg NETA (16 cm2 system) is available if a greater progestin dose is desired. The CombiPatch system should be replaced twice weekly during this period in the cycle. Women should be advised that monthly withdrawal bleeding often occurs.

Application of the System

Site Selection

CombiPatch should be placed on a smooth (fold-free), clean, dry area of the skin on the lower abdomen. CombiPatch should not be applied to or near the breasts. The area selected should not be oily (which can impair adherence of the system), damaged, or irritated. The waistline should be avoided, since tight clothing may rub the system off or modify drug delivery. The sites of application must be rotated, with an interval of at least one week allowed between applications to the same site.

Application

After opening the pouch, remove 1 side of the protective liner, taking care not to touch the adhesive part of the transdermal delivery system with the fingers. Immediately apply the transdermal delivery system to a smooth (fold-free) area of skin on the lower abdomen. Remove the second side of the protective liner and press the system firmly in place with the hand for at least 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact, especially around the edges.

Care should be taken that the system does not become dislodged during bathing and other activities. If a system should fall off, the same system may be reapplied to another area of the lower abdomen. If necessary, a new transdermal system may be applied, in which case, the original treatment schedule should be continued. Only 1 system should be worn at any 1 time during the 3- to 4-day dosing interval.

Once in place, the transdermal system should not be exposed to the sun for prolonged periods of time.

Removal of the System

Removal of the system should be done carefully and slowly to avoid irritation of the skin. Should any adhesive remain on the skin after removal of the system, allow the area to dry for 15 minutes. Then gently rub the area with an oil-based cream or lotion to remove the adhesive residue.
Zykadia

Zykadia

2.1     Dosing and Administration

The recommended dose of ZYKADIA is 750 mg orally once daily until disease progression or unacceptable toxicity. Administer ZYKADIA on an empty stomach (i.e., do not administer within 2 hours of a meal) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

A recommended dose has not been determined for patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

If a dose of ZYKADIA is missed, make up that dose unless the next dose is due within 12 hours.

If vomiting occurs during the course of treatment, do not administer an additional dose and continue with the next scheduled dose of ZYKADIA.

2.2     Dose Modifications for Adverse Reactions

Recommendations for dose modifications of ZYKADIA for adverse reactions are provided in Table 1.

Approximately 58% of patients initiating treatment at the recommended dose required at least one dose reduction and the median time to first dose reduction was 7 weeks.

Discontinue ZYKADIA for patients unable to tolerate 300 mg daily.
Table 1: ZYKADIA Dose Interruption, Reduction, or Discontinuation Recommendations Criteria ZYKADIA Dosing ALT or AST elevation greater than 5 times ULN with total bilirubin elevation less than or equal to 2 times ULN Withhold until recovery to baseline or less than or equal to 3 times ULN, then resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction. ALT or AST elevation greater than 3 times ULN with total bilirubin elevation greater than 2 times ULN in the absence of cholestasis or hemolysis Permanently discontinue ZYKADIA. Any Grade treatment-related ILD/pneumonitis Permanently discontinue ZYKADIA. QTc interval greater than 500 msec on at least 2 separate ECGs Withhold until QTc interval is less than 481 msec or recovery to baseline if baseline QTc is greater than or equal to 481 msec, then resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction. QTc interval prolongation in combination with Torsade de pointes or polymorphic ventricular tachycardia or signs/symptoms of serious arrhythmia Permanently discontinue ZYKADIA. Severe or intolerable nausea, vomiting or diarrhea despite optimal anti-emetic or anti-diarrheal therapy Withhold until improved, then resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction. Persistent hyperglycemia greater than 250 mg/dL despite optimal anti-hyperglycemic therapy Withhold until hyperglycemia is adequately controlled, then resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction.If adequate hyperglycemic control cannot be achieved with optimal medical management, discontinue ZYKADIA. Symptomatic bradycardia that is not life-threatening Withhold until recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate of 60 bpm or above, evaluate concomitant medications known to cause bradycardia, and adjust the dose of ZYKADIA. Clinically significant bradycardia requiring intervention or life-threatening bradycardia in patients taking a concomitant medication also known to cause bradycardia or a medication known to cause hypotension Withhold until recovery to asymptomatic bradycardia or to a heart rate of 60 bpm or above.If the concomitant medication can be adjusted or discontinued, resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction, with frequent monitoring. Life-threatening bradycardia in patients who are not taking a concomitant medication also known to cause bradycardia or known to cause hypotension Permanently discontinue ZYKADIA.
Lipase or amylase elevation greater than 2 times ULN

Withhold and monitor serum lipase and amylase. Resume ZYKADIA with a 150 mg dose reduction after recovery to less than 1.5 times ULN.
ALT, alanine aminotransferase; AST, aspartate aminotransferase; ULN, upper limit of normal; ILD, interstitial lung disease;ECG, electrocardiogram
2.3     Dose Modification for Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Avoid concurrent use of strong CYP3A inhibitors during treatment with ZYKADIA [see Drug Interactions (7.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

If concomitant use of a strong CYP3A inhibitor is unavoidable, reduce the ZYKADIA dose by approximately one-third, rounded to the nearest multiple of the 150 mg dosage strength. After discontinuation of a strong CYP3A inhibitor, resume the ZYKADIA dose that was taken prior to initiating the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor.
Exelon

Exelon

2.1       Dosing in Alzheimer’s Disease

EXELON should be taken with meals in divided doses in the morning and evening.

The recommended dosage of EXELON Oral Solution and Capsules in Alzheimer’s disease is 6 mg to 12 mg per day, administered twice a day (daily doses of 3 mg to 6 mg twice a day). There is evidence from the clinical trials that doses at the higher end of this range may be more beneficial.

Initial Dose

Initiate treatment with the 1.5 mg twice a day with EXELON.

Dose Titration

After a minimum of 2 weeks and if well tolerated, increase the dose to 3 mg twice a day. Subsequent increases to 4.5 mg twice a day and 6 mg twice a day should be attempted after a minimum of 2 weeks at the previous dose and if well tolerated. The maximum dose is 6 mg twice a day (12 mg per day).

2.2       Dosing in Parkinson’s Disease Dementia

EXELON should be taken with meals in divided doses in the morning and evening.

The dosage of EXELON shown to be effective in the single controlled clinical trial conducted in dementia associated with Parkinson’s disease is 3 mg to 12 mg per day, administered twice a day (daily doses of 1.5 mg to 6 mg twice a day).

Initial Dose

Initiate treatment with the 1.5 mg twice a day with EXELON.

Dose Titration

After a minimum of 4 weeks and if well tolerated, increase the dose to 3 mg twice a day. Subsequent increases to 4.5 mg twice a day and 6 mg twice a day should be attempted after a minimum of 4 weeks at the previous dose and if well tolerated. The maximum dose is 6 mg twice a day (12 mg per day).

2.3       Interruption of Treatment

If adverse effects (e.g., nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite) cause intolerance during treatment, the patient should be instructed to discontinue treatment for several doses and then restart at the same or next lower dose level.

If dosing is interrupted for 3 days or fewer, restart treatment with the same or lower dose of EXELON. If dosing is interrupted for more than 3 days, treatment should be restarted with 1.5 mg twice a day and titrated as described above [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

2.4       Dosing in Specific Populations

Dosing Modifications in Patients with Renal Impairment

Patients with moderate and severe renal impairment may be able to only tolerate lower doses.

Dosing Modifications in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

Patients with mild (Child-Pugh score 5 to 6) and moderate (Child-Pugh score 7 to 9) hepatic impairment may be able to only tolerate lower doses. No data are available on the use of rivastigmine in patients with severe hepatic impairment.

Dosing Modifications in Patients with Low Body Weight

Carefully titrate and monitor patients with low body weight (less than 50 kg) for toxicities (e.g., excessive nausea, vomiting), and consider reducing the dose if such toxicities develop.

2.5       Important Administration Instructions

Caregivers should be instructed in the correct procedure for administering EXELON Oral Solution. In addition, they should be directed to the Instruction Sheet (included with the product) describing how the solution is to be administered. Caregivers should direct questions about the administration of the solution to either their physician or pharmacist [see Patient Counseling Information (17)].

Patients should be instructed to remove the oral dosing syringe provided in its protective case, and using the provided syringe, withdraw the prescribed amount of EXELON Oral Solution from the container. Each dose of EXELON Oral Solution may be swallowed directly from the syringe or first mixed with a small glass of water, cold fruit juice, or soda. Patients should be instructed to stir and drink the mixture.

EXELON Oral Solution and EXELON Capsules may be interchanged at equal doses.
Reclast

Reclast

2.1     Important Administration Instructions

Reclast injection must be administered as an intravenous infusion over no less than 15 minutes.
Patients must be appropriately hydrated prior to administration of Reclast [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Intravenous infusion should be followed by a 10 mL normal saline flush of the intravenous line. Administration of acetaminophen following Reclast administration may reduce the incidence of acute-phase reaction symptoms.
2.2     Treatment of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women

The recommended regimen is a 5 mg infusion once a year given intravenously over no less than 15 minutes.

2.3     Prevention of Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women

The recommended regimen is a 5 mg infusion given once every 2 years intravenously over no less than 15 minutes.

2.4     Osteoporosis in Men

The recommended regimen is a 5 mg infusion once a year given intravenously over no less than 15 minutes.

2.5     Treatment and Prevention of Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporosis

The recommended regimen is a 5 mg infusion once a year given intravenously over no less than 15 minutes.

2.6     Treatment of Paget’s Disease of Bone

The recommended dose is a 5 mg infusion. The infusion time must not be less than 15 minutes given over a constant infusion rate.

Re-treatment of Paget’s Disease

After a single treatment with Reclast in Paget’s disease an extended remission period is observed. Specific re-treatment data are not available. However, re-treatment with Reclast may be considered in patients who have relapsed, based on increases in serum alkaline phosphatase, or in those patients who failed to achieve normalization of their serum alkaline phosphatase, or in those patients with symptoms, as dictated by medical practice.

2.7     Laboratory Testing and Oral Examination Prior to Administration
Prior to administration of each dose of Reclast, obtain a serum creatinine and creatinine clearance should be calculated based on actual body weight using Cockcroft-Gault formula before each Reclast dose. Reclast is contraindicated in patients with creatinine clearance less than 35 mL/min and in those with evidence of acute renal impairment. A 5 mg dose of Reclast administered intravenously is recommended for patients with creatinine clearance greater than or equal to 35 mL/min. There are no safety or efficacy data to support the adjustment of the Reclast dose based on baseline renal function. Therefore, no dose adjustment is required in patients with CrCl greater than or equal to 35 mL/min [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]. A routine oral examination should be performed by the prescriber prior to initiation of Reclast treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
2.8     Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation
Instruct patients being treated for Paget’s disease of bone on the importance of calcium and vitamin D supplementation in maintaining serum calcium levels, and on the symptoms of hypocalcemia. All patients should take 1500 mg elemental calcium daily in divided doses (750 mg two times a day, or 500 mg three times a day) and 800 international units vitamin D daily, particularly in the 2 weeks following Reclast administration [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Instruct patients being treated for osteoporosis to take supplemental calcium and vitamin D if their dietary intake is inadequate. An average of at least 1200 mg calcium and 800-1000 international units vitamin D daily is recommended.
2.9     Method of Administration

The Reclast infusion time must not be less than 15 minutes given over a constant infusion rate.

The i.v. infusion should be followed by a 10 mL normal saline flush of the intravenous line.

Reclast solution for infusion must not be allowed to come in contact with any calcium or other divalent cation-containing solutions, and should be administered as a single intravenous solution through a separate vented infusion line.

If refrigerated, allow the refrigerated solution to reach room temperature before administration. After opening, the solution is stable for 24 hours at 2°C–8°C (36°F - 46°F) [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16)].
Gilenya

Gilenya

Recommended Dose

The recommended dose of GILENYA is 0.5 mg orally once-daily. Fingolimod doses higher than 0.5 mg are associated with a greater incidence of adverse reactions without additional benefit. GILENYA can be taken with or without food.

First Dose Monitoring

Initiation of GILENYA treatment results in a decrease in heart rate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. After the first dose of GILENYA, the heart rate decrease starts within an hour and the Day 1 nadir generally occurs within approximately 6 hours, although the nadir can be observed up to 24 hours after the first dose in some patients.

The first dose of GILENYA should be administered in a setting in which resources to appropriately manage symptomatic bradycardia are available. In order to assess patient response to the first dose of fingolimod, observe all patients for 6 hours for signs and symptoms of bradycardia with hourly pulse and blood pressure measurement. Obtain in all patients an electrocardiogram (ECG) prior to dosing, and at the end of the observation period.

Additional observation should be instituted until the finding has resolved in the following situations:
The heart rate 6 hours postdose is <45 bpm The heart rate 6 hours postdose is at the lowest value postdose (suggesting that the maximum pharmacodynamic effect on the heart may not have occurred) The ECG 6 hours postdose shows new onset second degree or higher atrioventricular (AV) block
Should postdose symptomatic bradycardia occur, initiate appropriate management, begin continuous ECG monitoring, and continue observation until the symptoms have resolved.

Should a patient require pharmacologic intervention for symptomatic bradycardia, continuous overnight ECG monitoring in a medical facility should be instituted, and the first dose monitoring strategy should be repeated after the second dose of GILENYA.

Patients with some preexisting conditions (e.g., ischemic heart disease, history of myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure, history of cardiac arrest, cerebrovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension, history of symptomatic bradycardia, history of recurrent syncope, severe untreated sleep apnea, AV block, sinoatrial heart block) may poorly tolerate the GILENYA-induced bradycardia, or experience serious rhythm disturbances after the first dose of GILENYA. Prior to treatment with GILENYA, these patients should have a cardiac evaluation by a physician appropriately trained to conduct such evaluation, and, if treated with GILENYA, should be monitored overnight with continuous ECG in a medical facility after the first dose. GILENYA is contraindicated in patients who in the last 6 months experienced myocardial infarction, unstable angina, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), decompensated heart failure requiring hospitalization or Class III/IV heart failure [see Contraindications (4)].

Since initiation of GILENYA treatment results in decreased heart rate and may prolong the QT interval, patients with a prolonged QTc interval (>450 msec males, >470 msec females) before dosing or during 6 hour observation, or at additional risk for QT prolongation (e.g., hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, congenital long-QT syndrome), or on concurrent therapy with QT prolonging drugs with a known risk of torsades de pointes (e.g., citalopram, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, methadone, erythromycin) should be monitored overnight with continuous ECG in a medical facility [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Experience with GILENYA is limited in patients receiving concurrent therapy with drugs that slow heart rate or atrioventricular conduction (e.g., beta blockers, heart-rate lowering calcium channel blockers such as diltiazem or verapamil, or digoxin). Because the initiation of GILENYA treatment is also associated with slowing of the heart rate, concomitant use of these drugs during GILENYA initiation may be associated with severe bradycardia or heart block. The possibility to switch to drugs that do not slow the heart rate or atrioventricular conduction should be evaluated by the physician prescribing these drugs before initiating GILENYA. Patients who cannot switch should have overnight continuous ECG monitoring after the first dose [see Drug Interactions (7)].

Clinical data indicate effects of GILENYA on heart rate are maximal after the first dose although milder effects on heart rate may persist for, on average, 2 to 4 weeks after initiation of therapy at which time heart rate generally returns to baseline. Physicians should continue to be alert to patient reports of cardiac symptoms.

Reinitiation of Therapy Following Discontinuation

If GILENYA therapy is discontinued for more than 14 days, after the first month of treatment, the effects on heart rate and AV conduction may recur on reintroduction of GILENYA treatment and the same precautions (first dose monitoring) as for initial dosing should apply. Within the first 2 weeks of treatment, first dose procedures are recommended after interruption of 1 day or more; during weeks 3 and 4 of treatment first dose procedures are recommended after treatment interruption of more than 7 days.
Accupril

Accupril

Dosage

The 300 mg dose of TOBI is the same for patients regardless of age or weight. TOBI has not been studied in patients less than 6 years old. Doses should be inhaled as close to 12 hours apart as possible and not less than 6 hours apart.

You should not mix TOBI with dornase alfa (PULMOZYME®, Genentech) in the nebulizer.

If you are taking several medications the recommended order is as follows: bronchodilator first, followed by chest physiotherapy, then other inhaled medications and, finally, TOBI.

The recommended dosage for both adults and pediatric patients 6 years of age and older is 1 single-use ampule (300 mg) administered BID for 28 days. Dosage is not adjusted by weight. All patients should be administered 300 mg BID. The doses should be taken as close to 12 hours apart as possible; they should not be taken less than 6 hours apart.

TOBI is inhaled while the patient is sitting or standing upright and breathing normally through the mouthpiece of the nebulizer. Nose clips may help the patient breathe through the mouth.

TOBI is administered BID in alternating periods of 28 days. After 28 days of therapy, patients should stop TOBI therapy for the next 28 days, and then resume therapy for the next 28 day on/28 day off cycle.

TOBI is supplied as a single-use ampule and is administered by inhalation, using a hand-held PARI LC PLUS Reusable Nebulizer with a DeVilbiss Pulmo-Aide compressor. TOBI is not for subcutaneous, intravenous or intrathecal administration.

Usage

TOBI is administered by inhalation over an approximately 15-minute period, using a hand-held PARI LC PLUS Reusable Nebulizer with a DeVilbiss Pulmo-Aide compressor. TOBI should not be diluted or mixed with dornase alfa (PULMOZYME, Genentech) or other medications in the nebulizer.

During clinical studies, patients on multiple therapies were instructed to take them first, followed by TOBI.
Comtan

Comtan

The recommended dose of Comtan (entacapone) is one 200 mg tablet administered concomitantly with each levodopa and carbidopa dose to a maximum of 8 times daily (200 mg × 8 = 1,600 mg per day). Clinical experience with daily doses above 1,600 mg is limited.

Comtan should always be administered in association with levodopa and carbidopa. Entacapone has no antiparkinsonian effect of its own.

In clinical studies, the majority of patients required a decrease in daily levodopa dose if their daily dose of levodopa had been greater than or equal to 800 mg or if patients had moderate or severe dyskinesia before beginning treatment.

To optimize an individual patient's response, reductions in daily levodopa dose or extending the interval between doses may be necessary. In clinical studies, the average reduction in daily levodopa dose was about 25% in those patients requiring a levodopa dose reduction. (More than 58% of patients with levodopa doses above 800 mg daily required such a reduction.)

Comtan can be combined with both the immediate and sustained-release formulations of levodopa and carbidopa.

Comtan may be taken with or without food (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY).

Patients With Impaired Hepatic Function

Patients with hepatic impairment should be treated with caution. The AUC and Cmax of entacapone approximately doubled in patients with documented liver disease, compared to controls. However, these studies were conducted with single-dose entacapone without levodopa and dopa decarboxylase inhibitor coadministration, and therefore the effects of liver disease on the kinetics of chronically administered entacapone have not been evaluated (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Pharmacokinetics of Entacapone).

Withdrawing Patients from Comtan

Rapid withdrawal or abrupt reduction in the Comtan dose could lead to emergence of signs and symptoms of Parkinson's disease (see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, Clinical Studies), and may lead to hyperpyrexia and confusion, a symptom complex resembling NMS (see PRECAUTIONS, Other Events Reported With Dopaminergic Therapy). This syndrome should be considered in the differential diagnosis for any patient who develops a high fever or severe rigidity. If a decision is made to discontinue treatment with Comtan, patients should be monitored closely and other dopaminergic treatments should be adjusted as needed. Although tapering Comtan has not been systematically evaluated, it seems prudent to withdraw patients slowly if the decision to discontinue treatment is made.
Simulect

Simulect

Simulect® (basiliximab) is used as part of an immunosuppressive regimen that includes cyclosporine, USP (MODIFIED) and corticosteroids. Simulect is for central or peripheral intravenous administration only. Reconstituted Simulect should be given either as a bolus injection or diluted to a volume of 25 mL (10-mg vial) or 50 mL (20-mg vial) with normal saline or dextrose 5% and administered as an intravenous infusion over 20 to 30 minutes. Bolus administration may be associated with nausea, vomiting and local reactions, including pain.

      Simulect should only be administered once it has been determined that the patient will receive the graft and concomitant immunosuppression. Patients previously administered Simulect should only be re-exposed to a subsequent course of therapy with extreme caution due to the potential risk of hypersensitivity (see WARNINGS).

      Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration before administration. After reconstitution, Simulect should be a clear-to-opalescent, colorless solution. If particulate matter is present or the solution is colored, do not use.

      Care must be taken to assure sterility of the prepared solution because the drug product does not contain any antimicrobial preservatives or bacteriostatic agents.

      It is recommended that after reconstitution, the solution should be used immediately. If not used immediately, it can be stored at 2ºC to 8ºC for 24 hours or at room temperature for 4 hours. Discard the reconstituted solution if not used within 24 hours.

      No incompatibility between Simulect and polyvinyl chloride bags or infusion sets has been observed. No data are available on the compatibility of Simulect with other intravenous substances. Other drug substances should not be added or infused simultaneously through the same intravenous line.

Adults

In adult patients, the recommended regimen is two doses of 20 mg each. The first 20-mg dose should be given within 2 hours prior to transplantation surgery. The recommended second 20-mg dose should be given 4 days after transplantation. The second dose should be withheld if complications such as severe hypersensitivity reactions to Simulect or graft loss occur.

Pediatric

In pediatric patients weighing less than 35 kg, the recommended regimen is two doses of 10 mg each. In pediatric patients weighing 35 kg or more, the recommended regimen is two doses of 20 mg each. The first dose should be given within 2 hours prior to transplantation surgery. The recommended second dose should be given 4 days after transplantation. The second dose should be withheld if complications such as severe hypersensitivity reactions to Simulect or graft loss occur.

Reconstitution of 10 mg Simulect® Vial

To prepare the reconstituted solution, add 2.5 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, using aseptic technique, to the vial containing the Simulect powder. Shake the vial gently to dissolve the powder.

      The reconstituted solution is isotonic and may be given either as a bolus injection or diluted to a volume of 25 mL with normal saline or dextrose 5% for infusion. When mixing the solution, gently invert the bag in order to avoid foaming; DO NOT SHAKE.

Reconstitution of 20 mg Simulect® Vial

To prepare the reconstituted solution, add 5 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, using aseptic technique, to the vial containing the Simulect powder. Shake the vial gently to dissolve the powder.

      The reconstituted solution is isotonic and may be given either as a bolus injection or diluted to a volume of 50 mL with normal saline or dextrose 5% for infusion. When mixing the solution, gently invert the bag in order to avoid foaming; DO NOT SHAKE.
Trileptal

Trileptal

All dosing should be given in a twice-a-day regimen. Trileptal oral suspension and Trileptal film-coated tablets may be interchanged at equal doses.

Trileptal should be kept out of the reach and sight of children.

Before using Trileptal oral suspension, shake the bottle well and prepare the dose immediately afterwards. The prescribed amount of oral suspension should be withdrawn from the bottle using the oral dosing syringe supplied. Trileptal oral suspension can be mixed in a small glass of water just prior to administration or, alternatively, may be swallowed directly from the syringe. After each use, close the bottle and rinse the syringe with warm water and allow it to dry thoroughly.

Trileptal can be taken with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.1     Adjunctive Therapy for Adults

Treatment with Trileptal should be initiated with a dose of 600 mg/day, given in a twice-a-day regimen. If clinically indicated, the dose may be increased by a maximum of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals; the recommended daily dose is 1200 mg/day. Daily doses above 1200 mg/day show somewhat greater effectiveness in controlled trials, but most patients were not able to tolerate the 2400 mg/day dose, primarily because of CNS effects. It is recommended that the patient be observed closely and plasma levels of the concomitant AEDs be monitored during the period of Trileptal titration, as these plasma levels may be altered, especially at Trileptal doses greater than 1200 mg/day [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

2.2     Conversion to Monotherapy for Adults

Patients receiving concomitant AEDs may be converted to monotherapy by initiating treatment with Trileptal at 600 mg/day (given in a twice-a-day regimen) while simultaneously initiating the reduction of the dose of the concomitant AEDs. The concomitant AEDs should be completely withdrawn over 3-6 weeks, while the maximum dose of Trileptal should be reached in about 2-4 weeks. Trileptal may be increased as clinically indicated by a maximum increment of 600 mg/day at approximately weekly intervals to achieve the recommended daily dose of 2400 mg/day. A daily dose of 1200 mg/day has been shown in one study to be effective in patients in whom monotherapy has been initiated with Trileptal. Patients should be observed closely during this transition phase.

2.3     Initiation of Monotherapy for Adults

Patients not currently being treated with AEDs may have monotherapy initiated with Trileptal. In these patients, Trileptal should be initiated at a dose of 600 mg/day (given in a twice-a-day regimen); the dose should be increased by 300 mg/day every third day to a dose of 1200 mg/day. Controlled trials in these patients examined the effectiveness of a 1200 mg/day dose; a dose of 2400 mg/day has been shown to be effective in patients converted from other AEDs to Trileptal monotherapy (see above).

2.4     Adjunctive Therapy for Pediatric Patients (Aged 2-16 Years)

In pediatric patients aged 4-16 years, treatment should be initiated at a daily dose of 8-10 mg/kg generally not to exceed 600 mg/day, given in a twice-a-day regimen. The target maintenance dose of Trileptal should be achieved over two weeks, and is dependent upon patient weight, according to the following chart:

      20-29 kg - 900 mg/day

      29.1-39 kg - 1200 mg/day

      >39 kg - 1800 mg/day

In the clinical trial, in which the intention was to reach these target doses, the median daily dose was 31 mg/kg with a range of 6-51 mg/kg.

In pediatric patients aged 2-<4 years, treatment should also be initiated at a daily dose of 8-10 mg/kg generally not to exceed 600 mg/day, given in a twice-a-day regimen. For patients under 20 kg, a starting dose of 16-20 mg/kg may be considered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. The maximum maintenance dose of Trileptal should be achieved over 2-4 weeks and should not exceed 60 mg/kg/day in a twice-a-day regimen.

In the clinical trial in pediatric patients (2 to 4 years of age) in which the intention was to reach the target dose of 60 mg/kg/day, 50% of patients reached a final dose of at least 55 mg/kg/day.

Under adjunctive therapy (with and without enzyme-inducing AEDs), when normalized by body weight, apparent clearance (L/hr/kg) decreased when age increased such that children 2 to <4 years of age may require up to twice the oxcarbazepine dose per body weight compared to adults; and children 4 to ≤12 years of age may require a 50% higher oxcarbazepine dose per body weight compared to adults.

2.5     Conversion to Monotherapy for Pediatric Patients (Aged 4-16 Years)

Patients receiving concomitant antiepileptic drugs may be converted to monotherapy by initiating treatment with Trileptal at approximately 8-10 mg/kg/day given in a twice-a-day regimen, while simultaneously initiating the reduction of the dose of the concomitant antiepileptic drugs. The concomitant antiepileptic drugs can be completely withdrawn over 3-6 weeks while Trileptal may be increased as clinically indicated by a maximum increment of 10 mg/kg/day at approximately weekly intervals to achieve the recommended daily dose. Patients should be observed closely during this transition phase.

The recommended total daily dose of Trileptal is shown in the table below.

2.6     Initiation of Monotherapy for Pediatric Patients (Aged 4-16 Years)

Patients not currently being treated with antiepileptic drugs may have monotherapy initiated with Trileptal. In these patients, Trileptal should be initiated at a dose of 8-10 mg/kg/day given in a twice-a-day regimen. The dose should be increased by 5 mg/kg/day every third day to the recommended daily dose shown in the table below.
Table 1 Range of Maintenance Doses of Trileptal for Children by Weight During Monotherapy From To Weight in kg Dose (mg/day) Dose (mg/day)       20 600 900       25 900 1200       30 900 1200       35 900 1500       40 900 1500       45 1200 1500       50 1200 1800       55 1200 1800       60 1200 2100       65 1200 2100       70 1500 2100
2.7     Patients with Hepatic Impairment

In general, dose adjustments are not required in patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3).]

2.8     Patients with Renal Impairment

In patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min) Trileptal therapy should be initiated at one-half the usual starting dose (300 mg/day) and increased slowly to achieve the desired clinical response [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]
Stalevo

Stalevo

Stalevo should be used as a substitute for patients already stabilized on equivalent doses of carbidopa/levodopa and entacapone. However, some patients who have been stabilized on a given dose of carbidopa/levodopa may be treated with Stalevo if a decision has been made to add entacapone (see below). Therapy should be individualized and adjusted according to the desired therapeutic response.

2.1 Dosing Information

The optimum daily dosage of Stalevo must be determined by careful titration in each patient.

Clinical experience with daily doses above 1,600 mg of entacapone is limited. The maximum recommended daily dose of Stalevo depends on the strength used. The maximum number of tablets to be used in a 24-hour period is less with the highest strength (Stalevo 200) than with lower strengths (see Table 1). Studies show that peripheral dopa decarboxylase is saturated by carbidopa at approximately 70 mg per day to 100 mg per day. Patients receiving less than this amount of carbidopa are more likely to experience nausea and vomiting.
Table 1: Maximum Recommended Dose of Stalevo in a 24-hour Period Stalevo Dosage Strength Maximum Number of Tablets in a 24-hour Period Stalevo 50, Stalevo 75, Stalevo 100, Stalevo 125, Stalevo 150 8 Stalevo 200 6
2.2 Converting Patients from Carbidopa, Levodopa, and Entacapone to Stalevo

Patients currently treated with entacapone 200 mg with each dose of non-extended release carbidopa/levodopa tablet, can switch to the corresponding strength of Stalevo containing the same amounts of levodopa and carbidopa. For example, patients receiving one tablet of carbidopa/levodopa 25 mg/100 mg and one tablet of entacapone 200 mg at each administration can switch to a single Stalevo 100 tablet (containing 25 mg of carbidopa, 100 mg of levodopa and 200 mg of entacapone).

2.3 Converting Patients from Carbidopa and Levodopa Products to Stalevo

There is no experience in transferring patients currently treated with extended release formulations of carbidopa/levodopa, or carbidopa/levodopa products that are not combined in a 1:4 ratio of carbidopa to levodopa.

Patients with a history of moderate or severe dyskinesias or taking more than 600 mg of the levodopa component per day are likely to require a reduction in their daily levodopa dose when entacapone is added. Because dose adjustment of the individual carbidopa or levodopa component is not possible with fixed-dose products, initially titrate patients to a dose that is tolerated and that meets their individual therapeutic need using a separate carbidopa/levodopa tablet (1:4 ratio) plus an entacapone tablet. Once the patient's individual dose of carbidopa/levodopa plus entacapone dose has been established using two separate tablets; switch the patient to a corresponding single tablet of Stalevo.

When less levodopa is required, reduce the total daily dosage of carbidopa/levodopa either by decreasing the strength of Stalevo at each administration or by decreasing the frequency of administration by extending the time between doses.

2.4 Concomitant Use with Other Anti-Parkinson's Disease Drugs

Anticholinergic agents, dopamine agonists, monoamine oxidase (MAO) - B inhibitors, amantadine, and other standard drugs for Parkinson's disease may be used concomitantly while Stalevo is being administered; however, dosage adjustments of the concomitant medication or Stalevo may be required.

2.5 Decrease or Interruption of Dosing

Avoid interruption of Stalevo dosing because hyperpyrexia has been reported in patients who suddenly discontinue or reduce their use of levodopa [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

2.6 Important Administration Instructions

Do not split, crush or chew Stalevo tablets. Administer only one tablet at each dosing interval. All strengths of Stalevo contain 200 mg of entacapone. Combining multiple tablets or portions of tablets to achieve a higher levodopa dose may lead to an overdose of entacapone.

Administer Stalevo with or without food. However, a high-fat, high-calorie meal may delay the absorption of levodopa by about 2 hours [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Vivelle-dot

Vivelle-dot

Generally, when estrogen is prescribed for a postmenopausal woman with a uterus, a progestin should be considered to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. A woman without a uterus does not need a progestin. In some cases, however, hysterectomized women with a history of endometriosis may need a progestin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.14)].

Use of estrogen-alone or in combination with a progestin, should be with the lowest effective dose and the shortest duration consistent with treatment goals and risks for the individual woman. Postmenopausal women should be reevaluated periodically as clinically appropriate to determine whether treatment is still necessary.

The adhesive side of Vivelle-Dot should be placed on a clean, dry area of the trunk of the body (including the abdomen or buttocks). Vivelle-Dot should not be applied to the breasts.

Vivelle-Dot should be replaced twice weekly. The sites of application must be rotated, with an interval of at least 1 week allowed between applications to a particular site. The area selected should not be oily, damaged, or irritated. The waistline should be avoided, since tight clothing may rub the system off. The system should be applied immediately after opening the pouch and removing the protective liner. The system should be pressed firmly in place with the palm of the hand for about 10 seconds, making sure there is good contact, especially around the edges. In the event that a system should fall off, the same system may be reapplied. If the same system cannot be reapplied, a new system should be applied to another location. In either case, the original treatment schedule should be continued. If a woman has forgotten to apply a patch, she should apply a new patch as soon as possible. The new patch should be applied on the original treatment schedule. The interruption of treatment in women taking Vivelle-Dot might increase the likelihood of breakthrough bleeding, spotting and recurrence of symptoms.

2.1     Moderate to Severe Vasomotor Symptoms

Start therapy with Vivelle-Dot 0.0375 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly. Dosage adjustment should be guided by the clinical response. In women not currently taking oral estrogens or in women switching from another estradiol transdermal therapy, treatment with Vivelle-Dot may be initiated at once. In women who are currently taking oral estrogens, treatment with Vivelle-Dot should be initiated 1 week after withdrawal of oral hormone therapy, or sooner if menopausal symptoms reappear in less than 1 week. Attempts to taper or discontinue the medication should be made at 3 to 6 month intervals.

Vivelle-Dot may be given continuously in patients who do not have an intact uterus. In those patients with an intact uterus, Vivelle-Dot may be given on a cyclic schedule (for example, 3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week off drug).

2.2     Moderate to Severe Symptoms of Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy

Start therapy with Vivelle-Dot 0.0375 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly. Dosage adjustment should be guided by the clinical response. Attempts to taper or discontinue the medication should be made at 3 to 6 month intervals. In women not currently taking oral estrogens or in women switching from another estradiol transdermal therapy, treatment with Vivelle-Dot may be initiated at once. In women who are currently taking oral estrogens, treatment with Vivelle-Dot should be initiated 1 week after withdrawal of oral hormone therapy, or sooner if menopausal symptoms reappear in less than 1 week.

Vivelle-Dot may be given continuously in patients who do not have an intact uterus. In those patients with an intact uterus, Vivelle-Dot may be given on a cyclic schedule (for example, 3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week off drug).

2.3     Hypoestrogenism Due to Hypogonadism, Castration, or Primary Ovarian Failure

2.4     Prevention of Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Start therapy with Vivelle-Dot 0.025 mg per day applied to the skin twice weekly.

In women not currently taking oral estrogens or in women switching from another estradiol transdermal therapy, treatment with Vivelle-Dot may be initiated at once. In women who are currently taking oral estrogens, treatment with Vivelle-Dot should be initiated 1 week after withdrawal of oral hormone therapy, or sooner if menopausal symptoms reappear in less than 1 week.

Vivelle-Dot may be given continuously in patients who do not have an intact uterus. In those patients with an intact uterus, Vivelle-Dot may be given on a cyclic schedule (for example, 3 weeks on drug followed by 1 week off drug).
Sandostatin Lar Depot

Sandostatin Lar Depot

Sandostatin LAR Depot should be administered by a trained healthcare provider. It is important to closely follow the mixing instructions included in the packaging. Sandostatin LAR Depot must be administered immediately after mixing. Do not directly inject diluent without preparing suspension. The recommended needle size for administration of Sandostatin LAR Depot is the 1½” 20 gauge safety injection needle (supplied in the drug product kit). For patients with a greater skin to muscle depth, a size 2” 20 gauge needle (not supplied) may be used. Sandostatin LAR Depot should be administered intramuscularly in the gluteal region at 4-week intervals. Administration of Sandostatin LAR Depot at intervals greater than 4 weeks is not recommended. Injection sites should be rotated in a systematic manner to avoid irritation. Deltoid injections should be avoided due to significant discomfort at the injection site when given in that area. Sandostatin LAR Depot should never be administered intravenously or subcutaneously.
The following dosage regimens are recommended.

2.1     Acromegaly

Patients Not Currently Receiving Octreotide Acetate

Patients not currently receiving octreotide acetate should begin therapy with Sandostatin Injection given subcutaneously in an initial dose of 50 mcg three times daily which may be titrated. Most patients require doses of 100 mcg to 200 mcg three times daily for maximum effect but some patients require up to 500 mcg three times daily.

Patients should be maintained on Sandostatin Injection subcutaneous for at least 2 weeks to determine tolerance to octreotide. Patients who are considered to be “responders” to the drug, based on GH and IGF-1 levels and who tolerate the drug can then be switched to Sandostatin LAR Depot in the dosage scheme described below (Patients Currently Receiving Sandostatin Injection).

Patients Currently Receiving Sandostatin Injection

Patients currently receiving Sandostatin Injection can be switched directly to Sandostatin LAR Depot in a dose of 20 mg given IM intragluteally at 4-week intervals for 3 months. After 3 months, dosage may be adjusted as follows:
GH ≤2.5 ng/mL, IGF-1 normal, and clinical symptoms controlled: maintain Sandostatin LAR Depot dosage at 20 mg every 4 weeks. GH >2.5 ng/mL, IGF-1 elevated, and/or clinical symptoms uncontrolled, increase Sandostatin LAR Depot dosage to 30 mg every 4 weeks. GH ≤1 ng/mL, IGF-1 normal, and clinical symptoms controlled, reduce Sandostatin LAR Depot dosage to 10 mg every 4 weeks. If GH, IGF-1, or symptoms are not adequately controlled at a dose of 30 mg, the dose may be increased to 40 mg every 4 weeks. Doses higher than 40 mg are not recommended.
In patients who have received pituitary irradiation, Sandostatin LAR Depot should be withdrawn yearly for approximately 8 weeks to assess disease activity. If GH or IGF-1 levels increase and signs and symptoms recur, Sandostatin LAR Depot therapy may be resumed.

2.2     Carcinoid Tumors and VIPomas

Patients Not Currently Receiving Octreotide Acetate

Patients not currently receiving octreotide acetate should begin therapy with Sandostatin Injection given subcutaneously. The suggested daily dosage for carcinoid tumors during the first 2 weeks of therapy ranges from 100-600 mcg/day in 2-4 divided doses (mean daily dosage is 300 mcg). Some patients may require doses up to 1500 mcg/day. The suggested daily dosage for VIPomas is 200-300 mcg in 2-4 divided doses (range 150-750 mcg); dosage may be adjusted on an individual basis to control symptoms but usually doses above 450 mcg/day are not required.

Sandostatin Injection should be continued for at least 2 weeks. Thereafter, patients who are considered “responders” to octreotide acetate and who tolerate the drug may be switched to Sandostatin LAR Depot in the dosage regimen as described below (Patients Currently Receiving Sandostatin Injection).

Patients Currently Receiving Sandostatin Injection

Patients currently receiving Sandostatin Injection can be switched to Sandostatin LAR Depot in a dosage of 20 mg given IM intragluteally at 4-week intervals for 2 months. Because of the need for serum octreotide to reach therapeutically effective levels following initial injection of Sandostatin LAR Depot, carcinoid tumor and VIPoma patients should continue to receive Sandostatin Injection subcutaneously for at least 2 weeks in the same dosage they were taking before the switch. Failure to continue subcutaneous injections for this period may result in exacerbation of symptoms. (Some patients may require 3 or 4 weeks of such therapy.)

After 2 months, dosage may be adjusted as follows:
If symptoms are adequately controlled, consider a dose reduction to 10 mg for a trial period. If symptoms recur, dosage should then be increased to 20 mg every 4 weeks. Many patients can, however, be satisfactorily maintained at a 10-mg dose every 4 weeks. If symptoms are not adequately controlled, increase Sandostatin LAR Depot to 30 mg every 4 weeks. Patients who achieve good control on a 20-mg dose may have their dose lowered to 10 mg for a trial period. If symptoms recur, dosage should then be increased to 20 mg every 4 weeks. Dosages higher than 30 mg are not recommended.
Despite good overall control of symptoms, patients with carcinoid tumors and VIPomas often experience periodic exacerbation of symptoms (regardless of whether they are being maintained on Sandostatin Injection or Sandostatin LAR Depot). During these periods they may be given Sandostatin Injection subcutaneously for a few days at the dosage they were receiving prior to switching to Sandostatin LAR Depot. When symptoms are again controlled, the Sandostatin Injection subcutaneous can be discontinued.

2.3     Special Populations: Renal Impairment

In patients with renal failure requiring dialysis, the starting dose should be 10 mg every 4 weeks. In other patients with renal impairment, the starting dose should be similar to a nonrenal patient (i.e., 20 mg every 4 weeks) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12)].

2.4     Special Populations: Hepatic Impairment – Cirrhotic Patients

In patients with established cirrhosis of the liver, the starting dose should be 10 mg every 4 weeks [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Androderm

Androderm

Administration of Dose

Ritalin LA (methylphenidate hydrochloride) extended-release capsules are for oral administration once daily in the morning. Ritalin LA may be swallowed as whole capsules or alternatively may be administered by sprinkling the capsule contents on a small amount of applesauce (see specific instructions below). Ritalin LA and/or their contents should not be crushed, chewed, or divided.

The capsules may be carefully opened and the beads sprinkled over a spoonful of applesauce. The applesauce should not be warm because it could affect the modified release properties of this formulation. The mixture of drug and applesauce should be consumed immediately in its entirety. The drug and applesauce mixture should not be stored for future use. Patients should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking Ritalin LA.

Dosing Recommendations

Dosage should be individualized according to the needs and responses of the patients.

Initial Treatment

The recommended starting dose of Ritalin LA is 20 mg once daily. Dosage may be adjusted in weekly 10 mg increments to a maximum of 60 mg/day taken once daily in the morning, depending on tolerability and degree of efficacy observed. Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended. When in the judgement of the clinician a lower initial dose is appropriate, patients may begin treatment with Ritalin LA 10 mg.

Patients Currently Receiving Methylphenidate

The recommended dose of Ritalin LA for patients currently taking methylphenidate b.i.d. or sustained release (SR) is provided below.
Previous Methylphenidate Dose Recommended Ritalin LA Dose 5 mg methylphenidate-b.i.d. 10 mg q.d. 10 mg methylphenidate b.i.d. or 20 mg methylphenidate-SR 20 mg q.d. 15 mg methylphenidate b.i.d. 30 mg q.d. 20 mg methylphenidate b.i.d. or 40 mg of methylphenidate-SR 40 mg q.d. 30 mg methylphenidate b.i.d. or 60 mg methylphenidate-SR 60 mg q.d.
For other methylphenidate regimens, clinical judgment should be used when selecting the starting dose. Ritalin LA dosage may be adjusted at weekly intervals in 10 mg increments.

Daily dosage above 60 mg is not recommended.

Maintenance/Extended Treatment

There is no body of evidence available from controlled trials to indicate how long the patient with ADHD should be treated with Ritalin LA. It is generally agreed, however, that pharmacological treatment of ADHD may be needed for extended periods. Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use Ritalin LA for extended periods in patients with ADHD should periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient with trials off medication to assess the patient’s functioning without pharmacotherapy. Improvement may be sustained when the drug is either temporarily or permanently discontinued.

Dose Reduction and Discontinuation

If paradoxical aggravation of symptoms or other adverse events occur, the dosage should be reduced, or, if necessary, the drug should be discontinued. If improvement is not observed after appropriate dosage adjustment over a 1-month period, the drug should be discontinued.
Clindamycin Hydrochlori...

Clindamycin Hydrochloride

Therapy should be initiated by a physician experienced in the treatment of patients with hematological malignancies or malignant sarcomas, as appropriate. The prescribed dose should be administered orally, with a meal and a large glass of water. Doses of 400 mg or 600 mg should be administered once-daily, whereas a dose of 800 mg should be administered as 400 mg twice a day.

In children, Gleevec treatment can be given as a once-daily dose in CML and Ph+ ALL. Alternatively, in children with CML the daily dose may be split into two-one portion dosed in the morning and one portion in the evening. There is no experience with Gleevec treatment in children under 1 year of age.

For patients unable to swallow the film-coated tablets, the tablets may be dispersed in a glass of water or apple juice. The required number of tablets should be placed in the appropriate volume of beverage (approximately 50 mL for a 100 mg tablet, and 200 mL for a 400 mg tablet) and stirred with a spoon. The suspension should be administered immediately after complete disintegration of the tablet(s).

For daily dosing of 800 mg and above, dosing should be accomplished using the 400 mg tablet to reduce exposure to iron.

Treatment may be continued as long as there is no evidence of progressive disease or unacceptable toxicity.

2.1     Adult Patients with Ph+ CML CP, AP, and BC

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for adult patients in chronic phase CML and 600 mg/day for adult patients in accelerated phase or blast crisis.

In CML, a dose increase from 400 mg to 600 mg in adult patients with chronic phase disease, or from 600 mg to 800 mg (given as 400 mg twice-daily) in adult patients in accelerated phase or blast crisis may be considered in the absence of severe adverse drug reaction and severe non-leukemia related neutropenia or thrombocytopenia in the following circumstances: disease progression (at any time), failure to achieve a satisfactory hematologic response after at least 3 months of treatment, failure to achieve a cytogenetic response after 6-12 months of treatment, or loss of a previously achieved hematologic or cytogenetic response.

2.2     Pediatric Patients with Ph+ CML CP

The recommended dose of Gleevec for children with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML is 340 mg/m2/day (not to exceed 600 mg).

2.3     Adults Patients with Ph+ ALL

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 600 mg/day for adult patients with relapsed/refractory Ph+ ALL.

2.4     Pediatric Patients with Ph+ ALL

The recommended dose of Gleevec to be given in combination with chemotherapy to children with newly diagnosed Ph+ ALL is 340 mg/m2/day (not to exceed 600 mg).

2.5     MDS/MPD

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for adult patients with MDS/MPD.

2.6     ASM

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for adult patients with ASM without the D816V c-Kit mutation. If c-Kit mutational status is not known or unavailable, treatment with Gleevec 400 mg/day may be considered for patients with ASM not responding satisfactorily to other therapies. For patients with ASM associated with eosinophilia, a clonal hematological disease related to the fusion kinase FIP1L1-PDGFRα, a starting dose of 100 mg/day is recommended. Dose increase from 100 mg to 400 mg for these patients may be considered in the absence of adverse drug reactions if assessments demonstrate an insufficient response to therapy.

2.7     HES/CEL

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for adult patients with HES/CEL. For HES/CEL patients with demonstrated FIP1L1-PDGFRα fusion kinase, a starting dose of 100 mg/day is recommended. Dose increase from 100 mg to 400 mg for these patients may be considered in the absence of adverse drug reactions if assessments demonstrate an insufficient response to therapy.

2.8     DFSP

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 800 mg/day for adult patients with DFSP.

2.9     Metastatic or Unresectable GIST

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for adult patients with unresectable and/or metastatic, malignant GIST. A dose increase up to 800 mg daily (given as 400 mg twice-daily) may be considered, as clinically indicated, in patients showing clear signs or symptoms of disease progression at a lower dose and in the absence of severe adverse drug reactions.

2.10     Adjuvant GIST

The recommended dose of Gleevec is 400 mg/day for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients following complete gross resection of GIST. In clinical trials, one year of Gleevec and three years of Gleevec were studied. In the patient population defined in Study 2, three years of Gleevec is recommended [see Clinical Studies (14.8)]. The optimal treatment duration with Gleevec is not known.

2.11     Dose Modification Guidelines

Concomitant Strong CYP3A4 inducers: The use of concomitant strong CYP3A4 inducers should be avoided (e.g., dexamethasone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifampacin, phenobarbital). If patients must be coadministered a strong CYP3A4 inducer, based on pharmacokinetic studies, the dosage of Gleevec should be increased by at least 50%, and clinical response should be carefully monitored [see Drug Interactions (7.1)].

Hepatic Impairment: Patients with mild and moderate hepatic impairment do not require a dose adjustment and should be treated per the recommended dose. A 25% decrease in the recommended dose should be used for patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

Renal Impairment: Patients with moderate renal impairment (CrCL=20-39 mL/min) should receive a 50% decrease in the recommended starting dose and future doses can be increased as tolerated. Doses greater than 600 mg are not recommended in patients with mild renal impairment (CrCL=40-59 mL/min). For patients with moderate renal impairment doses greater than 400 mg are not recommended.

Imatinib should be used with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. A dose of 100 mg/day was tolerated in two patients with severe renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

2.12     Dose Adjustment for Hepatotoxicity and Non-Hematologic Adverse Reactions

If elevations in bilirubin greater than 3 times the institutional upper limit of normal (IULN) or in liver transaminases greater than 5 times the IULN occur, Gleevec should be withheld until bilirubin levels have returned to a less than 1.5 times the IULN and transaminase levels to less than 2.5 times the IULN. In adults, treatment with Gleevec may then be continued at a reduced daily dose (i.e., 400 mg to 300 mg, 600 mg to 400 mg or 800 mg to 600 mg). In children, daily doses can be reduced under the same circumstances from 340 mg/m2/day to 260 mg/m2/day.

If a severe non-hematologic adverse reaction develops (such as severe hepatotoxicity or severe fluid retention), Gleevec should be withheld until the event has resolved. Thereafter, treatment can be resumed as appropriate depending on the initial severity of the event.

2.13     Dose Adjustment for Hematologic Adverse Reactions

Dose reduction or treatment interruptions for severe neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are recommended as indicated in Table 1.
Table 1 Dose Adjustments for Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia ASM associated with eosinophilia(starting dose 100 mg) ANC <1.0 x 109/Land/orplatelets <50 x 109/L Stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1.5 x 109/L and platelets ≥75 x 109/L Resume treatment with Gleevec at previous dose (i.e., dose before severe adverse reaction) HES/CEL with FIP1L1-PDGFRα fusion kinase (starting dose 100 mg) ANC <1.0 x 109/Land/orplatelets <50 x 109/L Stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1.5 x 109/L and platelets ≥75 x 109/L Resume treatment with Gleevec at previous dose (i.e., dose before severe adverse reaction) Chronic Phase CML (starting dose 400 mg) MDS/MPD, ASM and HES/CEL (starting dose 400 mg)GIST (starting dose400 mg) ANC <1.0 x 109/L and/or platelets <50 x 109/L Stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1.5 x 109/L and platelets ≥75 x 109/L Resume treatment with Gleevec at the original starting dose of 400 mg If recurrence of ANC <1.0 x 109/L and/or platelets <50 x 109/L, repeat step 1 and resume Gleevec at a reduced dose of 300 mg Ph+ CML : Accelerated Phase and Blast Crisis (starting dose 600 mg)Ph+ ALL (starting dose 600 mg) ANC <0.5 x 109/L and/or platelets <10 x 109/L Check if cytopenia is related to leukemia (marrow aspirate or biopsy) If cytopenia is unrelated to leukemia, reduce dose of Gleevec to 400 mg If cytopenia persists 2 weeks, reduce further to 300 mg If cytopenia persists 4 weeks and is still unrelated to leukemia, stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1 x 109/L and platelets ≥20 x 109/L and then resume treatment at 300 mg DFSP(starting dose 800 mg) ANC <1.0 x 109/Land/orplatelets <50 x 109/L Stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1.5 x 109/L and platelets ≥75 x 109/L Resume treatment with Gleevec at 600 mg In the event of recurrence of ANC <1.0 x 109/L and/or platelets <50 x 109/L, repeat step 1 and resume Gleevec at reduced dose of 400 mg Pediatric newly diagnosed chronic phase CML (starting dose 340 mg/m2) ANC <1.0 x 109/Land/orplatelets <50 x 109/L Stop Gleevec until ANC ≥1.5 x 109/L and platelets ≥75 x 109/L Resume treatment with Gleevec at previous dose (i.e., dose before severe adverse reaction) In the event of recurrence of ANC <1.0 x 109/L and/or platelets <50 x 109/L, repeat step 1 and resume Gleevec at reduced dose of 260 mg/m2
Tegretol

Tegretol

Tegretol suspension in combination with liquid chlorpromazine or thioridazine results in precipitate formation, and, in the case of chlorpromazine, there has been a report of a patient passing an orange rubbery precipitate in the stool following coadministration of the two drugs (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions). Because the extent to which this occurs with other liquid medications is not known, Tegretol suspension should not be administered simultaneously with other liquid medications or diluents.

Monitoring of blood levels has increased the efficacy and safety of anticonvulsants (see PRECAUTIONS, Laboratory Tests). Dosage should be adjusted to the needs of the individual patient. A low initial daily dosage with a gradual increase is advised. As soon as adequate control is achieved, the dosage may be reduced very gradually to the minimum effective level. Medication should be taken with meals.

Since a given dose of Tegretol suspension will produce higher peak levels than the same dose given as the tablet, it is recommended to start with low doses (children 6 to 12 years: ½ teaspoon q.i.d.) and to increase slowly to avoid unwanted side effects.

Conversion of patients from oral Tegretol tablets to Tegretol suspension: Patients should be converted by administering the same number of mg per day in smaller, more frequent doses (i.e., b.i.d. tablets to t.i.d. suspension).

Tegretol-XR is an extended-release formulation for twice-a-day administration. When converting patients from Tegretol conventional tablets to Tegretol-XR, the same total daily mg dose of Tegretol-XR should be administered. Tegretol-XR tablets must be swallowed whole and never crushed or chewed. Tegretol-XR tablets should be inspected for chips or cracks. Damaged tablets, or tablets without a release portal, should not be consumed. Tegretol-XR tablet coating is not absorbed and is excreted in the feces; these coatings may be noticeable in the stool.

Epilepsy (SEE INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Adults and children over 12 years of age-Initial: Either 200 mg b.i.d. for tablets and XR tablets, or 1 teaspoon q.i.d. for suspension (400 mg/day). Increase at weekly intervals by adding up to 200 mg/day using a b.i.d. regimen of Tegretol-XR or a t.i.d. or q.i.d. regimen of the other formulations until the optimal response is obtained. Dosage generally should not exceed 1000 mg daily in children 12 to 15 years of age, and 1200 mg daily in patients above 15 years of age. Doses up to 1600 mg daily have been used in adults in rare instances. Maintenance: Adjust dosage to the minimum effective level, usually 800 to 1200 mg daily.

Children 6 to 12 years of age-Initial: Either 100 mg b.i.d. for tablets or XR tablets, or ½ teaspoon q.i.d. for suspension (200 mg/day). Increase at weekly intervals by adding up to 100 mg/day using a b.i.d. regimen of Tegretol-XR or a t.i.d. or q.i.d. regimen of the other formulations until the optimal response is obtained. Dosage generally should not exceed 1000 mg daily. Maintenance: Adjust dosage to the minimum effective level, usually 400 to 800 mg daily.

Children under 6 years of age-Initial: 10 to 20 mg/kg/day b.i.d. or t.i.d. as tablets, or q.i.d. as suspension. Increase weekly to achieve optimal clinical response administered t.i.d. or q.i.d. Maintenance: Ordinarily, optimal clinical response is achieved at daily doses below 35 mg/kg. If satisfactory clinical response has not been achieved, plasma levels should be measured to determine whether or not they are in the therapeutic range. No recommendation regarding the safety of carbamazepine for use at doses above 35 mg/kg/24 hours can be made.

Combination Therapy: Tegretol may be used alone or with other anticonvulsants. When added to existing anticonvulsant therapy, the drug should be added gradually while the other anticonvulsants are maintained or gradually decreased, except phenytoin, which may have to be increased (see PRECAUTIONS, Drug Interactions, and Pregnancy Category D).

Trigeminal Neuralgia (SEE INDICATIONS AND USAGE)

Initial: On the first day, either 100 mg b.i.d. for tablets or XR tablets, or ½ teaspoon q.i.d. for suspension, for a total daily dose of 200 mg. This daily dose may be increased by up to 200 mg/day using increments of 100 mg every 12 hours for tablets or XR tablets, or 50 mg (½ teaspoon) q.i.d. for suspension, only as needed to achieve freedom from pain. Do not exceed 1200 mg daily. Maintenance: Control of pain can be maintained in most patients with 400 to 800 mg daily. However, some patients may be maintained on as little as 200 mg daily, while others may require as much as 1200 mg daily. At least once every 3 months throughout the treatment period, attempts should be made to reduce the dose to the minimum effective level or even to discontinue the drug.
Dosage Information Initial Dose Subsequent Dose Maximum Daily Dose Indication Tablet* XR† Suspension Tablet* XR† Suspension Tablet* XR† Suspension Epilepsy Under 6 yr 10-20 mg/kg/dayb.i.d. or t.i.d. 10-20 mg/kg/dayq.i.d. Increase weekly to achieve optimal clinical response, t.i.d. or q.i.d. Increase weekly to achieve optimal clinical response, t.i.d. or q.i.d. 35 mg/kg/24 hr (see Dosage and Administration section above) 35 mg/kg/24 hr (see Dosage and Administration section above) 6-12 yr 100 mg b.i.d.(200 mg/day) 100 mg b.i.d.(200 mg/day) ½ tsp q.i.d.(200 mg/day) Add up to 100 mg/day at weekly intervals, t.i.d. or q.i.d. Add 100 mg/day at weekly intervals, b.i.d. Add up to 1 tsp (100 mg)/day at weekly intervals, t.i.d. or q.i.d. 1000 mg/24 hr Over 12 yr 200 mg b.i.d.(400 mg/day) 200 mg b.i.d.(400 mg/day) 1 tsp q.i.d.(400 mg/day) Add up to 200 mg/day at weekly intervals, t.i.d. or q.i.d. Add up to 200 mg/day at weekly intervals, b.i.d. Add up to 2 tsp (200 mg)/day at weekly intervals, t.i.d. or q.i.d. 1000 mg/24 hr (12-15 yr)1200 mg/24 hr (>15 yr)1600 mg/24 hr (adults, in rare instances) Trigeminal Neuralgia 100 mg b.i.d.(200 mg/day) 100 mg b.i.d.(200 mg/day) ½ tsp q.i.d.(200 mg/day) Add up to 200 mg/day in increments of 100 mg every 12 hr Add up to 200 mg/day in increments of 100 mg every 12 hr Add up to 2 tsp (200 mg)/day in increments of 50 mg (½ tsp) q.i.d. 1200 mg/24 hr
*Tablet = Chewable or conventional tablets

†XR = Tegretol-XR extended-release tablets
Tasigna

Tasigna

2.1 Recommended Dosing

Tasigna should be taken twice-daily at approximately 12-hour intervals and must be taken on an empty stomach. No food should be consumed for at least 2 hours before the dose is taken and for at least 1 hour after the dose is taken. Advise patients to swallow the capsules whole with water [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.9), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

For patients who are unable to swallow capsules, the contents of each capsule may be dispersed in 1 teaspoon of applesauce (puréed apple). The mixture should be taken immediately (within 15 minutes) and should not be stored for future use [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Tasigna may be given in combination with hematopoietic growth factors such as erythropoietin or G-CSF if clinically indicated. Tasigna may be given with hydroxyurea or anagrelide if clinically indicated.

Newly Diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP

The recommended dose of Tasigna is 300 mg orally twice-daily [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Resistant or Intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP

The recommended dose of Tasigna (nilotinib) is 400 mg orally twice-daily [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

2.2 Dose Adjustments or Modifications

QT Interval Prolongation:
Table 1: Dose Adjustments for QT Prolongation ECGs with a QTc>480 msec 1. Withhold Tasigna, and perform an analysis of serum potassium and magnesium, and if below lower limit of normal, correct with supplements to within normal limits. Concomitant medication usage must be reviewed.2. Resume within 2 weeks at prior dose if QTcF returns to <450 msec and to within 20 msec of baseline.3. If QTcF is between 450 msec and 480 msec after 2 weeks, reduce the dose to 400 mg once-daily.4. If, following dose-reduction to 400 mg once-daily, QTcF returns to >480 msec, Tasigna should be discontinued.5. An ECG should be repeated approximately 7 days after any dose adjustment.
Myelosuppression

Withhold or dose reduce Tasigna for hematological toxicities (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia) that are not related to underlying leukemia (Table 2).
Table 2: Dose Adjustments for Neutropenia and Thrombocytopenia *ANC=absolute neutrophil count Newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase at 300 mg twice-dailyResistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase or accelerated phase at 400 mg twice-daily ANC* <1.0 x 109/L and/or platelet counts <50 x 109/L 1. Stop Tasigna, and monitor blood counts2. Resume within 2 weeks at prior dose if ANC >1.0 x 109/L and platelets >50 x 109/L3. If blood counts remain low for >2 weeks, reduce the dose to 400 mg once-daily
See Table 3 for dose adjustments for elevations of lipase, amylase, bilirubin, and/or hepatic transaminases [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].
Table 3: Dose Adjustments for Selected Non-hematologic Laboratory Abnormalities Elevated serum lipase or amylase ≥Grade 3 1. Withhold Tasigna, and monitor serum lipase or amylase2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once-daily if serum lipase or amylase returns to ≤Grade 1 Elevated bilirubin ≥Grade 3 1. Withhold Tasigna, and monitor bilirubin2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once-daily if bilirubin returns to ≤Grade 1 Elevated hepatic transaminases≥Grade 3 1. Withhold Tasigna, and monitor hepatic transaminases2. Resume treatment at 400 mg once-daily if hepatic transaminases returns to ≤Grade 1
Other Non-hematologic Toxicities

If other clinically significant moderate or severe non-hematologic toxicity develops, withhold dosing, and resume at 400 mg once-daily when the toxicity has resolved. If clinically appropriate, escalation of the dose back to 300 mg (newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP) or 400 mg (resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML-CP and CML-AP) twice-daily should be considered. For Grade 3 to 4 lipase elevations, dosing should be withheld, and may be resumed at 400 mg once-daily. Test serum lipase levels monthly or as clinically indicated. For Grade 3 to 4 bilirubin or hepatic transaminase elevations, dosing should be withheld, and may be resumed at 400 mg once-daily. Test bilirubin and hepatic transaminases levels monthly or as clinically indicated [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5, 5.6), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Hepatic Impairment

If possible, consider alternative therapies. If Tasigna must be administered to patients with hepatic impairment, consider the following dose reduction:
Table 4: Dose Adjustments for Hepatic Impairment (At Baseline) *Mild=mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A); Moderate=moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B); Severe=severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10), Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]. Newly diagnosed Ph+ CML in chronic phase at 300 mg twice-daily Mild, Moderate, or Severe* An initial dosing regimen of 200 mg twice-daily followed by dose escalation to 300 mg twice-daily based on tolerability Resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML in chronic phase or accelerated phase at 400 mg twice-daily Mild or Moderate* An initial dosing regimen of 300 mg twice-daily followed by dose escalation to 400 mg twice-daily based on tolerability Severe* A starting dose of 200 mg twice-daily followed by a sequential dose escalation to 300 mg twice-daily and then to 400 mg twice-daily based on tolerability
Concomitant Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Avoid the concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, indinavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole). Avoid grapefruit products since they may also increase serum concentrations of nilotinib. Should treatment with any of these agents be required, therapy with Tasigna should be interrupted. If patients must be coadministered a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, based on pharmacokinetic studies, consider a dose reduction to 300 mg once-daily in patients with resistant or intolerant Ph+ CML or to 200 mg once-daily in patients with newly diagnosed Ph+ CML-CP. However, there are no clinical data with this dose adjustment in patients receiving strong CYP3A4 inhibitors. If the strong inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period should be allowed before the Tasigna dose is adjusted upward to the indicated dose. For patients who cannot avoid use of strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, monitor closely for prolongation of the QT interval [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.8), Drug Interactions (7.2)].

Concomitant Strong CYP3A4 Inducers

Avoid the concomitant use of strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., dexamethasone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentine, phenobarbital). Also inform patients not to take St. John’s Wort since these agents may reduce the concentration of Tasigna. Based on the nonlinear pharmacokinetic profile of nilotinib, increasing the dose of Tasigna when coadministered with such agents is unlikely to compensate for the loss of exposure [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].
Diovan

Diovan

2.1     Adult Hypertension

The recommended starting dose of Diovan (valsartan) is 80 mg or 160 mg once daily when used as monotherapy in patients who are not volume-depleted. Patients requiring greater reductions may be started at the higher dose. Diovan may be used over a dose range of 80 mg to 320 mg daily, administered once a day.

The antihypertensive effect is substantially present within 2 weeks and maximal reduction is generally attained after 4 weeks. If additional antihypertensive effect is required over the starting dose range, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 320 mg or a diuretic may be added. Addition of a diuretic has a greater effect than dose increases beyond 80 mg.

No initial dosage adjustment is required for elderly patients, for patients with mild or moderate renal impairment, or for patients with mild or moderate liver insufficiency. Care should be exercised with dosing of Diovan in patients with hepatic or severe renal impairment.

Diovan may be administered with other antihypertensive agents.

Diovan may be administered with or without food.

2.2     Pediatric Hypertension 6 to 16 Years of Age

For children who can swallow tablets, the usual recommended starting dose is 1.3 mg/kg once daily (up to 40 mg total). The dosage should be adjusted according to blood pressure response. Doses higher than 2.7 mg/kg (up to 160 mg) once daily have not been studied in pediatric patients 6 to 16 years old.

For children who cannot swallow tablets, or children for whom the calculated dosage (mg/kg) does not correspond to the available tablet strengths of Diovan, the use of a suspension is recommended. Follow the suspension preparation instructions below (see Preparation of Suspension) to administer valsartan as a suspension. When the suspension is replaced by a tablet, the dose of valsartan may have to be increased. The exposure to valsartan with the suspension is 1.6 times greater than with the tablet.

No data are available in pediatric patients either undergoing dialysis or with a glomerular filtration rate <30 mL/min/1.73 m2[see Pediatric Use (8.4)].

Diovan is not recommended for patients <6 years old [see Adverse Reactions (6.1), Clinical Studies (14.1)].

Preparation of Suspension (for 160 mL of a 4 mg/mL suspension)

Add 80 mL of Ora-Plus®* oral suspending vehicle to an amber glass bottle containing 8 Diovan 80 mg tablets, and shake for a minimum of 2 minutes. Allow the suspension to stand for a minimum of 1 hour. After the standing time, shake the suspension for a minimum of 1 additional minute. Add 80 mL of Ora-Sweet SF®* oral sweetening vehicle to the bottle and shake the suspension for at least 10 seconds to disperse the ingredients. The suspension is homogenous and can be stored for either up to 30 days at room temperature (below 30ºC/86ºF) or up to 75 days at refrigerated conditions (2-8ºC/35-46ºF) in the glass bottle with a child-resistant screw-cap closure. Shake the bottle well (at least 10 seconds) prior to dispensing the suspension.

*Ora-Sweet SF® and Ora-Plus® are registered trademarks of Paddock Laboratories, Inc.

2.3     Heart Failure

The recommended starting dose of Diovan is 40 mg twice daily. Uptitration to 80 mg and 160 mg twice daily should be done to the highest dose, as tolerated by the patient. Consideration should be given to reducing the dose of concomitant diuretics. The maximum daily dose administered in clinical trials is 320 mg in divided doses.

2.4     Post-Myocardial Infarction

Diovan may be initiated as early as 12 hours after a myocardial infarction. The recommended starting dose of Diovan is 20 mg twice daily. Patients may be uptitrated within 7 days to 40 mg twice daily, with subsequent titrations to a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice daily, as tolerated by the patient. If symptomatic hypotension or renal dysfunction occurs, consideration should be given to a dosage reduction. Diovan may be given with other standard post-myocardial infarction treatment, including thrombolytics, aspirin, beta-blockers, and statins.
Exforge

Exforge

2.1     General Considerations

Dose once daily. The dosage can be increased after 1 to 2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of one 10/320 mg tablet once daily as needed to control blood pressure. The majority of the antihypertensive effect is attained within 2 weeks after initiation of therapy or a change in dose.

Exforge may be administered with or without food.

Exforge may be administered with other antihypertensive agents.

2.2     Add-on Therapy

A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine (or another dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker) alone or with valsartan (or another angiotensin II receptor blocker) alone may be switched to combination therapy with Exforge.

A patient who experiences dose-limiting adverse reactions on either component alone may be switched to Exforge containing a lower dose of that component in combination with the other to achieve similar blood pressure reductions. The clinical response to Exforge should be subsequently evaluated and if blood pressure remains uncontrolled after 3 to 4 weeks of therapy, the dose may be titrated up to a maximum of 10/320 mg.

2.3     Replacement Therapy

For convenience, patients receiving amlodipine and valsartan from separate tablets may instead wish to receive tablets of Exforge containing the same component doses.

2.4     Initial Therapy

A patient may be initiated on Exforge if it is unlikely that control of blood pressure would be achieved with a single agent. The usual starting dose is Exforge 5/160 mg once daily in patients who are not volume-depleted.
Diovan Hct

Diovan Hct

2.1     General Considerations

The usual starting dose is Diovan HCT 160/12.5 mg once daily. The dosage can be increased after 1 to 2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of one 320/25 tablet once daily as needed to control blood pressure [see Clinical Studies (14.2)]. Maximum antihypertensive effects are attained within 2 to 4 weeks after a change in dose.

2.2     Add-On Therapy

A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with valsartan (or another ARB) alone or hydrochlorothiazide alone may be switched to combination therapy with Diovan HCT.

A patient who experiences dose-limiting adverse reactions on either component alone may be switched to Diovan HCT containing a lower dose of that component in combination with the other to achieve similar blood pressure reductions. The clinical response to Diovan HCT should be subsequently evaluated and if blood pressure remains uncontrolled after 3 to 4 weeks of therapy, the dose may be titrated up to a maximum of 320/25 mg.

2.3     Replacement Therapy

Diovan HCT may be substituted for the titrated components.

2.4     Initial Therapy

Diovan HCT is not recommended as initial therapy in patients with intravascular volume depletion [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

2.5     Use with Other Antihypertensive Drugs

Diovan HCT may be administered with other antihypertensive agents.
Exforge Hct

Exforge Hct

2.1     General Considerations

Dose once-daily. The dosage may be increased after 2 weeks of therapy. The full blood pressure lowering effect was achieved 2 weeks after being on the maximal dose of Exforge HCT. The maximum recommended dose of Exforge HCT is 10/320/25 mg.

2.2     Add-on / Switch Therapy

Exforge HCT may be used for patients not adequately controlled on any 2 of the following antihypertensive classes: calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers, and diuretics.

A patient who experiences dose-limiting adverse reactions to an individual component while on any dual combination of the components of Exforge HCT may be switched to Exforge HCT containing a lower dose of that component to achieve similar blood pressure reductions.

2.3     Replacement Therapy

Exforge HCT may be substituted for the individually titrated components.

2.4     Use with Other Antihypertensive Drugs

Exforge HCT may be administered with other antihypertensive agents.

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