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| Product NDC Code | 43353-317 | ||||
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| Drug Name | Tacrolimus |
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| Type | Generic | ||||
| Pharm Class | Calcineurin Inhibitor Immunosuppressant [EPC], Calcineurin Inhibitors [MoA] |
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| Route | ORAL | ||||
| Dosage Form | CAPSULE | ||||
| RxCUI drug identifier | 198377 | ||||
| Application Number | ANDA090596 | ||||
| Labeler Name | Aphena Pharma Solutions - Tennessee, LLC | ||||
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| Check if available Online | Get Medication Prices online with Discount |
Overdosage of Tacrolimus
Information about signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings of acute ovedosage and the general principles of overdose treatment.10 OVERDOSAGE Limited overdosage experience is available. Acute overdosages of up to 30 times the intended dose have been reported. Almost all cases have been asymptomatic and all patients recovered with no sequelae. Acute overdosage was sometimes followed by adverse reactions consistent with those listed in Adverse Reactions (6) (including tremors, abnormal renal function, hypertension, and peripheral edema); in one case of acute overdosage, transient urticaria and lethargy were observed. Based on the poor aqueous solubility and extensive erythrocyte and plasma protein binding, it is anticipated that tacrolimus is not dialyzable to any significant extent; there is no experience with charcoal hemoperfusion. The oral use of activated charcoal has been reported in treating acute overdoses, but experience has not been sufficient to warrant recommending its use. General supportive measures and treatment of specific symptoms should be followed in all cases of overdosage. In acute oral and IV toxicity studies, mortalities were seen at or above the following doses: in adult rats, 52 times the recommended human oral dose; in immature rats, 16 times the recommended oral dose; and in adult rats, 16 times the recommended human IV dose (all based on body surface area corrections).
Adverse reactions
Information about undesirable effects, reasonably associated with use of the drug, that may occur as part of the pharmacological action of the drug or may be unpredictable in its occurrence. Adverse reactions include those that occur with the drug, and if applicable, with drugs in the same pharmacologically active and chemically related class. There is considerable variation in the listing of adverse reactions. They may be categorized by organ system, by severity of reaction, by frequency, by toxicological mechanism, or by a combination of these.6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious and otherwise important adverse drug reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of labeling: • Lymphoma and Other Malignancies [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Serious Infections [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Polyoma Virus Infections [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • CMV Infections [see Boxed Warning , Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • New Onset Diabetes After Transplant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Neurotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Anaphylaxis with Tacrolimus Injection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] • Myocardial Hypertrophy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] • Pure Red Cell Aplasia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.17) ] • Gastrointestinal Perforation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.18) ] • Kidney Transplant: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 30%) were infection, tremor, hypertension, abnormal renal function, constipation, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, insomnia, nausea, hypomagnesemia, urinary tract infection, hypophosphatemia, peripheral edema, asthenia, pain, hyperlipidemia, hyperkalemia, anemia ( 6.1 ) • Liver Transplant: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 40%) were tremor, headache, diarrhea, hypertension, nausea, abnormal renal function, abdominal pain, insomnia, paresthesia, anemia, pain, fever, asthenia, hyperkalemia, hypomagnesemia, and hyperglycemia ( 6.1 ) • Heart Transplant: The most common adverse reactions (≥ 15%) were abnormal renal function, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, CMV infection, tremor, hyperglycemia, leukopenia, infection, anemia, bronchitis, pericardial effusion, urinary tract infection and hyperlipemia ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX) or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. In addition, the clinical trials were not designed to establish comparative differences across study arms with regards to the adverse reactions discussed below. Kidney Transplant The incidence of adverse reactions was determined in three randomized kidney transplant trials. One of the trials used azathioprine (AZA) and corticosteroids and two of the trials used mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and corticosteroids concomitantly for maintenance immunosuppression. Tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in conjunction with azathioprine and corticosteroids following kidney transplantation was assessed in trial where 205 patients received tacrolimus-based immunosuppression and 207 patients received cyclosporine based immunosuppression. The trial population had a mean age of 43 years (mean ± sd was 43 ± 13 years on tacrolimus and 44 ± 12 years on cyclosporine arm), the distribution was 61% male, and the composition was White (58%), Black (25%), Hispanic (12%) and Other (5%). The 12 month post-transplant information from this trial is presented below. The most common adverse reactions (≥ 30%) observed in tacrolimus-treated kidney transplant patients are: infection, tremor, hypertension, abnormal renal function, constipation, diarrhea, headache, abdominal pain, insomnia, nausea, hypomagnesemia, urinary tract infection, hypophosphatemia, peripheral edema, asthenia, pain, hyperlipidemia, hyperkalemia and anemia. Adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 15% of kidney transplant patients treated with tacrolimus in conjunction with azathioprine are presented below: Table 4. Kidney Transplantation: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 15% of Patients Treated with Tacrolimus in Conjunction with Azathioprine (AZA) Tacrolimus/AZA (N = 205) Cyclosporine/AZA (N = 207) Nervous System Tremor 54% 34% Headache 44% 38% Insomnia 32% 30% Paresthesia 23% 16% Dizziness 19% 16% Gastrointestinal Diarrhea 44% 41% Nausea 38% 36% Constipation 35% 43% Vomiting 29% 23% Dyspepsia 28% 20% Cardiovascular Hypertension 50% 52% Chest Pain 19% 13% Urogenital Creatinine Increased 45% 42% Urinary Tract Infection 34% 35% Metabolic and Nutritional Hypophosphatemia 49% 53% Hypomagnesemia 34% 17% Hyperlipemia 31% 38% Hyperkalemia 31% 32% Diabetes Mellitus 24% 9% Hypokalemia 22% 25% Hyperglycemia 22% 16% Edema 18% 19% Hemic and Lymphatic Anemia 30% 24% Leukopenia 15% 17% Miscellaneous Infection 45% 49% Peripheral Edema 36% 48% Asthenia 34% 30% Abdominal Pain 33% 31% Pain 32% 30% Fever 29% 29% Back Pain 24% 20% Respiratory System Dyspnea 22% 18% Cough Increased 18% 15% Musculoskeletal Arthralgia 25% 24% Skin Rash 17% 12% Pruritus 15% 7% Two trials were conducted for tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in conjunction with MMF and corticosteroids. In the non-US trial (Study 1), the incidence of adverse reactions was based on 1,195 kidney transplant patients that received tacrolimus (Group C, n = 403), or one of two cyclosporine (CsA) regimens (Group A, n = 384 and Group B, n = 408) in combination with MMF and corticosteroids; all patients, except those in one of the two cyclosporine groups, also received induction with daclizumab. The trial population had a mean age of 46 years (range 17 to 76), the distribution was 65% male, and the composition was 93% Caucasian. The 12 month post-transplant information from this trial is presented below. Adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 10% of kidney transplant patients treated with tacrolimus in conjunction with MMF in Study 1 [Note: This trial was conducted entirely outside of the United States. Such trials often report a lower incidence of adverse reactions in comparison to U.S. trials] are presented below: Table 5. Kidney Transplantation: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 10% of Patients Treated with Tacrolimus in Conjunction with MMF (Study 1) Key: Group A = CsA/MMF/CS, B = CsA/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, C = Tac/MMF/CS/Daclizumab CsA = Cyclosporine, CS = Corticosteroids, Tac = Tacrolimus, MMF = mycophenolate mofetil Tacrolimus (Group C) (N = 403) Cyclosporine (Group A) (N = 384) Cyclosporine (Group B) (N = 408) Diarrhea 25% 16% 13% Urinary Tract Infection 24% 28% 24% Anemia 17% 19% 17% Hypertension 13% 14% 12% Leukopenia 13% 10% 10% Edema Peripheral 11% 12% 13% Hyperlipidemia 10% 15% 13% In the U.S. trial (Study 2) with tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in conjunction with MMF and corticosteroids, 424 kidney transplant patients received tacrolimus (n = 212) or cyclosporine (n = 212) in combination with MMF 1 gram twice daily, basiliximab induction, and corticosteroids. The trial population had a mean age of 48 years (range 17 to 77), the distribution was 63% male, and the composition was White (74%), Black (20%), Asian (3%) and other (3%). The 12 month post-transplant information from this trial is presented below. Adverse reactions that occurred in ≥15% of kidney transplant patients treated with tacrolimus in conjunction with MMF in Study 2 are presented below: Table 6. Kidney Transplantation: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 15% of Patients Treated with Tacrolimus in Conjunction with MMF (Study 2) Tacrolimus/MMF (N = 212) Cyclosporine/MMF (N = 212) Gastrointestinal Disorders Diarrhea 44% 26% Nausea 39% 47% Constipation 36% 41% Vomiting 26% 25% Dyspepsia 18% 15% Injury, Poisoning, and Procedural Complications Post-Procedural Pain 29% 27% Incision Site Complication 28% 23% Graft Dysfunction 24% 18% Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders Hypomagnesemia 28% 22% Hypophosphatemia 28% 21% Hyperkalemia 26% 19% Hyperglycemia 21% 15% Hyperlipidemia 18% 25% Hypokalemia 16% 18% Nervous System Disorders Tremor 34% 20% Headache 24% 25% Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders Anemia 30% 28% Leukopenia 16% 12% Miscellaneous Edema Peripheral 35% 46% Hypertension 32% 35% Insomnia 30% 21% Urinary Tract Infection 26% 22% Blood Creatinine Increased 23% 23% Less frequently observed adverse reactions in both liver transplantation and kidney transplantation patients are described under the subsection Less Frequently Reported Adverse Reactions . Liver Transplantation There were two randomized comparative liver transplant trials. In the U.S. trial, 263 adult and pediatric patients received tacrolimus and steroids and 266 patients received cyclosporine-based immunosuppressive regimen (CsA/AZA). The trial population had a mean age of 44 years (range 0.4 to 70), the distribution was 52% male, and the composition was White (78%), Black (5%), Asian (2%), Hispanic (13%) and Other (2%). In the European trial, 270 patients received tacrolimus and steroids and 275 patients received CsA/AZA. The trial population had a mean age of 46 years (range 15 to 68), the distribution was 59% male, and the composition was White (95.4%), Black (1%), Asian (2%) and Other (2%). The proportion of patients reporting more than one adverse event was > 99% in both the tacrolimus group and the CsA/AZA group. Precautions must be taken when comparing the incidence of adverse reactions in the U.S. trial to that in the European trial. The 12 month post-transplant information from the U.S. trial and from the European trial is presented below. The two trials also included different patient populations and patients were treated with immunosuppressive regimens of differing intensities. Adverse reactions reported in ≥15% in tacrolimus patients (combined trial results) are presented below for the two controlled trials in liver transplantation. The most common adverse reactions (≥ 40%) observed in tacrolimus-treated liver transplant patients are: tremor, headache, diarrhea, hypertension, nausea, abnormal renal function, abdominal pain, insomnia, paresthesia, anemia, pain, fever, asthenia, hyperkalemia, hypomagnesemia, and hyperglycemia. These all occur with oral and IV administration of tacrolimus and some may respond to a reduction in dosing (e.g., tremor, headache, paresthesia, hypertension). Diarrhea was sometimes associated with other gastrointestinal complaints such as nausea and vomiting. Table 7. Liver Transplantation: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 15% of Patients Treated with Tacrolimus U.S. TRIAL EUROPEAN TRIAL Tacrolimus (N = 250) Cyclosporine/AZA (N = 250) Tacrolimus (N = 264) Cyclosporine/AZA (N = 265) Nervous System Headache 64% 60% 37% 26% Insomnia 64% 68% 32% 23% Tremor 56% 46% 48% 32% Paresthesia 40% 30% 17% 17% Gastrointestinal Diarrhea 72% 47% 37% 27% Nausea 46% 37% 32% 27% LFT Abnormal 36% 30% 6% 5% Anorexia 34% 24% 7% 5% Vomiting 27% 15% 14% 11% Constipation 24% 27% 23% 21% Cardiovascular Hypertension 47% 56% 38% 43% Urogenital Kidney Function Abnormal 40% 27% 36% 23% Creatinine Increased 39% 25% 24% 19% BUN Increased 30% 22% 12% 9% Oliguria 18% 15% 19% 12% Urinary Tract Infection 16% 18% 21% 19% Metabolic and Nutritional Hypomagnesemia 48% 45% 16% 9% Hyperglycemia 47% 38% 33% 22% Hyperkalemia 45% 26% 13% 9% Hypokalemia 29% 34% 13% 16% Hemic and Lymphatic Anemia 47% 38% 5% 1% Leukocytosis 32% 26% 8% 8% Thrombocytopenia 24% 20% 14% 19% Miscellaneous Pain 63% 57% 24% 22% Abdominal Pain 59% 54% 29% 22% Asthenia 52% 48% 11% 7% Fever 48% 56% 19% 22% Back Pain 30% 29% 17% 17% Ascites 27% 22% 7% 8% Peripheral Edema 26% 26% 12% 14% Respiratory System Pleural Effusion 30% 32% 36% 35% Dyspnea 29% 23% 5% 4% Atelectasis 28% 30% 5% 4% Skin and Appendages Pruritus 36% 20% 15% 7% Rash 24% 19% 10% 4% Less frequently observed adverse reactions in both liver transplantation and kidney transplantation patients are described under the subsection Less Frequently Reported Adverse Reactions . Heart Transplantation The incidence of adverse reactions was determined based on two trials in primary orthotopic heart transplantation. In a trial conducted in Europe, 314 patients received a regimen of antibody induction, corticosteroids and azathioprine (AZA) in combination with tacrolimus (n = 157) or cyclosporine (n = 157) for 18 months. The trial population had a mean age of 51 years (range 18 to 65), the distribution was 82% male, and the composition was White (96%), Black (3%) and other (1%). The most common adverse reactions (≥ 15%) observed in tacrolimus-treated heart transplant patients are: abnormal renal function, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, CMV infection, tremor, hyperglycemia, leukopenia, infection, anemia, bronchitis, pericardial effusion, urinary tract infection and hyperlipemia. Adverse reactions in heart transplant patients in the European trial are presented below: Table 8. Heart Transplantation: Adverse Reactions Occurring in ≥ 15% of Patients Treated with Tacrolimus in Conjunction with Azathioprine (AZA) Tacrolimus/AZA (n = 157) Cyclosporine/AZA (n = 157) Cardiovascular System Hypertension 62% 69% Pericardial Effusion 15% 14% Body as a Whole CMV Infection 32% 30% Infection 24% 21% Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders Diabetes Mellitus 26% 16% Hyperglycemia 23% 17% Hyperlipemia 18% 27% Hemic and Lymphatic System Anemia 50% 36% Leukopenia 48% 39% Urogenital System Kidney Function Abnormal 56% 57% Urinary Tract Infection 16% 12% Respiratory System Bronchitis 17% 18% Nervous System Tremor 15% 6% In the European trial, the cyclosporine trough concentrations were above the pre-defined target range (i.e., 100 to 200 ng/mL) at Day 122 and beyond in 32% to 68% of the patients in the cyclosporine treatment arm, whereas the tacrolimus trough concentrations were within the pre-defined target range (i.e., 5 to 15 ng/mL) in 74% to 86% of the patients in the tacrolimus treatment arm. In a U.S. trial, the incidence of adverse reactions was based on 331 heart transplant patients that received corticosteroids and tacrolimus in combination with sirolimus (n = 109), tacrolimus in combination with MMF (n = 107) or cyclosporine modified in combination with MMF (n = 115) for 1 year. The trial population had a mean age of 53 years (range 18 to 75), the distribution was 78% male, and the composition was White (83%), Black (13%) and other (4%). Only selected targeted treatment-emergent adverse reactions were collected in the U.S. heart transplantation trial. Those reactions that were reported at a rate of 15% or greater in patients treated with tacrolimus and MMF include the following: any target adverse reactions (99%), hypertension (89%), hyperglycemia requiring antihyperglycemic therapy (70%) , hypertriglyceridemia (65%), anemia (hemoglobin < 10 g/dL) (65%), fasting blood glucose > 140 mg/dL (on two separate occasions) (61%), hypercholesterolemia (57%), hyperlipidemia (34%), WBCs < 3000 cells/mcL (34%), serious bacterial infections (30%), magnesium < 1.2 mEq/L (24%), platelet count < 75,000 cells/mcL (19%), and other opportunistic infections (15%). Other targeted treatment-emergent adverse reactions in tacrolimus-treated patients occurred at a rate of less than 15%, and include the following: Cushingoid features, impaired wound healing, hyperkalemia, Candida infection, and CMV infection/syndrome. New Onset Diabetes After Transplant Kidney Transplant New Onset Diabetes After Transplant (NODAT) is defined as a composite of fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, HbA1C ≥ 6%, insulin use ≥ 30 days or oral hypoglycemic use. In a trial in kidney transplant patients (Study 2), NODAT was observed in 75% in the tacrolimus-treated and 61% in the Neoral-treated patients without pre-transplant history of diabetes mellitus (Table 9) [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Table 9. Incidence of New Onset Diabetes After Transplant at 1 year in Kidney Transplant Recipients in a Phase 3 Trial (Study 2) Parameter Treatment Group Tacrolimus/MMF (n = 212) Neoral/MMF (n = 212) NODAT 112/150 (75%) 93/152 (61%) Fasting Plasma Glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL 96/150 (64%) 80/152 (53%) HbA 1c ≥ 6% 59/150 (39%) 28/152 (18%) Insulin Use ≥ 30 days 9/150 (6%) 4/152 (3%) Oral Hypoglycemic Use 15/150 (10%) 5/152 (3%) In early trials of tacrolimus, Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus (PTDM) was evaluated with a more limited criteria of “use of insulin for 30 or more consecutive days with < 5 day gap” in patients without a prior history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Data are presented in Tables 10 to 13. PTDM was reported in 20% of tacrolimus/Azathioprine (AZA)-treated kidney transplant patients without pre-transplant history of diabetes mellitus in a Phase 3 trial (Table 10). The median time to onset of PTDM was 68 days. Insulin dependence was reversible in 15% of these PTDM patients at 1 year and in 50% at 2 years post-transplant. Black and Hispanic kidney transplant patients were at an increased risk of development of PTDM (Table 11). Table 10. Incidence of Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus and Insulin Use at 2 Years in Kidney Transplant Recipients in a Phase 3 Trial using Azathioprine (AZA) Status of PTDM Use of insulin for 30 or more consecutive days, with < 5 day gap, without a prior history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Tacrolimus/AZA CsA/AZA Patients without pre-transplant history of diabetes mellitus 151 151 New onset PTDM , 1 st Year 30/151 (20%) 6/151 (4%) Still insulin-dependent at 1 year in those without prior history of diabetes 25/151 (17%) 5/151 (3%) New onset PTDM post 1 year 1 0 Patients with PTDM at 2 years 16/151 (11%) 5/151 (3%) Table 11. Development of Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus by Race or Ethnicity and by Treatment Group During First Year Post Kidney Transplantation in a Phase 3 Trial Patient Race Patients Who Developed PTDM Use of insulin for 30 or more consecutive days, with < 5 day gap, without a prior history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Tacrolimus Cyclosporine Black 15/41 (37%) 3 (8%) Hispanic 5/17 (29%) 1 (6%) Caucasian 10/82 (12%) 1 (1%) Other 0/11 (0%) 1 (10%) Total 30/151 (20%) 6 (4%) Liver Transplant Insulin-dependent PTDM was reported in 18% and 11% of tacrolimus-treated liver transplant patients and was reversible in 45% and 31% of these patients at 1 year post-transplant, in the U.S. and European randomized trials, respectively, (Table 12). Hyperglycemia was associated with the use of tacrolimus in 47% and 33% of liver transplant recipients in the U.S. and European randomized trials, respectively, and may require treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Table 12. Incidence of Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus and Insulin Use at 1 Year in Liver Transplant Recipients Status of PTDM Use of insulin for 30 or more consecutive days, with < 5 day gap, without a prior history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. US Trial European Trial Tacrolimus Cyclosporine Tacrolimus Cyclosporine Patients at risk Patients without pre-transplant history of diabetes mellitus. 239 236 239 249 New Onset PTDM 42 (18%) 30 (13%) 26 (11%) 12 (5%) Patients still on insulin at 1 year 23 (10%) 19 (8%) 18 (8%) 6 (2%) Heart Transplant Insulin-dependent PTDM was reported in 13% and 22% of tacrolimus-treated heart transplant patients receiving mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or azathioprine (AZA) and was reversible in 30% and 17% of these patients at 1 year post-transplant, in the U.S. and European randomized trials, respectively (Table 13). Hyperglycemia defined as two fasting plasma glucose levels ≥ 126 mg/dL was reported with the use of tacrolimus plus MMF or AZA in 32% and 35% of heart transplant recipients in the U.S. and European randomized trials, respectively, and may require treatment [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Table 13. Incidence of Post-Transplant Diabetes Mellitus and Insulin Use at 1 Year in Heart Transplant Recipients Status of PTDM Use of insulin for 30 or more consecutive days without a prior history of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. US Trial European Trial Tacrolimus/MMF Cyclosporine/MMF Tacrolimus/AZA Cyclosporine/AZA Patients at risk Patients without pre-transplant history of diabetes mellitus. 75 83 132 138 New Onset PTDM 10 (13%) 6 (7%) 29 (22%) 5 (4%) Patients still on insulin at 1 year 7 to 12 months for the U.S. trial. 7 (9%) 1 (1%) 24 (18%) 4 (3%) Less Frequently Reported Adverse Reactions (> 3% and < 15%) The following adverse reactions were reported in either liver, kidney, and/or heart transplant recipients who were treated with tacrolimus in clinical trials. Nervous System: [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ]: Abnormal dreams, agitation, amnesia, anxiety, confusion, convulsion, crying, depression, elevated mood, emotional lability, encephalopathy, haemorrhagic stroke, hallucinations, hypertonia, incoordination, monoparesis, myoclonus, nerve compression, nervousness, neuralgia, neuropathy, paralysis flaccid, psychomotor skills impaired, psychosis, quadriparesis, somnolence, thinking abnormal, vertigo, writing impaired Special Senses: Abnormal vision, amblyopia, ear pain, otitis media, tinnitus Gastrointestinal: Cholangitis, cholestatic jaundice, duodenitis, dysphagia, esophagitis, flatulence, gastritis, gastroesophagitis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, GGT increase, GI disorder, GI perforation, hepatitis, hepatitis granulomatous, ileus, increased appetite, jaundice, liver damage, oesophagitis ulcerative, oral moniliasis, pancreatic pseudocyst, rectal disorder, stomatitis Cardiovascular: Abnormal ECG, angina pectoris, arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, bradycardia, cardiac fibrillation, cardiopulmonary failure, cardiovascular disorder, congestive heart failure, deep thrombophlebitis, echocardiogram abnormal, electrocardiogram QRS complex abnormal, electrocardiogram ST segment abnormal, heart failure, heart rate decreased, hemorrhage, hypotension, peripheral vascular disorder, phlebitis, postural hypotension, syncope, tachycardia, thrombosis, vasodilatation Urogenital: Acute kidney failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] , albuminuria, BK nephropathy, bladder spasm, cystitis, dysuria, hematuria, hydronephrosis, kidney failure, kidney tubular necrosis, nocturia, pyuria, toxic nephropathy, urge incontinence, urinary frequency, urinary incontinence, urinary retention, vaginitis Metabolic/Nutritional: Acidosis, alkaline phosphatase increased, alkalosis, ALT (SGPT) increased, AST (SGOT) increased, bicarbonate decreased, bilirubinemia, dehydration, GGT increased, gout, healing abnormal, hypercalcemia, hypercholesterolemia, hyperphosphatemia, hyperuricemia, hypervolemia, hypocalcemia, hypoglycemia, hyponatremia, hypoproteinemia, lactic dehydrogenase increase, weight gain Endocrine: Cushing’s syndrome Hemic/Lymphatic: Coagulation disorder, ecchymosis, haematocrit increased, haemoglobin abnormal, hypochromic anemia, leukocytosis, polycythemia, prothrombin decreased, serum iron decreased Miscellaneous: Abdomen enlarged, abscess, accidental injury, allergic reaction, cellulitis, chills, fall, feeling abnormal, flu syndrome, generalized edema, hernia, mobility decreased, peritonitis, photosensitivity reaction, sepsis, temperature intolerance, ulcer Musculoskeletal: Arthralgia, cramps, generalized spasm, joint disorder, leg cramps, myalgia, myasthenia, osteoporosis Respiratory: Asthma, emphysema, hiccups, lung disorder, lung function decreased, pharyngitis, pneumonia, pneumothorax, pulmonary edema, respiratory disorder, rhinitis, sinusitis, voice alteration Skin: Acne, alopecia, exfoliative dermatitis, fungal dermatitis, herpes simplex, herpes zoster, hirsutism, neoplasm skin benign, skin discoloration, skin disorder, skin ulcer, sweating 6.2 Postmarketing Adverse Reactions The following adverse reactions have been reported from worldwide marketing experience with tacrolimus. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Decisions to include these reactions in labeling are typically based on one or more of the following factors: (1) seriousness of the reaction, (2) frequency of the reporting, or (3) strength of causal connection to the drug. Other reactions include: Cardiovascular: Atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, cardiac arrhythmia, cardiac arrest, electrocardiogram T wave abnormal, flushing, myocardial infarction, myocardial ischaemia, pericardial effusion, QT prolongation, Torsade de Pointes, venous thrombosis deep limb, ventricular extrasystoles, ventricular fibrillation, myocardial hypertrophy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Gastrointestinal: Bile duct stenosis, colitis, enterocolitis, gastroenteritis, gastrooesophageal reflux disease, hepatic cytolysis, hepatic necrosis, hepatotoxicity, impaired gastric emptying, liver fatty, mouth ulceration, pancreatitis haemorrhagic, pancreatitis necrotizing, stomach ulcer, venoocclusive liver disease Hemic/Lymphatic: Agranulocytosis, disseminated intravascular coagulation, hemolytic anemia, neutropenia, pancytopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura, thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, pure red cell aplasia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.17) ] Infections: Cases of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML), sometimes fatal; -polyoma virus-associated nephropathy, (PVAN) including graft loss [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Metabolic/Nutritional: Glycosuria, increased amylase including pancreatitis, weight decreased Miscellaneous: Feeling hot and cold, feeling jittery, hot flushes, multi-organ failure, primary graft dysfunction Nervous System: Carpal tunnel syndrome, cerebral infarction, hemiparesis, leukoencephalopathy, mental disorder, mutism, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] , progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] , quadriplegia, speech disorder, syncope Respiratory: Acute respiratory distress syndrome, interstitial lung disease, lung infiltration, respiratory distress, respiratory failure Skin: Stevens-Johnson syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis Special Senses: Blindness, blindness cortical, hearing loss including deafness, photophobia Urogenital: Acute renal failure, cystitis haemorrhagic, hemolytic-uremic syndrome, micturition disorder
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| Key: Group A = CsA/MMF/CS, B = CsA/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, C = Tac/MMF/CS/Daclizumab CsA = Cyclosporine, CS = Corticosteroids, Tac = Tacrolimus, MMF = mycophenolate mofetil | ||||||
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Tacrolimus Drug Interactions
Information about and practical guidance on preventing clinically significant drug/drug and drug/food interactions that may occur in people taking the drug.7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Since tacrolimus is metabolized mainly by CYP3A enzymes, drugs or substances known to inhibit these enzymes may increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Drugs known to induce CYP3A enzymes may decrease tacrolimus whole blood concentrations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Dose adjustments may be needed along with frequent monitoring of tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations when tacrolimus is administered with CYP3A inhibitors or inducers. In addition, patients should be monitored for adverse reactions including changes in renal function and QT prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and (5.14) ] . • Mycophenolic Acid Products: Can increase MPA exposure after crossover from cyclosporine to tacrolimus; monitor for MPA-related adverse reactions and adjust MMF or MPA-dose as needed ( 7.1 ) • Nelfinavir and Grapefruit Juice: Increased tacrolimus concentrations via CYP3A inhibition; avoid concomitant use ( 7.2 , 7.3 ) • CYP3A Inhibitors: Increased tacrolimus concentrations; monitor concentrations and adjust tacrolimus dose as needed with concomitant use ( 5.13 , 7.3 , 7.4 , 7.5 , 7.6 ) • CYP3A4 Inducers: Decreased tacrolimus concentrations; monitor concentrations and adjust tacrolimus dose as needed with concomitant use ( 5.13 , 7.7 , 7.8 , 7.9 ) 7.1 Mycophenolic Acid Products With a given dose of mycophenolic acid (MPA) products, exposure to MPA is higher with tacrolimus co-administration than with cyclosporine co-administration because cyclosporine interrupts the enterohepatic recirculation of MPA while tacrolimus does not. Clinicians should be aware that there is also a potential for increased MPA exposure after crossover from cyclosporine to tacrolimus in patients concomitantly receiving MPA-containing products. 7.2 Grapefruit Juice Grapefruit juice inhibits CYP3A-enzymes resulting in increased tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations, and patients should avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice with tacrolimus [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . 7.3 Protease Inhibitors Most protease inhibitors inhibit CYP3A enzymes and may increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of tacrolimus with nelfinavir unless the benefits outweigh the risks [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Whole blood concentrations of tacrolimus are markedly increased when co-administered with telaprevir or with boceprevir [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Monitoring of tacrolimus whole blood concentrations and tacrolimus-associated adverse reactions, and appropriate adjustments in the dosing regimen of tacrolimus are recommended when tacrolimus and protease inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, telaprevir, boceprevir) are used concomitantly. 7.4 Antifungal Agents Frequent monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when concomitant use of the following antifungal drugs with tacrolimus is initiated or discontinued [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Azoles Voriconazole, posaconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole and clotrimazole inhibit CYP3A metabolism of tacrolimus and increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. When initiating therapy with voriconazole or posaconazole in patients already receiving tacrolimus, it is recommended that the tacrolimus dose be initially reduced to one-third of the original dose and the subsequent tacrolimus doses be adjusted based on the tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Caspofungin is an inducer of CYP3A and decreases whole blood concentrations of tacrolimus. 7.5 Calcium Channel Blockers Verapamil, diltiazem, nifedipine, and nicardipine inhibit CYP3A metabolism of tacrolimus and may increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these calcium channel blocking drugs and tacrolimus are used concomitantly. 7.6 Antibacterials Erythromycin, clarithromycin, troleandomycin and chloramphenicol inhibit CYP3A metabolism of tacrolimus and may increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these drugs and tacrolimus are used concomitantly. 7.7 Antimycobacterials Rifampin [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] and rifabutin are inducers of CYP3A enzymes and may decrease tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these antimycobacterial drugs and tacrolimus are used concomitantly. 7.8 Anticonvulsants Phenytoin, carbamazepine and phenobarbital induce CYP3A enzymes and may decrease tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these drugs and tacrolimus are used concomitantly. Concomitant administration of phenytoin with tacrolimus may also increase phenytoin plasma concentrations. Thus, frequent monitoring phenytoin plasma concentrations and adjusting the phenytoin dose as needed are recommended when tacrolimus and phenytoin are administered concomitantly. 7.9 St. John’s Wort ( Hypericum perforatum ) St. John’s Wort induces CYP3A enzymes and may decrease tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when St. John’s Wort and tacrolimus are co-administered. 7.10 Gastric Acid Suppressors/Neutralizers Lansoprazole and omeprazole, as CYP2C19 and CYP3A4 substrates, may potentially inhibit the CYP3A4 metabolism of tacrolimus and thereby substantially increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations, especially in transplant patients who are intermediate or poor CYP2C19 metabolizers, as compared to those patients who are efficient CYP2C19 metabolizers. Cimetidine may also inhibit the CYP3A4 metabolism of tacrolimus and thereby substantially increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Co-administration with magnesium and aluminum hydroxide antacids increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these drugs and tacrolimus are used concomitantly. 7.11 Others Bromocriptine, nefazodone, metoclopramide, danazol, ethinyl estradiol, amiodarone, methylprednisolone, and herbal products containing schisandra sphenanthera extracts may inhibit CYP3A metabolism of tacrolimus and increase tacrolimus whole blood concentrations. Monitoring of blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when these drugs and tacrolimus are co-administered.
Drug Interactions Frequent monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when concomitant use of the following drugs with tacrolimus is initiated or discontinued [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Telaprevir In a single dose study in nine healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with telaprevir (750 mg 3 times daily for 13 days) increased the tacrolimus dose-normalized C max by 9.3-fold and AUC by 70-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Boceprevir In a single dose study in 12 subjects, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with boceprevir (800 mg 3 times daily for 11 days) increased tacrolimus C max by 9.9-fold and AUC by 17-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Nelfinavir Based on a clinical study of five liver transplant recipients, co-administration of tacrolimus with nelfinavir increased blood concentrations of tacrolimus significantly and, as a result, a reduction in the tacrolimus dose by an average of 16-fold was needed to maintain mean trough tacrolimus blood concentrations of 9.7 ng/mL. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of tacrolimus and nelfinavir unless the benefits outweigh the risks [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Rifampin In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant decrease in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 6% vs. 7 ± 3%) was observed with concomitant rifampin administration (600 mg). In addition, there was a significant increase in tacrolimus clearance (0.036 ± 0.008 L/hr/kg vs. 0.053 ± 0.010 L/hr/kg) with concomitant rifampin administration [see Drug Interactions (7.7) ] . Magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide In a single dose crossover study in healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus and magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide resulted in a 21% increase in the mean tacrolimus AUC and a 10% decrease in the mean tacrolimus C max relative to tacrolimus administration alone [see Drug Interactions (7.10) ] . Ketoconazole In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant increase in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 5% vs. 30 ± 8%) was observed with concomitant ketoconazole administration (200 mg). The apparent oral clearance of tacrolimus during ketoconazole administration was significantly decreased compared to tacrolimus alone (0.430 ± 0.129 L/hr/kg vs. 0.148 ± 0.043 L/hr/kg). Overall, IV clearance of tacrolimus was not significantly changed by ketoconazole co-administration, although it was highly variable between patients [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Voriconazole (see complete prescribing information for VFEND ®* ) Repeat oral dose administration of voriconazole (400 mg every 12 hours for one day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for 6 days) increased tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC τ in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 1.9, 2.5) and 3-fold (90% CI: 2.7, 3.8), respectively [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Posaconazole (see complete prescribing information for Noxafil ®* ) Repeat oral administration of posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased tacrolimus (0.05 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 2.01, 2.42) and 4.5-fold (90% CI 4.03, 5.19), respectively [ s ee Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Caspofungin (see complete prescribing information for CANCIDAS ®* ) Caspofungin reduced the blood AUC 0-12 of tacrolimus by approximately 20%, peak blood concentration (C max ) by 16%, and 12 hour blood concentration (C12hr) by 26% in healthy adult subjects when tacrolimus (2 doses of 0.1 mg/kg 12 hours apart) was administered on the 10th day of CANCIDAS ® 70 mg daily, as compared to results from a control period in which tacrolimus was administered alone [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] .
Clinical pharmacology
Information about the clinical pharmacology and actions of the drug in humans.12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY 12.1 Mechanism of Action Tacrolimus inhibits T-lymphocyte activation, although the exact mechanism of action is not known. Experimental evidence suggests that tacrolimus binds to an intracellular protein, FKBP-12. A complex of tacrolimus-FKBP-12, calcium, calmodulin, and calcineurin is then formed and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin-inhibited. This effect may prevent the dephosphorylation and translocation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NF-AT), a nuclear component thought to initiate gene transcription for the formation of lymphokines (such as interleukin-2, gamma interferon). The net result is the inhibition of T-lymphocyte activation (i.e., immunosuppression). Tacrolimus prolongs the survival of the host and transplanted graft in animal transplant models of liver, kidney, heart, bone marrow, small bowel and pancreas, lung and trachea, skin, cornea, and limb. In animals, tacrolimus has been demonstrated to suppress some humoral immunity and, to a greater extent, cell-mediated reactions such as allograft rejection, delayed type hypersensitivity, collagen-induced arthritis, experimental allergic encephalomyelitis, and graft versus host disease. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics Tacrolimus activity is primarily due to the parent drug. The pharmacokinetic parameters (mean ± S.D.) of tacrolimus have been determined following intravenous (IV) and/or oral (PO) administration in healthy volunteers, and in kidney transplant, liver transplant, and heart transplant patients (Table 14). Table 14. Pharmacokinetics Parameters (mean ± S.D.) of Tacrolimus in Healthy Volunteers and Patients Population N Route (Dose) Parameters C max (ng/mL) T max (hr) AUC (ng•hr/mL) t 1/2 (hr) CI (L/hr/kg) V (L/kg) Healthy Volunteers 8 IV (0.025 mg/kg/4hr) not applicable 598 AUC 0-120 ± 125 34.2 ± 7.7 0.040 ± 0.009 1.91 ± 0.31 16 PO (5 mg) 29.7 ± 7.2 1.6 ± 0.7 243 AUC 0-72 ± 73 34.8 ± 11.4 0.041 Corrected for individual bioavailability ± 0.008 1.94 ± 0.53 IV (0.02 mg/kg/12 hr) 294 AUC 0-inf ± 262 18.8 ± 16.7 0.083 ± 0.050 1.41 ± 0.66 Kidney Transplant Patients 26 PO (0.2 mg/kg/day) 19.2 ± 10.3 3 203 ± 42 not available PO (0.3 mg/kg/day) 24.2 ± 15.8 1.5 288 ± 93 Liver Transplant Patients 17 IV (0.05 mg/kg/12 hr) 3300 ± 2130 11.7 ± 3.9 0.053 ± 0.017 0.85 ± 0.30 PO (0.3 mg/kg/day) 68.5 ± 30 2.3 ± 1.5 519 ± 179 11 IV (0.01 mg/kg/day as a continuous infusion) 954 AUC 0-t ± 334 23.6 ± 9.22 0.051 ± 0.015 Heart Transplant Patients 11 PO (0.075 mg/kg/day) Determined after the first dose 14.7 ± 7.79 2.1 [0.5 to 6] Median [range] 82.7 AUC 0-12 ± 63.2 14 PO (0.15 mg/kg/day) 24.5 ± 13.7 1.5 [0.4 to 4] 142 ± 116 Due to intersubject variability in tacrolimus pharmacokinetics, individualization of dosing regimen is necessary for optimal therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . Pharmacokinetic data indicate that whole blood concentrations rather than plasma concentrations serve as the more appropriate sampling compartment to describe tacrolimus pharmacokinetics. Absorption Absorption of tacrolimus from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration is incomplete and variable. The absolute bioavailability of tacrolimus was 17 ± 10% in adult kidney transplant patients (N = 26), 22 ± 6% in adult liver transplant patients (N = 17), 23 ± 9% in adult heart transplant patients (N = 11) and 18 ± 5% in healthy volunteers (N = 16). A single dose trial conducted in 32 healthy volunteers established the bioequivalence of the 1 mg and 5 mg capsules. Another single dose trial in 32 healthy volunteers established the bioequivalence of the 0.5 mg and 1 mg capsules. Tacrolimus maximum blood concentrations (C max ) and area under the curve (AUC) appeared to increase in a dose-proportional fashion in 18 fasted healthy volunteers receiving a single oral dose of 3 mg, 7 mg, and 10 mg. In 18 kidney transplant patients, tacrolimus trough concentrations from 3 to 30 ng/mL measured at 10 to 12 hours post-dose (C min ) correlated well with the AUC (correlation coefficient 0.93). In 24 liver transplant patients over a concentration range of 10 to 60 ng/mL, the correlation coefficient was 0.94. In 25 heart transplant patients over a concentration range of 2 to 24 ng/mL, the correlation coefficient was 0.89 after an oral dose of 0.075 or 0.15 mg/kg/day at steady-state. Food Effects The rate and extent of tacrolimus absorption were greatest under fasted conditions. The presence and composition of food decreased both the rate and extent of tacrolimus absorption when administered to 15 healthy volunteers. The effect was most pronounced with a high-fat meal (848 kcal, 46% fat): mean AUC and C max were decreased 37% and 77%, respectively; T max was lengthened 5-fold. A high-carbohydrate meal (668 kcal, 85% carbohydrate) decreased mean AUC and mean C max by 28% and 65%, respectively. In healthy volunteers (N = 16), the time of the meal also affected tacrolimus bioavailability. When given immediately following the meal, mean C max was reduced 71%, and mean AUC was reduced 39%, relative to the fasted condition. When administered 1.5 hours following the meal, mean C max was reduced 63%, and mean AUC was reduced 39%, relative to the fasted condition. In 11 liver transplant patients, tacrolimus administered 15 minutes after a high fat (400 kcal, 34% fat) breakfast, resulted in decreased AUC (27 ± 18%) and C max (50 ± 19%), as compared to a fasted state. Tacrolimus capsules should be taken consistently every day either with or without food because the presence and composition of food decreases the bioavailability of tacrolimus [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . Distribution The plasma protein binding of tacrolimus is approximately 99% and is independent of concentration over a range of 5 to 50 ng/mL. Tacrolimus is bound mainly to albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, and has a high level of association with erythrocytes. The distribution of tacrolimus between whole blood and plasma depends on several factors, such as hematocrit, temperature at the time of plasma separation, drug concentration, and plasma protein concentration. In a U.S. trial, the ratio of whole blood concentration to plasma concentration averaged 35 (range 12 to 67). Metabolism Tacrolimus is extensively metabolized by the mixed-function oxidase system, primarily the cytochrome P-450 system (CYP3A). A metabolic pathway leading to the formation of eight possible metabolites has been proposed. Demethylation and hydroxylation were identified as the primary mechanisms of biotransformation in vitro . The major metabolite identified in incubations with human liver microsomes is 13-demethyl tacrolimus. In in vitro studies, a 31-demethyl metabolite has been reported to have the same activity as tacrolimus. Excretion The mean clearance following IV administration of tacrolimus is 0.040, 0.083, and 0.053, and 0.051 L/hr/kg in healthy volunteers, adult kidney transplant patients, adult liver transplant patients, and adult heart transplant patients, respectively. In man, less than 1% of the dose administered is excreted unchanged in urine. In a mass balance study of IV administered radiolabeled tacrolimus to six healthy volunteers, the mean recovery of radiolabel was 77.8 ± 12.7%. Fecal elimination accounted for 92.4 ± 1% and the elimination half-life based on radioactivity was 48.1 ± 15.9 hours whereas it was 43.5 ± 11.6 hours based on tacrolimus concentrations. The mean clearance of radiolabel was 0.029 ± 0.015 L/hr/kg and clearance of tacrolimus was 0.029 ± 0.009 L/hr/kg. When administered PO, the mean recovery of the radiolabel was 94.9 ± 30.7%. Fecal elimination accounted for 92.6 ± 30.7%, urinary elimination accounted for 2.3 ± 1.1% and the elimination half-life based on radioactivity was 31.9 ± 10.5 hours whereas it was 48.4 ± 12.3 hours based on tacrolimus concentrations. The mean clearance of radiolabel was 0.226 ± 0.116 L/hr/kg and clearance of tacrolimus 0.172 ± 0.088 L/hr/kg. Specific Populations Pediatric Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have been studied in liver transplantation patients, 0.7 to 13.2 years of age. Following IV administration of a 0.037 mg/kg/day dose to 12 pediatric patients, mean terminal half-life, volume of distribution and clearance were 11.5 ± 3.8 hours, 2.6 ± 2.1 L/kg and 0.138 ± 0.071 L/hr/kg, respectively. Following oral administration to nine patients, mean AUC and C max were 337 ± 167 ng•hr/mL and 48.4 ± 27.9 ng/mL, respectively. The absolute bioavailability was 31 ± 24%. Whole blood trough concentrations from 31 patients less than 12 years old showed that pediatric patients needed higher doses than adults to achieve similar tacrolimus trough concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have also been studied in kidney transplantation patients, 8.2 ± 2.4 years of age. Following IV infusion of a 0.06 (range 0.06 to 0.09) mg/kg/day to 12 pediatric patients (eight male and four female), mean terminal half-life and clearance were 10.2 ± 5 (range 3.4 to 25) hours and 0.12 ± 0.04 (range 0.06 to 0.17) L/hr/kg, respectively. Following oral administration to the same patients, mean AUC and C max were 181 ± 65 (range 81 to 300) ng•hr /mL and 30 ± 11 (range 14 to 49) ng/mL, respectively. The absolute bioavailability was 19 ± 14 (range 5.2 to 56) %. Renal and Hepatic Impairment The mean pharmacokinetic parameters for tacrolimus following single administrations to patients with renal and hepatic impairment are given in Table 15. Table 15. Pharmacokinetic In Renal and Hepatic Impaired Patients Population (No. of Patients) Dose AUC 0-t (ng•hr/mL) t1/2 (hr) V (L/kg) CI (L/hr/kg) Renal Impairment (n = 12) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV 393 ± 123 (t = 60 hr) 26.3 ± 9.2 1.07 ± 0.20 0.038 ± 0.014 Mild Hepatic Impairment (n = 6) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV 367 ± 107 (t = 72 hr) 60.6 ± 43.8 Range: 27.8 to 141 3.1 ± 1.6 0.042 ± 0.02 7.7 mg PO 488 ± 320 (t = 72 hr) 66.1 ± 44.8 Range: 29.5 to 138 3.7 ± 4.7 corrected for bioavailability 0.034 ± 0.019 Severe Hepatic Impairment (n = 6, IV) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV (n = 2) 762 ± 204 (t = 120 hr) 198 ± 158 Range:81 to 436 3.9 ± 1 0.017 ± 0.013 0.01 mg/kg/8 hr IV (n = 4) 289 ± 117 (t = 144 hr) (n = 5, PO) one patient did not receive the PO dose 8 mg PO (n = 1) 658 (t = 120 hr) 119 ± 35 Range: 85 to 178 3.1 ± 3.4 0.016 ± 0.011 5 mg PO (n = 4) 533 ± 156 (t = 144 hr) 4 mg PO (n = 1) Renal Impairment Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics following a single IV administration were determined in 12 patients (seven not on dialysis and five on dialysis, serum creatinine of 3.9 ± 1.6 and 12 ± 2.4 mg/dL, respectively) prior to their kidney transplant. The pharmacokinetic parameters obtained were similar for both groups. The mean clearance of tacrolimus in patients with renal dysfunction was similar to that in normal volunteers (Table 15) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ] . Hepatic Impairment Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics have been determined in six patients with mild hepatic dysfunction (mean Pugh score: 6.2) following single IV and oral administrations. The mean clearance of tacrolimus in patients with mild hepatic dysfunction was not substantially different from that in normal volunteers (see previous table). Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics were studied in six patients with severe hepatic dysfunction (mean Pugh score: > 10). The mean clearance was substantially lower in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction, irrespective of the route of administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ] . Race The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have been studied following single IV and oral administration of tacrolimus to ten African-American, 12 Latino-American, and 12 Caucasian healthy volunteers. There were no significant pharmacokinetic differences among the three ethnic groups following a 4 hour IV infusion of 0.015 mg/kg. However, after single oral administration of 5 mg, mean (± SD) tacrolimus C max in African-Americans (23.6 ± 12.1 ng/mL) was significantly lower than in Caucasians (40.2 ± 12.6 ng/mL) and the Latino-Americans (36.2 ± 15.8 ng/mL) (p < 0.01). Mean AUC 0-inf tended to be lower in African-Americans (203 ± 115 ng•hr/mL) than Caucasians (344 ± 186 ng•hr/mL) and Latino-Americans (274 ± 150 ng•hr/mL). The mean (± SD) absolute oral bioavailability (F) in African-Americans (12 ± 4.5%) and Latino-Americans (14 ± 7.4%) was significantly lower than in Caucasians (19 ± 5.8%, p = 0.011). There was no significant difference in mean terminal T 1/2 among the three ethnic groups (range from approximately 25 to 30 hours). A retrospective comparison of African-American and Caucasian kidney transplant patients indicated that African-American patients required higher tacrolimus doses to attain similar trough concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. Gender A formal trial to evaluate the effect of gender on tacrolimus pharmacokinetics has not been conducted, however, there was no difference in dosing by gender in the kidney transplant trial. A retrospective comparison of pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers, and in kidney, liver and heart transplant patients indicated no gender-based differences. Drug Interactions Frequent monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when concomitant use of the following drugs with tacrolimus is initiated or discontinued [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Telaprevir In a single dose study in nine healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with telaprevir (750 mg 3 times daily for 13 days) increased the tacrolimus dose-normalized C max by 9.3-fold and AUC by 70-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Boceprevir In a single dose study in 12 subjects, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with boceprevir (800 mg 3 times daily for 11 days) increased tacrolimus C max by 9.9-fold and AUC by 17-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Nelfinavir Based on a clinical study of five liver transplant recipients, co-administration of tacrolimus with nelfinavir increased blood concentrations of tacrolimus significantly and, as a result, a reduction in the tacrolimus dose by an average of 16-fold was needed to maintain mean trough tacrolimus blood concentrations of 9.7 ng/mL. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of tacrolimus and nelfinavir unless the benefits outweigh the risks [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Rifampin In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant decrease in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 6% vs. 7 ± 3%) was observed with concomitant rifampin administration (600 mg). In addition, there was a significant increase in tacrolimus clearance (0.036 ± 0.008 L/hr/kg vs. 0.053 ± 0.010 L/hr/kg) with concomitant rifampin administration [see Drug Interactions (7.7) ] . Magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide In a single dose crossover study in healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus and magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide resulted in a 21% increase in the mean tacrolimus AUC and a 10% decrease in the mean tacrolimus C max relative to tacrolimus administration alone [see Drug Interactions (7.10) ] . Ketoconazole In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant increase in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 5% vs. 30 ± 8%) was observed with concomitant ketoconazole administration (200 mg). The apparent oral clearance of tacrolimus during ketoconazole administration was significantly decreased compared to tacrolimus alone (0.430 ± 0.129 L/hr/kg vs. 0.148 ± 0.043 L/hr/kg). Overall, IV clearance of tacrolimus was not significantly changed by ketoconazole co-administration, although it was highly variable between patients [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Voriconazole (see complete prescribing information for VFEND ®* ) Repeat oral dose administration of voriconazole (400 mg every 12 hours for one day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for 6 days) increased tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC τ in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 1.9, 2.5) and 3-fold (90% CI: 2.7, 3.8), respectively [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Posaconazole (see complete prescribing information for Noxafil ®* ) Repeat oral administration of posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased tacrolimus (0.05 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 2.01, 2.42) and 4.5-fold (90% CI 4.03, 5.19), respectively [ s ee Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Caspofungin (see complete prescribing information for CANCIDAS ®* ) Caspofungin reduced the blood AUC 0-12 of tacrolimus by approximately 20%, peak blood concentration (C max ) by 16%, and 12 hour blood concentration (C12hr) by 26% in healthy adult subjects when tacrolimus (2 doses of 0.1 mg/kg 12 hours apart) was administered on the 10th day of CANCIDAS ® 70 mg daily, as compared to results from a control period in which tacrolimus was administered alone [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] .
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Mechanism of action
Information about the established mechanism(s) of the drugÕs action in humans at various levels (for example receptor, membrane, tissue, organ, whole body). If the mechanism of action is not known, this field contains a statement about the lack of information.12.1 Mechanism of Action Tacrolimus inhibits T-lymphocyte activation, although the exact mechanism of action is not known. Experimental evidence suggests that tacrolimus binds to an intracellular protein, FKBP-12. A complex of tacrolimus-FKBP-12, calcium, calmodulin, and calcineurin is then formed and the phosphatase activity of calcineurin-inhibited. This effect may prevent the dephosphorylation and translocation of nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NF-AT), a nuclear component thought to initiate gene transcription for the formation of lymphokines (such as interleukin-2, gamma interferon). The net result is the inhibition of T-lymphocyte activation (i.e., immunosuppression). Tacrolimus prolongs the survival of the host and transplanted graft in animal transplant models of liver, kidney, heart, bone marrow, small bowel and pancreas, lung and trachea, skin, cornea, and limb. In animals, tacrolimus has been demonstrated to suppress some humoral immunity and, to a greater extent, cell-mediated reactions such as allograft rejection, delayed type hypersensitivity, collagen-induced arthritis, experimental allergic encephalomyelitis, and graft versus host disease.
Pharmacokinetics
Information about the clinically significant pharmacokinetics of a drug or active metabolites, for instance pertinent absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion parameters.12.3 Pharmacokinetics Tacrolimus activity is primarily due to the parent drug. The pharmacokinetic parameters (mean ± S.D.) of tacrolimus have been determined following intravenous (IV) and/or oral (PO) administration in healthy volunteers, and in kidney transplant, liver transplant, and heart transplant patients (Table 14). Table 14. Pharmacokinetics Parameters (mean ± S.D.) of Tacrolimus in Healthy Volunteers and Patients Population N Route (Dose) Parameters C max (ng/mL) T max (hr) AUC (ng•hr/mL) t 1/2 (hr) CI (L/hr/kg) V (L/kg) Healthy Volunteers 8 IV (0.025 mg/kg/4hr) not applicable 598 AUC 0-120 ± 125 34.2 ± 7.7 0.040 ± 0.009 1.91 ± 0.31 16 PO (5 mg) 29.7 ± 7.2 1.6 ± 0.7 243 AUC 0-72 ± 73 34.8 ± 11.4 0.041 Corrected for individual bioavailability ± 0.008 1.94 ± 0.53 IV (0.02 mg/kg/12 hr) 294 AUC 0-inf ± 262 18.8 ± 16.7 0.083 ± 0.050 1.41 ± 0.66 Kidney Transplant Patients 26 PO (0.2 mg/kg/day) 19.2 ± 10.3 3 203 ± 42 not available PO (0.3 mg/kg/day) 24.2 ± 15.8 1.5 288 ± 93 Liver Transplant Patients 17 IV (0.05 mg/kg/12 hr) 3300 ± 2130 11.7 ± 3.9 0.053 ± 0.017 0.85 ± 0.30 PO (0.3 mg/kg/day) 68.5 ± 30 2.3 ± 1.5 519 ± 179 11 IV (0.01 mg/kg/day as a continuous infusion) 954 AUC 0-t ± 334 23.6 ± 9.22 0.051 ± 0.015 Heart Transplant Patients 11 PO (0.075 mg/kg/day) Determined after the first dose 14.7 ± 7.79 2.1 [0.5 to 6] Median [range] 82.7 AUC 0-12 ± 63.2 14 PO (0.15 mg/kg/day) 24.5 ± 13.7 1.5 [0.4 to 4] 142 ± 116 Due to intersubject variability in tacrolimus pharmacokinetics, individualization of dosing regimen is necessary for optimal therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . Pharmacokinetic data indicate that whole blood concentrations rather than plasma concentrations serve as the more appropriate sampling compartment to describe tacrolimus pharmacokinetics. Absorption Absorption of tacrolimus from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration is incomplete and variable. The absolute bioavailability of tacrolimus was 17 ± 10% in adult kidney transplant patients (N = 26), 22 ± 6% in adult liver transplant patients (N = 17), 23 ± 9% in adult heart transplant patients (N = 11) and 18 ± 5% in healthy volunteers (N = 16). A single dose trial conducted in 32 healthy volunteers established the bioequivalence of the 1 mg and 5 mg capsules. Another single dose trial in 32 healthy volunteers established the bioequivalence of the 0.5 mg and 1 mg capsules. Tacrolimus maximum blood concentrations (C max ) and area under the curve (AUC) appeared to increase in a dose-proportional fashion in 18 fasted healthy volunteers receiving a single oral dose of 3 mg, 7 mg, and 10 mg. In 18 kidney transplant patients, tacrolimus trough concentrations from 3 to 30 ng/mL measured at 10 to 12 hours post-dose (C min ) correlated well with the AUC (correlation coefficient 0.93). In 24 liver transplant patients over a concentration range of 10 to 60 ng/mL, the correlation coefficient was 0.94. In 25 heart transplant patients over a concentration range of 2 to 24 ng/mL, the correlation coefficient was 0.89 after an oral dose of 0.075 or 0.15 mg/kg/day at steady-state. Food Effects The rate and extent of tacrolimus absorption were greatest under fasted conditions. The presence and composition of food decreased both the rate and extent of tacrolimus absorption when administered to 15 healthy volunteers. The effect was most pronounced with a high-fat meal (848 kcal, 46% fat): mean AUC and C max were decreased 37% and 77%, respectively; T max was lengthened 5-fold. A high-carbohydrate meal (668 kcal, 85% carbohydrate) decreased mean AUC and mean C max by 28% and 65%, respectively. In healthy volunteers (N = 16), the time of the meal also affected tacrolimus bioavailability. When given immediately following the meal, mean C max was reduced 71%, and mean AUC was reduced 39%, relative to the fasted condition. When administered 1.5 hours following the meal, mean C max was reduced 63%, and mean AUC was reduced 39%, relative to the fasted condition. In 11 liver transplant patients, tacrolimus administered 15 minutes after a high fat (400 kcal, 34% fat) breakfast, resulted in decreased AUC (27 ± 18%) and C max (50 ± 19%), as compared to a fasted state. Tacrolimus capsules should be taken consistently every day either with or without food because the presence and composition of food decreases the bioavailability of tacrolimus [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . Distribution The plasma protein binding of tacrolimus is approximately 99% and is independent of concentration over a range of 5 to 50 ng/mL. Tacrolimus is bound mainly to albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, and has a high level of association with erythrocytes. The distribution of tacrolimus between whole blood and plasma depends on several factors, such as hematocrit, temperature at the time of plasma separation, drug concentration, and plasma protein concentration. In a U.S. trial, the ratio of whole blood concentration to plasma concentration averaged 35 (range 12 to 67). Metabolism Tacrolimus is extensively metabolized by the mixed-function oxidase system, primarily the cytochrome P-450 system (CYP3A). A metabolic pathway leading to the formation of eight possible metabolites has been proposed. Demethylation and hydroxylation were identified as the primary mechanisms of biotransformation in vitro . The major metabolite identified in incubations with human liver microsomes is 13-demethyl tacrolimus. In in vitro studies, a 31-demethyl metabolite has been reported to have the same activity as tacrolimus. Excretion The mean clearance following IV administration of tacrolimus is 0.040, 0.083, and 0.053, and 0.051 L/hr/kg in healthy volunteers, adult kidney transplant patients, adult liver transplant patients, and adult heart transplant patients, respectively. In man, less than 1% of the dose administered is excreted unchanged in urine. In a mass balance study of IV administered radiolabeled tacrolimus to six healthy volunteers, the mean recovery of radiolabel was 77.8 ± 12.7%. Fecal elimination accounted for 92.4 ± 1% and the elimination half-life based on radioactivity was 48.1 ± 15.9 hours whereas it was 43.5 ± 11.6 hours based on tacrolimus concentrations. The mean clearance of radiolabel was 0.029 ± 0.015 L/hr/kg and clearance of tacrolimus was 0.029 ± 0.009 L/hr/kg. When administered PO, the mean recovery of the radiolabel was 94.9 ± 30.7%. Fecal elimination accounted for 92.6 ± 30.7%, urinary elimination accounted for 2.3 ± 1.1% and the elimination half-life based on radioactivity was 31.9 ± 10.5 hours whereas it was 48.4 ± 12.3 hours based on tacrolimus concentrations. The mean clearance of radiolabel was 0.226 ± 0.116 L/hr/kg and clearance of tacrolimus 0.172 ± 0.088 L/hr/kg. Specific Populations Pediatric Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have been studied in liver transplantation patients, 0.7 to 13.2 years of age. Following IV administration of a 0.037 mg/kg/day dose to 12 pediatric patients, mean terminal half-life, volume of distribution and clearance were 11.5 ± 3.8 hours, 2.6 ± 2.1 L/kg and 0.138 ± 0.071 L/hr/kg, respectively. Following oral administration to nine patients, mean AUC and C max were 337 ± 167 ng•hr/mL and 48.4 ± 27.9 ng/mL, respectively. The absolute bioavailability was 31 ± 24%. Whole blood trough concentrations from 31 patients less than 12 years old showed that pediatric patients needed higher doses than adults to achieve similar tacrolimus trough concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. Pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have also been studied in kidney transplantation patients, 8.2 ± 2.4 years of age. Following IV infusion of a 0.06 (range 0.06 to 0.09) mg/kg/day to 12 pediatric patients (eight male and four female), mean terminal half-life and clearance were 10.2 ± 5 (range 3.4 to 25) hours and 0.12 ± 0.04 (range 0.06 to 0.17) L/hr/kg, respectively. Following oral administration to the same patients, mean AUC and C max were 181 ± 65 (range 81 to 300) ng•hr /mL and 30 ± 11 (range 14 to 49) ng/mL, respectively. The absolute bioavailability was 19 ± 14 (range 5.2 to 56) %. Renal and Hepatic Impairment The mean pharmacokinetic parameters for tacrolimus following single administrations to patients with renal and hepatic impairment are given in Table 15. Table 15. Pharmacokinetic In Renal and Hepatic Impaired Patients Population (No. of Patients) Dose AUC 0-t (ng•hr/mL) t1/2 (hr) V (L/kg) CI (L/hr/kg) Renal Impairment (n = 12) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV 393 ± 123 (t = 60 hr) 26.3 ± 9.2 1.07 ± 0.20 0.038 ± 0.014 Mild Hepatic Impairment (n = 6) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV 367 ± 107 (t = 72 hr) 60.6 ± 43.8 Range: 27.8 to 141 3.1 ± 1.6 0.042 ± 0.02 7.7 mg PO 488 ± 320 (t = 72 hr) 66.1 ± 44.8 Range: 29.5 to 138 3.7 ± 4.7 corrected for bioavailability 0.034 ± 0.019 Severe Hepatic Impairment (n = 6, IV) 0.02 mg/kg/4 hr IV (n = 2) 762 ± 204 (t = 120 hr) 198 ± 158 Range:81 to 436 3.9 ± 1 0.017 ± 0.013 0.01 mg/kg/8 hr IV (n = 4) 289 ± 117 (t = 144 hr) (n = 5, PO) one patient did not receive the PO dose 8 mg PO (n = 1) 658 (t = 120 hr) 119 ± 35 Range: 85 to 178 3.1 ± 3.4 0.016 ± 0.011 5 mg PO (n = 4) 533 ± 156 (t = 144 hr) 4 mg PO (n = 1) Renal Impairment Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics following a single IV administration were determined in 12 patients (seven not on dialysis and five on dialysis, serum creatinine of 3.9 ± 1.6 and 12 ± 2.4 mg/dL, respectively) prior to their kidney transplant. The pharmacokinetic parameters obtained were similar for both groups. The mean clearance of tacrolimus in patients with renal dysfunction was similar to that in normal volunteers (Table 15) [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.6) ] . Hepatic Impairment Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics have been determined in six patients with mild hepatic dysfunction (mean Pugh score: 6.2) following single IV and oral administrations. The mean clearance of tacrolimus in patients with mild hepatic dysfunction was not substantially different from that in normal volunteers (see previous table). Tacrolimus pharmacokinetics were studied in six patients with severe hepatic dysfunction (mean Pugh score: > 10). The mean clearance was substantially lower in patients with severe hepatic dysfunction, irrespective of the route of administration [see Dosage and Administration (2.4) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7) ] . Race The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus have been studied following single IV and oral administration of tacrolimus to ten African-American, 12 Latino-American, and 12 Caucasian healthy volunteers. There were no significant pharmacokinetic differences among the three ethnic groups following a 4 hour IV infusion of 0.015 mg/kg. However, after single oral administration of 5 mg, mean (± SD) tacrolimus C max in African-Americans (23.6 ± 12.1 ng/mL) was significantly lower than in Caucasians (40.2 ± 12.6 ng/mL) and the Latino-Americans (36.2 ± 15.8 ng/mL) (p < 0.01). Mean AUC 0-inf tended to be lower in African-Americans (203 ± 115 ng•hr/mL) than Caucasians (344 ± 186 ng•hr/mL) and Latino-Americans (274 ± 150 ng•hr/mL). The mean (± SD) absolute oral bioavailability (F) in African-Americans (12 ± 4.5%) and Latino-Americans (14 ± 7.4%) was significantly lower than in Caucasians (19 ± 5.8%, p = 0.011). There was no significant difference in mean terminal T 1/2 among the three ethnic groups (range from approximately 25 to 30 hours). A retrospective comparison of African-American and Caucasian kidney transplant patients indicated that African-American patients required higher tacrolimus doses to attain similar trough concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. Gender A formal trial to evaluate the effect of gender on tacrolimus pharmacokinetics has not been conducted, however, there was no difference in dosing by gender in the kidney transplant trial. A retrospective comparison of pharmacokinetics in healthy volunteers, and in kidney, liver and heart transplant patients indicated no gender-based differences. Drug Interactions Frequent monitoring of whole blood concentrations and appropriate dosage adjustments of tacrolimus are recommended when concomitant use of the following drugs with tacrolimus is initiated or discontinued [see Drug Interactions (7) ] . Telaprevir In a single dose study in nine healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with telaprevir (750 mg 3 times daily for 13 days) increased the tacrolimus dose-normalized C max by 9.3-fold and AUC by 70-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Boceprevir In a single dose study in 12 subjects, co-administration of tacrolimus (0.5 mg single dose) with boceprevir (800 mg 3 times daily for 11 days) increased tacrolimus C max by 9.9-fold and AUC by 17-fold compared to tacrolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Nelfinavir Based on a clinical study of five liver transplant recipients, co-administration of tacrolimus with nelfinavir increased blood concentrations of tacrolimus significantly and, as a result, a reduction in the tacrolimus dose by an average of 16-fold was needed to maintain mean trough tacrolimus blood concentrations of 9.7 ng/mL. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of tacrolimus and nelfinavir unless the benefits outweigh the risks [see Drug Interactions (7.3) ] . Rifampin In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant decrease in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 6% vs. 7 ± 3%) was observed with concomitant rifampin administration (600 mg). In addition, there was a significant increase in tacrolimus clearance (0.036 ± 0.008 L/hr/kg vs. 0.053 ± 0.010 L/hr/kg) with concomitant rifampin administration [see Drug Interactions (7.7) ] . Magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide In a single dose crossover study in healthy volunteers, co-administration of tacrolimus and magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide resulted in a 21% increase in the mean tacrolimus AUC and a 10% decrease in the mean tacrolimus C max relative to tacrolimus administration alone [see Drug Interactions (7.10) ] . Ketoconazole In a study of six normal volunteers, a significant increase in tacrolimus oral bioavailability (14 ± 5% vs. 30 ± 8%) was observed with concomitant ketoconazole administration (200 mg). The apparent oral clearance of tacrolimus during ketoconazole administration was significantly decreased compared to tacrolimus alone (0.430 ± 0.129 L/hr/kg vs. 0.148 ± 0.043 L/hr/kg). Overall, IV clearance of tacrolimus was not significantly changed by ketoconazole co-administration, although it was highly variable between patients [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Voriconazole (see complete prescribing information for VFEND ®* ) Repeat oral dose administration of voriconazole (400 mg every 12 hours for one day, then 200 mg every 12 hours for 6 days) increased tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC τ in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 1.9, 2.5) and 3-fold (90% CI: 2.7, 3.8), respectively [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Posaconazole (see complete prescribing information for Noxafil ®* ) Repeat oral administration of posaconazole (400 mg twice daily for 7 days) increased tacrolimus (0.05 mg/kg single dose) C max and AUC in healthy subjects by an average of 2-fold (90% CI: 2.01, 2.42) and 4.5-fold (90% CI 4.03, 5.19), respectively [ s ee Drug Interactions (7.4) ] . Caspofungin (see complete prescribing information for CANCIDAS ®* ) Caspofungin reduced the blood AUC 0-12 of tacrolimus by approximately 20%, peak blood concentration (C max ) by 16%, and 12 hour blood concentration (C12hr) by 26% in healthy adult subjects when tacrolimus (2 doses of 0.1 mg/kg 12 hours apart) was administered on the 10th day of CANCIDAS ® 70 mg daily, as compared to results from a control period in which tacrolimus was administered alone [see Drug Interactions (7.4) ] .
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Contraindications
Information about situations in which the drug product is contraindicated or should not be used because the risk of use clearly outweighs any possible benefit, including the type and nature of reactions that have been reported.4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Tacrolimus capsules are contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to tacrolimus. Tacrolimus injection is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to HCO-60 (polyoxyl 60 hydrogenated castor oil). Hypersensitivity symptoms reported include dyspnea, rash, pruritus, and acute respiratory distress syndrome [see Adverse Reactions (6) ] . • Hypersensitivity to tacrolimus or HCO-60 (polyoxyl 60 hydrogenated castor oil) ( 4 )
Description
General information about the drug product, including the proprietary and established name of the drug, the type of dosage form and route of administration to which the label applies, qualitative and quantitative ingredient information, the pharmacologic or therapeutic class of the drug, and the chemical name and structural formula of the drug.11 DESCRIPTION Tacrolimus capsules, USP are available for oral administration as capsules containing the equivalent of 0.5 mg, 1 mg or 5 mg of anhydrous tacrolimus. Inactive ingredients in capsules: anhydrous lactose, black iron oxide, colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, gelatin, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide and yellow iron oxide. In addition, the 0.5 mg capsules contain D&C Red No. 28, D&C Yellow No. 10 and FD&C Red No. 40, the 1 mg capsules contain FD&C Blue No. 1 and FD&C Red No. 3 and the 5 mg capsules contain D&C Red No. 33, D&C Red No. 28, and D&C Yellow No. 10. The imprinting ink contains the following: black iron oxide, D&C Yellow No. 10 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 1 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, propylene glycol and shellac glaze. Tacrolimus, previously known as FK506, is the active ingredient in tacrolimus capsules. Tacrolimus is a macrolide immunosuppressant produced by Streptomyces tsukubaensis . Chemically, tacrolimus is designated as (-)-(3 S ,4 R ,5 S ,8 R ,9 E ,12 S ,14 S ,15 R ,16 S ,18 R ,19 R ,26a S )-8-allyl-5,6,8,11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,24,25,26,26a-hexadecahydro-5,19-dihydroxy-3-[( E )-2-[(1 R ,3 R ,4 R )-4-hydroxy-3-methoxycyclohexyl]-1-methylvinyl]-14,16-dimethyoxy-4,10,12,18-tetramethyl-15,19-epoxy-3 H -pyrido[2,1- c ][1,4]oxaazacyclotricosine-1,7,20,21(4 H ,23 H )-tetrone-monohydrate. The chemical structure of tacrolimus is: Tacrolimus has a molecular formula of C 44 H 69 NO 12 •H 2 O and a formula weight of 822.03. Tacrolimus, USP appears as a white to off-white powder. It is insoluble in water, freely soluble in ethanol, very soluble in chloroform and soluble in methanol. USP Dissolution Test Pending. Chemical Structure-TACROLIMUS
Dosage and administration
Information about the drug product’s dosage and administration recommendations, including starting dose, dose range, titration regimens, and any other clinically sigificant information that affects dosing recommendations.2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Summary of Initial Oral Dosage Recommendation and Observed Whole Blood Trough Concentrations ( 2.1 , 2.2 ) Patient Population Recommended Initial Oral Dosage (two divided doses every 12 hours) Observed Whole Blood Trough Concentrations Adult Kidney transplant In 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 antagonist 0.1 mg/kg/day month 1 to 12: 4 to 11 ng/mL Adult Liver transplant Pediatric Liver transplant 0.10 to 0.15 mg/kg/day 0.15 to 0.20 mg/kg/day month 1 to 12: 5 to 20 ng/mL month 1 to 12: 5 to 20 ng/mL Adult Heart transplant 0.075 mg/kg/day month 1 to 3: 10 to 20 ng/mL month ≥ 4: 5 to 15 ng/mL • Careful and frequent monitoring of tacrolimus trough concentrations is recommended; Black patients may require higher doses in order to achieve comparable trough concentrations ( 2.1 ) • Hepatic/Renal impaired patients should receive doses at the lowest value of the recommended initial oral dosing range ( 2.3 , 2.4 ) • Administer capsules consistently with or without food; do not drink grapefruit juice ( 2.5 , 7.2 ) 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 tacrolimus capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules 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 Tacrolimus Capsules 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 patients In 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 antagonist In 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 month 1 to 3 and 5 to 12 ng/mL during month 4 to 12 [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. 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/mL month ≥ 4: 5 to 15 ng/mL Dosing should be titrated based on clinical assessments of rejection and tolerability. Lower tacrolimus 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 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 Tacrolimus Capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules. Close monitoring of blood concentrations is warranted. The use of tacrolimus capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules 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 tacrolimus capsules consistently every day either with or without food because the presence and composition of food decreases the bioavailability of tacrolimus capsules [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Patients should not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice in combination with tacrolimus capsules [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ]. Tacrolimus capsules should not be used simultaneously with cyclosporine. Tacrolimus capsules or cyclosporine should be discontinued at least 24 hours before initiating the other. In the presence of elevated tacrolimus capsules or cyclosporine concentrations, dosing with the other drug usually should be further delayed. In patients unable to take oral tacrolimus capsules, therapy may be initiated with tacrolimus injection as a continuous IV infusion. If IV therapy is necessary, conversion from IV to oral tacrolimus capsules 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.
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Dosage forms and strengths
Information about all available dosage forms and strengths for the drug product to which the labeling applies. This field may contain descriptions of product appearance.3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS • The 0.5 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a light orange opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2045 in black ink on both the cap and the body. • The 1 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a light blue opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2046 in black ink on both the cap and the body. • The 5 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a rubine red opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2047 in black ink on both the cap and the body. • Capsules: 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 5 mg ( 3 )
Indications and usage
A statement of each of the drug products indications for use, such as for the treatment, prevention, mitigation, cure, or diagnosis of a disease or condition, or of a manifestation of a recognized disease or condition, or for the relief of symptoms associated with a recognized disease or condition. This field may also describe any relevant limitations of use.1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Tacrolimus capsules, USP are a calcineurin-inhibitor immunosuppressant indicated for: • Prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving allogeneic liver, kidney or heart transplants ( 1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3 ) • Use concomitantly with adrenal corticosteroids; in kidney and heart transplant, use in conjunction with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) ( 1.1 , 1.2 , 1.3 ) • Limitations of Use ( 1.4 ): • Do not use simultaneously with cyclosporine • Intravenous use reserved for patients who cannot tolerate capsules orally • Use with sirolimus is not recommended in liver and heart transplant; use with sirolimus in kidney transplant has not been established 1.1 Prophylaxis of Organ Rejection in Kidney Transplant Tacrolimus capsules, USP are indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving allogeneic kidney transplants. It is recommended that tacrolimus capsules be used concomitantly with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and adrenal corticosteroids [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving tacrolimus capsules [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ]. 1.2 Prophylaxis of Organ Rejection in Liver Transplant Tacrolimus capsules are indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving allogeneic liver transplants. It is recommended that tacrolimus capsules be used concomitantly with adrenal corticosteroids [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving tacrolimus capsules [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . 1.3 Prophylaxis of Organ Rejection in Heart Transplant Tacrolimus capsules are indicated for the prophylaxis of organ rejection in patients receiving allogeneic heart transplants. It is recommended that tacrolimus capsules be used concomitantly with azathioprine or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and adrenal corticosteroids [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Therapeutic drug monitoring is recommended for all patients receiving tacrolimus capsules [see Dosage and Administration (2.6) ] . 1.4 Limitations of Use Tacrolimus capsules should not be used simultaneously with cyclosporine [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) ] . Tacrolimus injection should be reserved for patients unable to take tacrolimus capsules orally [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ]. Use with sirolimus is not recommended in liver and heart transplant. The safety and efficacy of tacrolimus capsules with sirolimus has not been established in kidney transplant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ].
Spl product data elements
Usually a list of ingredients in a drug product.Tacrolimus Tacrolimus TACROLIMUS TACROLIMUS ANHYDROUS ANHYDROUS LACTOSE FERROSOFERRIC OXIDE SILICON DIOXIDE CROSCARMELLOSE SODIUM GELATIN HYPROMELLOSES LACTOSE MONOHYDRATE MAGNESIUM STEARATE SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE TITANIUM DIOXIDE FERRIC OXIDE YELLOW FD&C BLUE NO. 1 FD&C RED NO. 3 D&C YELLOW NO. 10 FD&C BLUE NO. 2 FD&C RED NO. 40 PROPYLENE GLYCOL SHELLAC gray opaque light blue opaque MYLAN;2046
Carcinogenesis and mutagenesis and impairment of fertility
Information about carcinogenic, mutagenic, or fertility impairment potential revealed by studies in animals. Information from human data about such potential is part of the warnings field.13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenicity studies were conducted in male and female rats and mice. In the 80-week mouse oral study and in the 104-week rat oral study, no relationship of tumor incidence to tacrolimus dosage was found. The highest dose used in the mouse was 3 mg/kg/day (0.9 to 2.2 times the AUC at clinical doses of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day) and in the rat was 5 mg/kg/day (0.265 to 0.65 times the AUC at clinical doses of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day) [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . A 104-week dermal carcinogenicity study was performed in mice with tacrolimus ointment (0.03% to 3%), equivalent to tacrolimus doses of 1.1 to 118 mg/kg/day or 3.3 to 354 mg/m 2 /day. In the study, the incidence of skin tumors was minimal and the topical application of tacrolimus was not associated with skin tumor formation under ambient room lighting. However, a statistically significant elevation in the incidence of pleomorphic lymphoma in high dose male (25/50) and female animals (27/50) and in the incidence of undifferentiated lymphoma in high dose female animals (13/50) was noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study. Lymphomas were noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study at a daily dose of 3.5 mg/kg (0.1% tacrolimus ointment). No drug-related tumors were noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study at a daily dose of 1.1 mg/kg (0.03% tacrolimus ointment). The relevance of topical administration of tacrolimus in the setting of systemic tacrolimus use is unknown. The implications of these carcinogenicity studies to the human condition are limited; doses of tacrolimus were administered that likely induced immunosuppression in these animals impairing their immune system’s ability to inhibit unrelated carcinogenesis. No evidence of genotoxicity was seen in bacterial ( Salmonella and E. coli ) or mammalian (Chinese hamster lung-derived cells) in vitro assays of mutagenicity, the in vitro CHO/HGPRT assay of mutagenicity, or in vivo clastogenicity assays performed in mice; tacrolimus did not cause unscheduled DNA synthesis in rodent hepatocytes. Tacrolimus given orally at 1 mg/kg (0.8 to 2.2 times the clinical dose range of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day based on body surface area) to male and female rats, prior to and during mating, as well as to dams during gestation and lactation, was associated with embryolethality and adverse effects on female reproduction. Effects on female reproductive function (parturition) and embryolethal effects were indicated by a higher rate of pre-implantation loss and increased numbers of undelivered and nonviable pups. When given at 3.2 mg/kg (2.6 to 6.9 times the clinical dose range based on body surface area), tacrolimus was associated with maternal and paternal toxicity as well as reproductive toxicity including marked adverse effects on estrus cycles, parturition, pup viability, and pup malformations.
Nonclinical toxicology
Information about toxicology in non-human subjects.13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenicity studies were conducted in male and female rats and mice. In the 80-week mouse oral study and in the 104-week rat oral study, no relationship of tumor incidence to tacrolimus dosage was found. The highest dose used in the mouse was 3 mg/kg/day (0.9 to 2.2 times the AUC at clinical doses of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day) and in the rat was 5 mg/kg/day (0.265 to 0.65 times the AUC at clinical doses of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day) [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . A 104-week dermal carcinogenicity study was performed in mice with tacrolimus ointment (0.03% to 3%), equivalent to tacrolimus doses of 1.1 to 118 mg/kg/day or 3.3 to 354 mg/m 2 /day. In the study, the incidence of skin tumors was minimal and the topical application of tacrolimus was not associated with skin tumor formation under ambient room lighting. However, a statistically significant elevation in the incidence of pleomorphic lymphoma in high dose male (25/50) and female animals (27/50) and in the incidence of undifferentiated lymphoma in high dose female animals (13/50) was noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study. Lymphomas were noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study at a daily dose of 3.5 mg/kg (0.1% tacrolimus ointment). No drug-related tumors were noted in the mouse dermal carcinogenicity study at a daily dose of 1.1 mg/kg (0.03% tacrolimus ointment). The relevance of topical administration of tacrolimus in the setting of systemic tacrolimus use is unknown. The implications of these carcinogenicity studies to the human condition are limited; doses of tacrolimus were administered that likely induced immunosuppression in these animals impairing their immune system’s ability to inhibit unrelated carcinogenesis. No evidence of genotoxicity was seen in bacterial ( Salmonella and E. coli ) or mammalian (Chinese hamster lung-derived cells) in vitro assays of mutagenicity, the in vitro CHO/HGPRT assay of mutagenicity, or in vivo clastogenicity assays performed in mice; tacrolimus did not cause unscheduled DNA synthesis in rodent hepatocytes. Tacrolimus given orally at 1 mg/kg (0.8 to 2.2 times the clinical dose range of 0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg/day based on body surface area) to male and female rats, prior to and during mating, as well as to dams during gestation and lactation, was associated with embryolethality and adverse effects on female reproduction. Effects on female reproductive function (parturition) and embryolethal effects were indicated by a higher rate of pre-implantation loss and increased numbers of undelivered and nonviable pups. When given at 3.2 mg/kg (2.6 to 6.9 times the clinical dose range based on body surface area), tacrolimus was associated with maternal and paternal toxicity as well as reproductive toxicity including marked adverse effects on estrus cycles, parturition, pup viability, and pup malformations.
Package label principal display panel
The content of the principal display panel of the product package, usually including the product’s name, dosage forms, and other key information about the drug product.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 1mg NDC 43353-317 Tacrolimus 1mg - Rx Only Bottle Label 1mg
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Information not classified as belonging to one of the other fields. Approximately 40% of labeling with effective_time between June 2009 and August 2014 have information in this field.Repackaging Information Please reference the How Supplied section listed above for a description of individual tablets. This drug product has been received by Aphena Pharma - TN in a manufacturer or distributor packaged configuration and repackaged in full compliance with all applicable cGMP regulations. The package configurations available from Aphena are listed below: Count 1 mg 9000 43353-317-09 Store between 20°-25°C (68°-77°F). See USP Controlled Room Temperature. Dispense in a tight light-resistant container as defined by USP. Keep this and all drugs out of the reach of children. Repackaged by: Cookeville, TN 38506 20171025DKJ Aphena Pharma Solutions - TN
| Count | |
| 9000 | 43353-317-09 |
Tacrolimus: Information for patients
Information necessary for patients to use the drug safely and effectively, such as precautions concerning driving or the concomitant use of other substances that may have harmful additive effects.17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION 17.1 Administration Advise patients to: • Take tacrolimus capsules at the same 12 hour intervals everyday to achieve consistent blood concentrations. • Take tacrolimus capsules consistently either with or without food because the presence and composition of food decreases the bioavailability of tacrolimus capsules. • Not to eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice in combination with tacrolimus capsules [see Drug Interactions (7.2) ]. 17.2 Development of Lymphoma and Other Malignancies Inform patients they are at increased risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression. Advise patients to limit exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light by wearing protective clothing and use a sunscreen with a high protection factor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . 17.3 Increased Risk of Infection Inform patients they are at increased risk of developing a variety of infections, including opportunistic infections, due to immunosuppression and to contact their physician if they develop any symptoms of infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3 , 5.4 , 5.5) ] . 17.4 New Onset Diabetes After Transplant Inform patients that tacrolimus capsules can cause diabetes mellitus and should be advised to contact their physician if they develop frequent urination, increased thirst or hunger [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] . 17.5 Nephrotoxicity Inform patients that tacrolimus capsules can have toxic effects on the kidney that should be monitored. Advise patients to attend all visits and complete all blood tests ordered by their medical team [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . 17.6 Neurotoxicity Inform patients that they are at risk of developing adverse neurologic effects including seizure, altered mental status, and tremor. Advise patients to contact their physician should they develop vision changes, deliriums, or tremors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] . 17.7 Hyperkalemia Inform patients that tacrolimus capsules can cause hyperkalemia. Monitoring of potassium levels may be necessary, especially with concomitant use of other drugs known to cause hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] . 17.8 Hypertension Inform patients that tacrolimus capsules can cause high blood pressure which may require treatment with antihypertensive therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] . 17.9 Drug Interactions Instruct patients to tell their health care providers when they start or stop taking all the medicines, including prescription medicines and non-prescription medicines, natural or herbal remedies, nutritional supplements and vitamins [see Drug Interactions (7) ]. 17.10 Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers Instruct patients to tell their healthcare provider if they plan to become pregnant or breastfeed their infant [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1 , 8.3) ]. 17.11 Immunizations Inform patients that tacrolimus capsules can interfere with the usual response to immunizations and that they should avoid live vaccines [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16) ].
Spl patient package insert
Information necessary for patients to use the drug safely and effectively.PATIENT INFORMATION LEAFLET TACROLIMUS CAPSULES, USP (ta kroe′ li mus) 0.5 mg, 1 mg and 5 mg Read this Patient Information Leaflet before you start taking tacrolimus capsules and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking with your doctor about your medical condition or your treatment. What is the most important information I should know about tacrolimus capsules? Tacrolimus capsules can cause serious side effects, including: • Increased risk of cancer. People who take tacrolimus capsules have an increased risk of getting some kinds of cancer, including skin and lymph gland cancer (lymphoma). • Increased risk of infection. Tacrolimus capsule is a medicine that affects your immune system. Tacrolimus capsules can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. Serious infections can happen in people receiving tacrolimus capsules that can cause death. Call your doctor right away if you have symptoms of an infection such as: 1. fever 2. sweats or chills 3. cough or flu-like symptoms 4. muscle aches 5. warm, red, or painful areas on your skin What are tacrolimus capsules? Tacrolimus capsules are a prescription medicine used with other medicines to help prevent organ rejection in people who have had a kidney, liver, or heart transplant and tacrolimus capsules are not for use with medicines called cyclosporines (Gengraf ®* , Neoral ®* , and Sandimune ®* ). Tacrolimus capsules are not for use with a medicine called sirolimus (Rapamune ®* ) in people who have had a liver or heart transplants. It is not known if tacrolimus capsules are safe and effective when used with sirolimus in people who have had kidney transplants. It is not known if tacrolimus capsules are safe and effective in children who have had a kidney or heart transplants. Who should not take tacrolimus capsules? Do not take tacrolimus capsules if you are allergic to tacrolimus or any of the ingredients in tacrolimus capsules. See the end of this leaflet for a complete list of ingredients in tacrolimus capsules. What should I tell my doctor before taking tacrolimus capsules? Before you take tacrolimus capsules, tell your doctor if you: • plan to receive any live vaccines • have or have had liver, kidney or heart problems • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Tacrolimus capsules may harm your unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Tacrolimus can pass into your breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you will take tacrolimus or breastfeed. You should not do both. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take: • cyclosporine (Gengraf ®* , Neoral ®* , and Sandimune ®* ) • sirolimus (Rapamune ®* ) • nelfinavir (Viracept ®* ) • telaprevir (Incivek TM* ) • boceprevir (Victrelis TM* ) • amiodarone (Cordarone TM* , Nexterone TM* , Pacerone TM* ) Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure if you take any of the medicines listed above. Tacrolimus capsules may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how tacrolimus capsules work. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your doctor and pharmacist when you get a new medicine. How should I take tacrolimus capsules? • Take tacrolimus capsules exactly as your doctor tells you to take it. • Your doctor will tell you how many tacrolimus capsules to take and when to take them. • Your doctor may change your tacrolimus capsules dose if needed. Do not stop taking or change your dose of tacrolimus capsules without talking to your doctor. • Take tacrolimus capsules with or without food. • Take tacrolimus capsules the same way everyday. For example, if you choose to take tacrolimus capsules with food, you should always take tacrolimus capsules with food. • Take tacrolimus capsules at the same time each day, 12 hours apart. For example, if you take your first dose at 7:00 a.m. you should take your second dose at 7:00 p.m. • Taking tacrolimus capsules at the same time each day helps to keep enough medicine in your body to give your transplanted organ the around-the-clock medicine it needs. • Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking tacrolimus capsules. • If you take too many tacrolimus capsules, call your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away. What should I avoid while taking tacrolimus capsules? • While you take tacrolimus capsules you should not receive any live vaccines such as: • flu vaccine through your nose • measles • mumps • rubella • polio by mouth • BCG (TB vaccine) • yellow fever • chicken pox (varicella) • typhoid • Avoid exposure to sunlight and UV light such as tanning machines. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen. What are the possible side effects of tacrolimus capsules? Tacrolimus capsules may cause serious side effects, including: • See “What is the most important information I should know about tacrolimus capsules?” • high blood sugar (diabetes). Your doctor may do certain tests to check for diabetes while you take tacrolimus capsules. Call your doctor right away if you have: • frequent urination • increased thirst or hunger • blurred vision • confusion • drowsiness • loss of appetite • fruity smell on your breath • nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain • kidney problems. Your doctor may do certain tests to check your kidney function while you take tacrolimus capsules. • nervous system problems. Call your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms while taking tacrolimus capsules. These could be signs of a serious nervous system problem: • confusion • coma • muscle tremors • numbness and tingling • headache • seizures • vision changes • high levels of potassium in your blood. Your doctor may do certain tests to check your potassium level while you take tacrolimus capsules. • high blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure while you take tacrolimus capsules. • heart problems (myocardial hypertrophy). Tell your doctor right away if you get any of these symptoms of heart problems while taking tacrolimus capsules: • shortness of breath • chest pain • feel lightheaded • feel faint The most common side effects of tacrolimus capsules in people receiving kidney transplants are: • infection • tremors (shaking of the body) • high blood pressure • kidney problems • constipation • diarrhea • headache • stomach pain • trouble sleeping • nausea • low levels of phosphate in your blood • swelling of the hands, ankles, or legs • weakness • pain • high levels of fat in your blood • high levels of potassium in your blood • low red blood cell count (anemia) The most common side effects of tacrolimus capsules in people receiving liver transplants are: • shaking of the body tremors • headache • diarrhea • high blood pressure • nausea • kidney problems • stomach pain • trouble sleeping • numbness or tingling in your hands or feet • anemia • pain • fever • weakness • high levels of potassium in the blood • low levels of magnesium in the blood The most common side effects of tacrolimus capsules for heart transplant patients are: • kidney problems • high blood pressure Tell your doctor if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects of tacrolimus capsules. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. How should I store tacrolimus capsules? • Store tacrolimus capsules at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). • Safely throw away medicine that is out of date or no longer needed. Keep tacrolimus capsules and all medicines out of reach of children. General information about the safe and effective use of tacrolimus capsules Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information Leaflet. Do not use tacrolimus capsules for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give tacrolimus capsules to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. How do tacrolimus capsules protect my new organ? The body’s immune system protects the body against anything that it does not recognize as part of the body. For example, when the immune system detects a virus or bacteria it tries to get rid of it to prevent infection. When a person has a liver, kidney, or heart transplant, the immune system does not recognize the new organ as a part of the body and tries to get rid of it, too. This is called “rejection”. Tacrolimus capsules protects your new organ by slowing down the body’s immune system. This Patient Information Leaflet summarizes the most important information about tacrolimus capsules. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about tacrolimus capsules that is written for health professionals. For more information, call Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. at 1-877-446-3679 (1-877-4-INFO-RX). What are the ingredients in tacrolimus capsules, USP? Active ingredient: tacrolimus Inactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, black iron oxide, colloidal silicon dioxide, croscarmellose sodium, gelatin, hypromellose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide and yellow iron oxide. In addition, the 0.5 mg capsules contain D&C Red No. 28, D&C Yellow No. 10 and FD&C Red No. 40, the 1 mg capsules contain FD&C Blue No. 1 and FD&C Red No. 3 and the 5 mg capsules contain D&C Red No. 33, D&C Red No. 28 and D&C Yellow No. 10. The imprinting ink contains the following: black iron oxide, D&C Yellow No. 10 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 1 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. 2 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, propylene glycol and shellac glaze. * The brands listed are trademarks of their respective owners. This Patient Information Leaflet has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Manufactured by: Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc. Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A. Marketed/ Packaged by: GSMS, Inc. Camarillo, CA 93012 USA REVISED AUGUST 2015 TACR:R3ppbpt
Clinical studies
This field may contain references to clinical studies in place of detailed discussion in other sections of the labeling.14 CLINICAL STUDIES 14.1 Kidney Transplantation Tacrolimus/azathioprine (AZA) Tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in conjunction with azathioprine and corticosteroids following kidney transplantation was assessed in a randomized, multicenter, non-blinded, prospective trial. There were 412 kidney transplant patients enrolled at 19 clinical sites in the United States. Study therapy was initiated when renal function was stable as indicated by a serum creatinine ≤ 4 mg/dL (median of 4 days after transplantation, range 1 to 14 days). Patients less than 6 years of age were excluded. There were 205 patients randomized to tacrolimus-based immunosuppression and 207 patients were randomized to cyclosporine-based immunosuppression. All patients received prophylactic induction therapy consisting of an antilymphocyte antibody preparation, corticosteroids and azathioprine. Overall 1 year patient and graft survival was 96.1% and 89.6%, respectively. Data from this trial of tacrolimus in conjunction with azathioprine indicate that during the first 3 months of that trial, 80% of the patients maintained trough concentrations between 7 to 20 ng/mL, and then between 5 to 15 ng/mL, through 1 year. Tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) Tacrolimus-based immunosuppression in conjunction with MMF, corticosteroids, and induction has been studied. In a randomized, open-label, multi-center trial (Study 1), 1,589 kidney transplant patients received tacrolimus (Group C, n = 401), sirolimus (Group D, n = 399), or one of two cyclosporine (CsA) regimens (Group A, n = 390 and Group B, n = 399) in combination with MMF and corticosteroids; all patients, except those in one of the two cyclosporine groups, also received induction with daclizumab. The trial was conducted outside the United States; the trial population was 93% Caucasian. In this trial, mortality at 12 months in patients receiving tacrolimus/MMF was similar (3%) compared to patients receiving cyclosporine/MMF (3% and 2%) or sirolimus/MMF (3%). Patients in the tacrolimus group exhibited higher estimated creatinine clearance rates (eCLcr) using the Cockcroft-Gault formula (Table 16) and experienced fewer efficacy failures, defined as biopsy proven acute rejection (BPAR), graft loss, death, and/or lost to follow-up (Table 17) in comparison to each of the other three groups. Patients randomized to tacrolimus/MMF were more likely to develop diarrhea and diabetes after the transplantation and experienced similar rates of infections compared to patients randomized to either cyclosporine/MMF regimen [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Table 16. Estimated Creatinine Clearance at 12 Months (Study 1) Key: CsA = Cyclosporine, CS = Corticosteroids, Tac = Tacrolimus, Siro = Sirolimus Group eCL cr [mL/min] at Month 12 All death/graft loss (n = 41, 27, 23 and 42 in Groups A, B, C and D) and patients whose last recorded creatinine values were prior to month 3 visit (n = 10, 9, 7 and 9 in Groups A, B, C and D, respectively) were inputed with Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) of 10 mL/min; a subject's last observed creatinine value from month 3 on was used for the remainder of subjects with missing creatinine at month 12 (n = 11, 12, 15 and 19 for Groups A, B, C and D, respectively). Weight was also imputed in the calculation of estimated GFR, if missing. N MEAN SD MEDIAN Treatment Difference with Group C (99.2% CI Adjusted for multiple (6) pairwise comparisons using Bonferroni corrections. ) (A) CsA/MMF/CS 390 56.5 25.8 56.9 -8.6 (-13.7, -3.7) (B) CsA/MMF/CS/Daclizumab 399 58.9 25.6 60.9 -6.2 (-11.2, -1.2) (C) Tac/MMF/CS/Daclizumab 401 65.1 27.4 66.2 - (D) Siro/MMF/CS/Daclizumab 399 56.2 27.4 57.3 -8.9 (-14.1, -3.9) Total 1,589 59.2 26.8 60.5 Table 17. Incidence of BPAR, Graft Loss, Death or Loss to Follow-up at 12 Months (Study 1) Key: Group A = CsA/MMF/CS, B = CsA/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, C = Tac/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, and D = Siro/MMF/CS/Daclizumab Group A N = 390 Group B N = 399 Group C N = 401 Group D N = 399 Overall Failure 141 (36.2%) 126 (31.6%) 82 (20.4%) 185 (46.4%) Components of efficacy failure BPAR 113 (29%) 106 (26.6%) 60 (15%) 152 (38.1%) Graft loss excluding death 28 (7.2%) 20 (5%) 12 (3%) 30 (7.5%) Mortality 13 (3.3%) 7 (1.8%) 11 (2.7%) 12 (3%) Lost to follow-up 5 (1.3%) 7 (1.8%) 5 (1.3%) 6 (1.5%) Treatment Difference of efficacy failure compared to Group C (99.2% CI Adjusted for multiple (6) pairwise comparisons using Bonferroni corrections. ) 15.8% (7.1%, 24.3%) 11.2% (2.7%, 19.5%) - 26% (17.2%, 34.7%) The protocol-specified target tacrolimus trough concentrations (C trough,Tac ) were 3 to 7 ng/mL; however, the observed median C troughs,Tac approximated 7 ng/mL throughout the 12 month trial (Table 18). Approximately 80% of patients maintained tacrolimus whole blood concentrations between 4 to 11 ng/mL through 1 year post-transplant. Table 18. Tacrolimus Whole Blood Trough Concentrations (Study 1) Time Median (P10 to P90 10 to 90 th Percentile: range of C trough , Tac that excludes lowest 10% and highest 10% of C trough , Tac ) tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations (ng/mL) Day 30 (N = 366) 6.9 (4.4 to 11.3) Day 90 (N = 351) 6.8 (4.1 to 10.7) Day 180 (N = 355) 6.5 (4 to 9.6) Day 365 (N = 346) 6.5 (3.8 to 10) The protocol-specified target cyclosporine trough concentrations (C trough,CsA ) for Group B were 50 to 100 ng/mL; however, the observed median C troughs,CsA approximated 100 ng/mL throughout the 12 month trial. The protocol-specified target C troughs , CsA for Group A were 150 to 300 ng/mL for the first 3 months and 100 to 200 ng/mL from month 4 to month 12; the observed median C troughs, CsA approximated 225 ng/mL for the first 3 months and 140 ng/mL from month 4 to month 12. While patients in all groups started MMF at 1 gram twice daily, the MMF dose was reduced to less than 2 g per day in 63% of patients in the tacrolimus treatment arm by month 12 (Table 19); approximately 50% of these MMF dose reductions were due to adverse reactions. By comparison, the MMF dose was reduced to less than 2 g per day in 49% and 45% of patients in the two cyclosporine arms (Group A and Group B, respectively), by month 12 and approximately 40% of MMF dose reductions were due to adverse reactions. Table 19. MMF Dose Over Time in Tacrolimus/MMF (Group C) (Study 1) Key: Time-averaged MMF dose = (total MMF dose)/(duration of treatment) Time period (Days) Time-averaged MMF dose (grams per day) Percentage of patients for each time-averaged MMF dose range during various treatment periods. Administration of 2 g per day of time-averaged MMF dose means that MMF dose was not reduced in those patients during the treatment periods. Less than 2 2 Greater than 2 0 to 30 (N = 364) 37% 60% 2% 0 to 90 (N = 373) 47% 51% 2% 0 to 180 (N = 377) 56% 42% 2% 0 to 365 (N = 380) 63% 36% 1% In a second randomized, open-label, multi-center trial (Study 2), 424 kidney transplant patients received tacrolimus (N = 212) or cyclosporine (N = 212) in combination with MMF 1 gram twice daily, basiliximab induction, and corticosteroids. In this trial, the rate for the combined endpoint of BPAR, graft failure, death, and/or lost to follow-up at 12 months in the tacrolimus/MMF group was similar to the rate in the cyclosporine/MMF group. There was, however, an imbalance in mortality at 12 months in those patients receiving tacrolimus/MMF (4%) compared to those receiving cyclosporine/MMF (2%), including cases attributed to over immunosuppression (Table 20). Table 20. Incidence of BPAR, Graft Loss, Death or Loss to Follow-up at 12 Months (Study 2) Tacrolimus/MMF (N = 212) Cyclosporine/MMF (N = 212) Overall Failure 32 (15.1%) 36 (17%) Components of efficacy failure BPAR 16 (7.5%) 29 (13.7%) Graft loss excluding death 6 (2.8%) 4 (1.9%) Mortality 9 (4.2%) 5 (2.4%) Lost to follow-up 4 (1.9%) 1 (0.5%) Treatment Difference of efficacy failure compared to Tacrolimus/MMF group (95% CI 95% confidence interval calculated using Fisher's Exact Test ) 1.9% (-5.2%, 9%) The protocol-specified target tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations (C trough , Tac ) in Study 2 were 7 to 16 ng/mL for the first 3 months and 5 to 15 ng/mL thereafter. The observed median C troughs,Tac approximated 10 ng/mL during the first 3 months and 8 ng/mL from month 4 to month 12 (Table 21). Approximately 80% of patients maintained tacrolimus whole trough blood concentrations between 6 to 16 ng/mL during months 1 through 3 and, then, between 5 to 12 ng/mL from month 4 through 1 year. Table 21. Tacrolimus Whole Blood Trough Concentrations (Study 2) Time Median (P10 to P90 10 to 90th Percentile: range of Ctrough,Tac that excludes lowest 10% and highest 10% of Ctrough, Tac ) tacrolimus whole blood trough concentrations (ng/mL) Day 30 (N = 174) 10.5 (6.3 to 16.8) Day 60 (N = 179) 9.2 (5.9 to 15.3) Day 120 (N = 176) 8.3 (4.6 to 13.3) Day 180 (N = 171) 7.8 (5.5 to 13.2) Day 365 (N = 178) 7.1 (4.2 to 12.4) The protocol-specified target cyclosporine whole blood concentrations (C trough,CsA ) were 125 to 400 ng/mL for the first 3 months, and 100 to 300 ng/mL thereafter. The observed median C troughs, CsA approximated 280 ng/mL during the first 3 months and 190 ng/mL from month 4 to month 12. Patients in both groups started MMF at 1gram twice daily. The MMF dose was reduced to less than 2 grams per day by month 12 in 62% of patients in the tacrolimus/MMF group (Table 22) and in 47% of patients in the cyclosporine/MMF group. Approximately 63% and 55% of these MMF dose reductions were because of adverse reactions in the tacrolimus/MMF group and the cyclosporine/MMF group, respectively [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. Table 22. MMF Dose Over Time in the Tacrolimus/MMF Group (Study 2) Key: Time-averaged MMF dose = (total MMF dose)/(duration of treatment) Time period (Days) Time-averaged MMF dose (g/day) Percentage of patients for each time-averaged MMF dose range during various treatment periods. Two grams per day of time-averaged MMF dose means that MMF dose was not reduced in those patients during the treatment periods. Less than 2 2 Greater than 2 0 to 30 (N = 212) 25% 69% 6% 0 to 90 (N = 212) 41% 53% 6% 0 to 180 (N = 212) 52% 41% 7% 0 to 365 (N = 212) 62% 34% 4% 14.2 Liver Transplantation The safety and efficacy of tacrolimus-based immunosuppression following orthotopic liver transplantation were assessed in two prospective, randomized, non-blinded multicenter trials. The active control groups were treated with a cyclosporine-based immunosuppressive regimen (CsA/AZA). Both trials used concomitant adrenal corticosteroids as part of the immunosuppressive regimens. These trials compared patient and graft survival rates at 12 months following transplantation. In one trial, 529 patients were enrolled at 12 clinical sites in the United States; prior to surgery, 263 were randomized to the tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive regimen and 266 to the CsA/AZA. In 10 of the 12 sites, the same CsA/AZA protocol was used, while two sites used different control protocols. This trial excluded patients with renal dysfunction, fulminant hepatic failure with Stage IV encephalopathy, and cancers; pediatric patients (≤ 12 years old) were allowed. In the second trial, 545 patients were enrolled at eight clinical sites in Europe; prior to surgery, 270 were randomized to the tacrolimus-based immunosuppressive regimen and 275 to CsA/AZA. In this trial, each center used its local standard CsA/AZA protocol in the active-control arm. This trial excluded pediatric patients, but did allow enrollment of subjects with renal dysfunction, fulminant hepatic failure in Stage IV encephalopathy, and cancers other than primary hepatic with metastases. One year patient survival and graft survival in the tacrolimus-based treatment groups were similar to those in the CsA/AZA treatment groups in both trials. The overall 1 year patient survival (CsA/AZA and tacrolimus-based treatment groups combined) was 88% in the U.S. trial and 78% in the European trial. The overall 1 year graft survival (CsA/AZA and tacrolimus-based treatment groups combined) was 81% in the U.S. trial and 73% in the European trial. In both trials, the median time to convert from IV to oral tacrolimus dosing was 2 days. Although there is a lack of direct correlation between tacrolimus concentrations and drug efficacy, data from clinical trials of liver transplant patients have shown an increasing incidence of adverse reactions with increasing trough blood concentrations. Most patients are stable when trough whole blood concentrations are maintained between 5 to 20 ng/mL. Long-term post-transplant patients often are maintained at the low end of this target range. Data from the U.S. clinical trial show that the median trough blood concentrations, measured at intervals from the second week to 1 year post-transplantation ranged from 9.8 ng/mL to 19.4 ng/mL. 14.3 Heart Transplantation Two open-label, randomized, comparative trials evaluated the safety and efficacy of tacrolimus-based and cyclosporine-based immunosuppression in primary orthotopic heart transplantation. In a trial conducted in Europe, 314 patients received a regimen of antibody induction, corticosteroids and azathioprine in combination with tacrolimus or cyclosporine modified for 18 months. In a 3-arm trial conducted in the US, 331 patients received corticosteroids and tacrolimus plus sirolimus, tacrolimus plus mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) or cyclosporine modified plus MMF for 1 year. In the European trial, patient/graft survival at 18 months post-transplant was similar between treatment arms, 92% in the tacrolimus group and 90% in the cyclosporine group. In the U.S. trial, patient and graft survival at 12 months was similar with 93% survival in the tacrolimus plus MMF group and 86% survival in the cyclosporine modified plus MMF group. In the European trial, the cyclosporine trough concentrations were above the pre-defined target range (i.e., 100 to 200 ng/mL) at Day 122 and beyond in 32% to 68% of the patients in the cyclosporine treatment arm, whereas the tacrolimus trough concentrations were within the pre-defined target range (i.e., 5 to 15 ng/mL) in 74% to 86% of the patients in the tacrolimus treatment arm. Data from this European trial indicate that from 1 week to 3 months post-transplant, approximately 80% of patients maintained trough concentrations between 8 to 20 ng/mL and, from 3 months through 18 months post-transplant, approximately 80% of patients maintained trough concentrations between 6 to18 ng/mL. The U.S. trial contained a third arm of a combination regimen of sirolimus, 2 mg per day, and full-dose tacrolimus; however, this regimen was associated with increased risk of wound healing complications, renal function impairment, and insulin-dependent post-transplant diabetes mellitus, and is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12) ] .
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| Key: Group A = CsA/MMF/CS, B = CsA/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, C = Tac/MMF/CS/Daclizumab, and D = Siro/MMF/CS/Daclizumab | ||||||||||
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Geriatric use
Information about any limitations on any geriatric indications, needs for specific monitoring, hazards associated with use of the drug in the geriatric population.8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical trials of tacrolimus did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
Nursing mothers
Information about excretion of the drug in human milk and effects on the nursing infant, including pertinent adverse effects observed in animal offspring.8.3 Nursing Mothers Tacrolimus is excreted in human milk. As the effect of chronic exposure to tacrolimus in healthy infants is not established, patients maintained on tacrolimus should discontinue nursing taking into consideration importance of drug to the mother.
Pediatric use
Information about any limitations on any pediatric indications, needs for specific monitoring, hazards associated with use of the drug in any subsets of the pediatric population (such as neonates, infants, children, or adolescents), differences between pediatric and adult responses to the drug, and other information related to the safe and effective pediatric use of the drug.8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and efficacy of tacrolimus in pediatric kidney and heart transplant patients have not been established. Successful liver transplants have been performed in pediatric patients (ages up to 16 years) using tacrolimus. Two randomized active-controlled trials of tacrolimus in primary liver transplantation included 56 pediatric patients. Thirty-one patients were randomized to tacrolimus-based and 25 to cyclosporine-based therapies. Additionally, a minimum of 122 pediatric patients were studied in an uncontrolled trial of tacrolimus in living related donor liver transplantation. Pediatric patients generally required higher doses of tacrolimus to maintain blood trough concentrations of tacrolimus similar to adult patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ].
Pregnancy
Information about effects the drug may have on pregnant women or on a fetus. This field may be ommitted if the drug is not absorbed systemically and the drug is not known to have a potential for indirect harm to the fetus. It may contain information about the established pregnancy category classification for the drug. (That information is nominally listed in the teratogenic_effects field, but may be listed here instead.)8.1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category C There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Tacrolimus is transferred across the placenta. The use of tacrolimus during pregnancy in humans has been associated with neonatal hyperkalemia and renal dysfunction. Tacrolimus given orally to pregnant rabbits at 0.5 to 4.3 times the clinical dose and pregnant rats at 0.8 to 6.9 times the clinical dose was associated with an increased incidence of fetal death in utero , fetal malformations (cardiovascular, skeletal, omphalocele, and gallbladder agenesis) and maternal toxicity. Tacrolimus should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus. In pregnant rabbits, tacrolimus at oral doses of 0.32 and 1 mg/kg, 0.5 to 4.3 times the clinical dose range (0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg) based on body surface area, was associated with maternal toxicity as well as an increased incidence of abortions. At the 1 mg/kg dose, fetal rabbits showed an increased incidence of malformations (ventricular hypoplasia, interventricular septal defect, bulbous aortic arch, stenosis of ductus arteriosus, interrupted ossification of vertebral arch, vertebral and rib malformations, omphalocele, and gallbladder agenesis) and developmental variations. In pregnant rats, tacrolimus at oral doses of 3.2 mg/kg, 2.6 to 6.9 times the clinical dose range was associated with maternal toxicity, an increase in late resorptions, decreased numbers of live births, and decreased pup weight and viability. Tacrolimus, given orally to pregnant rats after organogenesis and during lactation at 1 and 3.2 mg/kg, 0.8 to 6.9 times the recommended clinical dose range was associated with reduced pup weights and pup viability (3.2 mg/kg only); among the high dose pups that died early, an increased incidence of kidney hydronephrosis was observed.
Use in specific populations
Information about use of the drug by patients in specific populations, including pregnant women and nursing mothers, pediatric patients, and geriatric patients.8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pregnancy: Based on animal data may cause fetal harm. Use only if the potential benefit justifies the risk ( 8.1 ) • Nursing Mothers: Discontinue nursing taking into consideration importance of drug to mother ( 8.3 ) • Hepatic/Renal impaired patients: Administer at the lower end of the recommended starting dose. Monitor renal function in patients with impaired renal function ( 2.3 , 2.4 , 8.6 , 8.7 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Teratogenic Effects. Pregnancy Category C There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Tacrolimus is transferred across the placenta. The use of tacrolimus during pregnancy in humans has been associated with neonatal hyperkalemia and renal dysfunction. Tacrolimus given orally to pregnant rabbits at 0.5 to 4.3 times the clinical dose and pregnant rats at 0.8 to 6.9 times the clinical dose was associated with an increased incidence of fetal death in utero , fetal malformations (cardiovascular, skeletal, omphalocele, and gallbladder agenesis) and maternal toxicity. Tacrolimus should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit to the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus. In pregnant rabbits, tacrolimus at oral doses of 0.32 and 1 mg/kg, 0.5 to 4.3 times the clinical dose range (0.075 to 0.2 mg/kg) based on body surface area, was associated with maternal toxicity as well as an increased incidence of abortions. At the 1 mg/kg dose, fetal rabbits showed an increased incidence of malformations (ventricular hypoplasia, interventricular septal defect, bulbous aortic arch, stenosis of ductus arteriosus, interrupted ossification of vertebral arch, vertebral and rib malformations, omphalocele, and gallbladder agenesis) and developmental variations. In pregnant rats, tacrolimus at oral doses of 3.2 mg/kg, 2.6 to 6.9 times the clinical dose range was associated with maternal toxicity, an increase in late resorptions, decreased numbers of live births, and decreased pup weight and viability. Tacrolimus, given orally to pregnant rats after organogenesis and during lactation at 1 and 3.2 mg/kg, 0.8 to 6.9 times the recommended clinical dose range was associated with reduced pup weights and pup viability (3.2 mg/kg only); among the high dose pups that died early, an increased incidence of kidney hydronephrosis was observed. 8.3 Nursing Mothers Tacrolimus is excreted in human milk. As the effect of chronic exposure to tacrolimus in healthy infants is not established, patients maintained on tacrolimus should discontinue nursing taking into consideration importance of drug to the mother. 8.4 Pediatric Use The safety and efficacy of tacrolimus in pediatric kidney and heart transplant patients have not been established. Successful liver transplants have been performed in pediatric patients (ages up to 16 years) using tacrolimus. Two randomized active-controlled trials of tacrolimus in primary liver transplantation included 56 pediatric patients. Thirty-one patients were randomized to tacrolimus-based and 25 to cyclosporine-based therapies. Additionally, a minimum of 122 pediatric patients were studied in an uncontrolled trial of tacrolimus in living related donor liver transplantation. Pediatric patients generally required higher doses of tacrolimus to maintain blood trough concentrations of tacrolimus similar to adult patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) ]. 8.5 Geriatric Use Clinical trials of tacrolimus did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. 8.6 Use in Renal Impairment The pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in patients with renal impairment was similar to that in healthy volunteers with normal renal function. However, consideration should be given to dosing tacrolimus 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 [see Dosage and Administration (2.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 8.7 Use in Hepatic Impairment The mean clearance of tacrolimus was substantially lower in patients with severe hepatic impairment (mean Child-Pugh score: >10) compared to healthy volunteers with normal hepatic function. Close monitoring of tacrolimus trough concentrations is warranted in patients with hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . The use of tacrolimus in liver transplant recipients experiencing post-transplant hepatic impairment may be associated with increased risk of developing renal insufficiency related to high whole blood trough 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 (2.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].
How supplied
Information about the available dosage forms to which the labeling applies, and for which the manufacturer or distributor is responsible. This field ordinarily includes the strength of the dosage form (in metric units), the units in which the dosage form is available for prescribing, appropriate information to facilitate identification of the dosage forms (such as shape, color, coating, scoring, and National Drug Code), and special handling and storage condition information.16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 Tacrolimus Capsules Tacrolimus capsules, USP are available containing the equivalent of 0.5 mg, 1 mg or 5 mg of anhydrous tacrolimus, USP. They are available as follows: The 0.5 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a light orange opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2045 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 60429-377-01 bottles of 100 capsules The 1 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a light blue opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2046 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 60429-378-01 bottles of 100 capsules The 5 mg capsule is a hard-shell gelatin capsule with a rubine red opaque cap and a gray opaque body filled with white to off-white powder, axially printed with MYLAN over 2047 in black ink on both the cap and the body. They are available as follows: NDC 60429-379-01 bottles of 100 capsules Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure. PHARMACIST: Dispense a Patient Information Leaflet with each prescription.
Storage and handling
Information about safe storage and handling of the drug product.Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F). [See USP Controlled Room Temperature.] Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure. PHARMACIST: Dispense a Patient Information Leaflet with each prescription.
Boxed warning
Information about contraindications or serious warnings, particularly those that may lead to death or serious injury.WARNING: MALIGNANCIES AND SERIOUS INFECTIONSBOXED WARNING – MALIGNANCIES AND SERIOUS INFECTIONS • Increased risk of development of lymphoma and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression ( 5.2 ) • Increased susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections ( 5.3 , 5.4 , 5.5 ) • Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of organ transplant patients should prescribe tacrolimus capsules ( 5.1 ) • Increased risk of development of lymphoma and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . • Increased susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3 , 5.4 , 5.5) ] . • Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of organ transplant patients should prescribe tacrolimus capsules. Patients receiving the drug should be managed in facilities equipped and staffed with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources. The physician responsible for maintenance therapy should have complete information requisite for the follow-up of the patient [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ].
Disclaimer: Do not rely on openFDA or Phanrmacy Near Me to make decisions regarding medical care. While we make every effort to ensure that data is accurate, you should assume all results are unvalidated. Source: OpenFDA, Healthporta Drugs API