Warnings for Breztri Aerosphere
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
Precautions for Breztri Aerosphere
Serious Asthma-Related Events – Hospitalizations, Intubations, Death
Use of long-acting beta2-adrenergic agonists (LABA) as monotherapy [without inhaled corticosteroid (ICS)] for asthma is associated with an increased risk of asthma-related death. Available data from controlled clinical trials also suggest that use of LABA as monotherapy increases the risk of asthmarelated hospitalization in pediatric and adolescent patients. These findings are considered a class effect of LABA monotherapy. When a LABA is used in fixed-dose combination with ICS, data from large clinical trials do not show a significant increase in the risk of serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations, death) compared with ICS alone (see Serious Asthma-Related Events with ICS/LABA).
Available data do not suggest an increased risk of death with use of LABA in patients with COPD.
Serious Asthma-Related Events with ICS/LABA
Four large, 26-week, randomized, blinded, active-controlled clinical safety trials were conducted to evaluate the risk of serious asthma-related events when LABA were used in fixed-dose combination with ICS compared to ICS alone in patients with asthma. Three trials included adult and adolescent patients aged ≥12 years: one trial compared budesonide/formoterol to budesonide; one trial compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder to fluticasone propionate inhalation powder; and one trial compared mometasone furoate/formoterol to mometasone furoate. The fourth trial included pediatric patients 4 to 11 years of age and compared fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder to fluticasone propionate inhalation powder. BREZTRI AEROSPHERE is not indicated for patients 4 to 11 years of age. The primary safety endpoint for all four trials was serious asthma-related events (hospitalizations, intubations and death). A blinded adjudication committee determined whether events were asthma-related.
The three adult and adolescent trials were designed to rule out a risk margin of 2.0, and the pediatric trial was designed to rule out a risk of 2.7. Each individual trial met its pre-specified objective and demonstrated non-inferiority of ICS/LABA to ICS alone. A meta-analysis of the three adult and adolescent trials did not show a significant increase in risk of a serious asthma-related event with ICS/LABA fixed-dose combination compared with ICS alone (Table 1). These trials were not designed to rule out all risk for serious asthma-related events with ICS/LABA compared with ICS.
Table 1: Meta-analysis of Serious Asthma-Related Events in Patients with Asthma Aged 12 Years and Older
|
ICS/LABA (N=17,537)* |
ICS
(N=17,552)* |
ICS/LABA vs ICS Hazard ratio
(95% CI)† |
| Serious asthma-related event‡ |
116 |
105 |
1.10 (0.85, 1.44) |
| Asthma-related death |
2 |
0 |
|
| Asthma-related intubation (endotracheal) |
1 |
2 |
|
| Asthma-related hospitalization (≥24-hour stay) |
115 |
105 |
|
ICS=Inhaled Corticosteroid, LABA=Long-acting Beta2-adrenergic Agonist
*Randomized patients who had taken at least 1 dose of study drug. Planned treatment used for analysis.
†Estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model of time to first event with baseline hazards stratified by each of the 3 trials.
‡Number of patients with event that occurred within 6 months after the first use of study drug or 7 days after the last date of study drug, whichever date was later. Patients can have one or more events, but only the first event was counted for analysis. A single, blinded, independent adjudication committee determined whether events were asthma-related. |
The pediatric safety trial included 6208 pediatric patients 4 to 11 years of age who received ICS/LABA (fluticasone propionate/salmeterol inhalation powder) or ICS (fluticasone propionate inhalation powder). In this trial, 27/3107 (0.9%) patients randomized to ICS/LABA and 21/3101 (0.7%) patients randomized to ICS experienced a serious asthma-related event. There were no asthma-related deaths or intubations. ICS/LABA did not show a significantly increased risk of a serious asthma-related event compared to ICS based on the pre-specified risk margin (2.7), with an estimated hazard ratio of time to first event of 1.29 (95% CI: 0.73, 2.27). BREZTRI AEROSPHERE is not indicated for use in pediatric patients aged 11 years and younger.
Salmeterol Multicenter Asthma Research Trial (SMART)
A 28-week, placebo-controlled U.S. trial that compared the safety of salmeterol with placebo, each added to usual asthma therapy, showed an increase in asthma-related deaths in patients receiving salmeterol (13/13,176 in patients treated with salmeterol vs. 3/13,179 in patients treated with placebo; relative risk: 4.37 [95% CI 1.25, 15.34]). Use of background ICS was not required in SMART. The increased risk of asthma-related death is considered a class effect of LABA monotherapy.
Deterioration of Disease and Acute Episodes
BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should not be initiated in patients with acutely deteriorating COPD or asthma, which may be a life-threatening condition. BREZTRI AEROSPHERE has not been studied in patients with acutely deteriorating COPD or asthma. The use of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE in this setting is not appropriate.
Increasing use of inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonists is a marker of deteriorating asthma. In this situation, the patient requires immediate re-evaluation with reassessment of the treatment regimen, giving special consideration to the possible need for additional therapeutic options. Patients should not use more than 2 inhalations twice daily (morning and evening) of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE.
BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should not be used for the relief of acute symptoms, i.e., as rescue therapy for the treatment of acute episodes of bronchospasm. BREZTRI AEROSPHERE has not been studied in the relief of acute symptoms and extra doses should not be used for that purpose. Acute symptoms should be treated with either an inhaled short-acting beta2-agonist/corticosteroid combination (asthma only) or an inhaled short-acting beta2-agonist (COPD or asthma).
When beginning treatment with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, patients who have been taking inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonists on a regular basis (e.g., four times a day) should be instructed to discontinue the regular use of these drugs and use them only for symptomatic relief of acute respiratory symptoms. When prescribing BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, the healthcare provider should also prescribe either an inhaled short-acting beta2-agonist/corticosteroid combination (asthma only) or an inhaled, short acting beta2-agonist (COPD or asthma) and instruct the patient on how it should be used.
COPD may deteriorate acutely over a period of hours or chronically over several days or longer. If BREZTRI AEROSPHERE no longer controls symptoms, or the patient’s inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist becomes less effective or the patient needs more inhalations of short-acting beta2-agonist than usual, these may be markers of deterioration of disease. In this setting, re-evaluate the patient and the COPD treatment regimen at once. The daily dosage of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should not be increased beyond the recommended dose.
Avoid Excessive Use of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE and Avoid Use with other Long-Acting Beta2-Agonists
As with other inhaled drugs containing beta2-adrenergic agents, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should not be used more often than recommended, at higher doses than recommended, or in conjunction with other medications containing LABA, as an overdose may result. Clinically significant cardiovascular effects and fatalities have been reported in association with excessive use of inhaled sympathomimetic drugs. Patients using BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should not use another medicine containing a LABA (e.g., salmeterol, formoterol fumarate, arformoterol tartrate, indacaterol) for any reason [see Drug Interactions].
Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
BREZTRI AEROSPHERE contains budesonide, an ICS. Localized infections of the mouth and pharynx with Candida albicans have occurred in subjects treated with orally inhaled drug products containing budesonide. When such an infection develops, it should be treated with appropriate local or systemic (i.e., oral) antifungal therapy while treatment with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE continues. In some cases, therapy with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may need to be interrupted. Advise the patient to rinse his/her mouth with water without swallowing following administration of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE to help reduce the risk of oropharyngeal candidiasis.
Pneumonia
Lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia, have been reported following the inhaled administration of corticosteroids. Physicians should remain vigilant for the possible development of pneumonia in patients with COPD as the clinical features of pneumonia and exacerbations frequently overlap.
In a 52-week trial of subjects with COPD (n = 8,529), the incidence of confirmed pneumonia was 4.2% for BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg (n = 2144), 3.5% for budesonide, glycopyrrolate and formoterol fumarate [BGF MDI 160 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg] (n = 2124), 2.3% for GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg (n = 2125) and 4.5% for BFF MDI 320 mcg/9.6 mcg (n = 2136).
Fatal cases of pneumonia occurred in 2 subjects receiving BGF MDI 160 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg, 3 subjects receiving GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg, and no subjects receiving BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg.
In a 24-week trial of subjects with COPD (n = 1,896), the incidence of confirmed pneumonia was 1.9% for BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg (n = 639), 1.6% for glycopyrrolate and formoterol fumarate [GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg] (n = 625) and 1.9% for budesonide and formoterol fumarate [BFF MDI 320 mcg/9.6 mcg] (n = 320). There were no fatal cases of pneumonia in the study.
Immunosuppression and Risk of Infections
Patients who are using drugs that suppress the immune system are more susceptible to infection than healthy individuals. Chicken pox and measles, for example, can have a more serious or even fatal course in susceptible children or adults using corticosteroids. In such children or adults who have not had these diseases or been properly immunized, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure. How the dose, route, and duration of corticosteroid administration affects the risk of developing a disseminated infection is not known. The contribution of the underlying disease and/or prior corticosteroid treatment to the risk is also not known. If a patient is exposed to chickenpox, prophylaxis with varicella zoster immune globulin (VZIG) may be indicated. If exposed to measles, prophylaxis with pooled intramuscular immunoglobulin (IG) may be indicated (see the Prescribing Information for VZIG and IG). If chicken pox develops, treatment with antiviral agents may be considered.
ICS should be used with caution, if at all, in patients with active or quiescent tuberculosis infections of the respiratory tract; untreated systemic fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections; or ocular herpes simplex.
Transferring Patients from Systemic Corticosteroid Therapy
HPA Suppression/Adrenal Insufficiency
Particular care is needed for patients who have been transferred from systemically active corticosteroids to ICS because deaths due to adrenal insufficiency have occurred in patients during and after transfer from systemic corticosteroids to less systemically available ICS. After withdrawal from systemic corticosteroids, a number of months are required for recovery of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) function.
Patients who have been previously maintained on 20 mg or more per day of prednisone (or its equivalent) may be most susceptible, particularly when their systemic corticosteroids have been almost completely withdrawn. During this period of HPA suppression, patients may exhibit signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency when exposed to trauma, surgery, or infection (particularly gastroenteritis) or other conditions associated with severe electrolyte loss. Although BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may provide control of COPD or asthma symptoms during these episodes, in recommended doses it supplies less than normal physiological amounts of glucocorticoid systemically and does not provide the mineralocorticoid activity that is necessary for coping with these emergencies.
During periods of stress, a severe COPD or asthma exacerbation, patients who have been withdrawn from systemic corticosteroids should be instructed to resume oral corticosteroids (in large doses) immediately and to contact their healthcare practitioner for further instruction. These patients should also be instructed to carry a warning card indicating that they may need supplementary systemic corticosteroids during periods of stress, a severe COPD or asthma exacerbation.
Patients requiring oral corticosteroids should be weaned slowly from systemic corticosteroid use after transferring to BREZTRI AEROSPHERE. Prednisone reduction can be accomplished by reducing the daily prednisone dose by 2.5 mg on a weekly basis during therapy with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE. Lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 second [FEV1] or morning peak expiratory flow [PEF]), betaagonist use, and COPD or asthma symptoms should be carefully monitored during withdrawal of oral corticosteroids. In addition, patients should be observed for signs and symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, such as fatigue, lassitude, weakness, nausea and vomiting, and hypotension.
Unmasking of Allergic Conditions Previously Suppressed by Systemic Corticosteroids
Transfer of patients from systemic corticosteroid therapy to BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may unmask allergic conditions previously suppressed by the systemic corticosteroid therapy (e.g., rhinitis, conjunctivitis, eczema, arthritis, eosinophilic conditions).
Corticosteroid Withdrawal Symptoms
During withdrawal from oral corticosteroids, some patients may experience symptoms of systemically active corticosteroid withdrawal (e.g., joint and/or muscular pain, lassitude, depression) despite maintenance or even improvement of respiratory function.
Hypercorticism and Adrenal Suppression
Inhaled budesonide is absorbed into the circulation and can be systemically active. Effects of budesonide on the HPA axis are not observed with the therapeutic doses of budesonide in BREZTRI AEROSPHERE. However, exceeding the recommended dosage or coadministration with a strong cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) inhibitor may result in HPA dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions and Drug Interactions].
Because of the possibility of significant systemic absorption of ICS, patients treated with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should be observed carefully for any evidence of systemic corticosteroid effects. Particular care should be taken in observing patients postoperatively or during periods of stress for evidence of inadequate adrenal response.
It is possible that systemic corticosteroid effects, such as hypercorticism and adrenal suppression (including adrenal crisis) may appear in a small number of patients who are sensitive to these effects. If such effects occur, appropriate therapy should be initiated as needed.
Drug Interactions with Strong Cytochrome P450 3A4 Inhibitors
Caution should be exercised when considering the coadministration of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE with long-term ketoconazole, and other known strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ritonavir, atazanavir, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, saquinavir, telithromycin) because adverse effects related to increased systemic exposure to budesonide may occur [see Drug Interactions and Clinical Pharmacology].
Paradoxical Bronchospasm
As with other inhaled therapies, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE can produce paradoxical bronchospasm, which may be life-threatening. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs following dosing with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, it should be treated immediately with an inhaled, short-acting bronchodilator; BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapy should be instituted.
Hypersensitivity Reactions including Anaphylaxis
Immediate hypersensitivity reactions have been reported after administration of budesonide, glycopyrrolate or formoterol fumarate, the components of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE. If signs suggesting allergic reactions occur, in particular, angioedema (including difficulties in breathing or swallowing, swelling of tongue, lips, and face), urticaria, or skin rash, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should be stopped at once and alternative treatment should be considered [see Contraindications].
Cardiovascular Effects
Formoterol fumarate, like other beta2-agonists, can produce a clinically significant cardiovascular effect in some patients as measured by increases in pulse rate, systolic or diastolic blood pressure, and also cardiac arrhythmias, such as supraventricular tachycardia and extrasystoles [see Clinical Pharmacology].
If such effects occur, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may need to be discontinued. In addition, beta-agonists have been reported to produce electrocardiographic changes, such as flattening of the T wave, prolongation of the QTc interval, and ST segment depression, although the clinical significance of these findings is unknown. Therefore, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disorders, especially coronary insufficiency, cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension.
Reduction in Bone Mineral Density
Decreases in bone mineral density (BMD) have been observed with long-term administration of products containing ICS. The clinical significance of small changes in BMD with regard to long-term consequences such as fracture is unknown. Patients with major risk factors for decreased bone mineral content, such as prolonged immobilization, family history of osteoporosis, postmenopausal status, tobacco use, advanced age, poor nutrition, or chronic use of drugs that can reduce bone mass (e.g., anticonvulsants, oral corticosteroids) should be monitored and treated with established standards of care. Since patients with COPD often have multiple risk factors for reduced BMD, assessment of BMD is recommended prior to initiating BREZTRI AEROSPHERE and periodically thereafter. If significant reductions in BMD are seen and BREZTRI AEROSPHERE is still considered medically important for that patient's COPD therapy, use of therapy to treat or prevent osteoporosis should be strongly considered.
In a subset of COPD patients in a 24-week trial with a 28-week safety extension that evaluated BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg and GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg, the effects on BMD endpoints were evaluated. BMD evaluations were performed at baseline and 52-weeks using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans. Mean percent changes in BMD from baseline was -0.1% for BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg and 0.4% for GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg [see Clinical Studies ].
Effect on Growth
Orally inhaled corticosteroids may cause a reduction in growth velocity when administered to pediatric patients. Monitor the growth of pediatric patients receiving BREZTRI AEROSPHERE routinely (e.g., via stadiometry) [see Use in Specific Populations].
Glaucoma and Cataracts, Worsening of Narrow-Angle Glaucoma
Glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure, and cataracts have been reported in patients with COPD or asthma following the long-term administration of ICS or with use of inhaled anticholinergics. BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should be used with caution in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma. Prescribers and patients should be alert for signs and symptoms of acute narrow-angle glaucoma (e.g., eye pain or discomfort, blurred vision, visual halos or colored images in association with red eyes from conjunctival congestion and corneal edema). Instruct patients to consult a physician immediately should any of these signs or symptoms develop. Consider referral to an ophthalmologist in patients who develop ocular symptoms or use BREZTRI AEROSPHERE long term.
In a 52-week trial that evaluated BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg, GFF MDI 18 mcg/9.6 mcg, and BFF MDI 320 mcg/9.6 mcg in subjects with COPD, the incidence of cataracts ranged from 0.7% to 1.0% across groups.
Worsening of Urinary Retention
BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, like all therapies containing an anticholinergic, should be used with caution in patients with urinary retention. Prescribers and patients should be alert for signs and symptoms of prostatic hyperplasia or bladder-neck obstruction (e.g., difficulty passing urine, painful urination), especially in patients with prostatic hyperplasia or bladder neck obstruction. Instruct patients to consult a physician immediately should any of these signs or symptoms develop.
Coexisting Conditions
BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, like all therapies containing sympathomimetic amines, should be used with caution in patients with convulsive disorders or thyrotoxicosis and in those who are unusually responsive to sympathomimetic amines. Doses of the related beta2-adrenoceptor agonist albuterol, when administered intravenously, have been reported to aggravate preexisting diabetes mellitus and ketoacidosis.
Hypokalemia and Hyperglycemia
Beta-adrenergic agonists may produce significant hypokalemia in some patients, possibly through intracellular shunting, which has the potential to produce adverse cardiovascular effects. The decrease in serum potassium is usually transient, not requiring supplementation. Beta2-agonist therapies may produce transient hyperglycemia in some patients.
NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility
No studies of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, or impairment of fertility were conducted with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE; however, separate studies of budesonide, glycopyrrolate, and formoterol fumarate are described below.
Budesonide
Long-term studies were conducted in rats and mice using oral administration to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of budesonide.
In a 2-year study in Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused a statistically significant increase in the incidence of gliomas in male rats at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg (approximately equivalent to the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). No tumorigenicity was seen in male and female rats at respective oral doses up to 25 and 50 mcg/kg (approximately equivalent to the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). In two additional 2-year studies in male Fischer and Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused no gliomas at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg (approximately equivalent to the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). However, in the male Sprague- Dawley rats, budesonide caused a statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatocellular tumors at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg (approximately equivalent to the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). The concurrent reference corticosteroids (prednisolone and triamcinolone acetonide) in these two studies showed similar findings.
In a 91-week carcinogenicity study in mice, budesonide produced no treatment-related increases in the incidence of tumors at oral doses up to 200 mcg/kg (approximately 2 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis).
Budesonide was not mutagenic or clastogenic in the Ames Salmonella/microsome plate test, mouse micronucleus test, mouse lymphoma test, chromosome aberration test in human lymphocytes, sex-linked recessive lethal test in Drosophila melanogaster, and DNA repair analysis in rat hepatocyte culture.
Fertility and reproductive performance were unaffected in rats at subcutaneous doses up to 80 mcg/kg (approximately equal to the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). However, it caused a decrease in prenatal viability and viability in the pups at birth and during lactation, along with a decrease in maternal body weight gain, at subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg and above (0.3 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). No such effects were noted at 5 mcg/kg (0.08 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis).
Glycopyrrolate
Long-term studies were conducted in mice using inhalation administration and rats using oral administration to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of glycopyrrolate.
In a 24-month inhalation carcinogenicity study in B6C3F1 mice, glycopyrrolate produced no evidence of tumorigenicity when administered to males or females at doses up to 705 and 335 mcg/kg/day, respectively (approximately 48 and 23 times the MRHDID of glycopyrrolate on a mcg/m2 basis, respectively).
In a 24-month carcinogenicity study in rats, glycopyrrolate produced no evidence of tumorigenicity when administered to males or females by oral gavage at dosages up to 40,000 mcg/kg/day (approximately 5400 times the MRHDID of glycopyrrolate on a mcg/m2 basis).
Glycopyrrolate was not mutagenic or clastogenic in the Ames Salmonella/microsome plate test, in vitro mammalian cell micronucleus assay in TK6 cells, or in vivo micronucleus assay in rats.
Fertility and reproductive performance indices were unaffected in male and female rats that received glycopyrrolate by the subcutaneous route at doses up to 10,000 μg/kg/day (approximately 1350 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis).
Formoterol Fumarate
Long-term studies were conducted in mice using oral administration and rats using inhalation administration to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of formoterol fumarate.
In a 24-month carcinogenicity study in CD-1 mice, formoterol fumarate at oral doses of 100 mcg/kg and above (approximately 25 times MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis) caused a dose-related increase in the incidence of uterine leiomyomas.
In a 24-month carcinogenicity study in Sprague-Dawley rats, an increased incidence of mesovarian leiomyoma and uterine leiomyosarcoma were observed at the inhaled dose of 130 mcg/kg (approximately 65 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). No tumors were seen at 22 mcg/kg (approximately 10 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis).
Other beta-agonist drugs have similarly demonstrated increases in leiomyomas of the genital tract in female rodents. The relevance of these findings to human use is unknown.
Formoterol fumarate was not mutagenic or clastogenic in Ames Salmonella/microsome plate test, mouse lymphoma test, chromosome aberration test in human lymphocytes, or rat micronucleus test.
A reduction in fertility and/or reproductive performance was identified in male rats treated with formoterol at an oral dose of 15,000 mcg/kg, (approximately 2600 times the MRHDID on an AUC basis). No such effect was seen at 3,000 mcg/kg (approximately 1500 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis). In a separate study with male rats treated with an oral dose of 15,000 mcg/kg (approximately 8000 times the MRHDID on a mcg/m2 basis), there were findings of testicular tubular atrophy and spermatic debris in the testes and oligospermia in the epididymides. No effect on fertility was detected in female rats at doses up to 15,000 mcg/kg (approximately 1400 times the MRHDID on an AUC basis).
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE or with two of its individual components, glycopyrrolate or formoterol fumarate, in pregnant women to inform a drugassociated risk; however, studies are available for the other component, budesonide.
In animal reproduction studies, budesonide alone, administered by the subcutaneous route, caused structural abnormalities, was embryocidal, and reduced fetal weights in rats and rabbits at 0.3 and 0.75 times maximum recommended human daily inhaled dose (MRHDID), respectively, but these effects were not seen in rats that received inhaled doses up to 4 times the MRHDID. Studies of pregnant women who received inhaled budesonide alone during pregnancy have not shown increased risk of abnormalities. Experience with oral corticosteroids suggests that rodents are more prone to teratogenic effects from corticosteroid exposure than humans.
Formoterol fumarate alone, administered by the oral route in rats and rabbits, caused structural abnormalities at 1500 and 61,000 times the MRHDID, respectively. Formoterol fumarate was also embryocidal, increased pup loss at birth and during lactation, and decreased pup weight in rats at 110 times the MRHDID. These adverse effects generally occurred at large multiples of the MRHDID when formoterol fumarate was administered by the oral route to achieve high systemic exposures. No structural abnormalities, embryocidal, or developmental effects were seen in rats that received inhalation doses up to 350 times the MRHDID.
Glycopyrrolate alone, administered by the subcutaneous route in rats and rabbits, did not cause structural abnormalities or affect fetal survival at exposures approximately 1350 and 2700 times from MRHDID, respectively. Glycopyrrolate had no effects on the physical, functional, and behavioral development of rat pups with exposures up to 1350 times the MRHDID.
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2-4% and 15-20%, respectively.
Clinical Considerations
Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal risk: In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, there is an increased risk of several perinatal adverse outcomes such as preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. Pregnant women with asthma should be closely monitored and medication adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal asthma control.
Labor or Delivery: There are no well-controlled human trials that have investigated the effects of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE on preterm labor or labor at term. Because of the potential for beta-agonist interference with uterine contractility, use of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE during labor should be restricted to those patients in whom the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.
Data
Human Data
Studies of pregnant women have not shown that inhaled budesonide increases the risk of abnormalities when administered during pregnancy. The results from a large population-based prospective cohort epidemiological study reviewing data from three Swedish registries covering approximately 99% of the pregnancies from 1995-1997 (i.e., Swedish Medical Birth Registry; Registry of Congenital Malformations; Child Cardiology Registry) indicate no increased risk for congenital malformations from the use of inhaled budesonide during early pregnancy. Congenital malformations were studied in 2014 infants born to mothers reporting the use of inhaled budesonide for asthma in early pregnancy (usually 10-12 weeks after the last menstrual period), the period when most major organ malformations occur. The rate of recorded congenital malformations was similar compared to the general population rate (3.8% vs. 3.5%, respectively). In addition, after exposure to inhaled budesonide, the number of infants born with orofacial clefts was similar to the expected number in the normal population (4 children vs. 3.3, respectively).
These same data were utilized in a second study bringing the total to 2,534 infants whose mothers were exposed to inhaled budesonide. In this study, the rate of congenital malformations among infants whose mothers were exposed to inhaled budesonide during early pregnancy was not different from the rate for all newborn babies during the same period (3.6%).
Animal Data
Budesonide
In a fertility and reproduction study male rats were subcutaneously dosed for 9 weeks and females for 2 weeks prior to pairing and throughout the mating period. Females were dosed up until weaning of their offspring. Budesonide caused a decrease in prenatal viability and viability of the offspring at birth and during lactation, along with a decrease in maternal body weight gain, at a dose 0.3 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day and above). No such effects were noted at a dose 0.08 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 5 mcg/kg/day).
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6 to 18, budesonide produced fetal loss, decreased fetal weight, and skeletal abnormalities at a dose 0.75 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 25 mcg/kg/day). In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-15, budesonide produced similar adverse fetal effects at doses approximately 8 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 500 mcg/kg/day). In another embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats, no structural abnormalities or embryocidal effects were seen at doses up to 4 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal inhalation doses up to 250 mcg/kg/day).
In a peri-and post-natal development study, rats dosed from gestation day 15 to postpartum day 21, budesonide had no effects on delivery, but did affect growth and development of offspring. Offspring survival was reduced, and surviving offspring had decreased mean body weights at birth and during lactation at doses 0.3 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day and higher). These findings occurred in the presence of maternal toxicity.
Formoterol Fumarate
In a fertility and reproduction study, male rats were orally dosed for at least 9 weeks and females for 2 weeks prior to pairing and throughout the mating period. Females were either dosed up to gestation day 19 or up until weaning of their offspring. Males were dosed up to 25 weeks. Umbilical hernia was observed in rat fetuses at oral doses 1500 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal oral doses of 3000 mcg/kg/day and higher). Brachygnathia was observed in rat fetuses at a dose 8000 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal oral dose of 15,000 mcg/kg/day). Pregnancy was prolonged at a dose 8000 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal oral dose of 15,000 mcg/kg/day). Fetal and pup deaths occurred at doses approximately 1500 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis at oral doses of 3000 mcg/kg/day and higher) during gestation.
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6 to 15, no structural abnormalities, embryocidal effects, or developmental effects were seen at doses up to 350 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal inhalation doses up to 690 mcg/kg/day).
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6 to 18, subcapsular cysts on the liver were observed in the fetuses at a dose 61,000 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with a maternal oral dose of 60,000 mcg/kg/day). No teratogenic effects were observed at doses up to 3500 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal oral doses up to 3500 mcg/kg/day).
In a pre- and post-natal development study, pregnant female rats received formoterol at oral doses of 0, 210, 840, and 3400 mcg/kg/day from gestation day 6 (completion of implantation) through the lactation period. Pup survival was decreased from birth to postpartum day 26 at doses 110 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis at maternal oral doses of 210 mcg/kg/day and higher), although there was no evidence of a dose-response relationship. There were no treatment-related effects on the physical, functional, and behavioral development of rat pups.
Glycopyrrolate
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6 to 17, glycopyrrolate produced no structural abnormalities or effects on fetal survival; however, slight reductions of fetal body weight in the presence of maternal toxicity at the highest tested dose that was 1350 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 10,000 mcg/kg/day). Fetal body weights were unaffected with doses up to 135 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses up to 1000 mcg/kg/day). Maternal toxicity was observed with doses 135 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses of 1000 mcg/kg/day and higher).
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6 to 18, glycopyrrolate produced no structural abnormalities or effects on fetal survival; however, slight reductions of fetal body weight in the presence of maternal toxicity at the highest tested dose that was 2700 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis at a maternal subcutaneous dose of 10,000 mcg/kg/day). Fetal body weights were unaffected with doses up to 270 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses up to 1000 mcg/kg/day). Maternal toxicity was observed with doses 270 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses of 1000 mcg/kg/day and higher).
In a pre- and post-natal development study, pregnant female rats received glycopyrrolate at doses of 100, 1000, and 10,000 mcg/kg/day from gestation day 6 through the lactation period. Pup body weight gain was slightly reduced from birth through the lactation period at a dose 1350 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with a maternal subcutaneous dose of 10,000 mcg/kg/day); however, pup body weight gain was unaffected after weaning. There were no treatment-related effects on the physical, functional, and behavioral development of pups with doses up to 1350 times the MRHDID (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses up to 10,000 mcg/kg/day). Maternal toxicity was observed from gestation days 6 to 18 with doses 135 times the MRHDID and higher (on a mcg/m2 basis with maternal subcutaneous doses of 1000 mcg/kg/day and higher).
Lactation
Risk Summary
There are no available data on the effects of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, budesonide, glycopyrrolate, or formoterol fumarate on the breastfed child or on milk production. Budesonide, like other ICS, is present in human milk [see Data]. There are no available data on the presence of glycopyrrolate or formoterol fumarate in human milk. Formoterol fumarate and glycopyrrolate have been detected in the plasma of undosed rat pups suckling from exposed dams [see Data]. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for BREZTRI AEROSPHERE and any potential adverse effects on the breast-fed child from BREZTRI AEROSPHERE or from the underlying maternal condition.
Data
Human Data
Human data with budesonide delivered via dry powder inhaler indicates that the total daily oral dose of budesonide available in breast milk to the infant is approximately 0.3% to 1% of the dose inhaled by the mother. For BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, the dose of budesonide available to the infant in breast milk, as a percentage of the maternal dose, would be expected to be similar.
There is no available human data for formoterol or glycopyrrolate.
Animal Data
In the fertility and reproduction study in rats, plasma levels of formoterol were measured in pups on postnatal day 15 [see Use in Specific Populations]. It was estimated that the maximum plasma concentration that the pups received from the maternal animal, at the highest dose of 15 mg/kg, after nursing was 4.4% (0.24 nmol/L for a litter vs. 5.5 nmol/L for the mother).
In the reproductive/developmental toxicity study in rats, plasma levels of glycopyrrolate were measured in pups on post-natal day 4. The maximum concentration in the pups was 6% of the maternal dose of 10 mg/kg/day (pup plasma concentration of 96 ng/mL at 1 hour after dosing corresponded with 1610 ng/mL in the dam at 0.5 hours after dosing).
Pediatric Use
The safety and effectiveness of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE have been established for the maintenance treatment of asthma in pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. Use of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE for this indication is supported by evidence from two adequate and well-controlled studies (KALOS and LOGOS) in adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older, in which 30 pediatric patients 12 years to less than 18 years of age were treated with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/36 mcg/9.6 mcg twice daily by oral inhalation [see Adverse Reactions and Clinical Studies].
The safety and effectiveness of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age have not been established.
Controlled clinical studies have shown that ICS agents, including budesonide, one of the components of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, may cause a reduction in growth velocity in pediatric patients. The effects of long-term treatment of pediatric patients with ICS on final adult height are not known. The potential growth effects of prolonged treatment should be weighed against the clinical benefits obtained [see Warnings and Precautions].
Geriatric Use
Based on available data, no adjustment of the dosage of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE in geriatric patients is necessary, but greater sensitivity in some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
In the COPD trials, ETHOS and KRONOS, 1100 subjects and 343 subjects, respectively, aged 65 years and older were administered BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/18 mcg/9.6 mcg twice daily [see Clinical Studies]. In both trials, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects.
In the asthma trials, KALOS and LOGOS, 141 subjects and 124 subjects, respectively, aged 65 years and older were administered BREZTRI AEROSPHERE 320 mcg/36 mcg/9.6 mcg twice daily [see Clinical Studies]. In both trials, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects.
Hepatic Impairment
Formal pharmacokinetic studies using BREZTRI AEROSPHERE have not been conducted in patients with hepatic impairment. However, since budesonide and formoterol fumarate are predominantly cleared by hepatic metabolism, impairment of liver function may lead to accumulation of budesonide and formoterol fumarate in plasma. Therefore, patients with severe hepatic disease should be closely monitored.
Renal Impairment
Formal pharmacokinetic studies using BREZTRI AEROSPHERE have not been conducted in patients with renal impairment. In patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance of ≤30 mL/min/1.73 m2) or end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the potential risk [see Clinical Pharmacology].
Patient Information for Breztri Aerosphere
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information and Instructions for Use).
Serious Asthma-Related Events
Inform patients with asthma that LABA when used alone increases the risk of asthma-related hospitalization or asthma-related death. Available data show that when ICS and LABA are used together, such as with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, there is not a significant increase in the risk of these events [see Warnings and Precautions].
Not for Treatment of Acute Symptoms
Inform patients that BREZTRI AEROSPHERE is not meant to relieve acute symptoms of COPD or asthma and extra doses should not be used for that purpose. Advise patients to treat acute symptoms with an inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist/corticosteroid for asthma or, an inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist for asthma or COPD [see Warnings and Precautions]. Provide patients with such medication and instruct them on how it should be used.
Instruct patients to seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of the following:
- Decreasing effectiveness of inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist/corticosteroid combination, or inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonists.
- Need for more inhalations than usual of inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonist/corticosteroid combination, or inhaled, short-acting beta2-agonists.
- Significant decrease in lung function as outlined by the health care practitioner.
Tell patients they should not stop therapy with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE without physician guidance since symptoms may recur after discontinuation [see Warnings and Precautions].
Do Not Use Additional Long-acting Beta2-agonists or Anticholinergics
Instruct patients not to use other LABA or anticholinergic medicines [see Warnings and Precautions].
Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
Inform patients that localized infections with Candida albicans occurred in the mouth and pharynx in some patients. If oropharyngeal candidiasis develops, it should be treated with appropriate local or systemic (i.e., oral) antifungal therapy while still continuing therapy with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, but at times therapy with BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may need to be temporarily interrupted under close medical supervision. Advise patients to rinse the mouth with water without swallowing after inhalation to help reduce the risk of thrush [see Warnings and Precautions].
Pneumonia
Patients with COPD have a higher risk of pneumonia; instruct them to contact their healthcare providers if they develop symptoms of pneumonia [see Warnings and Precautions].
Immunosuppression and Risk of Infections
Warn patients who are on immunosuppressant doses of corticosteroids to avoid exposure to chickenpox or measles and, if exposed, to consult their physicians without delay. Inform patients of potential worsening of existing tuberculosis, fungal, bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, or ocular herpes simplex [see Warnings and Precautions].
Hypercorticism and Adrenal Suppression
Advise patients that BREZTRI AEROSPHERE may cause systemic corticosteroid effects of hypercorticism and adrenal suppression. Additionally, inform patients that deaths due to adrenal insufficiency have occurred during and after transfer from systemic corticosteroids. Patients should taper slowly from systemic corticosteroids if transferring to BREZTRI AEROSPHERE [see Warnings and Precautions].
Paradoxical Bronchospasm
As with other inhaled medicines, BREZTRI AEROSPHERE can cause paradoxical bronchospasm. If paradoxical bronchospasm occurs, instruct patients to discontinue BREZTRI AEROSPHERE and contact their healthcare provider right away [see Warnings and Precautions].
Hypersensitivity Reactions, including Anaphylaxis
Advise patients that hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema, rash, urticaria) may occur after administration of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE. Instruct patients to discontinue BREZTRI AEROSPHERE if such reactions occur [see Warnings and Precautions].
Reduction in Bone Mineral Density
Advise patients who are at an increased risk for decreased BMD that the use of corticosteroids may pose an additional risk [see Warnings and Precautions].
Effect on Growth
Inform patients that orally inhaled corticosteroids, a component of BREZTRI AEROSPHERE, may cause a reduction in growth velocity when administered to pediatric patients. Healthcare providers should closely follow the growth of pediatric patients taking corticosteroids by any route [seeWarnings and Precautions].
Ocular Effects such as Cataracts or Glaucoma
Inform patients that long-term use of ICS may increase the risk of some eye problems (cataracts or glaucoma); consider regular eye examinations.
Instruct patients to be alert for signs and symptoms of acute narrow-angle glaucoma (e.g., eye pain or discomfort, blurred vision, visual halos or colored images in association with red eyes from conjunctival congestion, and corneal edema). Instruct patients to consult a physician immediately if any of these signs or symptoms develops [see Warnings and Precautions].
Worsening of Urinary Retention
Instruct patients to be alert for signs and symptoms of urinary retention (e.g., difficulty passing urine, painful urination). Instruct patients to consult a physician immediately if any of these signs or symptoms develop [see Warnings and Precautions].
Risks Associated with Beta-agonist Therapy
Inform patients of adverse effects associated with beta2-agonists, such as palpitations, chest pain, rapid heart rate, tremor, or nervousness. Instruct patients to consult a healthcare practitioner immediately should any of these signs or symptoms develop [see Warnings and Precautions].