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EOHILIA (budesonide oral suspension) contains budesonide, a synthetic corticosteroid.
Budesonide is designated chemically as (RS)-11β, 16α, 17,21-tetrahydroxypregna-1,4-diene-3,20- dione cyclic 16,17-acetal with butyraldehyde. Budesonide is a mixture of two epimers (22R and 22S). The empirical formula of budesonide is C25H34O6 and its molecular weight is 430.53. Its structural formula is:
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Budesonide is a white or almost-white, crystalline powder that is freely soluble in chloroform, sparingly soluble in alcohol and practically insoluble in water and heptane.
EOHILIA (budesonide oral suspension) is a white to yellow, thixotropic, viscous suspension. Each 10 mL of EOHILIA contains 2 mg of budesonide. The oral suspension contains the following inactive ingredients: acesulfame potassium, ascorbic acid, Avicel® RC-591, cherry flavor, citric acid, dextrose, disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), glycerin, Magnasweet® 110, maltodextrin, polysorbate 80, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, sodium benzoate, sodium citrate, and purified water. Excipients contain no ingredient made from a gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley, or rye).
EOHILIATM is indicated for 12 weeks of treatment in adult and pediatric patients 11 years of age and older with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE).
EOHILIA has not been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of EoE for longer than 12 weeks [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, Clinical Studies].
Oral suspension: 2 mg/10 mL unit-dose packets of a white to yellow viscous suspension with cherry flavoring.
EOHILIA (budesonide oral suspension) 2 mg/10 mL is a white to yellow viscous suspension with cherry flavoring supplied in child-resistant unit-dose packets.
EOHILIA is supplied in a carton containing 60 unit-dose packets (NDC 64764-105-60).
Store refrigerated or at controlled room temperature at 2°C to 25°C (36°F to 77°F). Excursions up to 30°C (86°F) are acceptable. Do NOT freeze.
Distributed by: Takeda Pharmaceuticals America, Inc., Lexington, MA 02421. Revised: May 2024
The following serious adverse reactions are described in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
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.
The safety of EOHILIA in 410 adults and pediatric subjects 11 years of age and older with EoE was evaluated in two 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies (Study 1 and Study 2). In these studies, 263 subjects received EOHILIA [see Clinical Studies].
The most common adverse reactions reported in Study 1 are shown in Table 1.
Table 1: Common Adverse Reactionsa in Adult and Pediatric Subjects 11 Years of Age and Older with EoE in Study 1
| ADVERSE REACTIONS | EOHILIA 2 mg Twice Daily N = 213 |
Placebo N = 105 |
| Respiratory tract infectionb | 13% | 11% |
| Gastrointestinal mucosal candidiasisc | 8% | 2% |
| Headached | 5% | 2% |
| Gastroenteritis | 3% | 1% |
| Throat irritatione | 3% | 2% |
| Adrenal suppressionf | 2% | 0 |
| Erosive esophagitisg | 2% | 0 |
| a reported in at least 2% of subjects in the EOHILIA group and at a rate greater than placebo. b includes acute sinusitis, sinusitis, nasopharyngitis, respiratory tract infection, respiratory tract infection viral, upper respiratory tract infection, viral upper respiratory tract infection, rhinitis c includes esophageal candidiasis, oropharyngeal candidiasis, oral candidiasis d includes headache, migraine e includes throat irritation, oropharyngeal pain f includes adrenal suppression, adrenal insufficiency g includes esophagitis only where erosions were present at the esophagogastroduodenoscopy conducted after 12 weeks of treatment |
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Erosive Esophagitis
Erosive esophagitis occurred in 4/213 (2%) of EOHILIA-treated subjects in Study 1. These subjects had no erosions present at the baseline esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). At EGD after 12 weeks of treatment with EOHILIA, 2 subjects had Los Angeles (LA) classification grade A, 1 subject had LA grade B, and 1 subject had LA grade C erosive esophagitis. All but one of the four subjects developed erosive esophagitis while receiving concomitant therapy with a PPI. No cases of erosive esophagitis were reported in Study 2 [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Adverse reactions reported in less than 2% of subjects treated with EOHILIA and at a greater rate than placebo in Study 1 are listed below:
Cardiac disorders: Palpitations
Gastrointestinal disorders: Dry mouth, dyspepsia, erosive duodenitis, gastrointestinal motility disorder, esophageal food impaction, palatal swelling
General disorders and administration site conditions: Fatigue, feeling abnormal
Infections and infestations: Fungal skin infection, paronychia, pneumonia, sepsis, bronchitis
Investigations: Transaminases increased, hyperkalemia
Metabolism and nutrition disorders: Dyslipidemia
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: Arthralgia, muscle spasms
Nervous system disorders: Dysgeusia, syncope, tremor
Psychiatric disorders: Depression, irritability, restlessness
Respiratory, thoracic, and mediastinal disorders: Nasal congestion
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Hirsutism, dermatitis acneiform
Vascular disorders: Hypertension
The safety profile of EOHILIA in Study 2 was generally similar to Study 1.
The following adverse reactions have been reported during post-approval use of oral budesonide products. 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.
Hypersensitivity Reactions: Anaphylaxis
Nervous System Disorders: Benign intracranial hypertension
Psychiatric Disorders: Mood swings
Budesonide is a substrate for CYP3A4. Concomitant use of budesonide with CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir, indinavir, saquinavir, erythromycin, cyclosporine, grapefruit juice) can increase systemic budesonide concentrations [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. Avoid concomitant use of CYP3A4 inhibitors, including grapefruit juice, with EOHILIA [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
Systemic effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression may occur with use of corticosteroids, including EOHILIA. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression and consider reducing the dosage of EOHILIA [see ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B and C, respectively) could be at an increased risk of hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression due to an increased systemic exposure of oral budesonide. Use is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) and monitoring for signs and/or symptoms of hypercorticism is recommended in patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) [see Use In Specific Populations, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Corticosteroids, including EOHILIA, can reduce the response of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to stress. In situations where patients are subject to trauma, surgery, infection, or other stress situations, supplementation with a systemic corticosteroid is recommended.
Corticosteroids, including EOHILIA, suppress the immune system and increase the risk of infection with any pathogen, including viral, bacterial, fungal, protozoan, or helminthic pathogens.
Corticosteroids can:
Corticosteroid-associated infections can be mild but can be severe and at times fatal. The rate of infectious complications increases with increasing corticosteroid dosages.
Monitor patients for the development of infection and consider discontinuation of EOHILIA if the patient develops an infection while on treatment.
If corticosteroids are used in patients with latent tuberculosis or tuberculin reactivity, reactivation of tuberculosis may occur. Closely monitor such patients for reactivation while receiving EOHILIA.
Varicella and measles can have a serious or even fatal course in non-immune pediatric and adult patients taking corticosteroids. In corticosteroid-treated patients who have not had these diseases or are non-immune, particular care should be taken to avoid exposure to varicella and measles:
Hepatitis B virus reactivation can occur in patients who are hepatitis B carriers treated with immunosuppressive dosages of corticosteroids. Reactivation can also occur infrequently in corticosteroid-treated patients who appear to have resolved hepatitis B infection.
Prior to starting treatment with EOHILIA, for patients who show evidence of hepatitis B infection, recommend consultation with physicians with expertise in managing hepatitis B regarding monitoring and consideration for hepatitis B antiviral therapy.
Corticosteroids may exacerbate systemic fungal infections; therefore, avoid EOHILIA use in the presence of such infections.
Corticosteroids may activate latent amebiasis. Therefore, it is recommended that latent amebiasis or active amebiasis be ruled out before initiating EOHILIA in patients who have spent time in the tropics or patients with unexplained diarrhea.
Avoid EOHILIA in patients with known or suspected Strongyloides (threadworm) infection. Corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression may lead to Strongyloides superinfection and dissemination with widespread larval migration, often accompanied by severe enterocolitis and potentially fatal gram-negative septicemia.
Avoid corticosteroids, including EOHILIA, in patients with cerebral malaria.
Avoid corticosteroids, including EOHILIA, in patients with active ocular herpes simplex.
In clinical trials with EOHILIA, localized infections with Candida albicans occurred in the mouth, throat, and esophagus in some subjects [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking EOHILIA. After 30 minutes, rinse mouth with water and spit without swallowing [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. If oropharyngeal or esophageal candidiasis develops, treat with appropriate local or systemic antifungal therapy and consider discontinuing treatment with EOHILIA.
Erosive esophagitis occurred in subjects who received EOHILIA in a 12-week clinical trial. None of the subjects had erosions at baseline esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and most were receiving concomitant therapy with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) during the trial [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Advise patients or caregivers to report new onset or worsening signs or symptoms of erosive esophagitis to their healthcare provider. Consider endoscopic evaluation as appropriate.
Use of corticosteroids may cause a reduction of growth velocity in pediatric patients. Monitor the growth of pediatric patients on EOHILIA. The maximum recommended duration of treatment with EOHILIA is 12 weeks [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Monitor patients who are transferred from corticosteroid treatment with high systemic effects to corticosteroids with lower systemic availability, such as EOHILIA, since symptoms attributed to withdrawal of steroid therapy, including those of acute adrenal axis suppression or benign intracranial hypertension, may develop. Adrenocortical function monitoring may be required in these patients and the dose of corticosteroid treatment with high systemic effects should be reduced cautiously.
Replacement of systemic corticosteroids with EOHILIA may unmask allergies (e.g., rhinitis and eczema), which were previously controlled by the systemic drug.
Monitor patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, osteoporosis, peptic ulcer, glaucoma or cataracts, or with a family history of diabetes or glaucoma, or with any other condition where corticosteroids may have unwanted effects.
Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported to occur in patients receiving corticosteroid therapy, most often for chronic conditions. Discontinuation of corticosteroids may result in clinical improvement of Kaposi’s sarcoma. The maximum recommended duration of treatment with EOHILIA is 12 weeks [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Advise the patient or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION and Instructions for Use).
Advise the patient or caregiver that EOHILIA may cause hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression and to report any signs or symptoms to their healthcare provider (e.g., acne, bruise easily, ankle swelling, thicker body hair and facial hair, pink or purple stretch marks, a fatty pad or hump between the shoulders, tiredness, weakness, nausea and vomiting, low blood pressure) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients or caregivers to inform their healthcare provider if they develop a new or worsening infection and to contact their healthcare provider immediately if they are exposed to varicella or measles [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform the patient or caregiver that localized infections with Candida albicans may occur in the mouth, throat, and esophagus. Instruct patients to rinse the mouth with water 30 minutes after administration of EOHILIA and to spit out the contents without swallowing. Advise the patient or caregiver to contact the healthcare provider if the patient experiences signs or symptoms of oropharyngeal or esophageal candidiasis [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients or caregivers to report new onset or worsening signs or symptoms of erosive esophagitis (e.g., heartburn, chest pain, trouble swallowing) to their healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients or caregivers that corticosteroids can affect growth in pediatric patients and to report concerns regarding growth while taking EOHILIA to the healthcare provider [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
If transferring to EOHILIA from corticosteroid treatment with high systemic effects, advise the patient or caregiver to follow a taper schedule for systemic corticosteroids, as instructed by the healthcare provider. Advise patients or caregivers that replacement of other systemic corticosteroids with EOHILIA may unmask allergies (e.g., rhinitis and eczema), which were previously controlled by the other drug [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients or caregivers that Kaposi’s sarcoma has been reported in patients receiving corticosteroids for chronic conditions and to inform their healthcare provider if they experience signs or symptoms of Kaposi’s sarcoma [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise female patients that EOHILIA may cause fetal harm and to inform their healthcare provider with a known or suspected pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise patients:
Carcinogenicity studies with budesonide were conducted in rats and mice. 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/day (approximately 0.1 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD], based on the body surface area [BSA]). In addition, there were increased incidences of primary hepatocellular tumors in male rats at 25 mcg/kg (approximately 0.06 times the MRHD, based on BSA) and above. No tumorigenicity was seen in female rats at oral doses up to 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.1 times the MRHD, based on BSA).
In an additional 2-year study in male Sprague-Dawley rats, budesonide caused no gliomas at an oral dose of 50 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.1 times the MRHD, based on BSA); however, it caused a statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatocellular tumors at this same oral dose of 50 mcg/kg/day. The concurrent reference corticosteroids (prednisolone and triamcinolone acetonide)Â showed similar findings. In a 91-week study in mice, budesonide caused no treatment-related carcinogenicity at oral doses up to 200 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.2 times the MRHD, based on BSA).
Budesonide showed no evidence of genotoxic potential in the Ames test, the mouse lymphoma cell forward gene mutation (TK+/-) test, the human lymphocyte chromosome aberration test, the Drosophila melanogaster sex-linked recessive lethality test, the rat hepatocyte UDS test or the mouse micronucleus test.
In rats, budesonide had no effect on fertility at subcutaneous doses up to 80 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.1 times the MRHD, based on BSA). However, it caused a decrease in prenatal viability and viability in pups at birth and during lactation, along with a decrease in maternal body weight gain, at subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.04 times the MRHD, based on BSA) and above. No such effects were noted at 5 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.01 times the MRHD on a body surface area basis).
The available data from published case series, epidemiological studies, and reviews with oral budesonide use in pregnant women have not identified a drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal outcomes. Infants exposed to in-utero corticosteroids, including EOHILIA, are at risk for hypoadrenalism (see Clinical Considerations). In animal reproduction studies, subcutaneous administration of budesonide during organogenesis in pregnant rats (at doses up to approximately 1.2 times the maximum recommended human dose, based on body surface area [BSA]) or pregnant rabbits (at doses approximately 0.14 times the maximum recommended human dose, based on body surface area [BSA]) resulted in increased fetal loss, decreased pup weights, and skeletal abnormalities. Maternal toxicity was observed in both rats and rabbits at these dose levels (see Data). Based on animal data, advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Hypoadrenalism may occur in infants born of mothers receiving corticosteroids during pregnancy. Infants should be carefully observed for signs of hypoadrenalism, such as poor feeding, irritability, weakness, and vomiting, and managed accordingly [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Animal Data
Budesonide was teratogenic and embryolethal in rabbits and rats.
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rats dosed subcutaneously with budesonide during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-15, there were effects on fetal development and survival at subcutaneous doses up to approximately 500 mcg/kg/day in rats (approximately 1.2 times the maximum recommended human dose [MRHD], based on body surface area [BSA]). In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits dosed during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-18, there was an increase in maternal abortion, and effects on fetal development and reduction in litter weights at subcutaneous doses up to approximately 25 mcg/kg/day (approximately 0.14 times the MRHD, based on BSA). Maternal toxicity, including reduction in body weight gain, was observed at subcutaneous doses of 5 mcg/kg in rabbits (approximately 0.03 times the MRHD, based on BSA) and 500 mcg/kg in rats (approximately 1.2 times the MRHD, based on BSA).
In a peri- and post-natal development study, rats dosed subcutaneously with budesonide during the period of Day 15 post coitum to Day 21 postpartum, budesonide had no effects on delivery but did have an effect on growth and development of offspring. In addition, offspring survival was reduced and surviving offspring had decreased mean body weights at birth and during lactation at exposures 0.05 times the MRHD (on a mg/m² basis at maternal subcutaneous doses of 20 mcg/kg/day and higher). These findings occurred in the presence of maternal toxicity.
Lactation studies have not been conducted with oral budesonide, including EOHILIA, and no information is available on the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant or the effects of the drug on milk production. One published study reported that budesonide is present in human milk following maternal inhalation of budesonide (see Data). The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for EOHILIA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from EOHILIA, or from the underlying maternal condition.
One published study reported that budesonide is present in human milk following maternal inhalation of budesonide which resulted in infant doses approximately 0.3% to 1% of the maternal weight-adjusted dosage and a milk/plasma ratio ranging between 0.4 and 0.5. Budesonide plasma concentrations were not detected, and no adverse events were noted in the breastfed infants following maternal use of inhaled budesonide. The recommended daily dose of EOHILIA is higher (4 mg daily) compared with inhaled budesonide (up to 800 mcg daily) given to mothers in the above-described study.
The maximum budesonide plasma concentration following a 2 mg single dose and twice a day repeat dose of oral budesonide is approximately 0.92 ng/mL to 1.1 ng/mL which is up to 2.5 times higher than the 0.43 to 0.86 ng/mL for an 800 mcg daily dose of inhaled budesonide at steady state in the above inhalation study.
Assuming the coefficient of extrapolation between the inhaled and oral doses is constant across all dose levels, at therapeutic doses of EOHILIA, budesonide exposure to the nursing child may be up to 2.5 times higher than that by budesonide inhalation.
The safety and effectiveness of EOHILIA for 12 weeks of treatment for EoE have been established in pediatric patients 11 years of age and older. Use of EOHILIA for this indication is supported by adequate and well controlled studies in adults and pediatric subjects 11 years of age and older (Studies 1 and 2) with pharmacokinetic data in pediatric subjects aged 11 to 17 years of age. In Studies 1 and 2, the safety of EOHILIA in pediatric subjects 11 to 17 years of age was similar to the safety profile in adults [see ADVERSE REACTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, and Clinical Studies].
Systemic effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression may occur with use of corticosteroids, including EOHILIA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS, and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Use of corticosteroids may cause a reduction of growth velocity in pediatric patients. Monitor the growth of pediatric patients on EOHILIA. The recommended duration of treatment with EOHILIA is 12 weeks [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
The safety and effectiveness of EOHILIA in pediatric patients less than 11 years of age have not been established.
In a juvenile rat study, budesonide was administered orally at doses of 0.05, 0.2, 0.6, and 1.5 mg/kg/day starting on postnatal day (PND) 22 for 91 consecutive days. All of the effects noted were associated with the pharmacology of the drug and manifested in a dose related manner, typical of corticosteroids. These included decreased body weight gain, adrenal atrophy, and effects on bone (decreased cellularity and bone length) and lymphoid tissues (decreased cellularity). The no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) in juvenile rats was determined to be the 0.05 mg/kg/day. Plasma exposure (AUC) in rats at the NOAEL (0.05 mg/kg/day) was lower (approximately 0.8 times) than that in pediatric subjects (11 years to 17 years of age) at the MRHD.
In a juvenile toxicity study in dogs, budesonide was orally administered at doses of 0.05, 0.2, and 0.6 mg/kg/day (starting at approximately 7 weeks of age) for 91 consecutive days. The observations were dose-related and consistent with corticosteroid treatment. The effects included decreased body weight gain, distended abdomen and swelling associated with inguinal hernias, lymphocytic and leukocytic changes, adrenal atrophy, depletion in lymphoid organs (lymph nodes, spleen, thymus), and effects on skeletal development (decreased cellularity in bone marrow, bone growth, and skeletal muscle atrophy). The incidence and severity of the majority of the pharmacologically mediated effects decreased or resolved completely following the recovery period. A NOAEL could not be defined in juvenile dogs. Plasma exposure (AUC) at the lowest dose tested (0.05 mg/kg/day) was lower (approximately 0.4 times) than that in pediatric subjects (11 years to 17 years of age) at the MRHD.
Clinical studies of EOHILIA did not include sufficient numbers of subjects 65 years of age and older to determine whether they respond differently from younger adult subjects. In general, EOHILIA should be used with caution due to the potential for decreased hepatic function [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B or Class C, respectively) could be at an increased risk of hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression due to an increased systemic exposure to budesonide. Use is not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C). The recommended dosage in patients with mild or moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A or Class B) is the same as the recommended dosage in patients with normal hepatic function. In patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B), monitor for signs and/or symptoms of hypercorticism [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Treatment of acute overdosage consists of immediate gastric lavage or emesis followed by supportive and symptomatic therapy.
Use of corticosteroids, such as EOHILIA, at excessive doses or for prolonged periods, increases the risk of systemic corticosteroid effects such as hypercorticism and adrenal axis suppression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
EOHILIA is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to budesonide. Serious hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis, have occurred with oral budesonide products [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Budesonide is an anti-inflammatory corticosteroid and has a high glucocorticoid effect and a weak mineralocorticoid effect, and the affinity of budesonide to glucocorticoid receptors, which reflects the intrinsic potency of the drug, is about 200-fold that of cortisol and 15-fold that of prednisolone.
The precise mechanism of corticosteroid actions on inflammation in EoE is not known. Inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of EoE. Corticosteroids have a wide range of inhibitory activities against multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukocytes and cytokines) involved in allergic inflammation.
In Study 1, blood samples to detect cortisol levels (stimulated and unstimulated) were collected in the morning for all subjects [see Clinical Studies]. At baseline, 4% of EOHILIA-treated subjects and 5% of placebo-treated subjects had abnormal peak adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulated serum cortisol values, with abnormal defined as ≤18 mcg/dL. After 12 weeks of treatment, 9% of EOHILIA-treated subjects and 3% of placebo-treated subjects had abnormal peak ACTH-stimulated serum cortisol values [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Budesonide geometric mean (%CV) maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) was 915 (59) pg/mL and area under the time concentration curve at 12 hours (AUC0-12h) was 5071 (58) pg•h/mL after repeated oral administration of EOHILIA 2 mg twice daily in adult subjects with EoE. Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, there was no difference in pharmacokinetics between healthy adults and adult subjects with EoE.
The median (range) time to reach budesonide peak plasma concentration (tmax) was 2 hours (range 0.5 to 4 hours) after oral administration of EOHILIA 2 mg twice daily in adult subjects with EoE. Following repeated (twice daily) oral administration of EOHILIA, the systemic exposure of budesonide was increased dose proportionally in the dose range of 0.5 to 2 mg (0.25 times the recommended dose and up to the recommended dose).
The oral bioavailability of budesonide in healthy subjects is estimated to be 14% under fasting state.
Effect Of Food
A high-fat, high-calorie meal (800-1000 calories and approximately 50% fat) administered to healthy subjects increased the AUC of budesonide by 26% and decreased the Cmax by 13% following a single dose of EOHILIA compared to fasting conditions. Median time to reach peak plasma concentration was delayed approximately 1 hour with the intake of a high-fat, high-calorie meal. The increase in systemic exposure of budesonide due to food effect is not expected to be clinically meaningful.
The mean volume of distribution (Vss/F) of budesonide is 1886 L after repeated oral administration of EOHILIA. Plasma protein binding was estimated to be 85% to 90% in the concentration range 0.43 to 99.02 ng/mL. The erythrocyte/plasma partition ratio at clinically relevant concentrations was about 0.8.
Budesonide has a high plasma clearance, 0.9 to 1.8 L/min approaching the estimated liver blood flow, suggesting that budesonide is a high hepatic clearance drug. The mean plasma elimination half-life (t½) of budesonide after administration of EOHILIA was 3.3 hours.
Metabolism
Following oral absorption, budesonide is subject to high first pass metabolism (80% to 90%). In vitro, budesonide is biotransformed, mainly by CYP3A4, to its 2 major metabolites, 6beta-hydroxy budesonide and 16alpha-hydroxy prednisolone. The corticosteroid activity of these metabolites was negligible (less than1/100) in relation to that of the parent compound.
Excretion
Budesonide is excreted in urine and feces in the form of metabolites. After oral as well as intravenous administration of micronized [3H]-budesonide, approximately 60% of the recovered radioactivity was found in urine. The major metabolites, including 6beta-hydroxy budesonide and 16alpha-hydroxy prednisolone, are mainly renally excreted, intact or in conjugated forms. No unchanged budesonide was detected in urine.
The pharmacokinetics of budesonide were evaluated in pediatric subjects aged 11 years to 17 years (n=10) following oral administration of EOHILIA 2 mg twice a day. The median (range) time to peak plasma concentration of budesonide was 1 (0.5, 2) hour, the mean (%CV) Cmax was 946 (61%) pg/Ml and the mean (%CV) AUC0-8h was 3849 (51%) pg•h/mL.
Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis, the steady-state exposure following EOHILIA 2 mg twice daily is predicted to be comparable between pediatric subjects (11 to less than 18 years) and adults (18 years and older).
In subjects with mild (Child-Pugh Class A, n=4) or moderate (Child-Pugh Class B, n=4) hepatic impairment, budesonide 4 mg was administered orally as a single dose. The subjects with moderate hepatic impairment had a 3.5-fold higher AUC compared to the healthy subjects with normal hepatic function while the subjects with mild hepatic impairment had an approximately 1.4-fold higher AUC. The Cmax values demonstrated similar increases [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. The increased systemic exposure in subjects with mild hepatic impairment was not considered to be clinically relevant. Subjects with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) were not studied [see Use In Specific Populations].
Budesonide is a substrate of CYP3A4. Inhibitors of CYP3A4 can increase the plasma concentrations of budesonide several-fold. Conversely, induction of CYP3A4 potentially could result in the lowering of budesonide plasma concentrations [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Budesonide is a substrate of P-gp, but not a substrate of BCRP, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1, OAT3, or OCT2. The role of P-gp on budesonide disposition is anticipated to be minimal due to CYP3Amediated clearance.
Ketoconazole
In an open, non-randomized, cross-over study, 6 healthy subjects were given budesonide 10 mg as a single dose (5-times the recommended dose of EOHILIA), either alone or concomitantly with the last ketoconazole dose of 3 days treatment with ketoconazole 100 mg twice daily. Coadministration of ketoconazole resulted in an eight-fold increase in AUC of budesonide, compared to budesonide alone [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Grapefruit Juice
In an open, randomized, cross-over study, 8 healthy subjects were given budesonide delayed-release capsules 3 mg (1.5-times the recommended dose of EOHILIA), either alone, or concomitantly with
600 mL concentrated grapefruit juice (which inhibits CYP3A4 activity predominantly in the intestinal mucosa), on the last of 4 daily administrations. Concomitant administration of grapefruit juice resulted in a 2-fold increase of the bioavailability of budesonide compared to budesonide alone [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Oral Contraceptives (CYP3A4 Substrates)
In a parallel study, the pharmacokinetics of budesonide were not significantly different between healthy female subjects who received oral contraceptives containing desogestrel 0.15 mg and ethinyl estradiol 30 mcg and healthy female subjects who did not receive oral contraceptives. Budesonide 4.5 mg (2.3-times the recommended dose of EOHILIA) once daily for one week did not affect the plasma concentrations of ethinyl estradiol, a CYP3A4 substrate.
Omeprazole
In a study in 11 healthy subjects, performed in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled manner, the effect of 5 to 6 days treatment with omeprazole 20 mg once daily on the pharmacokinetics of budesonide administered as budesonide delayed-release capsules 9 mg (4.5-times the recommended dose of EOHILIA) as a single dose was investigated. Omeprazole 20 mg once daily did not affect the absorption or pharmacokinetics of budesonide.
Cimetidine
In an open, non-randomized, cross-over study, the potential effect of cimetidine on the pharmacokinetics of budesonide was studied. Six healthy subjects received cimetidine 1 gram daily (200 mg with meals and 400 mg at night) for 2 separate 3-day periods. Budesonide 4 mg (2-times the recommended dose of EOHILIA) was administered either alone or on the last day of one of the cimetidine treatment periods. Co-administration of cimetidine resulted in a 52% and 31% increase in the budesonide peak plasma concentration and the AUC of budesonide, respectively.
Budesonide is not an inhibitor of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19 and CYP2D6 in vitro. Budesonide is not an inducer of CYP3A4, CYP1A2 or CYP2B6 at clinically relevant concentrations.
In vitro, budesonide is not a significant inhibitor of P-gp, BCRP, OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1, OAT3, or OCT2 at clinically relevant concentrations.
The efficacy and safety of EOHILIA 2 mg twice daily were evaluated in two multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group, placebo-controlled 12-week studies (Study 1 [NCT02605837] and Study 2 [NCT01642212]). Eligible subjects in Study 1 and Study 2 had esophageal inflammation defined as ≥15 eosinophils/high-power field (hpf) from at least 2 levels of the esophagus at baseline following a treatment course of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) either prior to or during screening and at least 4 days of dysphagia as measured by the Dysphagia Symptom Questionnaire (DSQ) over a 2-week period prior to randomization. Concomitant use of stable doses of inhaled or intranasal steroids (for conditions other than EoE), PPIs, H2-receptor antagonists, antacids, antihistamines or anti-leukotrienes, and maintenance immunotherapy was allowed. In Study 1, subjects were enrolled after maintaining a stable diet for at least 3 months prior to screening and were instructed to maintain a stable diet throughout the study. Subjects were excluded if they were on a full liquid or 6-food elimination diet. In Study 2, subjects were instructed to maintain a stable diet throughout the study. In Study 1 and Study 2, subjects were instructed to not eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking the drug and then to rinse their mouth with water and spit out the contents without swallowing prior to resuming normal oral intake.
A total of 318 subjects (277 adults and 41 pediatric subjects) were randomized and received at least one dose of study drug (EOHILIA or placebo) in Study 1. The mean age of the study population was 34 years (range 11 to 56 years). Sixty percent of subjects were male, 95% were White, and 3% were Hispanic or Latino. Over 80% of the subjects were on concomitant PPI. The mean (SD) DSQ combined scores at baseline were 30.3 (13.9) and 30.4 (13.1) in the EOHILIA and placebo groups, respectively.
A total of 92 subjects (58 adults and 34 pediatric subjects) were randomized and received at least one dose of study drug (EOHILIA or placebo) in Study 2. The mean age of the study population was 22 years (range 11 to 42 years). Sixty-eight percent of subjects were male, 95% were White, and 1% were Hispanic or Latino. Over 65% of the subjects were on concomitant PPI. The mean (SD) DSQ combined scores at baseline were 30.7 (16.0) and 29.0 (13.5) in the EOHILIA and placebo groups, respectively.
Study 1 and Study 2 evaluated efficacy endpoints of histologic remission (defined as a peak eosinophil count of ≤6/hpf across all available esophageal levels) and the absolute change from baseline in subject-reported DSQ combined score after 12 weeks of treatment.
Efficacy results for Study 1 and Study 2 are presented in Table 2.
Table 2: Efficacy Results of EOHILIA in Adult and Pediatric Subjects 11 Years of Age and Older with EoE after 12 Weeks (Study 1 and Study 2)
| Study 1 | Study 2 | |||||
| EOHILIA 2 mg Twice Daily N=213 |
Placebo N=105 |
Treatment difference and 95% CIa | EOHILIA 2 mg Twice Daily N=50 |
Placebo N=42 |
Treatment difference and 95%CIa | |
| Efficacy Endpoints | ||||||
| Proportion of subjects achieving histological remission (peak esophageal intraepithelial eosinophil count ≤6 eos/hpf) | 53.1% | 1.0% | 52.4% (43.3, 59.1) |
38.0% | 2.4% | 35.8% (17.2, 50.0) |
| Absolute change from baseline in DSQ combined score (0-84b), LS mean (SE) | -10.2 (1.5) | -6.5 (1.8) | -3.7 (-6.8, -0.6) |
-14.5 (1.8) | -5.9 (2.1) | -8.6 (-13.7, -3.5) |
| a For histological remission, the difference in percentages and 95% Newcombe confidence intervals are estimated using Mantel Haenszel weights, adjusting for age group and diet restriction. For absolute change in DSQ score, the LS mean changes, standard errors, and differences are estimated using an ANCOVA model with treatment group, age group, diet restriction, and baseline measurement as covariates. b Total biweekly DSQ scores range from 0 to 84, higher scores indicate greater frequency and severity of dysphagia |
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During the last 2 weeks of the 12-week treatment periods in Study 1 and Study 2, a greater proportion of subjects randomized to EOHILIA experienced no dysphagia or only experienced dysphagia that “got better or cleared up on its own” compared to placebo, as measured by the subject-reported DSQ.
After completing Study 1, 48 subjects from the EOHILIA 2 mg treatment arm entered a double-blind randomized withdrawal extension study. These subjects received EOHILIA 2 mg twice daily or placebo for up to an additional 36 weeks. Treatment with EOHILIA did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference compared to subjects re-randomized to placebo for prespecified efficacy endpoints based on eosinophil count and/or clinical symptoms measured by the DSQ at Week 36.
EOHILIA™
(ee-oh-HIL-ee-uh)
(budesonide oral suspension)
What is EOHILIA?
EOHILIA is a prescription oral corticosteroid medicine used for 12 weeks of treatment of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), in people 11 years and older.
EOHILIA has not been shown to be safe and effective for the treatment of EoE for longer than 12 weeks.
It is not known if EOHILIA is safe and effective in children younger than 11 years of age.
Who should not take EOHILIA?
Do not take EOHILIA if:
Before you take EOHILIA tell your healthcare provider if you have any other medical conditions including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. EOHILIA and other medicines may affect each other causing side effects.
How should I take EOHILIA?
What should I avoid while taking EOHILIA?
What are the possible side effects of EOHILIA?
EOHILIA may cause serious side effects, including:
These infections can be mild but can be severe and lead to death. Your healthcare provider should check you closely for signs and symptoms of an infection while taking EOHILIA. Tell your healthcare provider right away about any signs or symptoms of a new or worsening infection while taking EOHILIA, including flu-like symptoms such as:
The most common side effects of EOHILIA include:
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
These are not all the possible side effects of EOHILIA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider 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 EOHILIA?
Store between 36°F to 77°F (2°C to 25°C). May be refrigerated. Do not freeze.
Keep EOHILIA and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of EOHILIA.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use EOHILIA for a condition for which it was not prescribed.
Do not give EOHILIA to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about EOHILIA that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in EOHILIA?
Active ingredient: budesonide
Inactive ingredients: acesulfame potassium, ascorbic acid, Avicel® RC-591, cherry flavor, citric acid, dextrose, disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), glycerin, Magnasweet® 110, maltodextrin, polysorbate 80, potassium sorbate, sodium ascorbate, sodium benzoate, sodium citrate, and purified water. Contains no ingredient made from a gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley, or rye).
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
EOHILIA™
 (ee-oh-HIL-ee-uh)
(budesonide oral suspension)
This Instructions for Use contains information on how to take EOHILIA.
Important Information You Need to Know Before Taking EOHILIA
For oral use only (take by mouth).
Take EOHILIA exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much EOHILIA to take.
EOHILIA is provided as a unit-dose 10 mL packet intended for oral use.
Inspect package and do not take if:
Taking EOHILIA
How to take EOHILIA PACKET:
Step 1
Figure A
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Step 2
Figure B
 |
Step 3
Figure C
 |
Step 4
Figure D
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Storing EOHILIA
Store between 36°F to 77°F (2°C to 25°C). May be refrigerated.
Do not freeze.
Keep EOHILIA and all medicines out of the reach of children.
Disposing of EOHILIA
Throw away (discard) the empty EOHILIA packet in the household trash.
For more information, go to www.EOHILIA.com or call 1-877-TAKEDA-7 (1-877-825-3327).
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
