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What is Fintepla and how is it used?
What are the possible side effects of Fintepla?
Fintepla may cause serious side effects, including:
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
If you have any of these symptoms, call your healthcare provider right away.
The most common side effects of Fintepla include:
These are not all the possible side effects of Fintepla. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
WARNING
VALVULAR HEART DISEASE and PULMONARY ARTERIAL HYPERTENSION
There is an association between serotonergic drugs with 5-HT2B receptor agonist activity, including fenfluramine (the active ingredient in Fintepla), and valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Echocardiogram assessments are required before, during, and after treatment with Fintepla. The benefits versus the risks of initiating or continuing Fintepla must be considered, based on echocardiogram findings [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Because of the risks of valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension, Fintepla is available only through a restricted program under a Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) called the Fintepla REMS [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Fintepla oral solution contains 2.2 mg/mL fenfluramine, equivalent to 2.5 mg/mL of the hydrochloride salt.
The active ingredient, fenfluramine hydrochloride, is designated chemically as N-ethyl-α- methyl-3-(trifluoromethyl)phenethylamine hydrochloride.
The structural formula is:
 |
Fenfluramine hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline solid. The pKa of fenfluramine is 10.2.
Fintepla is a clear, colorless solution, pH 5.
Fintepla contains the following inactive ingredients: cherry flavor, citric acid, ethylparaben hydroxyethylcellulose, methylparaben, potassium citrate, sucralose, and water.
Fintepla contains no ingredient made from gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley, or rye).
FINTEPLA is indicated for the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome in patients 2 years of age and older.
Prior to starting treatment with FINTEPLA, obtain an echocardiogram assessment to evaluate for valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension [see Administration Instructions and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Table 1: FINTEPLA Recommended Titration Schedule*
| Without concomitant stiripentol* | With concomitant stiripentol and clobazam | |||
| Weight-based Dosage | Maximum Total Daily Dosage | Weight-based Dosage | Maximum Total Daily Dosage | |
| Initial Dosage | 0.1 mg/kg twice daily | 26 mg | 0.1 mg/kg twice daily | 17 mg |
| Day 7 | 0.2 mg/kg twice daily | 26 mg | 0.15 mg/kg twice daily | 17 mg |
| Day 14 | 0.35 mg/kg twice daily | 26 mg | 0.2 mg/kg twice daily | 17 mg |
| * For patients not on concomitant stiripentol in whom a more rapid titration is warranted, the dose may be increased every 4 days | ||||
To evaluate for valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension, obtain an echocardiogram assessment every 6 months during treatment with FINTEPLA, and 3 to 6 months after the final dose of FINTEPLA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
A calibrated measuring device (either a 3 mL or 6 mL oral syringe) will be provided by the pharmacy and is recommended to measure and administer the prescribed dose accurately [see HOW SUPPLIED]. A household teaspoon or tablespoon is not an adequate measuring device and should not be used.
Discard any unused FINTEPLA oral solution remaining after 3 months of first opening the bottle or the “Discard After” date on the bottle, whichever is sooner.
FINTEPLA is compatible with commercially available gastric and nasogastric feeding tubes.
When discontinuing FINTEPLA, the dose should be decreased gradually. As with all antiepileptic drugs, abrupt discontinuation should be avoided when possible to minimize the risk of increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
2.2 mg/mL fenfluramine as a clear, colorless, cherry flavored liquid.
FINTEPLA oral solution is a clear, colorless, cherry flavored liquid containing 2.2 mg/mL
Before dispensing, the pharmacist will insert a press-in bottle adapter into the dispensing bottle.
The pharmacy will provide 3 mL or 6 mL calibrated oral dosing syringes.
Store FINTEPLA at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); excursions are permitted between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Do not refrigerate or freeze. Store the bottle and syringe together.
Discard any unused portion 3 months after first opening the bottle or the “Discard After” date on the bottle, whichever is sooner.
Marketed by: Zogenix Inc. 5959 Horton Street, Suite 500, Emeryville CA, 94608. Revised: Jun 2020
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in 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.
In controlled and uncontrolled trials in patients with Dravet syndrome, 341 patients were treated with FINTEPLA, including 312 patients treated for more than 6 months, 284 patients treated for more than 1 year, and 138 patients treated for more than 2 years.
In placebo-controlled trials of patients with Dravet syndrome, 122 patients were treated with FINTEPLA [see Clinical Studies]. The duration of treatment in these trials was 16 weeks (Study 1) or 17 weeks (Study 2). In Study 1 and Study 2, the mean age was 9 years (range 2 to 19 years) and approximately 46% of patients were female and 74% were White. All patients were receiving at least one other AED.
In Study 1 and Study 2, the rates of discontinuation as a result of any adverse reaction were 13%, 0%, and 7% for patients treated with FINTEPLA 0.7 mg/kg/day, 0.2 mg/kg/day, and 0.4 mg/kg/day in combination with stiripentol, respectively, compared to 6% for patients on placebo. The most frequent adverse reaction leading to discontinuation in the patients treated with any dose of FINTEPLA was somnolence (n=3, 3%).
The most common adverse reactions that occurred in patients treated with FINTEPLA (incidence at least 10% and greater than placebo) were decreased appetite; somnolence, sedation, lethargy; diarrhea; constipation; abnormal echocardiogram; fatigue, malaise, asthenia; ataxia, balance disorder, gait disturbance; blood pressure increased; drooling, salivary hypersecretion; pyrexia; upper respiratory tract infection; vomiting; decreased weight; fall; status epilepticus.
Table 3 lists the adverse reactions that were reported in 5% or more of patients treated with FINTEPLA and at a rate greater than those on placebo during the titration and maintenance phases of Study 1 and Study 2.
Table 3: Adverse Reactions in 5% or More of Patients Treated with FINTEPLA and Greater Than Placebo in Placebo-Controlled Trials
| FINTEPLA Dose Group | Combined Placebo Group(2) | |||
| Study 1 | Study 2 | |||
| 0.2 mg/kg/day | 0.7 mg/kg/day | 0.4 mg/kg/day(1) | ||
| N=39 % | N=40 % | N=43 % | N=84 % | |
| Decreased appetite | 23 | 38 | 49 | 8 |
| Somnolence, sedation, lethargy | 26 | 25 | 23 | 11 |
| Abnormal echocardiogram(3) | 18 | 23 | 9 | 6 |
| Diarrhea | 31 | 15 | 23 | 6 |
| Constipation | 3 | 10 | 7 | 0 |
| Fatigue, malaise, asthenia | 15 | 10 | 30 | 5 |
| Ataxia, balance disorder, gait disturbance | 10 | 10 | 7 | 1 |
| Abnormal behavior | 0 | 8 | 9 | 0 |
| Blood pressure increased | 13 | 8 | 0 | 5 |
| Drooling, salivary hypersecretion | 13 | 8 | 2 | 0 |
| Hypotonia | 0 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| Rash | 8 | 8 | 5 | 4 |
| Blood prolactin increased | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Chills | 0 | 5 | 2 | 0 |
| Decreased activity | 0 | 5 | 0 | 1 |
| Dehydration | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Insomnia | 0 | 5 | 5 | 2 |
| Pyrexia | 15 | 5 | 21 | 14 |
| Stereotypy | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Upper respiratory tract infection | 21 | 5 | 7 | 10 |
| Vomiting | 10 | 5 | 5 | 8 |
| Weight decreased | 13 | 5 | 7 | 1 |
| Croup | 5 | 3 | 0 | 1 |
| Ear infection | 8 | 3 | 9 | 5 |
| Gastroenteritis | 8 | 3 | 2 | 0 |
| Increased heart rate | 5 | 3 | 0 | 2 |
| Irritability | 0 | 3 | 9 | 2 |
| Rhinitis | 8 | 3 | 7 | 2 |
| Tremor | 3 | 3 | 9 | 0 |
| Urinary incontinence | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Decreased blood glucose | 0 | 0 | 9 | 1 |
| Bronchitis | 3 | 0 | 9 | 1 |
| Contusion | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Eczema | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Enuresis | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Fall | 10 | 0 | 0 | 4 |
| Headache | 8 | 0 | 0 | 2 |
| Laryngitis | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Negativism | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Status epilepticus | 3 | 0 | 12 | 2 |
| Urinary tract infection | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Viral infection | 0 | 0 | 5 | 1 |
| (1) 0.4 mg/kg/day was not an intermediate dose. Patients on the 0.4 mg/kg/day dose were also taking concomitant stiripentol plus clobazam, which increases exposure of FINTEPLA. (2) Patients in placebo groups from Studies 1 and 2 were pooled. (3) Consisted of trace and mild mitral regurgitation, and trace aortic regurgitation, which are considered physiologic. | ||||
Valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension were evaluated in the placebocontrolled and open-label extension studies via echocardiography for up to 3 years in duration [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
No patient developed echocardiographic findings consistent with either valvular heart disease or pulmonary arterial hypertension in the placebo-controlled studies or during the open-label extension study of up to 3 years in duration. In Study 1 and Study 2, 16% of patients taking FINTEPLA compared to 6% of patients taking placebo were reported to have trace mitral regurgitation, and 3% of patients taking FINTEPLA and no patients taking placebo were found to have trace aortic regurgitation. During the open-label extension study, trace mitral regurgitation and trace aortic regurgitation were reported in 14% and 0.4%, respectively, of patients taking FINTEPLA. Trace and mild mitral regurgitation, and trace aortic regurgitation are considered physiologic in the absence of structural valve abnormalities.
Coadministration of FINTEPLA with stiripentol plus clobazam, with or without valproate, increases fenfluramine plasma concentrations and decreases its metabolite, norfenfluramine, because of the inhibition of the metabolism of fenfluramine [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. If FINTEPLA is coadministered with stiripentol plus clobazam, the maximum daily dosage of FINTEPLA is 0.2 mg/kg twice daily ( maximum daily dosage of 17 mg) [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Coadministration with rifampin or strong CYP1A2 and CYP2B6 inducers will decrease fenfluramine plasma concentrations, which may lower the efficacy of FINTEPLA [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Consider an increase in FINTEPLA dosage when coadministered with rifampin or a strong CYP1A2 and CYP2B6 inducer; however, do not exceed the maximum daily dosage [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Cyproheptadine and potent 5-HT1A, 5-HT1D, 5-HT2A, and 5-HT2C serotonin receptor antagonists may decrease the efficacy of FINTEPLA. If cyproheptadine or potent 5-HT1A, 5-HT1D, 5-HT2A, or 5-HT2C serotonin receptor antagonists are coadministered with FINTEPLA, patients should be monitored appropriately.
Concomitant administration of FINTEPLA and drugs (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, MAO inhibitors, trazodone, etc.), over-the-counter medications (eg, dextromethorphan), or herbal supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort) that increase serotonin may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Concomitant use of FINTEPLA with MAOIs is contraindicated. Use FINTEPLA with caution in patients taking other medications that increase serotonin.
FINTEPLA contains fenfluramine, a Schedule IV controlled substance.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Because of the association between serotonergic drugs with 5-HT2B receptor agonist activity, including fenfluramine (the active ingredient in FINTEPLA), and valvular heart disease, cardiac monitoring is required prior to starting treatment, during treatment, and after treatment with FINTEPLA concludes. Cardiac monitoring via echocardiogram can identify evidence of valvular heart disease prior to a patient becoming symptomatic, aiding in early detection of this condition. In clinical trials of up to 3 years in duration, no patient receiving FINTEPLA developed valvular heart disease [see BOXED WARNING and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Prior to starting treatment, patients must undergo an echocardiogram to evaluate for valvular heart disease.
Echocardiograms should be repeated every 6 months, and once 3-6 months post-treatment with FINTEPLA.
If valvular heart disease is observed on an echocardiogram, the prescriber must consider the benefits versus the risks of initiating or continuing treatment with FINTEPLA.
FINTEPLA is available only through a restricted program under a REMS [see FINTEPLA REMS Program].
Because of the association between serotonergic drugs with 5-HT2B receptor agonist activity, including fenfluramine (the active ingredient in FINTEPLA), and pulmonary arterial hypertension, cardiac monitoring is required prior to starting treatment, during treatment, and after treatment with FINTEPLA concludes. Cardiac monitoring via echocardiogram can identify evidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension prior to a patient becoming symptomatic, aiding in early detection of this condition. In clinical trials of up to 3 years in duration, no patient receiving FINTEPLA developed pulmonary arterial hypertension [see BOXED WARNING and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Prior to starting treatment, patients must undergo an echocardiogram to evaluate for pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Echocardiograms should be repeated every 6 months, and once 3-6 months post-treatment with FINTEPLA.
If pulmonary arterial hypertension is observed on an echocardiogram, the prescriber must consider the benefits versus the risks of initiating or continuing treatment with FINTEPLA.
FINTEPLA is available only through a restricted program under a REMS [see FINTEPLA REMS Program].
FINTEPLA is available only through a restricted distribution program called the FINTEPLA REMS program because of the risk of valvular heart disease and pulmonary arterial hypertension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Notable requirements of the FINTEPLA REMS Program include:
Further information is available at www.FinteplaREMS.com or by telephone at 1-877-964-3649.
FINTEPLA can cause decreases in appetite and weight. In Study 1 and Study 2 combined, approximately 37% of patients treated with FINTEPLA reported, as an adverse reaction, decreased appetite and approximately 9% reported decreased weight, as compared to 8% and 1%, respectively, of patients on placebo [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. By the end of the controlled studies, 19% of patients treated with FINTEPLA had a measured decrease in weight of 7% or greater from their baseline weight, compared to 2% of patients on placebo. This measured decrease in weight appeared to be dose-related, with 26% of patients on FINTEPLA 0.7 mg/kg/day, 19% of patients on FINTEPLA 0.4 mg/kg/day in combination with stiripentol, and 13% of patients taking FINTEPLA 0.2 mg/kg/day experiencing at least a 7% decrease in weight from baseline. Most patients resumed the expected measured increases in weight by the end of the open-label extension study. Given the frequency of these adverse reactions, the growth of pediatric patients treated with FINTEPLA should be carefully monitored. Weight should be monitored regularly during treatment with FINTEPLA and dose modifications should be considered if a decrease in weight is observed.
FINTEPLA can cause somnolence, sedation, and lethargy. In Study 1 and Study 2 combined, the incidence of somnolence, sedation, and lethargy was 25% in patients treated with FINTEPLA, compared with 11% of patients on placebo. In general, these effects may diminish with continued treatment [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Other central nervous system (CNS) depressants, including alcohol, could potentiate these effects of FINTEPLA. Prescribers should monitor patients for somnolence and sedation and should advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on FINTEPLA to gauge whether it adversely affects their ability to drive or operate machinery.
Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Patients treated with an AED for any indication should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, or any unusual changes in mood or behavior.
Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials (mono- and adjunctive therapy) of 11 different AEDs that did not include FINTEPLA showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI:1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. In these trials, which had a median treatment duration of 12 weeks, the estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27,863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16,029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in drug-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too small to allow any conclusion about drug effect on suicide.
The increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with AEDs was observed as early as 1 week after starting drug treatment with AEDs and persisted for the duration of treatment assessed. Because most trials included in the analysis did not extend beyond 24 weeks, the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior beyond 24 weeks could not be assessed.
The risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior was generally consistent among drugs in the data analyzed. The finding of increased risk with AEDs of varying mechanisms of action and across a range of indications suggests that the risk applies to all AEDs used for any indication. The risk did not vary substantially by age (5-100 years) in the clinical trials analyzed. Table 2 shows absolute and relative risk by indication for all evaluated AEDs.
Table 2: Risk of Suicidal Thoughts or Behaviors by Indication for Antiepileptic Drugs in the Pooled Analysis
| Indication | Placebo Patients with Events per 1000 Patients | Drug Patients with Events per 1000 Patients | Relative Risk: Incidence of Events in Drug Patients/ Incidence in Placebo Patients | Risk Difference: Additional Drug Patients with Events per 1000 Patients |
| Epilepsy | 1.0 | 3.4 | 3.5 | 2.4 |
| Psychiatric | 5.7 | 8.5 | 1.5 | 2.9 |
| Other | 1.0 | 1.8 | 1.9 | 0.9 |
| Total | 2.4 | 4.3 | 1.8 | 1.9 |
The relative risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior was higher in clinical trials in patients with epilepsy than in clinical trials in patients with psychiatric or other conditions, but the absolute risk differences were similar for the epilepsy and psychiatric indications.
Anyone considering prescribing FINTEPLA or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated.
As with most AEDs, FINTEPLA should generally be withdrawn gradually because of the risk of increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus. If withdrawal is needed because of a serious adverse reaction, rapid discontinuation can be considered.
Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition, may occur with FINTEPLA, particularly with concomitant administration of FINTEPLA with other serotonergic drugs, including, but not limited to, selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), bupropion, triptans, dietary supplements (e.g., St. John’s Wort, tryptophan), drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin (including monoamine oxidase inhibitors [MAOIs], which are contraindicated with FINTEPLA [see CONTRAINDICATIONS], dextromethorphan, lithium, tramadol, and antipsychotics with serotonergic agonist activity. Patients should be monitored for the emergence of signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, hyperthermia), neuromuscular signs (e.g., hyperreflexia, incoordination), and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). If serotonin syndrome is suspected, treatment with FINTEPLA should be stopped immediately and symptomatic treatment should be started.
FINTEPLA can cause an increase in blood pressure [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Significant elevation in blood pressure, including hypertensive crisis, has been reported rarely in adult patients treated with fenfluramine, including patients without a history of hypertension. Monitor blood pressure in patients treated with FINTEPLA. In clinical trials of up to 3 years in duration, no patient receiving FINTEPLA developed a hypertensive crisis.
Fenfluramine can cause mydriasis and can precipitate angle closure glaucoma. Consider discontinuing treatment with FINTEPLA in patients with acute decreases in visual acuity or ocular pain.
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide and Instructions for Use).
Advise patients who are prescribed FINTEPLA to use the oral dosing syringes provided by the pharmacy [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE]. Instruct patients to discard any unused FINTEPLA 3 months after first opening the bottle or if the “discard after” date on the dispensing bottle has passed, whichever is sooner [see HOW SUPPLIED].
Advise patients that cardiac monitoring must be performed using echocardiography to monitor for serious heart valve changes or high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
FINTEPLA is available only through a restricted program called the FINTEPLA REMS program [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Inform the patient of the following notable requirements:
FINTEPLA is only prescribed by certified health care providers and only dispensed from certified pharmacies participating in the program. Therefore, provide patients with the telephone number and website for information on how to obtain the product [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that decreased appetite is frequent during treatment with FINTEPLA, which can cause decrease in weight [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients that FINTEPLA can cause somnolence, sedation, and lethargy. Caution patients about operating hazardous machinery, including motor vehicles, until they are reasonably certain that FINTEPLA does not affect them adversely (eg, impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Counsel patients, their caregivers, and their families that antiepileptic drugs may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and advise them to be alert for the emergence or worsening of symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts of self-harm. Instruct patients, caregivers, and families to report behaviors of concern immediately to healthcare providers [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients not to discontinue use of FINTEPLA without consulting with their healthcare provider. FINTEPLA should normally be gradually withdrawn to reduce the potential for increased seizure frequency and status epilepticus [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome, which can be life-threatening. Advise patients on the signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome and that certain over-the-counter and herbal supplements can increase this risk [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients that FINTEPLA can cause an increase in blood pressure [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients that FINTEPLA can cause mydriasis and can precipitate angle closure glaucoma. Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider if they have any acute decreases in visual acuity or ocular pain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during FINTEPLA therapy. Encourage women who are taking FINTEPLA to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry if they become pregnant. This registry is collecting information about the safety of antiepileptic drugs during pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Studies to assess the carcinogenic potential of fenfluramine have not been conducted.
Fenfluramine was negative in an in vitro bacterial mutation (Ames) assay and an in vivo micronucleus and comet assay in rats.
Studies to assess for adverse effects of fenfluramine on fertility or reproduction have not been conducted.
There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), such as FINTEPLA, during pregnancy. Encourage women who are taking FINTEPLA during pregnancy to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry by calling the toll-free number 1-888-233-2334 or visiting http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org.
There are no adequate human or animal data on the developmental risks associated with the use of FINTEPLA in pregnant women.
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. The background risks of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown.
There are no data on the presence of fenfluramine or its metabolites in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects on milk production.
The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for FINTEPLA and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from FINTEPLA or from the underlying maternal condition.
The safety and effectiveness of FINTEPLA for the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome have been established in patients 2 years of age and older.
Safety and effectiveness in patients less than 2 years of age have not been established.
Oral administration of fenfluramine (0, 3.5, 9, or 20 mg/kg/day) to young rats for 10 weeks starting on postnatal day 7 resulted in reduced body weight and neurobehavioral changes (decreased locomotor activity and learning and memory deficits) at all doses tested. Neurobehavioral effects persisted after dosing was discontinued. Bone size was decreased at the mid and high doses; brain size was decreased at the highest dose. Partial or complete recovery was seen for these endpoints. A no-effect dose for postnatal developmental toxicity was not identified. The lowest dose tested (3.5 mg/kg/day) was associated with plasma fenfluramine exposures (AUC) less than that in humans at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD of 30 mg/day) and norfenfluramine (metabolite) exposures (AUC) approximately 3 times that in humans at the MRHD.
Clinical studies of FINTEPLA for the treatment of Dravet syndrome did not include patients 65 years of age and over to determine whether they respond differently from 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.
Administration of FINTEPLA to patients with moderate or severe renal impairment is not recommended [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Administration of FINTEPLA to patients with hepatic impairment is not recommended [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Overdose has not been observed in the FINTEPLA clinical trial program. However, overdose of fenfluramine, the active ingredient in FINTEPLA, has been reported at higher doses than those included in the clinical trial program. Some of the cases were fatal. Events reported after overdose include mydriasis, tachycardia, flushing, tremors/twitching/muscle spasms, agitation/restlessness/anxiety, increased muscle tone/rigor/opisthotonos, respiratory distress or failure, and seizure. Seizure, coma, and cardiorespiratory arrest were reported in most of the fatal overdoses.
There is no available specific antidote to the overdose reactions of FINTEPLA. In the event of overdose, standard medical practice for the management of drug overdosage should be used. An adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation should be ensured; monitoring of cardiac rhythm and vital sign measurement is recommended. A certified poison control center should be contacted for updated information on the management of overdose with FINTEPLA.
FINTEPLA is contraindicated in patients with:
The mechanisms by which fenfluramine exerts its therapeutic effects in the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome are unknown. Fenfluramine and the metabolite, norfenfluramine, increase extracellular levels of serotonin through interaction with serotonin transporter proteins, and exhibit agonist activity at serotonin 5HT-2 receptors.
At a dose 4 times the maximum recommended dose, FINTEPLA did not prolong the QT interval when tested in an adult population.
The pharmacokinetics of fenfluramine and norfenfluramine were studied in healthy subjects and in pediatric patients with Dravet syndrome. The steady-state systemic exposure (Cmax and AUC) of fenfluramine was slightly greater than dose proportional over the dose range of 13 to 51.8 mg twice-daily fenfluramine (i.e., 1 to 4 times the maximum recommended dose). In pediatric patients who received FINTEPLA 0.7 mg/kg/day, up to a total daily dose of 26 mg fenfluramine, the geometric mean steady-state fenfluramine (coefficient of variation) Cmax was 68.0 (41%) ng/mL and AUC0-24h was 1390 (44%) ng*h/mL.
Fenfluramine has a time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) of 4 to 5 hours at steady state. The absolute bioavailability of fenfluramine is approximately 68-74%. There was no effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of fenfluramine or norfenfluramine.
The geometric mean (CV%) apparent volume of distribution (Vz/F) of fenfluramine is 11.9 (16.5%) L/kg following oral administration of FINTEPLA in healthy subjects. Fenfluramine is 50% bound to human plasma proteins in vitro and binding is independent of drug concentrations.
The elimination half-life of fenfluramine was 20 hours and the geometric mean (CV%) clearance (CL/F) was 24.8 (29%) L/h, following oral administration of FINTEPLA in healthy subjects.
Metabolism
Over 75% of fenfluramine is metabolized to norfenfluramine prior to elimination, primarily by CYP1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP2D6. Other CYP enzymes involved to a minor extent are CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4/5. Norfenfluramine is then deaminated and oxidized to form inactive metabolites.
Excretion
Most of an orally administered dose of fenfluramine (greater than 90%) is excreted in the urine as fenfluramine, norfenfluramine, or other metabolites with fenfluramine and norfenfluramine accounting for less than 25% of the total; less than 5% is found in feces.
The effect of age (range: 2 to 50 years), sex, and race had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of fenfluramine.
Effect of a single dose of stiripentol, clobazam, and valproic acid combination: Coadministration of a single 0.7 mg/kg dose of FINTEPLA, with a single dose of a stiripentol, clobazam, and valproic acid combination in health volunteers, increased the AUC0-INF of fenfluramine by 69% and the Cmax by 18%, and decreased the AUC0-72 hours of norfenfluramine by 41% and the Cmax by 42%, as compared to FINTEPLA administered alone.
Effect of steady state stiripentol plus clobazam, with or without valproate: Fenfluramine pharmacokinetic data were collected from patients after receiving multiple fenfluramine administrations in Study 1 as well as Study 2. Population pharmacokinetic modeling and simulation were used to assess the effect of stiripentol plus clobazam with or without valproate on fenfluramine pharmacokinetics. The effect of stiripentol plus clobazam, with or without valproate, on fenfluramine pharmacokinetics is greater when FINTEPLA is at steady-state than for the first dose of FINTEPLA. When initiating FINTEPLA therapy, coadministration of existing stiripentol plus clobazam with or without valproate is expected to increase the AUC0-24 of the first fenfluramine dose by up to 42% in the patient population. At steady state in the patient population, the coadministration of 0.1 mg/kg twice daily (0.2 mg/kg/day), maximum 17 mg/day, of FINTEPLA with stiripentol plus clobazam with or without valproate, is expected to result in a 166% increase in fenfluramine AUC0-24 and a 38% decrease in norfenfluramine AUC0- 24, as compared to 0.2 mg/kg/day, maximum 26 mg/day, FINTEPLA dose administered alone [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Effect of steady state cannabidiol: Coadministration of a single 0.35 mg/kg dose of FINTEPLA with repeated doses of cannabidiol increased the AUC0-INF of fenfluramine by 59% and the Cmax by 10%, and decreased the AUC0-INF of norfenfluramine by 22% and the Cmax by 33%, as compared to FINTEPLA administered alone. This interaction is not expected to be clinically significant.
Effect of FINTEPLA on other drugs: Coadministration of a single 0.7 mg/kg dose of FINTEPLA, with a single dose of a stiripentol, clobazam, and valproic acid combination, did not affect the pharmacokinetics of stiripentol, nor the pharmacokinetics of clobazam or its N-desmethyl-metabolite norclobazam, nor the pharmacokinetics of valproic acid, as compared to the stiripentol, clobazam, and valproic acid combination alone. Coadministration of a single 0.35 mg/kg dose of FINTEPLA, with repeated doses of cannabidiol, did not affect the pharmacokinetics of cannabidiol, as compared to cannabidiol alone.
In Vitro Studies
Fenfluramine is primarily metabolized by CYP1A2, CYP2B6, and CYP2D6 in vitro. Other CYP enzymes involved to a minor extent are CYP2C9, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4/5.
Effect of fenfluramine and norfenfluramine on CYP Substrates: fenfluramine and norfenfluramine are not inhibitors or inducers of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, or CYP3A4 at clinically relevant concentrations.
Effect of transporters on fenfluramine and norfenfluramine: fenfluramine and norfenfluramine are not substrates of the P-g, BCRP, OAT1, OAT3, OCT2, MATE1, or MATE2-K transporters.
Effect of FINTEPLA on Transporters: fenfluramine and norfenfluramine are not inhibitors of P-gp, BCRP, OAT1B1, OATP1B3, OAT1, OAT3, OCT2, MATE1, or MATE2-K transporters.
The effectiveness of FINTEPLA for the treatment of seizures associated with Dravet syndrome in patients 2 years of age and older was established in two randomized, double-blind, placebocontrolled trials in patients 2 to 18 years of age.
Study 1 (N=117) compared a 0.7 mg/kg/day and a 0.2 mg/kg/day dose of FINTEPLA with placebo in patients who were not receiving stiripentol (NCT02682927 and NCT02826863). Study 2 (N=85) compared a 0.4 mg/kg/day dose of FINTEPLA with placebo in patients who were receiving stiripentol and either clobazam, valproate, or both (NCT02926898). In both studies, patients had a clinical diagnosis of Dravet syndrome and were inadequately controlled on at least one AED or other antiseizure treatment including vagal nerve stimulation or a ketogenic diet. Both trials had a 6-week baseline period, during which patients were required to have a minimum of 6 convulsive seizures while on stable AED therapy. Convulsive seizures included tonic, clonic, generalized tonic-clonic, tonic-atonic, secondarily generalized tonic-clonic, hemiclonic, and focal with observable motor signs. The baseline period was followed by randomization into a 2-week (Study 1) or 3-week (Study 2) titration period and a subsequent 12-week maintenance period, where the dose of FINTEPLA remained stable.
In Study 1, 98% of patients were taking between 1 and 4 concomitant AEDs. The most frequently used concomitant AEDs (in at least 25% of patients), were valproate (61%), clobazam (59%), and topiramate (25%). In Study 2, 100% of patients were taking between 2 and 4 concomitant AEDs. The most frequently used concomitant AEDs (in at least 25% of patients), were stiripentol (100%), clobazam (94%), and valproate (89%).
The primary efficacy endpoint in both studies was the change from baseline in the frequency of convulsive seizures per 28 days during the combined 14-week (Study 1) or 15-week (Study 2) titration and maintenance periods (i.e., treatment period). The median longest interval between convulsive seizures was also assessed.
In Study 1 and Study 2, the reduction in convulsive seizure frequency per 28 days was statistically significantly greater for all dose groups of FINTEPLA compared to placebo (Table 4). A reduction in convulsive seizures was observed within 3 to 4 weeks of starting FINTEPLA, and the effect remained generally consistent over the 14- or 15-week treatment period.
Table 4: Change in Convulsive Seizure Frequency During the Treatment Period in Patients with Dravet Syndrome (Study 1 and Study 2)
| Convulsive Seizure Frequency (per 28 days) | Placebo | FINTEPLA 0.2 mg/kg/day | FINTEPLA 0.7 mg/kg/day | FINTEPLA 0.4 mg/kg/day |
| Study 1 | N=39 | N=38 | N=40 | NA |
| Baseline Period Median | 29.4 | 18.1 | 18.7 | NA |
| % Difference Relative to Placebo* | -31.7% | -70.0% | NA | |
| p-value compared to placebo | 0.043 | <0.001 | ||
| Study 2 | N=42 | NA | NA | N=43 |
| Baseline Period Median | 11.5 | NA | NA | 15.0 |
| % Difference Relative to Placebo* | NA | NA | -59.5% | |
| p-value compared to placebo | <0.001 | |||
| *Derived from the primary analysis model ±All 0.4 mg/kg/day patients were also taking concomitant stiripentol, which increases the exposure of FINTEPLA. | ||||
Figure 1 and Figure 2 display the percentage of patients by category of seizure response from baseline in convulsive seizure frequency (per 28 days) during the treatment period in Study 1 and Study 2, respectively.
Figure 1: Proportion of Patients by Category of Seizure Response for FINTEPLA and Placebo in Patients with Dravet Syndrome (Study 1)
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Figure 2: Proportion of Patients by Category of Seizure Response for FINTEPLA and Placebo in Patients with Dravet Syndrome (Study 2)
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In Study 1, 3 of 40 (8%) patients in the FINTEPLA 0.7 mg/kg/day group and 3 of 38 (8%) patients in the FINTEPLA 0.2 mg/kg/day group reported no convulsive seizures during the 14-week treatment period, compared to 0 patients in the placebo group. In Study 2, 1 of 43 (2%) patients in the FINTEPLA 0.4 mg/kg/day group reported no convulsive seizures during the 15-week treatment period, compared to 0 patients in the placebo group.
In Study 1 and Study 2, FINTEPLA was associated with a statistically significant longer interval between convulsive seizures compared to placebo (Figure 3).
Figure 3: Median Longest Interval Between Convulsive Seizures in Patients with Dravet Syndrome (Study 1 and Study 2)
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FINTEPLA®
(fin-TEP-la)
(fenfluramine) oral solution
Read this Medication Guide before you start taking FINTEPLA and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
What is the most important information I should know about FINTEPLA?
FINTEPLA can cause serious side effects, including:
Because of the risk of heart valve problems and pulmonary arterial hypertension FINTEPLA is only available through a restricted program called the FINTEPLA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation (REMS) Program. Before you or your child receives FINTEPLA, your healthcare provider or pharmacist will make sure you understand how to take FINTEPLA safely. If you have any questions about FINTEPLA, ask your healthcare provider, visit www.FinteplaREMS.com, or call 1-877-964-3649.
Suicidal thoughts or actions can be caused by things other than medicines. If you have suicidal thoughts or actions, your healthcare provider may check for other causes.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you develop any of these signs and symptoms of heart or lung problems during treatment with FINTEPLA:
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you:
How can I watch for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions?
Call your healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you are worried about symptoms.
What is FINTEPLA?
Do not take FINTEPLA if you:
Before taking FINTEPLA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your 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.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider or pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I take FINTEPLA?
What should I avoid while taking FINTEPLA?
What are the possible side effects of FINTEPLA?
FINTEPLA may cause serious side effects, including:
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
If you have any of these symptoms, call your healthcare provider right away.
The most common side effects of FINTEPLA include:
These are not all the possible side effects of FINTEPLA. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
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 FINTEPLA?
Keep FINTEPLA and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of FINTEPLA.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use FINTEPLA for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give FINTEPLA 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 FINTEPLA that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in FINTEPLA?
Active ingredient: fenfluramine hydrochloride
Inactive ingredients: cherry flavor, citric acid, ethylparaben, hydroxyethylcellulose, methylparaben, potassium citrate, sucralose, and water.
FINTEPLA contains no ingredient made from gluten-containing grain (wheat, barley, or rye).
Instructions for Use
FINTEPLA™
(fin-TEP-la)
(fenfluramine) oral solution 2.2 mg/mL
Be sure that you read, understand, and follow these instructions before you start using FINTEPLA oral solution and each time you get a refill. There may be new information.
This Instructions for Use contains information on how to take FINTEPLA. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
What is included with FINTEPLA?
The following items are included to prepare and give an oral dose of FINTEPLA:
1 Bottle of FINTEPLA Oral Solution (2.2 mg/mL)
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2 Oral Syringes
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Call the pharmacist at 1-844-288-5007 if you did not receive the items listed above, or if you need help using them.
Important information about FINTEPLA
Oral syringes provided with FINTEPLA by the pharmacy.
With FINTEPLA you will receive 2 reusable oral syringes.
2 oral syringes that can measure up to 3 mL
OR
2 oral syringes that can measure up to 6 mL
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Call the pharmacist at 1-844-288-5007 if you have any questions about the syringes provided with FINTEPLA.
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Step 1. Make sure you have:
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Step 2. Check the “Discard After” date (MM/DD/YYYY).
Step 3. Press down and turn the childproof cap to the left (counterclockwise) and remove it from the bottle.
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Step 4. Make sure the adapter is on the bottle.
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Step 5. Remove an oral syringe from its packaging, if needed.
Only use the oral syringes provided with FINTEPLA.
If an oral syringe is damaged, or you cannot read the dose markings:
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Step 6. Make sure the plunger is pushed all the way into the oral syringe.
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Step 7. Hold the bottle of medicine firmly on a hard, flat surface.
Step 8. Push the tip of the oral syringe into the opening of the adapter until it cannot be pushed further.
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Preparing a dose (continued)
Step 9. Hold the oral syringe and bottle together and turn upside down.
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Step 10. Slowly pull the plunger of the oral syringe to withdraw the prescribed dose.
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Preparing a dose (continued)
Step 11. Line up the end of the plunger with the mark for the prescribed dose on the oral syringe.
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Tips to Getting the Correct Dose
Note: Very small bubbles in the liquid are normal.
Step 12. Hold the oral syringe and bottle together and then turn the bottle right side up.
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Step 13. Holding the bottle firmly, gently pull the oral syringe out of the bottle adapter.
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Step 14. Make sure the dose in the oral syringe still matches the prescribed dose.
If the dose does not match:
Giving FINTEPLA
Step 15. Place the tip of the oral syringe against the inside of the cheek.
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Step 16. Gently push the plunger in until all the medicine in the oral syringe is given.
Step 17. Place the cap back on the bottle tightly by turning the cap right (clockwise) until it stops.
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Cleaning the syringe
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Cleaning Tips:
How should I store FINTEPLA?
This “Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
