Warnings for Ninlaro
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
Precautions for Ninlaro
Thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia has been reported with NINLARO with platelet nadirs typically occurring between Days 14-21 of each 28-day cycle and recovery to baseline by the start of the next cycle [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Grade 3 thrombocytopenia was reported in 17% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia was reported in 13% in the NINLARO regimen. The rate of platelet transfusions was 10% in the NINLARO regimen and 7% in the placebo regimen.
Monitor platelet counts at least monthly during treatment with NINLARO. Consider more frequent monitoring during the first three cycles. Manage thrombocytopenia with dose modifications [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION] and platelet transfusions as per standard medical guidelines.
Gastrointestinal Toxicities
Diarrhea, constipation, nausea, and vomiting have been reported with NINLARO, occasionally requiring use of antidiarrheal and antiemetic medications, and supportive care. Diarrhea was reported in 52% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and 43% in the placebo regimen, constipation in 35% and 28%, respectively, nausea in 32% and 23%, respectively, and vomiting in 26% and 13%, respectively. Diarrhea resulted in discontinuation of one or more of the three drugs in 3% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and 2% of patients in the placebo regimen [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Adjust dosing for Grade 3 or 4 symptoms [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Peripheral Neuropathy
The majority of peripheral neuropathy adverse reactions were Grade 1 (18% in the NINLARO regimen and 16% in the placebo regimen) and Grade 2 (11% in the NINLARO regimen and 6% in the placebo regimen) [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Grade 3 adverse reactions of peripheral neuropathy were reported at 2% in both regimens.
The most commonly reported reaction was peripheral sensory neuropathy (24% and 17% in the NINLARO and placebo regimen, respectively). Peripheral motor neuropathy was not commonly reported in either regimen (< 1%). Peripheral neuropathy resulted in discontinuation of one or more of the three drugs in 4% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and <1% of patients in the placebo regimen. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of neuropathy. Patients experiencing new or worsening peripheral neuropathy may require dose modification [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Peripheral Edema
Peripheral edema was reported in 27% and 21% of patients in the NINLARO and placebo regimens, respectively. The majority of peripheral edema adverse reactions were Grade 1 (17% in the NINLARO regimen and 14% in the placebo regimen) and Grade 2 (7% in the NINLARO regimen and 6% in the placebo regimen).
Grade 3 peripheral edema was reported in 2% and 1% of patients in the NINLARO and placebo regimens, respectively [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Peripheral edema resulted in discontinuation of one or more of the three drugs in <1% of patients in both regimens. Evaluate for underlying causes and provide supportive care, as necessary. Adjust dosing of dexamethasone per its prescribing information or NINLARO for Grade 3 or 4 symptoms [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Cutaneous Reactions
Rash was reported in 27% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and 16% of patients in the placebo regimen. The majority of the rash adverse reactions were Grade 1 (15% in the NINLARO regimen and 9% in the placebo regimen) or Grade 2 (9% in the NINLARO regimen and 4% in the placebo regimen) [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Grade 3 rash was reported in 3% of patients in the NINLARO regimen and 2% of patients in the placebo regimen. Serious adverse reactions of rash were reported in <1% of patients in the NINLARO regimen. The most common type of rash reported in both regimens included maculo-papular and macular rash. Rash resulted in discontinuation of one or more of the three drugs in < 1% of patients in both regimens. Manage rash with supportive care or with dose modification if Grade 2 or higher [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis, including fatal cases, have been reported with NINLARO [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. If Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis occurs, discontinue NINLARO and manage as clinically indicated.
Thrombotic Microangiopathy
Cases, sometimes fatal, of thrombotic microangiopathy, including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura/hemolytic uremic syndrome (TTP/HUS), have been reported in patients who received NINLARO [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Monitor for signs and symptoms of TTP/HUS. If the diagnosis is suspected, stop NINLARO and evaluate. If the diagnosis of TTP/HUS is excluded, consider restarting NINLARO. The safety of reinitiating NINLARO therapy in patients previously experiencing TTP/HUS is not known.
Hepatotoxicity
Drug-induced liver injury, hepatocellular injury, hepatic steatosis, hepatitis cholestatic and hepatotoxicity have each been reported in < 1% of patients treated with NINLARO [see ADVERSE REACTIONS]. Hepatotoxicity has been reported (10% in the NINLARO regimen and 9% in the placebo regimen). Monitor hepatic enzymes regularly and adjust dosing for Grade 3 or 4 symptoms [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
NINLARO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman based on the mechanism of action and findings in animal studies. Ixazomib caused embryo-fetal toxicity in pregnant rats and rabbits at doses resulting in exposures that were slightly higher than those observed in patients receiving the recommended dose. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective non-hormonal contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days following the last dose. Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days following the last dose [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and Use In Specific Populations].
Increased Mortality In Patients Treated With NINLARO In The Maintenance Setting
In two prospective randomized clinical trials in multiple myeloma in the maintenance setting, treatment with NINLARO resulted in increased deaths. Treatment of patients with NINLARO for multiple myeloma in the maintenance setting is not recommended outside of controlled trials [see Clinical Studies].
Patient Counseling Information
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION).
Dosing Instructions
- Instruct patients to take NINLARO exactly as prescribed.
- Advise patients to take NINLARO once a week on the same day and at approximately the same time for the first three weeks of a four week cycle. The importance of carefully following all dosage instructions should be discussed with patients starting treatment. Advise patients to take the recommended dosage as directed, because overdosage has led to deaths [see OVERDOSAGE ].
- Advise patients to take NINLARO at least one hour before or at least two hours after food.
- Advise patients that NINLARO and dexamethasone should not be taken at the same time, because dexamethasone should be taken with food and NINLARO should not be taken with food.
- Advise patients to swallow the capsule whole with water. The capsule should not be crushed, chewed or opened.
- Advise patients that direct contact with the capsule contents should be avoided. In case of capsule breakage, avoid direct contact of capsule contents with the skin or eyes. If contact occurs with the skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water. If contact occurs with the eyes, flush thoroughly with water.
- If a patient misses a dose, advise them to take the missed dose as long as the next scheduled dose is ≥ 72 hours away. Advise patients not to take a missed dose if it is within 72 hours of their next scheduled dose.
- If a patient vomits after taking a dose, advise them not to repeat the dose but resume dosing at the time of the next scheduled dose.
- Advise patients to store capsules in original packaging, and not to remove the capsule from the packaging until just prior to taking NINLARO. [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]
Thrombocytopenia
Advise patients that they may experience low platelet counts (thrombocytopenia). Signs of thrombocytopenia may include bleeding and easy bruising. [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Gastrointestinal Toxicities
Advise patients they may experience diarrhea, constipation, nausea and vomiting and to contact their healthcare providers if these adverse reactions persist. [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Peripheral Neuropathy
Advise patients to contact their healthcare providers if they experience new or worsening symptoms of peripheral neuropathy such as tingling, numbness, pain, a burning feeling in the feet or hands, or weakness in the arms or legs. [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Peripheral Edema
Advise patients to contact their healthcare providers if they experience unusual swelling of their extremities or weight gain due to swelling [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Cutaneous Reactions
Advise patients to contact their healthcare providers immediately if they experience new or worsening rash [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Thrombotic Microangiopathy
Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if any signs or symptoms of thrombotic microangiopathy occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Hepatotoxicity
Advise patients to contact their healthcare providers if they experience jaundice or right upper quadrant abdominal pain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Other Adverse Reactions
Advise patients to contact their healthcare providers if they experience signs and symptoms of acute febrile neutrophilic dermatosis (Sweet’s syndrome), Stevens-Johnson syndrome, transverse myelitis, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, tumor lysis syndrome, herpes zoster, cataracts, dry eyes, blurred vision, conjunctivitis and thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura [see ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
Advise pregnant women and females of reproductive potential of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Use In Specific Populations].
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days following the last dose. Advise women using hormonal contraceptives to also use a barrier method of contraception [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days following the last dose [see Use In Specific Populations].
Lactation
Advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days after the last dose [see Use In Specific Populations].
Concomitant Medications
Advise patients to speak with their healthcare providers about any other medication they are currently taking and before starting any new medications.
Nonclinical Toxicology
Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility
Ixazomib was not mutagenic in a bacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames assay). Ixazomib was considered positive in an in vitro clastogenicity test in human peripheral blood lymphocytes. However, in vivo, ixazomib was not clastogenic in a bone marrow micronucleus assay in mice and was negative in an in vivo comet assay in mice, as assessed in the stomach and liver. No carcinogenicity studies have been performed with ixazomib.
Developmental toxicity studies in rats and rabbits did not show direct embryo-fetal toxicity below maternally toxic doses of ixazomib. Studies of fertility and early embryonic development and preand postnatal toxicology were not conducted with ixazomib, but evaluation of reproductive tissues was conducted in the general toxicity studies. There were no effects due to ixazomib treatment on male or female reproductive organs in studies up to 6-months duration in rats and up to 9-months duration in dogs.
Use In Specific Populations
Pregnancy
Risk Summary
Based on its mechanism of action [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY] and data from animal reproduction studies, NINLARO can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no available data on NINLARO use in pregnant women to evaluate drug-associated risk. Ixazomib caused embryo-fetal toxicity in pregnant rats and rabbits at doses resulting in exposures that were slightly higher than those observed in patients receiving the recommended dose (see Data). Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
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.
Data
Animal Data
In an embryo-fetal development study in pregnant rabbits there were increases in fetal skeletal variations/abnormalities (fused caudal vertebrae, number of lumbar vertebrae, and full supernumerary ribs) at doses that were also maternally toxic (≥ 0.3 mg/kg). Exposures in the rabbit at 0.3 mg/kg were 1.9 times the clinical time averaged exposures at the recommended dose of 4 mg. In a rat dose rangefinding embryo-fetal development study, at doses that were maternally toxic, there were decreases in fetal weights, a trend towards decreased fetal viability, and increased post-implantation losses at 0.6 mg/kg. Exposures in rats at the dose of 0.6 mg/kg was 2.5 times the clinical time averaged exposures at the recommended dose of 4 mg.
Lactation
Risk Summary
There are no data on the presence of ixazomib or its metabolites in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breast fed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions from NINLARO in a breastfed infant, advise women not to breastfeed during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days after the last dose.
Females And Males Of Reproductive Potential
NINLARO can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women [see Use In Specific Populations].
Pregnancy Testing
Verify pregnancy status in females of reproductive potential prior to initiating NINLARO.
Contraception
Females
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective non-hormonal contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days after the last dose. Dexamethasone is known to be a weak to moderate inducer of CYP3A4 as well as other enzymes and transporters. Because NINLARO is administered with dexamethasone, the risk for reduced efficacy of contraceptives needs to be considered [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Males
Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with NINLARO and for 90 days after the last dose.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness of NINLARO have not been established in pediatric patients.
Geriatric Use
Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of NINLARO, 55% were 65 and over, while 17% were 75 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these subjects and younger subjects, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients, but greater sensitivity of some older individuals cannot be ruled out.
Hepatic Impairment
In patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, the mean AUC increased by 20% when compared to patients with normal hepatic function. Reduce the starting dose of NINLARO in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Renal Impairment
In patients with severe renal impairment or ESRD requiring dialysis, the mean AUC increased by 39% when compared to patients with normal renal function. Reduce the starting dose of NINLARO in patients with severe renal impairment or ESRD requiring dialysis. NINLARO is not dialyzable and therefore can be administered without regard to the timing of dialysis [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION, CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].