Enter drug's generic or brand name below. Results will appear here. Note: all drug related information obtained on this page is provided by RX List.
Using the RX LIST database:
(1) Enter the drug name in the search box below and hit ENTER
(2) The rx list web site will open here with the drug search completed. Next, scroll down the page to locate the link to the drug you are searching for and then click on the link.
What is SUTENT and how is it used?
SUTENT is a prescription medicine used to treat:
It is not known if SUTENT is safe and effective in children.
What are possible side effects of SUTENT?
SUTENT may cause serious side effects, including:
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicine for you to treat high blood pressure, if needed. Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop your treatment with SUTENT until your high blood pressure is controlled.
Your healthcare provider:
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs or symptoms of severe low blood sugar during your treatment with SUTENT.
If you have any signs or symptoms of severe skin reactions, stop taking SUTENT and call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away.
Common side effects of SUTENT include:
The medicine in SUTENT is yellow, and it may make your skin look yellow. Your skin and hair may get lighter in color. SUTENT may also cause other skin problems including: dryness, thickness or cracking of the skin.
These are not all of the possible side effects of SUTENT. 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.
WARNING
HEPATOTOXICITY
Hepatotoxicity has been observed in clinical trials and postmarketing experience. Hepatotoxicity may be severe, and in some cases, fatal. Monitor hepatic function and interrupt, reduce, or discontinue dosing as recommended [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
SUTENT, an oral multi-kinase inhibitor, is the malate salt of sunitinib. Sunitinib malate is described chemically as Butanedioic acid, hydroxy-, (2S)-, compound with N-[2-(diethylamino)ethyl]-5-[(Z)-(5-fluoro-1,2-dihydro-2oxo- 3H-indol-3-ylidine)methyl]-2,4-dimethyl-1H-pyrrole-3-carboxamide (1:1). The molecular formula is C22H27FN4O2 • C4H6O5 and the molecular weight is 532.6 Daltons.
The chemical structure of sunitinib malate is:
 |
Sunitinib malate is a yellow to orange powder with a pKa of 8.95. The solubility of sunitinib malate in aqueous media over the range pH 1.2 to pH 6.8 is in excess of 25 mg/mL. The log of the distribution coefficient (octanol/water) at pH 7 is 5.2.
SUTENT (sunitinib malate) capsules are supplied as printed hard shell capsules containing sunitinib malate equivalent to 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 37.5 mg or 50 mg of sunitinib together with mannitol, croscarmellose sodium, povidone (K-25) and magnesium stearate as inactive ingredients.
The orange gelatin capsule shells contain titanium dioxide and red iron oxide. The caramel gelatin capsule shells contain titanium dioxide, red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, and black iron oxide. The yellow gelatin capsule shells contain titanium dioxide and yellow iron oxide. The white printing ink contains shellac, propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, povidone, and titanium dioxide. The black printing ink contains shellac, propylene glycol, potassium hydroxide, and black iron oxide.
SUTENT is indicated for the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumor after disease progression on or intolerance to imatinib mesylate.
SUTENT is indicated for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma.
SUTENT is indicated for the adjuvant treatment of adult patients at high risk of recurrent RCC following nephrectomy.
SUTENT is indicated for the treatment of progressive, well-differentiated pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic disease.
The recommended dose of SUTENT for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one 50 mg oral dose taken once daily, on a schedule of 4 weeks on treatment followed by 2 weeks off (Schedule 4/2). SUTENT may be taken with or without food.
The recommended dose of SUTENT for the adjuvant treatment of RCC is 50 mg taken orally once daily, on a schedule of 4 weeks on treatment followed by 2 weeks off (Schedule 4/2), for nine 6-week cycles. SUTENT may be taken with or without food.
The recommended dose of SUTENT for pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNET) is 37.5 mg taken orally once daily continuously without a scheduled off-treatment period. SUTENT may be taken with or without food.
Dose interruption and/or dose modification in 12.5 mg increments or decrements is recommended based on individual safety and tolerability. The maximum dose administered in the pNET study was 50 mg daily. In the adjuvant RCC study, the minimum dose administered was 37.5 mg.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase sunitinib plasma concentrations. Selection of an alternate concomitant medication with no or minimal enzyme inhibition potential is recommended. A dose reduction for SUTENT to a minimum of 37.5 mg (GIST and RCC) or 25 mg (pNET) daily should be considered if SUTENT must be co-administered with a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin may decrease sunitinib plasma concentrations. Selection of an alternate concomitant medication with no or minimal enzyme induction potential is recommended. A dose increase for SUTENT to a maximum of 87.5 mg (GIST and RCC) or 62.5 mg (pNET) daily should be considered if SUTENT must be co-administered with a CYP3A4 inducer. If dose is increased, the patient should be monitored carefully for toxicity [see DRUG INTERACTIONS and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
No starting dose adjustment is required in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis. However, given the decreased exposure compared to patients with normal renal function, subsequent doses may be increased gradually up to 2-fold based on safety and tolerability [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Hard gelatin capsule with orange cap and orange body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap and “STN 12.5 mg” on the body.
Hard gelatin capsule with caramel cap and orange body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap and “STN 25 mg” on the body.
Hard gelatin capsule with yellow cap and yellow body, printed with black ink “Pfizer” on the cap and “STN 37.5 mg” on the body.
Hard gelatin capsule with caramel top and caramel body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap and “STN 50 mg” on the body.
Hard gelatin capsule with orange cap and orange body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap, “STN 12.5 mg” on the body; available in:
Bottles of 28 capsules: NDC 0069-0550-38
Hard gelatin capsule with caramel cap and orange body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap, “STN 25 mg” on the body; available in:
Bottles of 28 capsules: NDC 0069-0770-38
Hard gelatin capsule with yellow cap and yellow body, printed with black ink “Pfizer” on the cap, “STN 37.5 mg” on the body; available in:
Bottles of 28 capsules: NDC 0069-0830-38
Hard gelatin capsule with caramel cap and caramel body, printed with white ink “Pfizer” on the cap, “STN 50 mg” on the body; available in:
Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) [see United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Controlled Room Temperature].
Distributed by: Pfizer Labs Division of Pfizer Inc., NY, NY 10017. Revised: May 2019
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed 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 data described in the Warnings and Precautions reflect exposure to SUTENT (N = 7527) in GIST, advanced RCC, adjuvant treatment of RCC, and pNET [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. In this database, the most common adverse reactions (≥25%) are fatigue/asthenia, diarrhea, mucositis/stomatitis, nausea, decreased appetite/anorexia, vomiting, abdominal pain, hand-foot syndrome, hypertension, bleeding events, dysgeusia/altered taste, dyspepsia, and thrombocytopenia.
The data below reflect exposure to SUTENT in 966 patients who participated in the treatment phase of randomized trials of GIST (n=202), advanced RCC (n=375), adjuvant treatment of RCC (n=306), and pNET (n=83) [see Clinical Studies].
The safety of SUTENT was evaluated in Study 1, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which previously treated patients with GIST received SUTENT 50 mg daily on Schedule 4/2 (n=202) or placebo (n=102).
Median duration of blinded study treatment was 2 cycles for patients on SUTENT (mean: 3.0; range: 1-9) and 1 cycle (mean; 1.8; range: 1-6) for patients on placebo at the time of the interim analysis. Dose reductions occurred in 23 patients (11%) on SUTENT and none on placebo. Dose interruptions occurred in 59 patients (29%) on SUTENT and 31 patients (30%) on placebo. The rates of treatment-emergent, nonfatal adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation were 7% and 6% in the SUTENT and placebo groups, respectively.
Most treatment-emergent adverse reactions in both study arms were Grade 1 or 2 in severity. Grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse reactions were reported in 56% versus 51% of patients on SUTENT versus placebo, respectively, in the double-blind treatment phase of the trial. Table 1 compares the incidence of common (≥10%) treatment-emergent adverse reactions for patients receiving SUTENT and reported more commonly in patients receiving SUTENT than in patients receiving placebo.
Table 1. Adverse Reactions Reported in Study 1 in ≥10% of GIST Patients Who Received SUTENT in the Double-Blind Treatment Phase and More Commonly Than in Patients Given Placebo*
| Adverse Reaction | GIST | |||
| SUTENT (N=202) | Placebo (N=102) | |||
| All Grades % | Grade 3-4 % | All Grades % | Grade 3-4 % | |
| Any Adverse Reaction | 94 | 56 | 97 | 51 |
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| Diarrhea | 40 | 4 | 27 | 0 |
| Mucositis/stomatitis | 29 | 1 | 18 | 2 |
| Constipation | 20 | 0 | 14 | 2 |
| Cardiac | ||||
| Hypertension | 15 | 4 | 11 | 0 |
| Dermatology | ||||
| Skin discoloration | 30 | 0 | 23 | 0 |
| Rash | 14 | 1 | 9 | 0 |
| Hand-foot syndrome | 14 | 4 | 10 | 3 |
| Neurology | ||||
| Altered taste | 21 | 0 | 12 | 0 |
| Musculoskeletal | ||||
| Myalgia/limb pain | 14 | 1 | 9 | 1 |
| Metabolism/Nutrition | ||||
| Anorexiaa | 33 | 1 | 29 | 5 |
| Asthenia | 22 | 5 | 11 | 3 |
|
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: GIST=gastrointestinal stromal tumor; N=number of patients. a Includes decreased appetite. |
||||
In the double-blind treatment phase of GIST Study 1, oral pain other than mucositis/stomatitis occurred in 12 patients (6%) on SUTENT versus 3 (3%) on placebo. Hair color changes occurred in 15 patients (7%) on SUTENT versus 4 (4%) on placebo. Alopecia was observed in 10 patients (5%) on SUTENT versus 2 (2%) on placebo.
Table 2 provides common (≥10%) treatment-emergent laboratory abnormalities.
Table 2. Laboratory Abnormalities Reported in Study 1 in ≥10% of GIST Patients Who Received SUTENT or Placebo in the Double-Blind Treatment Phase*
| Laboratory Parameter | GIST | |||
| SUTENT (N=202) | Placebo (N=102) | |||
| All Grades % |
Grade 3-4*,a % |
All Grades % |
Grade 3-4*,b % |
|
| Any | 68 (34) | 22 (22) | ||
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| AST/ALT | 39 | 2 | 23 | 1 |
| Lipase | 25 | 10 | 17 | 7 |
| Alkaline phosphatase | 24 | 4 | 21 | 4 |
| Amylase | 17 | 5 | 12 | 3 |
| Total bilirubin | 16 | 1 | 8 | 0 |
| Indirect bilirubin | 10 | 0 | 4 | 0 |
| Cardiac | ||||
| Decreased LVEF | 11 | 1 | 3 | 0 |
| Renal/Metabolic | ||||
| Creatinine | 12 | 1 | 7 | 0 |
| Potassium decreased | 12 | 1 | 4 | 0 |
| Sodium increased | 10 | 0 | 4 | 1 |
| Hematology | ||||
| Neutrophils | 53 | 10 | 4 | 0 |
| Lymphocytes | 38 | 0 | 16 | 0 |
| Platelets | 38 | 5 | 4 | 0 |
| Hemoglobin | 26 | 3 | 22 | 2 |
|
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: ALT=alanine aminotransferase; AST=aspartate aminotransferase; GIST=gastrointestinal stromal tumor; LVEF=left ventricular ejection fraction; N=number of patients. a Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on SUTENT included alkaline phosphatase (1%), lipase (2%), creatinine (1%), potassium decreased (1%), neutrophils (2%), hemoglobin (2%), and platelets (1%). b Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on placebo included amylase (1%), lipase (1%), and hemoglobin (2%). |
||||
After an interim analysis, the study was unblinded and patients on the placebo arm were given the opportunity to receive open-label SUTENT treatment [see Clinical Studies]. For 241 patients randomized to the SUTENT arm, including 139 who received SUTENT in both the double-blind and open-label treatment phases, the median duration of SUTENT treatment was 6 cycles (mean: 8.5; range: 1–44). For the 255 patients who ultimately received open-label SUTENT treatment, median duration of study treatment was 6 cycles (mean: 7.8; range: 1–37) from the time of the unblinding. A total of 118 patients (46%) required dosing interruptions, and a total of 72 patients (28%) required dose reductions. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse reactions resulting in permanent discontinuation was 20%. The most common Grade 3 or 4 treatment-related adverse reactions experienced by patients receiving SUTENT in the open-label treatment phase were fatigue (10%), hypertension (8%), asthenia (5%), diarrhea (5%), hand-foot syndrome (5%), nausea (4%), abdominal pain (3%), anorexia (3%), mucositis (2%), vomiting (2%), and hypothyroidism (2%).
The safety of SUTENT was evaluated in Study 3, a double-blind, active-controlled trial in which previously untreated patients with locally advanced or metastatic RCC received SUTENT 50 mg daily on Schedule 4/2 (n=375) or IFN-α 9 million International Units (MIU) (n=360). The median duration of treatment was 11.1 months (range: 0.4-46.1) for SUTENT treatment and 4.1 months (range: 0.1–45.6) for IFN-α treatment.
Dose interruptions occurred in 202 patients (54%) on SUTENT and 141 patients (39%) on IFN-α. Dose reductions occurred in 194 patients (52%) on SUTENT and 98 patients (27%) on IFN-α. Discontinuation rates due to adverse reactions were 20% for SUTENT and 24% for IFN-α. Most treatment-emergent adverse reactions in both study arms were Grade 1 or 2 in severity. Grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse reactions were reported in 77% versus 55% of patients on SUTENT versus IFN-α, respectively.
Table 3 compares the incidence of common (≥10%) treatment-emergent adverse reactions for patients receiving SUTENT versus IFN-α.
Table 3. Adverse Reactions Reported in Study 3 in ≥10% of Patients With RCC Who Received SUTENT or IFN-α*
| Adverse Reaction | Treatment-Naíve RCC | |||
| SUTENT (N=375) | IFN-α (N=360) | |||
| All Grades % |
Grade 3-4a % |
All Grades % |
Grade 3-4b % |
|
| Any Adverse Reaction | 99 | 77 | 99 | 55 |
| Constitutional | ||||
| Fatigue | 62 | 15 | 56 | 15 |
| Asthenia | 26 | 11 | 22 | 6 |
| Fever | 22 | 1 | 37 | <1 |
| Weight decreased | 16 | <1 | 17 | 1 |
| Chills | 14 | 1 | 31 | 0 |
| Chest Pain | 13 | 2 | 7 | 1 |
| Influenza like illness | 5 | 0 | 15 | <1 |
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| Diarrhea | 66 | 10 | 21 | <1 |
| Nausea | 58 | 6 | 41 | 2 |
| Mucositis/stomatitis | 47 | 3 | 5 | <1 |
| Vomiting | 39 | 5 | 17 | 1 |
| Dyspepsia | 34 | 2 | 4 | 0 |
| Abdominal painc | 30 | 5 | 12 | 1 |
| Constipation | 23 | 1 | 14 | <1 |
| Dry mouth | 13 | 0 | 7 | <1 |
| GERD/reflux esophagitis | 12 | <1 | 1 | 0 |
| Flatulence | 14 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Oral pain | 14 | <1 | 1 | 0 |
| Glossodynia | 11 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Hemorrhoids | 10 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Cardiac | ||||
| Hypertension | 34 | 13 | 4 | <1 |
| Edema peripheral | 24 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
| Ejection fraction decreased | 16 | 3 | 5 | 2 |
| Dermatology | ||||
| Rash | 29 | 2 | 11 | <1 |
| Hand-foot syndrome | 29 | 8 | 1 | 0 |
| Skin discoloration/yellow skin | 25 | <1 | 0 | 0 |
| Dry skin | 23 | <1 | 7 | 0 |
| Hair color changes | 20 | 0 | <1 | 0 |
| Alopecia | 14 | 0 | 9 | 0 |
| Erythema | 12 | <1 | 1 | 0 |
| Pruritus | 12 | <1 | 7 | <1 |
| Neurology | ||||
| Altered tasted | 47 | <1 | 15 | 0 |
| Headache | 23 | 1 | 19 | 0 |
| Dizziness | 11 | <1 | 14 | 1 |
| Musculoskeletal | ||||
| Back pain | 28 | 5 | 14 | 2 |
| Arthralgia | 30 | 3 | 19 | 1 |
| Pain in extremity/limb discomfort | 40 | 5 | 30 | 2 |
| Endocrine | ||||
| Hypothyroidism | 16 | 2 | 1 | 0 |
| Respiratory | ||||
| Cough | 27 | 1 | 14 | <1 |
| Dyspnea | 26 | 6 | 20 | 4 |
| Nasopharyngitis | 14 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Oropharyngeal pain | 14 | <1 | 2 | 0 |
| Upper respiratory tract infection | 11 | <1 | 2 | 0 |
| Metabolism/Nutrition Anorexiae | 48 | 3 | 42 | 2 |
| Hemorrhage/Bleeding Bleeding, all sites | 37 | 4f | 10 | 1 |
| Psychiatric | ||||
| Insomnia | 15 | <1 | 10 | 0 |
| Depressiong | 11 | 0 | 14 | 1 |
| * Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: ARs=adverse reactions; IFN=interferon-a; N=number of patients; RCC=renal cell carcinoma. a Grade 4 ARs in patients on SUTENT included back pain (1%), arthralgia (<1%), dyspnea (<1%), asthenia (<1%), fatigue (<1%), limb pain (<1%) and rash (<1%). b Grade 4 ARs in patients on IFN-α included dyspnea (1%), fatigue (1%), abdominal pain (<1%), and depression (<1%). cIncludes flank pain. dIncludes ageusia, hypogeusia, and dysgeusia. e Includes decreased appetite. f Includes 1 patient with Grade 5 gastric hemorrhage. g Includes depressed mood. |
||||
Treatment-emergent Grade 3-4 laboratory abnormalities are presented in Table 4.
Table 4. Laboratory Abnormalities Reported in Study 3 in ≥10% of Treatment-Naive RCC Patients Who Received SUTENT or IFN-α
| Laboratory Parameter | Treatment-Naíve RCC | |||
| SUTENT (N=375) | IFN-α (N=360) | |||
| All Grades % |
Grade 3-4*,a % |
All Grades % |
Grade 3-4*,b % |
|
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| AST | 56 | 2 | 38 | 2 |
| ALT | 51 | 3 | 40 | 2 |
| Lipase | 56 | 18 | 46 | 8 |
| Alkaline phosphatase | 46 | 2 | 37 | 2 |
| Amylase | 35 | 6 | 32 | 3 |
| Total bilirubin | 20 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Indirect bilirubin | 13 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Renal/Metabolic | ||||
| Creatinine | 70 | <1 | 51 | <1 |
| Creatine kinase | 49 | 2 | 11 | 1 |
| Uric acid | 46 | 14 | 33 | 8 |
| Calcium decreased | 42 | 1 | 40 | 1 |
| Phosphorus | 31 | 6 | 24 | 6 |
| Albumin | 28 | 1 | 20 | 0 |
| Glucose increased | 23 | 6 | 15 | 6 |
| Sodium decreased | 20 | 8 | 15 | 4 |
| Glucose decreased | 17 | 0 | 12 | <1 |
| Potassium increased | 16 | 3 | 17 | 4 |
| Calcium increased | 13 | <1 | 10 | 1 |
| Potassium decreased | 13 | 1 | 2 | <1 |
| Sodium increased | 13 | 0 | 10 | 0 |
| Hematology | ||||
| Neutrophils | 77 | 17 | 49 | 9 |
| Hemoglobin | 79 | 8 | 69 | 5 |
| Platelets | 68 | 9 | 24 | 1 |
| Lymphocytes | 68 | 18 | 68 | 26 |
| Leukocytes | 78 | 8 | 56 | 2 |
|
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: ALT=alanine aminotransferase; AST=aspartate aminotransferase; IFN=interferon-a; N=number of patients; RCC=renal cell carcinoma. a Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on SUTENT included uric acid (14%), lipase (3%), neutrophils (2%), lymphocytes (2%), hemoglobin (2%), platelets (1%), amylase (1%), ALT (<1%), creatine kinase (<1%), creatinine (<1%), glucose increased (<1%), calcium decreased (<1%), phosphorous (<1%), potassium increased (<1%), and sodium decreased (<1%). b Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on IFN-α included uric acid (8%), lymphocytes (2%), lipase (1%), neutrophils (1%), amylase (<1%), calcium increased (<1%), glucose decreased (<1%), potassium increased (<1%), and hemoglobin (<1%). |
||||
The long-term safety of SUTENT in patients with metastatic RCC was analyzed across 9 completed clinical studies conducted in the first-line, bevacizumab-refractory, and cytokine-refractory treatment settings. The analysis included 5739 patients, of whom 807 (14%) were treated for at least 2 years and 365 (6%) for at least 3 years. Prolonged treatment with SUTENT did not appear to be associated with new types of adverse reactions. There appeared to be no increase in the yearly incidence of adverse reactions at later time points. Hypothyroidism increased during the second year of treatment with new cases reported up to year 4.
The safety of SUTENT was evaluated in S-TRAC, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which patients who had undergone nephrectomy for RCC received SUTENT 50 mg daily (n=306) on Schedule 4/2 or placebo (n=304). The median duration of treatment was 12.4 months (range: 0.13-14.9) for SUTENT and 12.4 months (range: 0.03-13.7) for placebo. Permanent discontinuation due to an adverse reaction occurred in 28% of patients on SUTENT and 6% on placebo. Adverse reactions leading to permanent discontinuation in >2% of patients include hand-foot syndrome and fatigue/asthenia. Dosing interruptions or delays occurred in 166 (54%) and 84 (28%) patients on SUTENT and placebo, respectively. One hundred forty patients (45.8%) out of 306 patients in the SUTENT arm and 15 patients (5%) out of 304 patients in the placebo arm had dose reductions.
Table 5 compares the incidence of common (≥10%) treatment-emergent adverse reactions for patients receiving SUTENT versus placebo.
Table 5. Adverse Reactions Reported in S-TRAC in ≥10% of Patients With RCC Who Received SUTENT and More Commonly Than in Patients Given Placebo*
| Adverse Reaction | Adjuvant Treatment of RCC | |||
| SUTENT (N=306) | Placebo (N=304) | |||
| All Grades % |
Grade 3-4 % |
All Grades % |
Grade 3-4 % |
|
| Any Adverse Reaction | 99 | 60 | 88 | 15 |
| Constitutional | ||||
| Fatigue/Asthenia | 57 | 8 | 34 | 2 |
| Localized edemaa | 18 | <1 | <1 | 0 |
| Pyrexia | 12 | <1 | 6 | 0 |
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| Mucositis/Stomatitisb | 61 | 6 | 15 | 0 |
| Diarrhea | 57 | 4 | 22 | <1 |
| Nausea | 34 | 2 | 15 | 0 |
| Dyspepsia | 27 | 1 | 7 | 0 |
| Abdominal painc | 25 | 2 | 9 | <1 |
| Vomiting | 19 | 2 | 7 | 0 |
| Constipation | 12 | 0 | 11 | 0 |
| Cardiac | ||||
| Hypertensiond | 39 | 8 | 14 | 1 |
| Edema/Peripheral edema | 10 | <1 | 7 | 0 |
| Dermatology | ||||
| Hand-foot syndrome | 50 | 16 | 10 | <1 |
| Hair color changes | 22 | 0 | 2 | 0 |
| Rashe | 24 | 2 | 12 | 0 |
| Skin discoloration/Yellow skin | 18 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Dry skin | 14 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Neurology | ||||
| Altered tastef | 38 | <1 | 6 | 0 |
| Headache | 19 | <1 | 12 | 0 |
| Musculoskeletal | ||||
| Pain in extremity | 15 | <1 | 7 | 0 |
| Arthralgia | 11 | <1 | 10 | 0 |
| Endocrine | ||||
| Hypothyroidism/TSH increased | 24 | <1 | 4 | 0 |
| Metabolism/Nutrition | ||||
| Anorexia/Decreased appetite | 19 | <1 | 5 | 0 |
| Hemorrhage/Bleeding | ||||
| Bleeding events, all sitesg | 24 | <1 | 5 | <1 |
|
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: ARs=adverse reactions; N=number of patients; RCC=renal cell carcinoma. a Includes edema localized, face edema, eyelid edema, periorbital edema, swelling face, and eye edema. b Includes mucosal inflammation, stomatitis apthous ulcer, mouth ulceration, tongue ulceration, oropharyngeal pain and oral pain. Includes abdominal pain, abdominal pain lower, and abdominal pain upper. d Includes hypertension, blood pressure increased, blood pressure systolic increased, blood pressure diastolic increased, and hypertensive crisis. e Includes dermatitis, dermatitis psoriasiform, exfoliative rash, genital rash, rash, rash erythematous, rash follicular, rash generalized, rash macular, rash maculopapular, rash papular, and rash pruritic. f Includes ageusia, hypogeusia, and dysgeusia. g Includes epistaxis, gingival bleeding, rectal hemorrhage, hemoptysis, anal hemorrhage, upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematuria. |
||||
Grade 4 adverse reactions in patients on SUTENT included hand-foot syndrome (1%), fatigue (<1%), abdominal pain (< 1%), stomatitis (<1%), and pyrexia (< 1%). Grade 4 adverse reactions in patients on placebo included asthenia (<1%) and hypertension (<1%).
Grade 3-4 laboratory abnormalities that occurred in ≥2% of patients receiving SUTENT include neutropenia (13%), thrombocytopenia (5%), leukopenia (3%), lymphopenia (3%), elevated alanine aminotransferase (2%), elevated aspartate aminotransferase (2%), hyperglycemia (2%), and hyperkalemia (2%).
The safety of SUTENT was evaluated in Study 6, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which patients with progressive pNET received SUTENT 37.5 mg daily continuous dosing (n=83) or placebo (n=82). The median number of days on treatment was 139 days (range: 13-532 days) for patients on SUTENT and 113 days (range: 1-614 days) for patients on placebo. Nineteen patients (23%) on SUTENT and 4 patients (5%) on placebo were on study for >1 year. Dose interruptions occurred in 25 patients (30%) on SUTENT and 10 patients (12%) on placebo. Dose reductions occurred in 26 patients (31%) on SUTENT and 9 patients (11%) on placebo. Discontinuation rates due to adverse reactions were 22% for SUTENT and 17% for placebo.
Most treatment-emergent adverse reactions in both study arms were Grade 1 or 2 in severity. Grade 3 or 4 treatment-emergent adverse reactions were reported in 54% versus 50% of patients on SUTENT versus placebo, respectively. Table 6 compares the incidence of common (≥10%) treatment-emergent adverse reactions for patients receiving SUTENT and reported more commonly in patients receiving SUTENT than in patients receiving placebo.
Table 6. Adverse Reactions Reported in the pNET Study 6 in ≥10% of Patients Who Received SUTENT and More Commonly Than in Patients Given Placebo*
| Adverse Reaction | pNET | |||
| SUTENT (N=83) | Placebo (N=82) | |||
| All Grades % |
Grade 3-4a % |
All Grades % |
Grade 3-4 % |
|
| Any Adverse Reaction | 99 | 54 | 95 | 90 |
| Constitutional | ||||
| Asthenia | 34 | 5 | 27 | 4 |
| Fatigue | 33 | 5 | 27 | 9 |
| Weight decreased | 16 | 1 | 11 | 0 |
| Gastrointestinal | ||||
| Diarrhea | 59 | 5 | 39 | 2 |
| Stomatitis/oral syndromesb | 48 | 6 | 18 | 0 |
| Nausea | 45 | 1 | 29 | 1 |
| Abdominal painc | 39 | 5 | 34 | 10 |
| Vomiting | 34 | 0 | 31 | 2 |
| Dyspepsia | 15 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Cardiac | ||||
| Hypertension | 27 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Dermatology | ||||
| Hair color changes | 29 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Hand-foot syndrome | 23 | 6 | 2 | 0 |
| Rash | 18 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Dry skin | 15 | 0 | 11 | 0 |
| Neurology | ||||
| Dysgeusia | 21 | 0 | 5 | 0 |
| Headache | 18 | 0 | 13 | 0 |
| Musculoskeletal | ||||
| Arthralgia | 15 | 0 | 6 | 0 |
| Psychiatric | ||||
| Insomnia | 18 | 0 | 12 | 0 |
| Hemorrhage/Bleeding | ||||
| Bleeding eventsd | 22 | 0 | 10 | 4 |
| Epistaxis | 21 | 1 | 5 | 0 |
|
* Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: N=number of patients; pNET=pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. a Grade 4 adverse reactions in patients on SUTENT included fatigue (1%). b Includes aphthous stomatitis, gingival pain, gingivitis, glossitis, glossodynia, mouth ulceration, oral discomfort, oral pain, tongue ulceration, mucosal dryness, mucosal inflammation, and dry mouth. cIncludes abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain, and abdominal pain upper. d Includes hematemesis, hematochezia, hematoma, hemoptysis, hemorrhage, melena, and metrorrhagia. |
||||
Table 7 provides common (≥10%) treatment-emergent laboratory abnormalities.
Table 7. Laboratory Abnormalities Reported in the pNET Study 6 in ≥10% of Patients Who Received SUTENT
| Laboratory Parameter | pNET | |||||
| SUTENT | Placebo | |||||
| N | All Grades* % |
Grade 3-4*,a % |
N | All Grades* % |
Grade 3-4*,b % |
|
| Gastrointestinal | ||||||
| AST increased | 82 | 72 | 5 | 80 | 70 | 3 |
| AST increased | 82 | 61 | 4 | 80 | 55 | 3 |
| Alkaline phosphatase increased | 82 | 63 | 10 | 82 | 70 | 11 |
| Total bilirubin increased | 82 | 37 | 1 | 80 | 28 | 4 |
| Amylase increased | 74 | 20 | 4 | 74 | 10 | 1 |
| Lipase increased | 75 | 17 | 5 | 72 | 11 | 4 |
| Renal/Metabolic | ||||||
| Glucose increased | 82 | 71 | 12 | 80 | 78 | 18 |
| Albumin decreased | 81 | 41 | 1 | 79 | 37 | 1 |
| Phosphorus decreased | 81 | 36 | 7 | 77 | 22 | 5 |
| Calcium decreased | 82 | 34 | 0 | 80 | 19 | 0 |
| Sodium decreased | 82 | 29 | 2 | 80 | 34 | 3 |
| Creatinine increased | 82 | 27 | 5 | 80 | 28 | 5 |
| Glucose decreased | 82 | 22 | 2 | 80 | 15 | 4 |
| Potassium decreased | 82 | 21 | 4 | 80 | 14 | 0 |
| Magnesium decreased | 52 | 19 | 0 | 39 | 10 | 0 |
| Potassium increased | 82 | 18 | 1 | 80 | 11 | 1 |
| Hematology | ||||||
| Neutrophils decreased | 82 | 71 | 16 | 80 | 16 | 0 |
| Hemoglobin decreased | 82 | 65 | 0 | 80 | 55 | 1 |
| Platelets decreased | 82 | 60 | 5 | 80 | 15 | 0 |
| Lymphocytes decreased | 82 | 56 | 7 | 80 | 35 | 4 |
| * Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE), version 3.0. Abbreviations: ALT=alanine aminotransferase; AST=aspartate aminotransferase; N=number of patients; pNET=pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. a Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on SUTENT included creatinine (4%), lipase (4%), glucose decreased (2%), glucose increased (2%), neutrophils (2%), ALT (1%), AST (1%), platelets (1%), potassium increased (1%), and total bilirubin (1%). b Grade 4 laboratory abnormalities in patients on placebo included creatinine (3%), alkaline phosphatase (1%), glucose increased (1%), and lipase (1%). |
||||||
In patients treated with SUTENT (N=7527) for GIST, advanced RCC, adjuvant treatment of RCC and pNET, 3.5% of patients experienced a venous thromboembolic event; 2.2% Grade 3-4.
There have been reports (<1%), some fatal, of patients presenting with seizures and radiological evidence of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS). Patients with seizures and signs/symptoms consistent with RPLS, such as hypertension, headache, decreased alertness, altered mental functioning, and visual loss, including cortical blindness, should be controlled with medical management including control of hypertension. Temporary suspension of SUTENT is recommended; following resolution, treatment may be resumed at the discretion of the treating healthcare provider.
Pancreatitis was observed in 5 patients (1%) receiving SUTENT for treatment-naive RCC compared to 1 patient (<1%) receiving IFN-α. In a trial of patients receiving adjuvant treatment for RCC, 1 patient (<1%) on SUTENT and none on placebo experienced pancreatitis. Pancreatitis was observed in 1 patient (1%) receiving SUTENT for pNET and 1 patient (1%) receiving placebo.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of SUTENT. 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.
Blood and lymphatic system disorders: hemorrhage associated with thrombocytopenia*. Suspension of SUTENT is recommended; following resolution, treatment may be resumed at the discretion of the treating healthcare provider.
Gastrointestinal disorders: esophagitis.
Hepatobiliary disorders: cholecystitis, particularly acalculous cholecystitis.
Immune system disorders: hypersensitivity reactions, including angioedema.
Infections and infestations: serious infection (with or without neutropenia)*. The infections most commonly observed with SUTENT treatment include respiratory, urinary tract, skin infections, and sepsis/septic shock.
Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders: fistula formation, sometimes associated with tumor necrosis and/or regression*; myopathy and/or rhabdomyolysis with or without acute renal failure*.
Patients with signs or symptoms of muscle toxicity should be managed as per standard medical practice.
Renal and urinary disorders: renal impairment and/or failure*.
Respiratory disorders: pulmonary embolism*.
Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: pyoderma gangrenosum, including positive dechallenges.
Vascular disorders: arterial thromboembolic events*. The most frequent events included cerebrovascular accident, transient ischemic attack, and cerebral infarction.
*including some fatalities.
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole may increase sunitinib plasma concentrations. Selection of an alternate concomitant medication with no or minimal enzyme inhibition potential is recommended. Concurrent administration of SUTENT with the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, ketoconazole, resulted in 49% and 51% increases in the combined (sunitinib + primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC0-∞ values, respectively, after a single dose of SUTENT in healthy volunteers. Coadministration of SUTENT with strong inhibitors of the CYP3A4 family (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, indinavir, nefazodone, nelfinavir, ritonavir, saquinavir, telithromycin, voriconazole) may increase sunitinib concentrations. Grapefruit may also increase plasma concentrations of sunitinib. A dose reduction for SUTENT should be considered when it must be coadministered with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
CYP3A4 inducers such as rifampin may decrease sunitinib plasma concentrations. Selection of an alternate concomitant medication with no or minimal enzyme induction potential is recommended. Concurrent administration of SUTENT with the strong CYP3A4 inducer, rifampin, resulted in a 23% and 46% reduction in the combined (sunitinib + primary active metabolite) Cmax and AUC0-∞ values, respectively, after a single dose of SUTENT in healthy volunteers. Coadministration of SUTENT with inducers of the CYP3A4 family (e.g., dexamethasone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentin, phenobarbital, St. John’s Wort) may decrease sunitinib concentrations. St. John’s Wort may decrease sunitinib plasma concentrations unpredictably. Patients receiving SUTENT should not take St. John’s Wort concomitantly. A dose increase for SUTENT should be considered when it must be coadministered with CYP3A4 inducers [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
In vitro studies indicated that sunitinib does not induce or inhibit major CYP enzymes. The in vitro studies in human liver microsomes and hepatocytes of the activity of CYP isoforms CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP3A4/5, and CYP4A9/11 indicated that sunitinib and its primary active metabolite are unlikely to have any clinically relevant drug-drug interactions with drugs that may be metabolized by these enzymes.
Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.
SUTENT can cause severe hepatotoxicity, resulting in liver failure or death. Liver failure occurred at an incidence of <1% in clinical trials. Liver failure signs include jaundice, elevated transaminases and/or hyperbilirubinemia in conjunction with encephalopathy, coagulopathy, and/or renal failure. Monitor liver function tests (alanine aminotransferase [ALT], aspartate aminotransferase [AST], and bilirubin) before initiation of treatment, during each cycle of treatment, and as clinically indicated. Interrupt SUTENT for Grade 3 or 4 drug-related hepatic adverse reactions and discontinue if there is no resolution. Do not restart SUTENT if patients subsequently experience severe changes in liver function tests or have other signs and symptoms of liver failure.
Safety in patients with ALT or AST >2.5 x upper limit of normal (ULN) or, if due to liver metastases, >5.0 x ULN has not been established.
Discontinue SUTENT in the presence of clinical manifestations of congestive heart failure (CHF). Interrupt SUTENT and/or reduce the dose in patients without clinical evidence of CHF who have an ejection fraction of >20% but <50% below baseline or below the lower limit of normal if baseline ejection fraction is not obtained.
In patients without cardiac risk factors a baseline evaluation of ejection fraction should be considered. Carefully monitor patients for clinical signs and symptoms of CHF while receiving SUTENT. Baseline and periodic evaluations of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) should also be considered while these patients are receiving SUTENT.
Cardiovascular events, including heart failure, cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, and myocardial infarction, some of which were fatal, have been reported.
In patients treated with SUTENT (N=7527) for GIST, advanced RCC, adjuvant treatment of RCC and pNET, 3% of patients experienced heart failure; 71% of the patients with heart failure were reported as recovered. Fatal cardiac failure was reported in <1% of patients.
In the adjuvant treatment of RCC study, 11 patients in each arm experienced a decreased ejection fraction meeting Grade 2 CTCAE criteria (LVEF 40-50% and a 10-19% decrease from baseline). No patients had a Grade 3-4 decrease in ejection fraction. The ejection fractions of three patients in the SUTENT arm and 2 patients in the placebo arm did not return to ≥50% or baseline by the time of last measurement. No patients who received SUTENT were diagnosed with CHF.
Patients who presented with cardiac events within 12 months prior to SUTENT administration, such as myocardial infarction (including severe/unstable angina), coronary/peripheral artery bypass graft, symptomatic CHF, cerebrovascular accident or transient ischemic attack, or pulmonary embolism were excluded from SUTENT clinical studies. Patients with prior anthracycline use or cardiac radiation were also excluded from some studies. It is unknown whether patients with these concomitant conditions may be at a higher risk of developing drug-related left ventricular dysfunction.
SUTENT can cause QT interval prolongation in a dose-dependent manner, which may lead to an increased risk for ventricular arrhythmias including Torsade de Pointes. Torsade de Pointes has been observed in <0.1% of SUTENT-exposed patients.
Monitor patients with a history of QT interval prolongation, patients who are taking antiarrhythmics, or patients with relevant pre-existing cardiac disease, bradycardia, or electrolyte disturbances. When using SUTENT, periodic monitoring with on-treatment electrocardiograms and electrolytes (magnesium, potassium) should be considered. Concomitant treatment with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase sunitinib plasma concentrations and dose reduction of SUTENT should be considered [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
Monitor patients for hypertension and treat as needed with standard antihypertensive therapy. In cases of severe hypertension, temporary suspension of SUTENT is recommended until hypertension is controlled.
In patients treated with SUTENT (N=7527) in GIST, advanced RCC, adjuvant treatment of RCC and pNET, 29% of patients experienced hypertension. Grade 3 hypertension was reported in 7% of patients, and Grade 4 hypertension was reported in 0.2% of patients.
Hemorrhagic events reported through postmarketing experience, some of which were fatal, have included GI, respiratory, tumor, urinary tract, and brain hemorrhages. In patients treated with SUTENT (N=7527) for GIST, advanced RCC, adjuvant treatment of RCC and pNET, 30% of patients experienced hemorrhagic events, and 4.2% of patients experienced a Grade 3 or 4 event. Epistaxis was the most common hemorrhagic adverse reaction and gastrointestinal hemorrhage was the most common Grade ≥3 event.
Tumor-related hemorrhage has been observed in patients treated with SUTENT. These events may occur suddenly, and in the case of pulmonary tumors, may present as severe and life-threatening hemoptysis or pulmonary hemorrhage. Cases of pulmonary hemorrhage, some with a fatal outcome, have been observed in clinical trials and have been reported in postmarketing experience in patients treated with SUTENT for metastatic RCC, GIST, and metastatic lung cancer. SUTENT is not approved for use in patients with lung cancer. Clinical assessment of hemorrhagic events should include serial complete blood counts (CBCs) and physical examinations.
Serious, sometimes fatal, gastrointestinal complications including gastrointestinal perforation, have been reported in patients with intra-abdominal malignancies treated with SUTENT.
Cases of TLS, some fatal, occurred in clinical trials and have been reported in postmarketing experience, primarily in patients with RCC or GIST treated with SUTENT. Patients generally at risk of TLS are those with high tumor burden prior to treatment. Monitor these patients closely and treat as clinically indicated.
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA), including thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and hemolytic uremic syndrome, sometimes leading to renal failure or a fatal outcome, occurred in clinical trials and in postmarketing experience of SUTENT as monotherapy and administered in combination with bevacizumab. Discontinue SUTENT in patients developing TMA. Reversal of the effects of TMA has been observed after treatment was discontinued.
Proteinuria and nephrotic syndrome have been reported. Some of these cases have resulted in renal failure and fatal outcomes. Monitor patients for the development or worsening of proteinuria. Perform baseline and periodic urinalyses during treatment, with follow up measurement of 24-hour urine protein as clinically indicated. Interrupt SUTENT and dose reduce for 24-hour urine protein ≥3 grams. Discontinue SUTENT for patients with nephrotic syndrome or repeat episodes of urine protein ≥3 grams despite dose reductions. The safety of continued SUTENT treatment in patients with moderate to severe proteinuria has not been systematically evaluated.
Severe cutaneous reactions have been reported, including cases of erythema multiforme (EM), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), some of which were fatal. If signs or symptoms of EM, SJS, or TEN (e.g., progressive skin rash often with blisters or mucosal lesions) are present, discontinue SUTENT treatment. If a diagnosis of SJS or TEN is suspected, SUTENT treatment must not be re-started.
Necrotizing fasciitis, including fatal cases, has been reported in patients treated with SUTENT, including of the perineum and secondary to fistula formation. Discontinue SUTENT in patients who develop necrotizing fasciitis.
Baseline laboratory measurement of thyroid function is recommended and patients with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism should be treated as per standard medical practice prior to the start of SUTENT treatment. All patients should be observed closely for signs and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis, while on SUTENT treatment. Patients with signs and/or symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction should have laboratory monitoring of thyroid function performed and be treated as per standard medical practice.
Cases of hyperthyroidism, some followed by hypothyroidism, have been reported in clinical trials and through postmarketing experience.
SUTENT can result in symptomatic hypoglycemia, which may lead to loss of consciousness, or require hospitalization. Hypoglycemia has occurred in clinical trials in 2% of the patients treated with SUTENT for advanced RCC and GIST and in approximately 10% of the patients treated with SUTENT for pNET. In the adjuvant treatment of RCC study, no patients on SUTENT experienced hypoglycemia. For patients being treated with SUTENT for pNET, pre-existing abnormalities in glucose homeostasis were not present in all patients who experienced hypoglycemia. Reductions in blood glucose levels may be worse in diabetic patients. Check blood glucose levels regularly during and after discontinuation of treatment with SUTENT. Assess if antidiabetic drug dosage needs to be adjusted to minimize the risk of hypoglycemia.
ONJ has been observed in clinical trials and has been reported in postmarketing experience in patients treated with SUTENT. Concomitant exposure to other risk factors, such as bisphosphonates or dental disease, may increase the risk of osteonecrosis of the jaw. Consider preventive dentistry prior to treatment with SUTENT. If possible, avoid invasive dental procedures while on SUTENT treatment, particularly in patients receiving intravenous bisphosphonate therapy.
Cases of impaired wound healing have been reported during SUTENT therapy. Temporary interruption of SUTENT therapy is recommended for precautionary reasons in patients undergoing major surgical procedures. There is limited clinical experience regarding the timing of reinitiation of therapy following major surgical intervention. Therefore, the decision to resume SUTENT therapy following a major surgical intervention should be based upon clinical judgment of recovery from surgery.
Based on findings from animal studies and its mechanism of action, SUTENT can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. Administration of sunitinib to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis resulted in teratogenicity at approximately 5.5 and 0.3 times the clinical systemic exposure (AUC) at the recommended daily doses (RDD) of 50 mg/day, respectively.
Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with SUTENT and for 4 weeks following the final dose [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and Use In Specific Populations].
Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of hepatotoxicity. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs or symptoms of hepatotoxicity [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they develop symptoms of heart failure [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of QT prolongation. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately in the event of syncope, pre-syncopal symptoms, and cardiac palpitations [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients of the signs and symptoms of hypertension. Advise patients to undergo routine blood pressure monitoring and to contact their health care provider if blood pressure is elevated or if they experience signs or symptoms of hypertension [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that SUTENT can cause severe bleeding. Advise patients to immediately contact their healthcare provider for bleeding or symptoms of bleeding [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that gastrointestinal disorders such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and constipation may develop during SUTENT treatment and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience persistent or severe abdominal pain because cases of gastrointestinal perforation and fistula have been reported in patients taking SUTENT [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Advise patients that depigmentation of the hair or skin may occur during treatment with SUTENT due to the drug color (yellow). Other possible dermatologic effects may include dryness, thickness or cracking of skin, blister or rash on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. Severe dermatologic toxicities including Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis, erythema multiforme, and necrotizing fasciitis have been reported. Advise patients to immediately inform their healthcare provider if severe dermatologic reactions occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS].
Advise patients that SUTENT can cause thyroid dysfunction. Advise patient to contact their healthcare provider if symptoms of abnormal thyroid function occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients that SUTENT can cause severe hypoglycemia and may be more severe in patients with diabetes taking antidiabetic medications. Inform patients of the signs, symptoms, and risks associated with hypoglycemia. Advise patients to immediately inform their healthcare provider if severe signs or symptoms of hypoglycemia occur [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to consider preventive dentistry prior to treatment with SUTENT. Inform patients being treated with SUTENT, particularly who are receiving bisphosphonates, to avoid invasive dental procedures if possible [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
If possible, avoid invasive dental procedures while on SUTENT treatment, particularly in patients receiving intravenous bisphosphonate therapy.
Advise patients to inform their healthcare providers of all concomitant medications, including over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].
Advise females to inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant or become pregnant. Inform female patients of the risk to a fetus and potential loss of the pregnancy [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 4 weeks after receiving the last dose of SUTENT [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Use In Specific Populations].
Advise males with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for 7 weeks after receiving the last dose of SUTENT [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Use In Specific Populations].
Advise lactating women not to breastfeed during treatment with SUTENT and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose [see Use In Specific Populations].
Advise patients that male and female fertility may be compromised by treatment with SUTENT [see Use In Specific Populations and Nonclinical Toxicology].
Advise patients that miss a dose of SUTENT by less than 12 hours to take the missed dose right away. Advise patients that miss a dose of SUTENT by more than 12 hours to take the next scheduled dose at its regular time.
The carcinogenic potential of sunitinib has been evaluated in 2 species: rasH2 transgenic mice and Sprague-Dawley rats. There were similar positive findings in both species. In rasH2 transgenic mice, gastroduodenal carcinomas and/or gastric mucosal hyperplasia, as well as an increased incidence of background hemangiosarcomas were observed at doses ≥25 mg/kg/day following daily dose administration of sunitinib in studies of 1 or 6 months duration. No proliferative changes were observed in rasH2 transgenic mice at 8 mg/kg/day. Similarly, in a 2-year rat carcinogenicity study, administration of sunitinib in 28-day cycles followed by 7-day dose-free periods resulted in findings of duodenal carcinoma at doses as low as 1 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.9 times the AUC in patients given the RDD of 50 mg/day). At the high dose of 3 mg/kg/day (approximately 8 times the AUC in patients at the RDD of 50 mg/day), the incidence of duodenal tumors was increased and was accompanied by findings of gastric mucous cell hyperplasia and by an increased incidence of pheochromocytoma and hyperplasia of the adrenal gland.
Sunitinib did not cause genetic damage when tested in in vitro assays (bacterial mutation [Ames test], human lymphocyte chromosome aberration) and an in vivo rat bone marrow micronucleus test.
In a female fertility and early embryonic development study, female rats were administered oral sunitinib (0.5, 1.5, 5 mg/kg/day) for 21 days prior to mating and for 7 days after mating. Preimplantation loss was observed in females administered 5 mg/kg/day (approximately 5 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD of 50 mg/day). No adverse effects on fertility were observed at doses ≤1.5 mg/kg/day (approximately 1 time the clinical AUC at the RDD of 50 mg/day). In addition, effects on the female reproductive system were identified in a 3-month oral repeat-dose monkey study (2, 6, 12 mg/kg/day). Ovarian changes (decreased follicular development) were noted at 12 mg/kg/day (approximately 5 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD), while uterine changes (endometrial atrophy) were noted at ≥2 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.4 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD).With the addition of vaginal atrophy, the uterine and ovarian effects were reproduced at 6 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.8 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD) in a 9-month monkey study (0.3, 1.5, and 6 mg/kg/day administered daily for 28 days followed by a 14 day respite).
In a male fertility study, no reproductive effects were observed in male rats dosed with 1, 3, or 10 mg/kg/day oral sunitinib for 58 days prior to mating with untreated females. Fertility, copulation, conception indices, and sperm evaluation (morphology, concentration, and motility) were unaffected by sunitinib at doses ≤10 mg/kg/day approximately ≥26 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD).
Based on animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, SUTENT can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. There are no available data in pregnant women to inform a drug-associated risk. In animal developmental and reproductive toxicology studies, oral administration of sunitinib to pregnant rats and rabbits throughout organogenesis resulted in teratogenicity (embryolethality, craniofacial and skeletal malformations) at 5.5 and 0.3 times the AUC in patients administered the recommended daily doses (RDD), respectively (see Data). Advise pregnant women or females of reproductive potential of the potential hazard to a fetus.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations are unknown. However, the estimated background risk in the United States (U.S.) general population of major birth defects is 2%-4% and of miscarriage is 15%-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Animal Data
In a female fertility and early embryonic development study, female rats were administered oral sunitinib (0.5, 1.5, 5 mg/kg/day) for 21 days prior to mating and for 7 days after mating. Embryolethality was observed at 5 mg/kg/day (approximately 5 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD of 50 mg/day).
In embryo-fetal developmental toxicity studies, oral sunitinib was administered to pregnant rats (0.3, 1.5, 3, 5 mg/kg/day) and rabbits (0.5, 1, 5, 20 mg/kg/day) during the period of organogenesis. In rats, embryolethality and skeletal malformations of the ribs and vertebrae were observed at the dose of 5 mg/kg/day (approximately 5.5 times the systemic exposure [combined AUC of sunitinib + primary active metabolite] in patients administered the RDD). No adverse fetal effects were observed in rats at doses ≤3 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD). In rabbits, embryolethality was observed at 5 mg/kg/day (approximately 3 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD), and craniofacial malformations (cleft lip and cleft palate) were observed at ≥1 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.3 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD of 50 mg/day).
Sunitinib (0.3, 1, 3 mg/kg/day) was evaluated in a pre- and postnatal development study in pregnant rats. Maternal body weight gains were reduced during gestation and lactation at doses ≥1 mg/kg/day (approximately 0.5 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD). At 3 mg/kg/day (approximately 2 times the AUC in patients administered the RDD), reduced neonate body weights were observed at birth and persisted in the offspring of both sexes during the preweaning period and in males during postweaning period. No adverse developmental effects were observed at doses ≤1 mg/kg/day.
There is no information regarding the presence of sunitinib and its metabolites in human milk. Sunitinib and its metabolites were excreted in rat milk at concentrations up to 12-fold higher than in plasma (see Data). Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants from SUTENT, advise a lactating woman not to breastfeed during treatment with SUTENT and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose.
Animal Data
In lactating female rats administered 15 mg/kg, sunitinib and its metabolites were excreted in milk at concentrations up to 12-fold higher than in plasma.
Based on animal reproduction studies and its mechanism of action, SUTENT can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman [see Pregnancy and CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Females of reproductive potential should have a pregnancy test before treatment with SUTENT is started.
Females
Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with SUTENT and for at least 4 weeks after the last dose.
Males
Based on findings in animal reproduction studies, advise male patients with female partners of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment with SUTENT and for 7 weeks after the last dose.
Based on findings in animals, male and female fertility may be compromised by treatment with SUTENT [see Nonclinical Toxicology].
The safety and effectiveness of SUTENT in pediatric patients have not been established. Safety and pharmacokinetics of sunitinib were assessed in an open-label study (NCT00387920) in pediatric patients 2 years to <17 years of age (n=29) with refractory solid tumors. In addition, efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetics of sunitinib was assessed in another open-label study (NCT01462695) in pediatric patients 2 years to <17 years of age (n=27) with high-grade glioma or ependymoma. The maximum tolerated dose (MTD) normalized for body surface area (BSA) was lower in pediatric patients compared to adults. Sunitinib was poorly tolerated in pediatric patients. The occurrence of dose-limiting cardiotoxicity prompted an amendment of the NCT00387920 study to exclude patients with previous exposure to anthracyclines or cardiac radiation. No responses were reported in patients in either of the trials.
Apparent clearance and volume of distribution normalized for BSA for sunitinib and its active major metabolite were lower in pediatrics as compared to adults.
The effect on open tibial growth plates in pediatric patients who received SUTENT has not been adequately studied. See Juvenile Animal Toxicity Data below.
Physeal dysplasia was observed in cynomolgus monkeys with open growth plates treated for ≥3 months (3 month dosing 2, 6, 12 mg/kg/day; 8 cycles of dosing 0.3, 1.5, 6.0 mg/kg/day) with sunitinib at doses that were >0.4 times the RDD based on systemic exposure (AUC). In developing rats treated continuously for 3 months (1.5, 5.0, and 15.0 mg/kg) or 5 cycles (0.3, 1.5, and 6.0 mg/kg/day), bone abnormalities consisted of thickening of the epiphyseal cartilage of the femur and an increase of fracture of the tibia at doses ≥5 mg/kg (approximately 10 times the RDD based on AUC). Additionally, caries of the teeth were observed in rats at >5 mg/kg. The incidence and severity of physeal dysplasia were dose related and were reversible upon cessation of treatment; however, findings in the teeth were not. A no-effect level was not observed in monkeys treated continuously for 3 months, but was 1.5 mg/kg/day when treated intermittently for 8 cycles. In rats the no-effect level in bones was ≤2 mg/kg/day.
Of 825 patients with GIST or metastatic RCC who received SUTENT on clinical studies, 277 (34%) were 65 and over. In the pNET study, 22 patients (27%) who received SUTENT were 65 and over. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between younger and older patients. Among the 158 patients at least age 65 receiving adjuvant SUTENT/placebo for RCC, the hazard ratio for disease-free survival was 0.59 (95% CI: 0.36, 0.95). Among patients 65 years and older receiving adjuvant SUTENT/placebo for RCC, 50 patients (16%) in the SUTENT arm experienced a Grade 3-4 adverse reaction, compared to 15 patients (5%) in the placebo arm.
No starting dose adjustment is required in patients with mild or moderate (Child-Pugh Class A or B) hepatic impairment [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY]. SUTENT was not studied in patients with severe (Child-Pugh Class C) hepatic impairment.
No starting dose adjustment is recommended in patients with mild (CLcr 50 to 80 mL/min), moderate (CLcr 30 to <50 mL/min), or severe (CLcr <30 mL/min) renal impairment who are not on dialysis [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
In patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis, no starting dose adjustment is recommended. However, subsequent doses may be increased gradually up to 2-fold based on safety and tolerability [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].
Treatment of overdose with SUTENT should consist of general supportive measures. There is no specific antidote for overdosage with SUTENT. If indicated, elimination of unabsorbed drug should be achieved by emesis or gastric lavage. Cases of accidental overdose have been reported; these cases were associated with adverse reactions consistent with the known safety profile of SUTENT, or without adverse reactions. A case of intentional overdose involving the ingestion of 1500 mg of SUTENT in an attempted suicide was reported without adverse reaction. In nonclinical studies, mortality was observed following as few as 5 daily doses of 500 mg/kg (3000 mg/m²) in rats. At this dose, signs of toxicity included impaired muscle coordination, head shakes, hypoactivity, ocular discharge, piloerection, and gastrointestinal distress. Mortality and similar signs of toxicity were observed at lower doses when administered for longer durations.
None.
Sunitinib is a small molecule that inhibits multiple receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), some of which are implicated in tumor growth, pathologic angiogenesis, and metastatic progression of cancer. Sunitinib was evaluated for its inhibitory activity against a variety of kinases (>80 kinases) and was identified as an inhibitor of platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRα and PDGFRβ), vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFR3), stem cell factor receptor (KIT), Fms-like tyrosine kinase-3 (FLT3), colony stimulating factor receptor Type 1 (CSF-1R), and the glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor receptor (RET). Sunitinib inhibition of the activity of these RTKs has been demonstrated in biochemical and cellular assays, and inhibition of function has been demonstrated in cell proliferation assays. The primary metabolite exhibits similar potency compared to sunitinib in biochemical and cellular assays.
Sunitinib inhibited the phosphorylation of multiple RTKs (PDGFRβ, VEGFR2, KIT) in tumor xenografts expressing RTK targets in vivo and demonstrated inhibition of tumor growth or tumor regression and/or inhibited metastases in some experimental models of cancer. Sunitinib demonstrated the ability to inhibit growth of tumor cells expressing dysregulated target RTKs (PDGFR, RET, or KIT) in vitro and to inhibit PDGFRβ- and VEGFR2-dependent tumor angiogenesis in vivo.
SUTENT can cause QT interval prolongation in a dose-dependent manner, which may lead to an increased risk for ventricular arrhythmias including Torsade de Pointes [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
The pharmacokinetics of sunitinib and sunitinib malate have been evaluated in healthy volunteers and in patients with solid tumors.
Sunitinib AUC and Cmax increase proportionately over a dose range of 25-100 mg (0.5 to 2 times the approved recommended 50 mg once daily dosage). The pharmacokinetics were similar in healthy subjects and in the solid tumor patients, including patients with GIST and RCC. No significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of sunitinib or the primary active metabolite were observed with repeated daily administration or with repeated cycles. With repeated daily administration, sunitinib accumulates 3- to 4-fold while the primary metabolite accumulates 7- to 10-fold. Steady-state concentrations of sunitinib and its primary active metabolite are achieved within 10 to 14 days. By Day 14, combined plasma concentrations of sunitinib and its active metabolite ranged from 63 to 101 ng/mL.
Following oral administration of sunitinib, the time to maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) ranged from 6 to 12 hours.
Effect Of Food
The administration of a single dose of SUTENT 50 mg with a high-fat, high-calorie meal (consisting of approximately 150 protein calories and 500 to 600 fat calories) in healthy subjects had no clinically significant effect on SUTENT or active metabolites exposure.
The apparent volume of distribution (Vd/F) for sunitinib is 2230 L. Binding of sunitinib and its primary active metabolite to human plasma protein in vitro is 95% and 90%, respectively, with no concentration dependence in the range of 100 to 4000 ng/mL.
Following administration of a single oral dose in healthy volunteers, the terminal half-lives of sunitinib and its primary active metabolite are approximately 40 to 60 hours and 80 to 110 hours, respectively. Sunitinib total oral clearance (CL/F) ranged from 34 to 62 L/h with an interpatient variability of 40%.
Metabolism
Sunitinib is metabolized primarily by the cytochrome P450 enzyme, CYP3A4, to produce its primary active metabolite, which is further metabolized by CYP3A4. The primary active metabolite comprises 23% to 37% of the total exposure. After a radiolabeled dose, sunitinib and its active metabolite were the major drug-related compounds identified in plasma, accounting for 91.5% of radioactivity.
Excretion
After a radiolabeled dose of sunitinib, approximately 61% of the dose was recovered in feces and 16% in urine. Sunitinib and its primary active metabolite were the major drug-related compounds identified in urine and feces, representing 86.4% and 73.8% of radioactivity, respectively.
No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of SUTENT or the primary active metabolite were observed based on age (18 to 84 years), body weight (34 to 168 kg), creatinine clearance, race (White, Black, or Asian), sex, or Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, mild (Child-Pugh Class A) or moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) hepatic impairment.
No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of sunitinib or its active metabolite were predicted or observed in patients with mild (CLcr 50 to 80 mL/min), moderate (CLcr 30 to <50 mL/min), or severe (CLcr <30 mL/min) renal impairment who are not on dialysis, compared to patients with normal renal function (CLcr >80 mL/min). Although sunitinib was not eliminated through hemodialysis, the sunitinib systemic exposure was 47% lower in patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis compared to patients with normal renal function.
No clinically significant differences in the pharmacokinetics of sunitinib or its active metabolite were predicted or observed in patients with mild exocrine (Child-Pugh Class A) or moderate (Child-Pugh Class B) hepatic impairment compared to patients with normal hepatic function.
Effect Of Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors On Sunitinib
Co-administration of a single SUTENT dose with ketoconazole (strong CYP3A4 inhibitor) increased the combined sunitinib and its active metabolite Cmax and AUC0-inf by 49% and 51%, respectively, in healthy subjects.
Effect Of Strong CYP3A4 Inducers On Sunitinib
Co-administration of a single SUTENT dose with rifampin (strong CYP3A4 inducer) reduced the combined sunitinib and its active metabolite Cmax and AUC0-inf by 23% and 46%, respectively in healthy subjects.
In vitro studies in human hepatocytes and microsomes indicated that sunitinib and the primary active metabolite do not induce CYP1A2, CYP2E1, and CYP3A4/5, or inhibit CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2D6, CYP2E1, CYP3A4/5, and CYP4A9/11 at clinically relevant concentrations.
Study 1 (NCT#00075218) was a 2-arm, international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of SUTENT in patients with GIST who had disease progression during prior imatinib mesylate (imatinib) treatment or who were intolerant of imatinib. The objective was to compare time-to-tumor progression (TTP) in patients receiving SUTENT plus best supportive care versus patients receiving placebo plus best supportive care. Other objectives included progression-free survival (PFS), objective response rate (ORR), and overall survival (OS). Patients were randomized (2:1) to receive either 50 mg SUTENT or placebo orally, once daily, on Schedule 4/2 until disease progression or withdrawal from the study for another reason. Treatment was unblinded at the time of disease progression. Patients randomized to placebo were then offered crossover to open-label SUTENT and patients randomized to SUTENT were permitted to continue treatment per investigator judgment.
At the time of a prespecified interim analysis, the intent-to-treat (ITT) population included 312 patients. Two hundred seven (207) patients were randomized to the SUTENT arm and 105 patients were randomized to the placebo arm. Demographics were comparable between the SUTENT and placebo groups with regard to age (69% versus 72% <65 years for SUTENT versus placebo, respectively), gender (male: 64% versus 61%), race (White: 88% both arms, Asian: 5% both arms, Black: 4% both arms, remainder not reported), and performance status (ECOG 0: 44% versus 46%, ECOG 1: 55% versus 52%, and ECOG 2: 1% versus 2%). Prior treatment included surgery (94% versus 93%) and radiotherapy (8% versus 15%). Outcome of prior imatinib treatment was also comparable between arms with intolerance (4% versus 4%), progression within 6 months of starting treatment (17% versus 16%), or progression beyond 6 months (78% versus 80%) balanced.
The planned interim efficacy and safety analysis was performed after 149 TTP events had occurred. There was a statistically significant advantage for SUTENT over placebo in TTP, meeting the primary endpoint. Efficacy results are summarized in Table 8 and the Kaplan-Meier curve for TTP is shown in Figure 1.
Table 8: GIST Efficacy Results From Study 1
(Double-Blind Treatment Phase)
| Efficacy Parameter | SUTENT (N=207) |
Placebo (N=105) |
p-value (log-rank test) | HR (95% CI) |
| Time-to-tumor progressiona[median, weeks (95% CI)] | 27.3 (16.0, 32.1) | 6.4 (4.4, 10.0) | <0.0001* | 0.33 (0.23, 0.47) |
| Progression-free survivalb [median, weeks (95% CI)] | 24.1 (11.1, 28.3) | 6.0 (4.4, 9.9) | <0.0001 | 0.33 (0.24, 0.47) |
| Objective response rate (PR) [%, (95% CI)] | 6.8 (3.7, 11.1) | 0 | 0.006c | |
| * A comparison is considered statistically significant if
the p-value is <0.00417 (O’Brien Fleming stopping boundary). Abbreviations:
CI=confidence interval; GIST=gastrointestinal stromal tumor; HR=hazard
ratio;N=number of patients; PR=partial response. a Time from randomization to progression; deaths prior to documented progression were censored at time of last radiographic evaluation. b Time from randomization to progression or death due to any cause. c Pearson chi-square test. |
||||
Figure 1: Kaplan-Meier Curve of TTP in GIST Study 1
(Intent-to-Treat Population)
 |
Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval; GIST=gastrointestinalstromal tumor; N=number of patients; TTP=time-to-tumor progression.
The final ITT population enrolled in the double-blind treatment phase of the study included 243 patients randomized to the SUTENT arm and 118 patients randomized to the placebo arm. After the primary endpoint was met at the interim analysis, the study was unblinded, and patients on the placebo arm were offered open-label SUTENT treatment. Ninety-nine (99) of the patients initially randomized to placebo crossed over to receive SUTENT in the open-label treatment phase. At the protocol specified final analysis of OS, the median OS was 72.7 weeks for the SUTENT arm and 64.9 weeks for the placebo arm [hazard ratio (HR)=0.876, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.679, 1.129)].
Study 2 was an open-label, multi-center, single-arm, dose-escalation study conducted in patients with GIST following progression on, or intolerance to imatinib. Following identification of the recommended regimen (50 mg once daily on Schedule 4/2), 55 patients in this study received the 50 mg dose of SUTENT on treatment Schedule 4/2. Partial responses (PR) were observed in 5 of 55 patients (9.1% PR rate; 95% CI: 3.0%, 20.0%).
Study 3 (NCT#00083889) was a multi-center, international, randomized study comparing single-agent SUTENT with IFN-α was conducted in patients with treatment-naïve RCC. The objective was to compare PFS in patients receiving SUTENT versus patients receiving IFN-α. Other endpoints included ORR, OS, and safety. Seven hundred fifty (750) patients were randomized (1:1) to receive either 50 mg SUTENT once daily on Schedule 4/2 or to receive IFN-α administered subcutaneously at 9 million international units (MIU) 3 times a week. Patients were treated until disease progression or withdrawal from the study.
The ITT population included 750 patients, 375 randomized to SUTENT and 375 randomized to IFN-α. Demographics were comparable between the SUTENT and IFN-α groups with regard to age (59% versus 67% <65 years for SUTENT versus IFN-α, respectively), gender (male: 71% versus 72%), race (White: 94% versus 91%, Asian: 2% versus 3%, Black: 1% versus 2%, remainder not reported), and performance status (ECOG 0: 62% versus 61%, ECOG 1: 38% each arm, ECOG 2: 0 versus 1%). Prior treatment included nephrectomy (91% versus 89%) and radiotherapy (14% each arm). The most common site of metastases present at screening was the lung (78% versus 80%, respectively), followed by the lymph nodes (58% versus 53%, respectively) and bone (30% each arm); the majority of the patients had multiple (2 or more) metastatic sites at baseline (80% versus 77%, respectively).
There was a statistically significant advantage for SUTENT over IFN-α in the endpoint of PFS (see Table 9 and Figure 2). In the prespecified stratification factors of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (>1.5 ULN versus ≤1.5 ULN), ECOG performance status (0 versus 1), and prior nephrectomy (yes versus no), the hazard ratio favored SUTENT over IFN-α. The ORR was higher in the SUTENT arm (see Table 9).
Table 9: Treatment-Naïve RCC Efficacy Results (Interim
Analysis)
| Efficacy Parameter | SUTENT (N=375) |
IFN-α (N=375) |
p-value (log-rank test) | HR (95% CI) |
| Progression-free survivala [median, weeks (95% CI)] | 47.3 (42.6, 50.7) |
22.0 (16.4, 24.0) |
<0.000001b | 0.415 (0.320, 0.539) |
| Objective response ratea [%, (95% CI)] | 27.5 (23.0, 32.3) |
5.3 (3.3, 8.1) |
<0.001c | NA |
| Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval;HR=hazard ratio;
N=number of patients; INF-α=interferon-alfa; NA=not applicable; RCC=renal
cell carcinoma. a Assessed by blinded core radiology laboratory; 90 patients’ scans had not been read at time of analysis. b A comparison is considered statistically significant if the p-value is <0.0042 (O’Brien Fleming stopping boundary). c Pearson chi-square test. |
||||
Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier Curve of PFS in Treatment-Naïve
RCC Study 3 (Intent-to-Treat Population)
 |
Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval; INF-α=interferon-alfa;N=number of patients; PFS=progression-free survival; RCC=renal cell carcinoma.
At the protocol-specified final analysis of OS, the median OS was 114.6 weeks for the SUTENT arm and 94.9 weeks for the IFN-α arm (HR=0.821; 95% CI: 0.673, 1.001). The median OS for the IFN-α arm includes 25 patients who discontinued IFN-α treatment because of disease progression and crossed over to treatment with SUTENT as well as 121 patients (32%) on the IFN-α arm who received post-study cancer treatment with SUTENT.
The use of single-agent SUTENT in the treatment of cytokine-refractory RCC was investigated in 2 single-arm, multi-center studies. All patients enrolled into these studies experienced failure of prior cytokine-based therapy. In Study 4 (NCT#00077974), failure of prior cytokine therapy was based on radiographic evidence of disease progression defined by response evaluation criteria in solid tumors (RECIST) or World Health Organization (WHO) criteria during or within 9 months of completion of 1 cytokine therapy treatment (IFN-α, interleukin-2, or IFN-α plus interleukin-2; patients who were treated with IFN-α alone must have received treatment for at least 28 days). In Study 5 (NCT#00054886), failure of prior cytokine therapy was defined as disease progression or unacceptable treatment-related toxicity. The endpoint for both studies was ORR. Duration of response (DR) was also evaluated.
One hundred and six patients (106) were enrolled into Study 4 and 63 patients were enrolled into Study 5. Patients received 50 mg SUTENT on Schedule 4/2. Therapy was continued until the patients met withdrawal criteria or had progressive disease. The baseline age, gender, race, and ECOG performance statuses of the patients were comparable between Studies 4 and 5. Approximately 86%-94% of patients in the 2 studies were White. Men comprised 65% of the pooled population. The median age was 57 years and ranged from 24 to 87 years in the studies. All patients had an ECOG performance status <2 at the screening visit.
The baseline malignancy and prior treatment history of the patients were comparable between Studies 4 and 5. Across the 2 studies, 95% of the pooled population of patients had at least some component of clear-cell histology. All patients in Study 4 were required to have a histological clear-cell component. Most patients enrolled in the studies (97% of the pooled population) had undergone nephrectomy; prior nephrectomy was required for patients enrolled in Study 4. All patients had received 1 previous cytokine regimen. Metastatic disease present at the time of study entry included lung metastases in 81% of patients. Liver metastases were more common in Study 4 (27% versus 16% in Study 5) and bone metastases were more common in Study 5 (51% versus 25% in Study 4); 52% of patients in the pooled population had at least 3 metastatic sites. Patients with known brain metastases or leptomeningeal disease were excluded from both studies.
The ORR and DR data from Studies 4 and 5 are provided in Table 10. There were 36 PRs in Study 4 as assessed by a core radiology laboratory for an ORR of 34.0% (95% CI: 25.0%, 43.8%). There were 23 PRs in Study 5 as assessed by the investigators for an ORR of 36.5% (95% CI: 24.7%, 49.6%). The majority (>90%) of objective disease responses were observed during the first 4 cycles; the latest reported response was observed in Cycle 10. DR data from Study 4 is premature as only 9 of 36 patients (25%) responding to treatment had experienced disease progression or died at the time of the data cutoff.
Table 10: Cytokine-Refractory RCC Efficacy Results
| Efficacy Parameter | Study 4 (N=106) |
Study 5 (N=63) |
| Objective response rate [%, (95% CI)] | 34.0a (25.0, 43.8) | 36.5b (24.7, 49.6) |
| Duration of response [median, weeks (95% CI)] | NR* (42.0, *) | 54b (34.3, 70.1) |
| *Data not mature enough to determine upper confidence
limit. Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval;N=number of patients; NR=not
reached; RCC=renal cell carcinoma. a Assessed by blinded core radiology laboratory. b Assessed by investigators. |
||
In the adjuvant treatment setting, SUTENT was investigated in S-TRAC (NCT#00375674), a multi-center, international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, trial in patients with high risk of recurrent RCC following nephrectomy. Patients were required to have clear cell histology and high risk of recurrence defined as ≥T3 and/or N+ tumors. Six hundred fifteen (615) patients were randomized 1:1 to receive either 50 mg SUTENT once daily on Schedule 4/2 or placebo. Patients were treated for 9 cycles (approximately 1 year), or until disease recurrence, unacceptable toxicity, or withdrawal of consent.
Demographics were generally comparable between the SUTENT and placebo arms with regard to age (median age 58 years), gender (73% male), and race (84% White, 12% Asian and 4% Other). At randomization, most patients had an ECOG performance status of 0 (74% SUTENT and 72% placebo). The remainder of the patients had an ECOG performance status of 1; 1 patient on SUTENT had a performance status of 2.
The major efficacy outcome measure was disease-free survival (DFS) in patients receiving SUTENT versus placebo as assessed by blinded independent central review (BICR). Overall survival was an additional endpoint. There was a statistically significant improvement in DFS in patients who were treated with SUTENT compared to placebo (Table 11 and Figure 3). Prespecified subgroup analyses are presented in Table 12. At the time of the DFS analysis, overall survival data were not mature, with 141/615 (23%) patient deaths.
Table 11: Disease-free Survival Results as Assessed by
BICR in Adjuvant RCC (Intent to Treat Population)
| SUTENT N = 309 |
Placebo N = 306 |
p-valuea | HRa (95% CI) | |
| Median DFS [years (95% CI)] | 6.8 (5.8, NR) | 5.6 (3.8, 6.6) | 0.03 | 0.76 (0.59, 0.98) |
| DFS Events | 113 (36.6%) | 144 (47.1%) | ||
| 5 Year DFS Rate | 59.3% | 51.3% | ||
| a P-value based on log-rank test stratified by University of California Los Angeles Integrated Staging System (UISS) prognostic group; HR based on a Cox proportional hazard model stratified by UISS prognostic group Abbreviations: BICR=blinded independent central review; CI=confidence interval; DFS=disease-free survival; HR=hazard ratio; N=number of patients; RCC=renal cell carcinoma. | ||||
Table 12: Disease-free Survival by Baseline Disease
Characteristics
| Number of Events/ Total n/N | Median DFS [years (95% CI)] | HRa (95% CI) | |||
| SUTENT | Placebo | SUTENT | Placebo | ||
| T3 Intermediateb | 35/115 | 46/112 | NR (5.2, NR) | 6.4 (4.7, NR) | 0.82 (0.53, 1.28) |
| T3 Highc | 63/165 | 79/166 | 6.8 (5.0, NR) | 5.3 (2.9, NR) | 0.77 (0.55, 1.07) |
| T4/Node Positived | 15/29 | 19/28 | 3.5 (1.2, NR) | 1.7 (0.4, 3.0) | 0.62 (0.31, 1.23) |
| Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval; DFS=disease-free
survival; HR=hazard ratio; N=number of patients; n=number of events; NR=not
reached a HR based on a Cox proportional hazards model b T3 Intermediate: T3, N0 or NX, M0, any Fuhrman’s grade, ECOG PS 0 OR T3, N0 or NX, M0, Fuhrman’s grade 1, ECOG PS > 1 c T3 High: T3, N0 or NX, M0, Fuhrman’s grade ≥2, ECOG PS ≥ 1 d T4/Node Positive: T4, N0 or NX, M0, any Fuhrman’s grade, any ECOG PS OR Any T, N1-2, M0, any Fuhrman’s grade, any ECOG PS |
|||||
Figure 3: Kaplan-Meier Curve of Disease-free Survival
as Assessed by BICR (Intent-to-Treat Population)
 |
Abbreviations: BICR=blinded independent central review; CI=confidence interval; N=number of patients.
Study 6 (NCT#00428597) was a multi-center, international, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of single-agent SUTENT conducted in patients with unresectable pNET. Patients were required to have documented RECIST-defined disease progression within the prior 12 months and were randomized (1:1) to receive either 37.5 mg SUTENT (N=86) or placebo (N=85) once daily without a scheduled off-treatment period. The primary objective was to compare PFS in patients receiving SUTENT versus patients receiving placebo. Other endpoints included OS, ORR, and safety. Use of somatostatin analogs was allowed in the study.
Demographics were comparable between the SUTENT and placebo groups. Additionally, 49% of SUTENT patients had nonfunctioning tumors vs 52% of placebo patients, and 92% patients in both arms had liver metastases. A total of 66% of SUTENT patients received prior systemic therapy compared with 72% of placebo patients and 35% of SUTENT patients had received somatostatin analogs compared with 38% of placebo patients. Patients were treated until disease progression or withdrawal from the study. Upon disease progression or study closure, patients were offered access to SUTENT in a separate extension study.
As recommended by the Independent Data Monitoring Committee, the study was terminated prematurely prior to the prespecified interim analysis. This may have led to an overestimate of the magnitude of PFS effect. A clinically significant improvement for SUTENT over placebo in PFS was seen by both investigator and independent assessment. A hazard ratio favoring SUTENT was observed in all subgroups of baseline characteristics evaluated. OS data were not mature at the time of the analysis. There were 9 deaths in the SUTENT arm and 21 deaths in the placebo arm. A statistically significant difference in ORR favoring SUTENT over placebo was observed. Efficacy results are summarized in Table 13 and the Kaplan-Meier curve for PFS is in Figure 4.
Table 13: pNET Study 6 Efficacy Results
| Efficacy Parameter | SUTENT (N=86) |
Placebo (N=85) |
p-value | HR (95% CI) |
| Progression-free survival [median, months (95% CI)1 | 10.2 (7.4, 16.9) | 5.4 (3.4, 6.0) | 0.000146a | 0.427 (0.271, 0.673) |
| Objective response rate [%, (95% CI)] | 9.3 (3.2, 15.4) | 0 | 0.0066b | NA |
| Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval; HR=hazard
ratio;N=number of patients; NA=not applicable; pNET=pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. a 2-sided unstratified log-rank test. b Fisher’s Exact test. |
||||
Figure 4: Kaplan-Meier Curve of PFS in the pNET Study 6
 |
Abbreviations: CI=confidence interval;N=number of patients; PFS=progression-free survival; pNET=pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors.
SUTENT®
(su TENT)
(sunitinib malate) Capsules
What is the most important information I should know about SUTENT?
SUTENT can cause serious side effects including:
Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your liver function before you start taking and during treatment with SUTENT. Your healthcare provider may tell you to temporarily or permanently stop taking SUTENT if you develop liver problems.
See “What are the possible side effects of SUTENT?” for more information about side effects.
What is SUTENT?
SUTENT is a prescription medicine used to treat:
It is not known if SUTENT is safe and effective in children.
Before taking SUTENT tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell all of your healthcare providers and dentists that you are taking SUTENT. They should talk to the healthcare provider who prescribed SUTENT for you, before you have any surgery, or medical or dental procedure.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription medicines and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Using SUTENT with certain other medicines can cause serious side effects.
You may have an increased risk of severe jaw bone problems (osteonecrosis) if you take SUTENT and a bisphosphonate medicine. Especially tell your healthcare provider if you are taking or have taken an osteoporosis medicine.
Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of them to show your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.
How should I take SUTENT?
What are possible side effects of SUTENT?
SUTENT may cause serious side effects, including:
Your healthcare provider may prescribe medicine for you to treat high blood pressure, if needed.
Your healthcare provider may temporarily stop your treatment with SUTENT until your high blood pressure is controlled.
Your healthcare provider:
If you have any signs or symptoms of severe skin reactions, stop taking SUTENT and call your healthcare provider or get medical help right away.
Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any signs or symptoms of severe low blood sugar during your treatment with SUTENT.
Common side effects of SUTENT include:
The medicine in SUTENT is yellow, and it may make your skin look yellow. Your skin and hair may get lighter in color. SUTENT may also cause other skin problems including: dryness, thickness or cracking of the skin.
These are not all of the possible side effects of SUTENT. 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 do I store SUTENT?
Keep SUTENT and all medicines out of the reach of children.
General information about the safe and effective use of SUTENT.
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use SUTENT for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give SUTENT to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.
You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about SUTENT that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in SUTENT?
Active ingredient: sunitinib malate
Inactive ingredients: mannitol, croscarmellose sodium, povidone (K-25), and magnesium stearate.
Orange gelatin capsule shells: titanium dioxide, and red iron oxide.
Caramel gelatin capsule shells: titanium dioxide, red iron oxide, yellow iron oxide, and black iron oxide.
Yellow gelatin capsule shells: titanium dioxide and yellow iron oxide.
White printing ink: shellac, propylene glycol, sodium hydroxide, povidone, and titanium dioxide.
Black printing ink: shellac, propylene glycol, potassium hydroxide and black iron oxide.
This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
