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Tezepelumab-ekko, a thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) blocker, is a human monoclonal antibody immunoglobulin G2λ (IgG2λ) produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells by recombinant DNA technology. Tezepelumab-ekko has a molecular weight of approximately 147 kDa.
TEZSPIRE (tezepelumab-ekko) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to opalescent, colorless to light yellow solution for subcutaneous injection supplied in a single-dose vial or single-dose pre-filled syringe.
Each single-dose vial or pre-filled syringe delivers 1.91 mL containing 210 mg tezepelumab-ekko, glacial acetic acid (2.8 mg), L-proline (48 mg), polysorbate 80 (0.19 mg), sodium hydroxide, and water for injection. The pH is 5.2.
TEZSPIRE is indicated for the add-on maintenance treatment of adult and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older with severe asthma.
TEZSPIRE is not indicated for the relief of acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus.
The recommended dosage of TEZSPIRE is 210 mg administered subcutaneously once every 4 weeks.
If a dose is missed, administer the dose as soon as possible. Thereafter, the patient can continue (resume) dosing on the usual day of administration. If the next dose is already due, then administer as planned.
TEZSPIRE vial and pre-filled syringe are intended for administration by a healthcare provider.
TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen can be administered by patients/caregivers or healthcare providers. Patients/caregivers may administer TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen after proper training in subcutaneous injection technique and after the healthcare provider determines it is appropriate.
Each vial, pre-filled syringe and pre-filled pen contain a single dose of TEZSPIRE.
Refer to Figure 1 to identify the pre-filled syringe components for use in the administration steps. Do not remove the needle cover until Step 2 of these instructions when you are ready to inject TEZSPIRE. Do not touch the needle guard activation clips to prevent premature activation of the needle safety guard.
Figure 1: TEZSPIRE Pre-filled Syringe Components
Before use
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After use
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The pre-filled syringe may contain small air bubbles; this is normal. Do not expel the air bubbles prior to administration.
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These administration instructions are intended for healthcare providers use only. Patients and caregivers should refer to the TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen ‘Instructions for Use’ for more detailed instructions on the preparation and administration of TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen [See INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE].
Patients/caregivers may inject after proper training in subcutaneous injection technique according to the ‘Instructions for Use’, and after the healthcare provider determines it is appropriate.
Refer to Figure 2 to identify the pre-filled pen components for use in the administration steps.
Do not remove the cap until you are ready to inject TEZSPIRE.
Figure 2 TEZSPIRE Pre-filled Pen Components
Before use
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After use
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The pre-filled pen may contain small air bubbles; this is normal. Do not expel the air bubbles prior to administration.
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Inject TEZSPIRE by following the steps into the recommended injection site (i.e., upper arm, thigh, or abdomen).
When injecting, you will hear the first click that tells you the injection has started. Press and hold the pre-filled pen for 15 seconds until you hear the second click. Do not change the position of the pre-filled pen after the injection has started.
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Injection: a clear to opalescent, colorless to light yellow solution available as:
TEZSPIRE (tezepelumab-ekko) injection is a sterile, preservative-free, clear to opalescent, colorless to light yellow solution supplied as a single-dose vial, single-dose pre-filled syringe with a fixed 27-gauge ½ inch needle with a needle cover or single-dose pre-filled pen with a fixed 27-gauge ½ inch needle with a needle cover. The vial, pre-filled syringe and pre-filled pen, including the needle cover and stopper, are not made with natural rubber latex.
TEZSPIRE is available as:
Store refrigerated between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). If necessary, TEZSPIRE may be kept at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for a maximum of 30 days. Do not put back in the refrigerator once TEZSPIRE has reached room temperature. After removal from the refrigerator, TEZSPIRE must be used within 30 days or discarded.
Store TEZSPIRE in original carton to protect from light until time of use.
Do not freeze. Do not shake. Do not expose to heat.
Manufactured by: AstraZeneca AB, Sodertalje, Sweden. Revised: May 2023
The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling:
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.
The safety of TEZSPIRE was based on the pooled safety population from PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR, which consists of 665 adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older with severe asthma who received at least one dose of TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously once every 4 weeks. The two placebo-controlled clinical trials were of 52 weeks duration. In addition, a similar safety profile was seen in a trial that enrolled 150 adult patients with severe asthma who required treatment with daily oral corticosteroids [see Clinical Studies].
Adverse reactions that occurred at an incidence greater than or equal to 3% and more common than in the placebo group from the pooled safety population (PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR) are shown in Table 1.
Table 1 Adverse Reactions with TEZSPIRE with Incidence Greater than or Equal to 3% and More Common than Placebo in Patients with Severe Asthma in the Pooled Safety Population (PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR)
| Adverse Reaction | TEZSPIRE N=665 % |
Placebo N=669 % |
| Pharyngitis* | 4 | 3 |
| Arthralgia | 4 | 3 |
| Back pain | 4 | 3 |
| * Pharyngitis (including Pharyngitis, Pharyngitis bacterial, Pharyngitis streptococcal and Viral pharyngitis) | ||
In a randomized, double-blind, long term extension trial, patients 12 years and older with severe asthma from trials NAVIGATOR and the additional trial [see Clinical Studies] received TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks or placebo for up to 104 weeks. In the trial, the incidence rates (IR) per 100 patient-years (PY) for serious cardiac adverse events in patients treated with TEZSPIRE or placebo were 1.08 and 0.21, respectively, with an incidence rate difference (IRD) of 0.88 (95% CI: 0.24, 1.53). The types of serious cardiac adverse events were heterogeneous. In the trial, the IR per 100 PY for adjudicated major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE, defined as cardiovascular deaths, non-fatal myocardial infarctions, and non-fatal strokes) in patients treated with TEZSPIRE or placebo were 0.60 and 0.42, respectively, with an IRD of 0.18 (95% CI: -0.51, 0.75).
In the pooled safety population (PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR), in which TEZSPIRE or placebo was administered using the vial by a healthcare provider, injection site reactions (e.g., injection site erythema, injection site swelling, injection site pain) occurred at a rate of 3.3% in patients treated with TEZSPIRE compared with 2.7% in patients treated with placebo.
In an open-label trial of 216 patients with asthma in which TEZSPIRE was administered by healthcare providers and patients or caregivers using either the pre-filled pen or pre-filled syringe, injection site reactions (e.g., injection site erythema, injection site swelling, injection site pain) were observed in 5.7% patients using the pre-filled pen and 0% using the pre-filled syringe. However, the trial was not designed to compare injection site reactions between patients who received TEZSPIRE by the pre-filled pen versus pre-filled syringe.
The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of TEZSPIRE. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Hypersensitivity reactions: anaphylaxis
No formal drug interaction studies have been performed with TEZSPIRE.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
Hypersensitivity reactions were observed in the clinical trials (e.g., rash and allergic conjunctivitis) following the administration of TEZSPIRE. Postmarketing cases of anaphylaxis have also been reported [see CONTRAINDICATIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS]. These reactions can occur within hours of administration, but in some instances have a delayed onset (i.e., days). In the event of a hypersensitivity reaction, consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient to determine whether to continue or discontinue treatment with TEZSPIRE.
TEZSPIRE should not be used to treat acute asthma symptoms or acute exacerbations. Do not use TEZSPIRE to treat acute bronchospasm or status asthmaticus. Patients should seek medical advice if their asthma remains uncontrolled or worsens after initiation of treatment with TEZSPIRE.
Do not discontinue systemic or inhaled corticosteroids abruptly upon initiation of therapy with TEZSPIRE. Reductions in corticosteroid dose, if appropriate, should be gradual and performed under the direct supervision of a physician. Reduction in corticosteroid dose may be associated with systemic withdrawal symptoms and/or unmask conditions previously suppressed by systemic corticosteroid therapy.
Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) may be involved in the immunological response to some helminth infections. Patients with known helminth infections were excluded from participation in clinical trials. It is unknown if TEZSPIRE will influence a patient’s response against helminth infections.
Treat patients with pre-existing helminth infections before initiating therapy with TEZSPIRE. If patients become infected while receiving treatment with TEZSPIRE and do not respond to anti-helminth treatment, discontinue treatment with TEZSPIRE until infection resolves.
The concomitant use of TEZSPIRE and live attenuated vaccines has not been evaluated. The use of live attenuated vaccines should be avoided in patients receiving TEZSPIRE.
Advise the patient and/or caregiver to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (PATIENT INFORMATION and Instructions for Use).
Inform patients that hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, rash and allergic conjunctivitis) can occur following administration of TEZSPIRE [see CONTRAINDICATIONS and ADVERSE REACTIONS]. These reactions can occur within hours of administration, but in some instances have a delayed onset (i.e., days). Instruct patients to contact their healthcare provider if they experience symptoms of an allergic reaction [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients that TEZSPIRE does not treat acute asthma symptoms or acute exacerbations. Inform patients to seek medical advice if their asthma remains uncontrolled or worsens after initiation of treatment with TEZSPIRE [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Inform patients to not discontinue systemic or inhaled corticosteroids except under the direct supervision of a healthcare provider. Inform patients that reduction in corticosteroid dose may be associated with systemic withdrawal symptoms and/or unmask conditions previously suppressed by systemic corticosteroid therapy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Instruct patients to inform the healthcare provider that they are taking TEZSPIRE prior to a potential vaccination [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Advise patients to refrigerate TEZSPIRE at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C). TEZSPIRE may be kept at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for a maximum of 30 days [see HOW SUPPLIED]. Inform patients and caregivers of the need for proper disposal of the pre-filled pen after use, including the use of a sharps disposal container.
Animal studies have not been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of tezepelumab-ekko. The malignancy risk in humans from an antibody that blocks TSLP ligand, such as tezepelumab-ekko, is currently unknown.
Male and female fertility was unaffected based upon no observed adverse histopathological findings in the reproductive organs and no changes in menstrual cycle or semen analysis in sexually mature cynomolgus monkeys that received tezepelumab-ekko for 26 weeks at subcutaneous doses up to 300 mg/kg/week (approximately 134 times the MRHD on an AUC basis).
There are no available data on TEZSPIRE use in pregnant women to evaluate for any drug-associated risk of major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Placental transfer of monoclonal antibodies such as tezepelumab-ekko is greater during the third trimester of pregnancy; therefore, potential effects on a fetus are likely to be greater during the third trimester of pregnancy. In an enhanced pre-and post-natal development (ePPND) study conducted in cynomolgus monkeys, placental transport of tezepelumab-ekko was observed but there was no evidence of fetal harm following intravenous administration of tezepelumab-ekko throughout pregnancy at doses that produced maternal exposures up to 168 times the exposure at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 210 mg administered subcutaneously (see Data).
The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriages for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.
Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk:
In women with poorly or moderately controlled asthma, evidence demonstrates that there is an increased risk of preeclampsia in the mother and prematurity, low birth weight, and small for gestational age in the neonate. The level of asthma control should be closely monitored in pregnant women and treatment adjusted as necessary to maintain optimal control.
Animal Data
In the ePPND study, pregnant cynomolgus monkeys received tezepelumab-ekko from GD20 to GD22 (dependent on pregnancy determination), at the beginning of organogenesis, and once every 7 days until the end of gestation at doses that produced exposures up to 168 times that achieved with the MRHD (on an AUC basis with maternal intravenous doses up to 300 mg/kg/week). There were no tezepelumab-ekko related adverse effects on maternal health, pregnancy outcome, embryo-fetal development, or neonatal growth and development up to 6.5 months of age. Tezepelumab-ekko crossed the placenta in cynomolgus monkeys and tezepelumab-ekko serum concentrations were 0.5-to 6.7-fold higher in infants relative to maternal animals.
There is no information regarding the presence of tezepelumab-ekko in human milk, its effects on the breastfed infant, or its effects on milk production. However, tezepelumab-ekko is a human monoclonal antibody immunoglobulin G2λ (IgG2λ), and immunoglobulin G (IgG) is present in human milk in small amounts. Tezepelumab-ekko was present in the milk of cynomolgus monkeys postpartum following dosing during pregnancy (see Data). The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother's clinical need for TEZSPIRE and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from TEZSPIRE or from the underlying maternal condition.
Animal Data
In a prenatal and postnatal development study in cynomolgus monkeys, tezepelumab-ekko concentrations in milk were up to 0.5% of the maternal serum concentrations after intravenous administration of tezepelumab-ekko up to 300 mg/kg/week (168 times the exposures based on AUC achieved at MRHD). The concentration of tezepelumab-ekko in animal milk does not necessarily predict the concentration of drug in human milk.
The safety and effectiveness of TEZSPIRE for the add-on maintenance treatment of severe asthma have been established in pediatric patients aged 12 years and older [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and Clinical Studies]. Use of TEZSPIRE for this indication is supported by evidence from a total of 82 pediatric patients aged 12 to 17 years enrolled in NAVIGATOR and received treatment with TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks (n=41) or placebo (n=41). Compared with placebo, improvements in annualized asthma exacerbation (rate ratio 0.70; 95% CI 0.34, 1.46) and FEV1 (LS mean change versus placebo 0.17 L; 95% CI -0.01, 0.35) were observed in pediatric patients treated with TEZSPIRE. The safety profile and pharmacodynamic responses in pediatric patients were generally similar to the overall study population.
The safety and effectiveness in patients younger than 12 years of age have not been established.
Of the 665 patients with asthma treated with TEZSPIRE in clinical trials (PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR) for severe asthma, 119 patients (18%) were 65 years or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness of TEZSPIRE have been observed between patients 65 years of age and older and younger patients [see ADVERSE REACTIONS and Clinical Studies].
No Information Provided
TEZSPIRE is contraindicated in patients who have known hypersensitivity to tezepelumab-ekko or any of its excipients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].
Tezepelumab-ekko is a thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) blocker, human monoclonal antibody IgG2λ that binds to human TSLP with a dissociation constant of 15.8 pM and blocks its interaction with the heterodimeric TSLP receptor. TSLP is a cytokine mainly derived from epithelial cells and occupies an upstream position in the asthma inflammatory cascade.
Airway inflammation is an important component in the pathogenesis of asthma. Multiple cell types (e.g., mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, ILC2 cells) and mediators (e.g., histamine, eicosanoids, leukotrienes, cytokines) are involved in airway inflammation. Blocking TSLP with tezepelumab-ekko reduces biomarkers and cytokines associated with inflammation including blood eosinophils, airway submucosal eosinophils, IgE, FeNO, IL-5, and IL-13; however, the mechanism of tezepelumab-ekko action in asthma has not been definitively established.
In NAVIGATOR, administration of TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks (n=528) reduced blood eosinophils counts, FeNO, IL-5 concentration and IL-13 concentration from baseline compared with placebo (n=531) with an onset of effect 2 weeks after initiation of treatment and sustained reduction on treatment to 52 weeks. TEZSPIRE caused a slow but progressive reduction in serum total IgE concentration throughout 52 weeks of treatment. Similar effects were seen in PATHWAY.
The pharmacokinetics of tezepelumab-ekko were dose-proportional following administration of a single subcutaneous dose over a dose range from 2.1 mg to 420 mg (0.01 to 2 times the recommended dose). With an every 4 weeks dosing regimen, tezepelumab-ekko achieves steady-state after 12 weeks and the accumulation ratio for Ctrough is 1.86-fold.
Following subcutaneous administration, the maximum serum concentration was reached in approximately 3 to 10 days. Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, the estimated absolute bioavailability was approximately 77%. There was no clinically relevant difference in bioavailability when administered to different injection sites (abdomen, thigh, or upper arm).
Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, central and peripheral volume of distribution of tezepelumab-ekko were 3.9 L and 2.2 L, respectively, for a 70 kg individual.
As a human monoclonal antibody, tezepelumab-ekko is eliminated by intracellular catabolism and there is no evidence of target-mediated clearance within the studied dose range. Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, the estimated clearance for tezepelumab-ekko was 0.17 L/d for a 70 kg individual. The elimination half-life was approximately 26 days.
Metabolism
Tezepelumab-ekko is a human monoclonal antibody (IgG2λ) that is degraded by proteolytic enzymes widely distributed in the body and not metabolized by hepatic enzymes.
Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, age (12 to 80 years), sex and race (White, Black, Asian, Other) had no clinically meaningful effects on the pharmacokinetics of tezepelumab-ekko.
Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, higher body weight was associated with lower exposure. However, the effect of body weight on exposure had no meaningful impact on efficacy or safety and does not require dose adjustment.
No formal clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of renal impairment on tezepelumab-ekko. The population pharmacokinetic analysis included 320 (23%) subjects with mild renal impairment and 38 (3%) subjects with moderate renal impairment. Tezepelumab-ekko clearance was similar in patients with mild renal impairment (estimated creatinine clearance 60 to 89 mL/min), moderate renal impairment (estimated creatinine clearance 30 to 59 mL/min) and those with normal renal function (estimated creatinine clearance ≥ 90 mL/min). Tezepelumab-ekko has not been studied in patients with severe renal impairment (estimated creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min).
No formal clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of hepatic impairment on tezepelumab-ekko. Since tezepelumab-ekko is degraded by proteolytic enzymes widely distributed in the body and not metabolized by hepatic-specific enzymes, change in hepatic function is not expected to influence tezepelumab-ekko clearance.
No formal drug interaction studies have been conducted with tezepelumab-ekko. Based on the population pharmacokinetic analysis, commonly co-administered asthma medications (leukotriene receptor antagonist, theophylline/aminophylline, oral and inhaled corticosteroid) had no clinically meaningful effect on tezepelumab-ekko clearance.
The observed incidence of anti-drug antibodies is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Differences in assay methods preclude meaningful comparisons of the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in the studies described below with the incidence of anti-drug antibodies in other studies, including those of tezepelumab-ekko or of other tezepelumab products.
In NAVIGATOR and an additional trial, anti-drug antibodies (ADA) were detected at any time in 29 (5%) out of 601 patients who received TEZSPIRE at the recommended dosing regimen during the 48 to 52-week study period. Of these 29 patients, 11 patients (2% of patients treated with TEZSPIRE) developed treatment-emergent antibodies and 1 patient (<1% of patients treated with TEZSPIRE) developed neutralizing antibodies. ADA titers were generally low and often transient. No evidence of ADA impact on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, efficacy, or safety was observed.
The efficacy of TEZSPIRE was evaluated in two randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled clinical trials (PATHWAY [NCT02054130] and NAVIGATOR [NCT03347279]) of 52 weeks duration. The two trials enrolled a total of 1609 patients 12 years of age and older with severe asthma.
PATHWAY was a 52-week dose-ranging exacerbation trial that enrolled 550 adult patients with severe asthma who received treatment with tezepelumab-ekko 70 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks, TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks, tezepelumab-ekko 280 mg subcutaneously every 2 weeks, or placebo subcutaneously. Patients were required to have a history of 2 or more asthma exacerbations requiring oral or injectable corticosteroid treatment or 1 asthma exacerbation resulting in hospitalization in the past 12 months.
NAVIGATOR was a 52-week exacerbation trial that enrolled 1061 patients (adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older) with severe asthma who received treatment with TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks or placebo subcutaneously every 4 weeks. Patients were required to have a history of 2 or more asthma exacerbations requiring oral or injectable corticosteroid treatment or resulting in hospitalization in the past 12 months.
In both PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR, patients were required to have an Asthma Control Questionnaire 6 (ACQ-6) score of 1.5 or more at screening and reduced lung function at baseline [pre-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) below 80% predicted in adults, and below 90% predicted in adolescents]. Patients were required to have been on regular treatment with medium or high-dose inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and at least one additional asthma controller, with or without oral corticosteroids (OCS). Patients continued background asthma therapy throughout the duration of the trials. In both trials, patients were enrolled without requiring a minimum baseline level of blood eosinophils or FeNO.
The demographics and baseline characteristics of PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR are provided in Table 2 below.
Table 2 Demographics and Baseline Characteristics of Patients in PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR
| PATHWAY N=550 |
NAVIGATOR N=1059 |
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| Mean age (year) (SD) | 52 (12) | 50 (16) |
| Female (%) | 66 | 64 |
| White (%) | 92 | 62 |
| Black or African American (%) | 3 | 6 |
| Asian (%) | 3 | 28 |
| Hispanic or Latino (%) | 1 | 15 |
| Never smoked (%) | 81 | 80 |
| High-dose ICS use (%) | 49 | 75 |
| OCS use (%) | 9 | 9 |
| Mean number of exacerbations in previous year (SD) | 2.4 (1.2) | 2.8 (1.4) |
| Mean duration of asthma (years) (SD) | 17 (12) | 22 (16) |
| Mean baseline % predicted FEV1 (SD) | 60 (13) | 63 (18) |
| Mean post-bronchodilator FEV1 reversibility (%) (SD) | 23 (20) | 15 (15) |
| Mean baseline blood EOS count (cells/μL) (SD) | 371 (353) | 340 (403) |
| Positive serum specific IgE to any perennial allergen (%)* | 46 | 64 |
| Mean FeNO (ppb) (SD) | 35 (39) | 44 (41) |
| *in the FEIA panel EOS, Eosinophils; FEIA, Fluorescent enzyme immunoassay; FeNO, Fractional exhaled nitric oxide; FEV1, Forced expiratory volume in one second; ICS, Inhaled corticosteroid, IgE, Immunoglobulin E; OCS, Oral corticosteroid; ppb, Parts per billion; SD, Standard deviation. |
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The results summarized below are for the recommended TEZSPIRE 210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks dosing regimen.
The primary endpoint for PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR was the rate of clinically significant asthma exacerbations measured over 52 weeks. Clinically significant asthma exacerbations were defined as worsening of asthma requiring the use of or increase in oral or injectable corticosteroids for at least 3 days, or a single depo-injection of corticosteroids, and/or emergency department visits requiring use of oral or injectable corticosteroids and/or hospitalization.
In both PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR, patients receiving TEZSPIRE had significant reductions in the annualized rate of asthma exacerbations compared to placebo. There were also fewer exacerbations requiring emergency room visits and/or hospitalization in patients treated with TEZSPIRE compared with placebo (Table 3).
Table 3 Rate of Clinically Significant Exacerbations Over 52 Weeks in PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR
| Trial | Treatment | Exacerbations per year | |
| Rate | Rate Ratio (95% CI) | ||
| Annualized Asthma Exacerbation Rate | |||
| PATHWAY | TEZSPIRE (N=137) | 0.20 | 0.29 (0.16, 0.51) |
| Placebo (N=138) | 0.72 | ||
| NAVIGATOR | TEZSPIRE (N=528) | 0.93 | 0.44 (0.37, 0.53) |
| Placebo (N=531) | 2.10 | ||
| Exacerbations requiring emergency room visit/hospitalization | |||
| PATHWAY | TEZSPIRE (N=137) | 0.03 | 0.15 (0.04, 0.58) |
| Placebo (N=138) | 0.18 | ||
| NAVIGATOR | TEZSPIRE (N=528) | 0.06 | 0.21 (0.12, 0.37) |
| Placebo (N=531) | 0.28 | ||
| Exacerbations requiring hospitalization | |||
| PATHWAY | TEZSPIRE (N=137) | 0.02 | 0.14 (0.03, 0.71) |
| Placebo (N=138) | 0.14 | ||
| NAVIGATOR | TEZSPIRE (N=528) | 0.03 | 0.15 (0.07, 0.22) |
| Placebo (N=531) | 0.19 | ||
In NAVIGATOR, patients receiving TEZSPIRE experienced fewer exacerbations than those receiving placebo regardless of baseline levels of blood eosinophils or FeNO (Figure 3). Similar results were seen in PATHWAY.
Figure 3 Annualized Asthma Exacerbation Rate Ratio Over 52 Weeks Across Different Baseline Biomarkers in NAVIGATOR
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The time to first exacerbation was longer for the patients receiving TEZSPIRE compared with placebo in NAVIGATOR (Figure 4). Similar findings were seen in PATHWAY.
Figure 4 Kaplan-Meier Cumulative Incidence Curves for Time to First Exacerbation in NAVIGATOR
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Change from baseline in FEV1 was assessed as a secondary endpoint in PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR. Compared with placebo, TEZSPIRE provided clinically meaningful improvements in the mean change from baseline in FEV1 in both trials (Table 4).
Table 4 Mean Change from Baseline in Pre-Bronchodilator FEV1 at End of Trial in PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR*
| Trial | Treatment | LS Mean Change from Baseline (L) | Difference from Placebo (95% CI) |
| PATHWAY | TEZSPIRE (N=133)† | 0.08 | 0.13 (0.03, 0.23) |
| Placebo (N=138)† | -0.06 | ||
| NAVIGATOR | TEZSPIRE (N=527)† | 0.23 | 0.13 (0.08, 0.18) |
| Placebo (N=531)† | 0.10 | ||
| *Week 52 in PATHWAY, Week 52 in NAVIGATOR †Number of patients contributing to the full analysis (FA) with at least 1 change from baseline value |
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In NAVIGATOR, improvement in FEV1 was seen as early as 2 weeks after initiation of treatment and was sustained through week 52 (Figure 5).
Figure 5 Mean Change (95% CI) from Baseline in Pre-Bronchodilator FEV1 (L) in NAVIGATOR
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Changes from baseline in Asthma Control Questionnaire 6 (ACQ-6) and Standardized Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire for ages 12 and older [AQLQ(S)+12] were also assessed as secondary endpoints in PATHWAY and NAVIGATOR. In both trials, more patients treated with TEZSPIRE compared to placebo had a clinically meaningful improvement in ACQ-6 and AQLQ(S)+12. Clinically meaningful improvement (responder rate) for both measures was defined as improvement in score of 0.5 or more at end of trial. In NAVIGATOR, the ACQ-6 responder rate for TEZSPIRE was 86% compared with 77% for placebo (OR=1.99; 95% CI 1.43, 2.76) and the AQLQ(S)+12 responder rate for TEZSPIRE was 78% compared with 72% for placebo (OR=1.36; 95% CI 1.02, 1.82). Similar findings were seen in PATHWAY.
In a randomized, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled clinical trial, the effect of TEZSPIRE (210 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks) on reducing the use of maintenance OCS was evaluated. The trial enrolled 150 adult patients with severe asthma who required treatment with daily OCS (7.5 mg to 30 mg per day) in addition to regular use of high-dose ICS and a long-acting beta-agonist with or without additional controller(s). The primary endpoint was categorized percent reduction from baseline of the final OCS dose at Week 48 (≥90% reduction, ≥75% to <90% reduction, ≥50% to <75% reduction, >0% to <50 reduction, and no change or no decrease in OCS), while maintaining asthma control. TEZSPIRE did not demonstrate a statistically significant reduction in maintenance OCS dose compared with placebo (cumulative OR=1.28; 95% CI 0.69, 2.35).
TEZSPIRE®
(TEZ-SPY-ER)
(tezepelumab-ekko) injection, for subcutaneous use
What is TEZSPIRE?
TEZSPIRE is a prescription medicine used with other asthma medicines for the maintenance treatment of severe asthma in people 12 years of age and older whose asthma is not controlled with their current asthma medicine.
TEZSPIRE helps prevent severe asthma attacks (exacerbations) and can improve your breathing.
TEZSPIRE is not used to treat sudden breathing problems. Tell your healthcare provider if your asthma does not get better or if it gets worse after you start treatment with TEZSPIRE.
It is not known if TEZSPIRE is safe and effective in children under 12 years of age.
Do not use TEZSPIRE if you:
Before using TEZSPIRE, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Do not change or stop your corticosteroid medicines or other asthma medicines unless your healthcare provider tells you to.
How should I use TEZSPIRE?
What are the possible side effects of TEZSPIRE?
TEZSPIRE may cause serious side effects, including:
The most common side effects of TEZSPIRE include:
These are not all of the possible side effects of TEZSPIRE.
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
General information about the safe and effective use of TEZSPIRE
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information leaflet. Do not use TEZSPIRE for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give TEZSPIRE to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about TEZSPIRE that is written for health professionals.
What are the ingredients in TEZSPIRE?
Active ingredient: tezepelumab-ekko.
Inactive ingredients: glacial acetic acid, L-proline, polysorbate 80, sodium hydroxide, and water for injection.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
TEZSPIRE®
(TEZ-SPY-ER)
(tezepelumab-ekko)
injection, for subcutaneous use
Single-dose Pre-filled pen
Before using your TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen, your healthcare provider should show you or your caregiver how to use it the right way.
Read this Instructions for Use before you start using your TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information should not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition and your treatment.
If you or your caregiver have any questions, talk to your healthcare provider.
Important information you need to know before injecting TEZSPIRE
Store TEZSPIRE in a refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) in its original carton until you are ready to use it.
TEZSPIRE may be kept at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for a maximum of 30 days.
Store TEZSPIRE in the original carton to protect it from light.
When TEZSPIRE has reached room temperature, do not put it back in the refrigerator.
Throw away (dispose of) TEZSPIRE that has been stored at room temperature for more than 30 days.
Do not use your TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen if:
Do not:
If any of the above happens, throw away the pre-filled pen in a puncture-resistant (sharps) container and use a new TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen.
Each TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen contains 1 dose of TEZSPIRE that can only be used 1 time.
TEZSPIRE is given only as an injection under the skin (subcutaneous).
Keep the TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen and all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
Your TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen
Do not remove the cap until Step 6 of these instructions when you are ready to inject TEZSPIRE.
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Before use
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After use
Preparing to inject TEZSPIRE
Step 1 - Gather supplies
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Step 2 - Prepare to use your TEZSPIRE pre-filled pen
Let TEZSPIRE come to room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) for about 60 minutes before giving the injection.
Keep the pre-filled pen in its original carton to protect it from light.
Do not warm the pre-filled pen in any other way. For example, do not warm it in a microwave or hot water, in direct sunlight, or near other heat sources.
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Do not put TEZSPIRE back in the refrigerator after it has reached room temperature. Throw away (dispose of) TEZSPIRE that has been stored at room temperature for more than 30 days.
Do not remove the cap until Step 6.
Step 3 - Remove and check the pre-filled pen
Grab the middle of the pre-filled pen body to remove the pre-filled pen from its tray.
Check the pre-filled pen for damage. Do not use the pre-filled pen if the pre-filled pen is damaged.
Check the expiration date on the pre-filled pen. Do not use the pre-filled pen if the expiration date has passed.
Look at the liquid through the viewing window. The liquid should be clear and colorless to light yellow.
Do not inject TEZSPIRE if the liquid is cloudy, discolored, or contains large particles.
You may see small air bubbles in the liquid. This is normal. You do not need to do anything about it.
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Injecting TEZSPIRE
Step 4 - Choose an injection site
If you are giving yourself the injection, the recommended injection site is the front of your thigh or the lower part of your stomach (abdomen). Do not inject yourself in the arm.
A caregiver may inject you in the upper arm, thigh, or abdomen.
For each injection, choose a different site that is at least 1 inch (3 cm) away from where you last injected.
Do not inject:
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Step 5 - Wash your hands and clean the injection site
Wash your hands well with soap and water.
Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe in a circular motion. Let it air dry.
Do not touch the cleaned area before injecting.
Do not fan or blow on the cleaned area.
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Step 6 - Pull off the cap
Do not remove the cap until you are ready to inject.
Hold the pre-filled pen body with 1 hand, and carefully pull the cap straight off with your other hand.
Put the cap to the side and throw it away later.
The orange needle guard is now exposed. The orange needle guard is there to prevent you from touching the needle.
Do not touch the needle or push on the orange needle guard with your finger.
Do not put the cap back on the pre-filled pen. You could cause the injection to happen too soon or damage the needle.
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Step 7 - Inject TEZSPIRE
Follow your healthcare provider’s instruction on how to inject. You can either gently pinch the skin at the injection site or give the injection without pinching the skin.
Inject TEZSPIRE by following the steps in figures a, b, c and d.
When injecting, you will hear the first click that tells you the injection has started. Press and hold the pre-filled pen for 15 seconds until you hear the second click.
Do not change the position of the pre-filled pen after the injection has started.
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Position the pre-filled pen.
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Press down firmly until you cannot see the orange needle guard.
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Hold down firmly for about 15 seconds.
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After you have completed your injection, lift the pre-filled pen straight up.
Step 8 - Check the viewing window
Check the viewing window to make sure all the medicine has been injected.
If the orange plunger rod does not fill the viewing window, you may not have received the full dose.
If this happens or if you have any other concerns, contact your healthcare provider.
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Step 9 - Check the injection site
There may be a small amount of blood or liquid where you injected. This is normal.
Gently hold pressure over your skin with a cotton ball or gauze until the bleeding stops.
Do not rub the injection site. If needed, cover the injection site with a small bandage.
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Disposing of TEZSPIRE
Step 10 - Dispose of the used pre-filled pen safely
Each pre-filled pen contains a single dose of TEZSPIRE and cannot be used again. Do not put the cap back on the pre-filled pen.
Put your used pre-filled pen and cap in a sharps disposal container right away after use. Put other used supplies in your household trash.
Do not throw away the pre-filled pen in your household trash.
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Throw away (Disposal) guidelines
If you do not have a FDA-cleared sharps disposal container, you may use a household container that is:
When your sharps disposal container is almost full, you will need to follow your community guidelines for the right way to dispose of your sharps disposal container. There may be state or local laws about how you should throw away used needles and syringes. For more information about safe sharps disposal, and for specific information about sharps disposal in the area that you live in, go to the FDA’s website at: https://www.fda.gov/safesharpsdisposal.
Do not dispose of your used sharps disposal container in your household trash unless your community guidelines permit this.
Do not recycle your used sharps disposal container.
This Instructions for Use has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
