LUPKYNIS
RxNorm 2475400· VOCLOSPORIN· ORAL
Calcineurin Inhibitor Immunosuppressant [EPC] · Aurinia Pharma U.S., Inc.
Boxed Warning
WARNING: MALIGNANCIES AND SERIOUS INFECTIONS Increased risk for developing malignancies and serious infections with LUPKYNIS or other immunosuppressants that may lead to hospitalization or death [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 , 5.2 )]. WARNING: MALIGNANCIES AND SERIOUS INFECTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk for developing serious infections and malignancies with LUPKYNIS or other immunosuppressants that may lead to hospitalization or death. ( 5.1 , 5.2 )
Indications and usage
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE LUPKYNIS is indicated in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] for the treatment of adult patients with active lupus nephritis (LN). Limitations of Use: Safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS have not been established in combination with cyclophosphamide. Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in this situation. LUPKYNIS is a calcineurin-inhibitor immunosuppressant indicated in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen for the treatment of adult patients with active lupus nephritis (LN). ( 1 , 14 ) Limitations of Use: Safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS have not been established in combination with cyclophosphamide. Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in this situation.
Dosage and administration
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Administration : LUPKYNIS must be swallowed whole on an empty stomach. ( 2.1 ) Administer consistently as close to a 12-hour schedule as possible, and with at least 8 hours between doses. ( 2.1 ) If a dose is missed, instruct the patient to take it as soon as possible within 4 hours after missing the dose. Beyond the 4-hour time frame, instruct the patient to wait until the usual scheduled time to take the next regular dose. Instruct the patient not to double the next dose. ( 2.1 ) Instruct patients to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking LUPKYNIS. ( 2.1 , 7.1 ) Dosage Recommendations : Before initiating LUPKYNIS, establish an accurate baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and check blood pressure (BP). Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in patients with a baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 unless the benefit exceeds the risk; these patients may be at increased risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity. ( 2.2 , 5.3 ) Do not initiate LUPKYNIS in patients with baseline BP >165/105 mmHg or with hypertensive emergency. ( 2.2 , 5.4 ) Recommended starting dose: 23.7 mg orally, twice a day. ( 2.3 ) Use LUPKYNIS in combination with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and corticosteroids. ( 2.3 ) Modify the LUPKYNIS dose based on eGFR ( 2.3 , 5.3 ): Assess eGFR every two weeks for the first month, every four weeks through the first year, and quarterly thereafter. If eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 and reduced from baseline by >20% and <30%, reduce the dose by 7.9 mg twice a day. Re-assess eGFR within two weeks; if eGFR is still reduced from baseline by >20%, reduce the dose again by 7.9 mg twice a day. If eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 and reduced from baseline by ≥30%, discontinue LUPKYNIS. Re-assess eGFR within two weeks; consider re-initiating LUPKYNIS at a lower dose (7.9 mg twice a day) only if eGFR has returned to ≥80% of baseline. For patients that had a decrease in dose due to eGFR, consider increasing the dose by 7.9 mg twice a day for each eGFR measurement that is ≥80% of baseline; do not exceed the starting dose. Monitor blood pressure every two weeks for the first month after initiating LUPKYNIS, and as clinically indicated thereafter. For patients with BP >165/105 mmHg or with hypertensive emergency, discontinue LUPKYNIS and initiate antihypertensive therapy. ( 2.3 , 5.4 ) If the patient has not experienced therapeutic benefit by 24 weeks, consider discontinuation of LUPKYNIS. ( 2.3 ) Dosage Adjustments : Patients with severe renal impairment: the recommended dose is 15.8 mg twice daily. ( 2.4 , 8.6 ) Patients with mild and moderate hepatic impairment: the recommended dose is 15.8 mg twice daily. ( 2.4 , 8.7 ) 2.1 Important Administration Instructions LUPKYNIS capsules must be swallowed whole and must not be opened, crushed, or divided. LUPKYNIS should be taken on an empty stomach consistently as close to a 12-hour schedule as possible, and with a minimum of 8 hours between doses. If a dose is missed, instruct the patient to take it as soon as possible within 4 hours after missing the dose. Beyond the 4-hour time frame, instruct the patient to wait until the usual scheduled time to take the next regular dose. Instruct the patient not to double the next dose. Instruct patients to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking LUPKYNIS [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )] . 2.2 Prior to Initiating LUPKYNIS Therapy Establish an accurate baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in patients with a baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 unless the benefit exceeds the risk; these patients may be at increased risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Check blood pressure (BP) at baseline. Do not initiate LUPKYNIS in patients with BP >165/105 mmHg or with hypertensive emergency [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] . 2.3 Dosage Recommendations The recommended starting dose of LUP…
Warnings
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Nephrotoxicity (acute and/or chronic): May occur due to LUPKYNIS or concomitant nephrotoxic drugs. Monitor renal function; consider dosage reduction. ( 5.3 ) Hypertension: May require antihypertensive therapy; monitor relevant drug interactions. ( 5.4 ) Neurotoxicity: Including risk of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES); monitor for neurologic abnormalities; reduce dosage or discontinue LUPKYNIS. ( 5.5 ) Hyperkalemia: Risk may be increased with other agents associated with hyperkalemia; monitor serum potassium levels. ( 5.6 ) QT Prolongation: Consider obtaining electrocardiograms and monitoring electrolytes in patients at high risk. ( 5.7 ) Hypersensitivity Reactions: Discontinue LUPKYNIS; treat and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve. ( 5.8 ) Immunizations: Avoid live vaccines. ( 5.9 ) Pure Red Cell Aplasia: Consider discontinuation. ( 5.10 ) 5.1 Lymphoma and Other Malignancies Immunosuppressants, including LUPKYNIS, increase the risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin. The risk appears to be related to the intensity and duration of immunosuppression rather than to the use of any specific agent. Examine patients for skin changes and advise to avoid or limit sun exposure and to avoid artificial UV light (tanning beds, sun lamps) by wearing protective clothing and using a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 30 or higher). 5.2 Serious Infections Immunosuppressants, including LUPKYNIS, increase the risk of developing bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections. These infections may lead to serious, including fatal, outcomes. Viral infections reported include cytomegalovirus and herpes zoster infections. Monitor for the development of infection. Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient; use the lowest effective dose needed to maintain response. 5.3 Nephrotoxicity LUPKYNIS, like other calcineurin-inhibitors, can cause acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity was reported in clinical trials [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Monitor eGFR regularly during treatment, and consider dose reduction or discontinuation in patients with decreases in eGFR from baseline [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] ; persistent decrease of eGFR should be evaluated for chronic calcineurin-inhibitor nephrotoxicity. Consider the risks and benefits of LUPKYNIS treatment in light of the patient’s treatment response and risk of worsening nephrotoxicity, including co-administration with drugs associated with nephrotoxicity. The risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity is increased when LUPKYNIS is concomitantly administered with drugs associated with nephrotoxicity. 5.4 Hypertension Hypertension is a common adverse reaction of LUPKYNIS therapy and may require antihypertensive therapy [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . Some antihypertensive drugs can increase the risk for hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] . Certain calcium-channel blocking agents (verapamil and diltiazem) may increase voclosporin blood concentrations and require dosage reduction of LUPKYNIS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.2 )] . Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment and treat new-onset hypertension and exacerbations of pre-existing hypertension. If a patient experiences increases in blood pressure that cannot be managed with dose reduction of LUPKYNIS or other appropriate medical intervention, consider discontinuation of LUPKYNIS [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . 5.5 Neurotoxicity LUPKYNIS, like other calcineurin-inhibitors, may cause a spectrum of neurotoxicities [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1 )] . The most severe neurotoxicities include posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), delirium, seizure, and coma; others include tremors, paresthesias, headache, mental status changes, and changes in motor and sensory functions. Monitor f…
Contraindications
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS LUPKYNIS is contraindicated in: Patients concomitantly using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) because these medications can significantly increase exposure to LUPKYNIS which may increase the risk of acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ), and Pharmacokinetics ( 12.3 )] . Patients with a history of serious or severe hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis, to LUPKYNIS or any of its excipients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] . Patients concomitantly using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin). ( 4 ) History of serious or severe hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis, to LUPKYNIS or any of its excipients. ( 4 )
Drug interactions
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors: Reduce LUPKYNIS daily dosage to 15.8 mg in the morning and 7.9 mg in the evening. ( 2.5 , 7.1 , 12.3 ) Strong and moderate CYP3A4 inducers: Avoid co-administration. ( 7.1 , 12.3 ) Certain P-gp substrates: Reduce dosage of certain P-gp substrates with a narrow therapeutic window when co-administered with LUPKYNIS. ( 7.2 , 12.3 ) 7.1 Effect of Other Drugs on LUPKYNIS Strong and Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors Voclosporin is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate. Co-administration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors increases voclosporin exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] , which may increase the risk of LUPKYNIS adverse reactions. Co-administration of LUPKYNIS with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) is contraindicated [see Contraindications ( 4 )] . Reduce LUPKYNIS dosage when co-administered with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, fluconazole, diltiazem) [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.5 ] . Avoid food or drink containing grapefruit when taking LUPKYNIS. Strong and Moderate CYP3A4 Inducers Voclosporin is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate. Co-administration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers decreases voclosporin exposure [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] , which may decrease the efficacy of LUPKYNIS. Avoid co-administration of LUPKYNIS with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers. 7.2 Effect of LUPKYNIS on Other Drugs Certain P-gp Substrates Voclosporin is a P-gp inhibitor. Co-administration of voclosporin increases exposure of P-gp substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] , which may increase the risk of adverse reactions of these substrates. For certain P-gp substrates with a narrow therapeutic window, reduce the dosage of the substrate as recommended in its prescribing information, if needed. OATP1B1 Substrates Voclosporin is an inhibitor of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 transporters. In one clinical study the concomitant administration of a single 40 mg dose of simvastatin with 23.7 mg BID voclosporin increased C max and AUC of the active metabolite simvastatin acid (an OATP1B1 substrate) by 3.1-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Monitor for adverse reactions such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when OATP1B1/OATP1B3 substrates (e.g., simvastatin, atorvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, pitavastatin, fluvastatin) are used concomitantly with LUPKYNIS and reduce the dosage of these substrates as recommended in their prescribing information. For example, when taking LUPKYNIS with simvastatin, limit the simvastatin dosage to 20 mg daily, or 40 mg daily for patients who have previously tolerated simvastatin 80 mg daily for at least one year without evidence of muscle toxicity.
Pregnancy
8.1 Pregnancy Risk Summary Avoid use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant women due to the alcohol content of the drug formulation. The available data on the use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant patients are insufficient to determine whether there is a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (see Clinical Considerations ) . LUPKYNIS may be used in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen that includes MMF. MMF used in pregnant women and men whose female partners are pregnant can cause fetal harm (major birth defects and miscarriage). Refer to the MMF prescribing information for more information on its use during pregnancy. In animal reproductive studies, oral administration of either voclosporin or a 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer was embryocidal and fetocidal in rats and rabbits at doses 15- and 1-times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 23.7 mg twice a day, based on drug exposure AUC. There were no treatment-related fetal malformations or variations. Additional findings of reduced placental and fetal body weights occurred in rabbits at 0.1 to 0.3-times the MRHD and in rats at higher drug exposures. Voclosporin was transferred across the placenta in pregnant rats. For rats, but not all doses in rabbits, these effects were associated with maternal toxicity consisting of reductions in body weight gain. Dystocia was evident in a pre- and postnatal study in rats, but there were no effects of voclosporin on postnatal growth and development (see Data ) . The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage 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 background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk Pregnant women with SLE are at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including worsening of the underlying disease, premature birth, miscarriage, and intrauterine growth restriction. Maternal LN increases the risk of hypertension and preeclampsia/eclampsia. Passage of maternal autoantibodies across the placenta may result in adverse neonatal outcomes, including neonatal lupus and congenital heart block. Fetal/Neonatal adverse reactions The formulation of LUPKYNIS contains alcohol (21.6 mg of dehydrated ethanol per capsule for a total daily dose of 129.4 mg/day). Published studies have demonstrated that alcohol is associated with fetal harm including central nervous system abnormalities, behavioral disorders and impaired intellectual development. There is no safe level of alcohol exposure in pregnancy; therefore, avoid use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant women. Data Animal Data Voclosporin (90 to 95% trans-isomer) is the active ingredient in LUPKYNIS. Animal reproductive studies were primarily conducted with an approximate 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer. Similarity of the toxicity effects of the 50:50 mixture and voclosporin was demonstrated in comparative toxicity studies with adult rats. Interconversion between cis and trans isomers was not detected with in vitro or in vivo studies. In an embryofetal developmental study, pregnant rats were dosed orally, during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-17, with the 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer, litter size was reduced due to increased fetal resorptions and deaths at drug exposures approximately 15-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 25 mg/kg/day). Surviving fetuses had reduced placental weights and slightly reduced fetal weights. There were no treatment-related fetal malformations or variations with doses up to 15-times the MRHD, although…
Adverse events
Most frequently reported events (FDA FAERS). Report frequency does not imply causation.
- therapy interrupted958
- product dose omission issue786
- hypertension692
- headache667
- nausea607
- diarrhoea520
- fatigue498
- proteinuria457
- blood pressure increased349
- vomiting319
- abdominal discomfort313
- product use issue309
- glomerular filtration rate decreased299
- arthralgia270
- dizziness264
- abdominal pain upper261
Adverse reactions (label)
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following clinically significant adverse reactions are described elsewhere in the labeling: Lymphoma and Other Malignancies [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] Serious Infections [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Nephrotoxicity due to LUPKYNIS and Drug Interactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] Hypertension [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Neurotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] Hyperkalemia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] QTc Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Hypersensitivity Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Immunizations [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ) ] Pure Red Cell Aplasia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )] The most commonly reported adverse reactions (≥3%) were: glomerular filtration rate decreased, hypertension, diarrhea, headache, anemia, cough, urinary tract infection, abdominal pain upper, dyspepsia, alopecia, renal impairment, abdominal pain, mouth ulceration, fatigue, tremor, acute kidney injury, and decreased appetite. ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aurinia Pharmaceuticals at 1-833-672-0028 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience 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. A total of 355 patients with LN were treated with voclosporin in the Phase 2 and 3 clinical studies with 224 exposed for at least 48 weeks, and 92 exposed for 3 years. Patients in Study 1 were randomized to LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day or placebo. A proportion of patients (n=216, 60%) in Study 1 continued in Study 1 extension, a double-blinded continuation study, and these patients were observed for up to 2 additional years [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )] . Patients in Study 2 were randomized to LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day, voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day, or placebo. Patients received background treatment with MMF 2 g daily and an IV bolus of corticosteroids followed by a pre-specified oral corticosteroid taper dosing schedule; LUPKYNIS dosing was adjusted based on eGFR and BP. A total of 267 patients received at least 1 dose of LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day with 184 exposed for at least 48 weeks. A total of 88 patients received at least 1 dose of voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day with 40 exposed for 48 weeks. Table 1 lists common adverse reactions occurring in at least 3% of patients receiving LUPKYNIS and at an incidence at least 2% greater than placebo in Studies 1 and 2. Table 1: Adverse Reactions in ≥3% of Patients Treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg Twice a Day and ≥2% Higher than Placebo in Studies 1 and 2 Adverse Reaction LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day (n=267) Placebo (n=266) Glomerular filtration rate decreased See Specific Adverse Reactions below (Nephrotoxicity) 26% 9% Hypertension 19% 9% Diarrhea 19% 13% Headache 15% 8% Anemia 12% 6% Cough 11% 2% Urinary tract infection 10% 6% Abdominal pain upper 7% 2% Dyspepsia 6% 3% Alopecia 6% 3% Renal Impairment 6% 3% Abdominal pain 5% 2% Mouth ulceration 4% 1% Fatigue 4% 1% Tremor 3% 1% Acute kidney injury 3% 1% Decreased appetite 3% 1% Other adverse reactions reported in less than 3% of patients in the LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg group and at a 2% higher rate than in the placebo group through 48/52 weeks included gingivitis and hypertrichosis. The overall profile of adverse events seen in Study 1 extension (representing 203 patient-years of additional exposure) were similar in both nature and severity to those seen in the first year of treatment (Study 1). The annual incidence of adverse reactions reduced each successive year in both treatment groups. The integrated LN dataset is presented in the Specific Adverse Reactions section: Placebo-controlled Studies: Studies 1 and 2 were integrated to represent safety through 48/52 …
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