epirubicin hydrochloride
Dosage Form: injection, solution
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION
WARNING: RISK OF TISSUE NECROSIS, CARDIAC TOXICITY, SECONDARY ACUTE MYELOGENOUS LEUKEMIA, AND MYELOSUPPRESSION
- Severe local tissue necrosis will occur if there is extravasation during administration. Ellence must not be given by the intramuscular or subcutaneous route [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
- Cardiac toxicity, including fatal congestive heart failure (CHF), may occur either during therapy with Ellence or months to years after termination of therapy. The probability of developing clinically evident CHF is estimated as approximately 0.9% at a cumulative dose of 550 mg/m2, 1.6% at 700 mg/m2, and 3.3% at 900 mg/m2. In the adjuvant treatment of breast cancer, the maximum cumulative dose used in clinical trials was 720 mg/m2. The risk of developing CHF increases rapidly with increasing total cumulative doses of Ellence in excess of 900 mg/m2; this cumulative dose should only be exceeded with extreme caution. Active or dormant cardiovascular disease, prior or concomitant radiotherapy to the mediastinal/pericardial area, previous therapy with other anthracyclines or anthracenediones, or concomitant use of other cardiotoxic drugs may increase the risk of cardiac toxicity. Cardiac toxicity with Ellence may occur at lower cumulative doses whether or not cardiac risk factors are present [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
- Secondary acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) has been reported in patients with breast cancer treated with anthracyclines, including epirubicin. The occurrence of refractory secondary leukemia is more common when such drugs are given in combination with DNA-damaging antineoplastic agents, when patients have been heavily pretreated with cytotoxic drugs, or when doses of anthracyclines have been escalated. The cumulative risk of developing treatment-related AML or myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), in 7110 patients with breast cancer who received adjuvant treatment with Ellence-containing regimens, was estimated as 0.27% at 3 years, 0.46% at 5 years, and 0.55% at 8 years [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
- Severe myelosuppression may occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Indications and Usage for Ellence
Ellence Injection is indicated as a component of adjuvant therapy in patients with evidence of axillary node tumor involvement following resection of primary breast cancer [see Clinical Studies (14.1).
Ellence Dosage and Administration
When possible, to reduce the risk of developing cardiotoxicity in patients receiving Ellence after stopping treatment with other cardiotoxic agents, especially those with long half-lives such as trastuzumab, Ellence-based therapy should be delayed until the other agents have cleared from the circulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Administer Ellence Injection by intravenous infusion. Give Ellence in repeated 3- to 4-week cycles. The total dose of Ellence may be given on Day 1 of each cycle or divided equally and given on Days 1 and 8 of each cycle. The recommended dosages of Ellence are as follows:
Recommended Dose
The recommended dose of Ellence is 100 to 120 mg/m2. The following regimens are recommended:
| CEF-120: | Cyclophosphamide | 75 mg/m2 PO D 1–14 |
| Ellence | 60 mg/m2 IV D 1, 8 | |
| 5-Fluorouracil | 500 mg/m2 IV D 1, 8 | |
| Repeated every 28 days for 6 cycles | ||
| FEC-100: | 5-Fluorouracil | 500 mg/m2 |
| Ellence | 100 mg/m2 | |
| Cyclophosphamide | 500 mg/m2 | |
| All drugs administered intravenously on Day 1 and repeated every 21 days for 6 cycles | ||
Patients administered the 120-mg/m2 regimen of Ellence should receive prophylactic antibiotic therapy.
Dose Modifications
Ellence dosage adjustments for hematologic and non-hematologic toxicities within a cycle of treatment, is based on nadir platelet counts <50,000/mm3, absolute neutrophil counts (ANC) <250/mm3, neutropenic fever, or Grades 3/4 nonhematologic toxicity. Reduce Ellence Day 1 dose in subsequent cycles to 75% of the Day 1 dose given in the current cycle. Delay Day 1 chemotherapy in subsequent courses of treatment until platelet counts are ≥100,000/mm3, ANC ≥1500/mm3, and nonhematologic toxicities have recovered to ≤ Grade 1.
Bone Marrow Dysfunction
Consider administering a lower starting dose (75–90 mg/m2) for heavily pretreated patients, patients with pre-existing bone marrow depression, or in the presence of neoplastic bone marrow infiltration [see Warnings and Precautions (5)]. For patients receiving a divided dose of Ellence (Day 1 and Day 8), the Day 8 dose should be 75% of Day 1 if platelet counts are 75,000–100,000/mm3 and ANC is 1000 to 1499/mm3. If Day 8 platelet counts are <75,000/mm3, ANC <1000/mm3, or Grades 3/4 nonhematologic toxicity has occurred, omit the Day 8 dose.
Hepatic Impairment
Recommendations regarding use of Ellence in patients with hepatic impairment are not available because patients with hepatic abnormalities were not included in the adjuvant trials [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. In patients with elevated serum AST or serum total bilirubin concentrations, the following dose reductions are recommended:
- Bilirubin 1.2 to 3 mg/dL or AST 2 to 4 times upper limit of normal 1/2 of recommended starting dose
- Bilirubin > 3 mg/dL or AST > 4 times upper limit of normal 1/4 of recommended starting dose
Renal Impairment
While no specific dose recommendation can be made based on the limited available data in patients with renal impairment, consider lower doses in patients with severe renal impairment (serum creatinine > 5 mg/dL) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Preparation and Administration Precautions
Storage of the solution for injection at refrigerated conditions can result in the formation of a gelled product. This gelled product will return to a slightly viscous to mobile solution after 2 to a maximum of 4 hours equilibration at controlled room temperature (15–25ºC).
Inspect parenteral drug products visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer drugs should be used when handling and preparing Ellence. Several guidelines on this subject have been published.1–4 [see References (15)].
Protective Measures
Take the following protective measures when handling Ellence:
- Train personnel in appropriate techniques for reconstitution and handling.
- Exclude pregnant staff from working with this drug.
- Wear protective clothing: goggles, gowns, and disposable gloves and masks when handling Ellence.
- Define a designated area for syringe preparation (preferably under a laminar flow system), with the work surface protected by disposable, plastic-backed, absorbent paper.
- Place all items used for reconstitution, administration, or cleaning (including gloves) in high-risk, waste-disposal bags for high temperature incineration.
- Treat spillage or leakage with dilute sodium hypochlorite (1% available chlorine) solution, preferably by soaking, and then water. Place all contaminated and cleaning materials in high-risk, waste-disposal bags for incineration. Treat accidental contact with the skin or eyes immediately by copious lavage with water, or soap and water, or sodium bicarbonate solution. However, do not abrade the skin by using a scrub brush. Seek medical attention. Always wash hands after removing gloves.
Incompatibilities
Avoid prolonged contact with any solution of an alkaline pH as it will result in hydrolysis of the drug. Do not mix Ellence with heparin or fluorouracil due to chemical incompatibility that may lead to precipitation.
Ellence can be used in combination with other antitumor agents, but do not mix with other drugs in the same syringe.
Preparation of Infusion Solution
Administer Ellence into the tubing of a freely flowing intravenous infusion (0.9% sodium chloride or 5% glucose solution). Patients receiving initial therapy at the recommended starting doses of 100–120 mg/m2 should generally have Ellence infused over 15–20 minutes. For patients who require lower Ellence starting doses due to organ dysfunction or who require modification of Ellence doses during therapy, the Ellence infusion time may be proportionally decreased, but should not be less than 3 minutes. This technique is intended to minimize the risk of thrombosis or perivenous extravasation, which could lead to severe cellulitis, vesication, or tissue necrosis. A direct push injection is not recommended due to the risk of extravasation, which may occur even in the presence of adequate blood return upon needle aspiration. Venous sclerosis may result from injection into small vessels or repeated injections into the same vein [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]. Use Ellence within 24 hours of first penetration of the rubber stopper. Discard any unused solution.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Ellence is provided in polypropylene single-use CYTOSAFE™ vials containing 2 mg epirubicin hydrochloride per mL as a sterile, preservative-free, ready-to-use solution in the following sizes: 50 mg/25 mL and 200 mg/100 mL.
Contraindications
Patients should not be treated with Ellence Injection if they have any of the following conditions:
Severe myocardial insufficiency, recent myocardial infarction or severe arrhythmias [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
Previous treatment with maximum cumulative dose of anthracyclines [see Warnings and Precautions (5)].
Hypersensitivity to Ellence, other anthracyclines, or anthracenediones [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].
Warnings and Precautions
Administer Ellence Injection only under the supervision of qualified physicians experienced in the use of cytotoxic therapy. Before beginning treatment with Ellence, patients should recover from acute toxicities (such as stomatitis, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, and generalized infections) of prior cytotoxic treatment. Also, precede initial treatment with Ellence by a careful baseline assessment of blood counts; serum levels of total bilirubin, AST, and creatinine; and cardiac function as measured by left ventricular ejection function (LVEF). Carefully monitor patients during treatment for possible clinical complications due to myelosuppression. Supportive care may be necessary for the treatment of severe neutropenia and severe infectious complications. Monitoring for potential cardiotoxicity is also important, especially with greater cumulative exposure to Ellence.
Injection-Related Reactions
Ellence Injection is administered by intravenous infusion. Venous sclerosis may result from an injection into a small vessel or from repeated injections into the same vein. Extravasation of Ellence during the infusion may cause local pain, severe tissue lesions (vesication, severe cellulitis), and necrosis. Administer Ellence slowly into the tubing of a freely running intravenous infusion. Patients receiving initial therapy at the recommended starting doses of 100–120 mg/m2 should generally have Ellence infused over 15–20 minutes. For patients who require lower Ellence starting doses due to organ dysfunction or who require modification of Ellence doses during therapy, the Ellence infusion time may be proportionally decreased, but should not be less than 3 minutes. [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)]. If possible, avoid veins over joints or in extremities with compromised venous or lymphatic drainage. Immediately terminate infusion and restart in another vein if a burning or stinging sensation indicates perivenous infiltration. Perivenous infiltration may occur without causing pain. Facial flushing, as well as local erythematous streaking along the vein, may be indicative of excessively rapid administration. It may precede local phlebitis or thrombophlebitis. Give prophylactic antibiotic therapy to patients administered the 120-mg/m2 regimen of Ellence as a component of combination chemotherapy [see Clinical Studies (14.1) and Dosage and Administration 2.1)].
Hematologic
Ellence can suppress bone marrow function as manifested by leukopenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)], and myelosuppression is usually the dose-limiting toxicity. Patients should be monitored for myelosuppression during therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.2, 2.3)].
Cardiac
Cardiotoxicity is a known risk of anthracycline treatment. Anthracycline-induced cardiac toxicity may be manifested by early (or acute) or late (delayed) events. Early cardiac toxicity of Ellence consists mainly of sinus tachycardia and/or electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities such as non-specific ST-T wave changes, but tachyarrhythmias, including premature ventricular contractions and ventricular tachycardia, bradycardia, as well as atrioventricular and bundle-branch block have also been reported. These effects do not usually predict subsequent development of delayed cardiotoxicity, are rarely of clinical importance, and are generally not considered an indication for the suspension of Ellence treatment. Delayed cardiac toxicity results from a characteristic cardiomyopathy that is manifested by reduced LVEF and/or signs and symptoms of congestive heart failure (CHF) such as tachycardia, dyspnea, pulmonary edema, dependent edema, hepatomegaly, ascites, pleural effusion, gallop rhythm. Life-threatening CHF is the most severe form of anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy. This toxicity appears to be dependent on the cumulative dose of Ellence and represents the cumulative dose-limiting toxicity of the drug. If it occurs, delayed cardiotoxicity usually develops late in the course of therapy with Ellence or within 2 to 3 months after completion of treatment, but later events (several months to years after treatment termination) have been reported.
Given the risk of cardiomyopathy, exceed a cumulative dose of 900 mg/m2 Ellence only with extreme caution. Risk factors [active or dormant cardiovascular disease, prior or concomitant radiotherapy to the mediastinal/pericardial area, previous therapy with other anthracyclines or anthracenediones, concomitant use of other drugs with the ability to suppress cardiac contractility or cardiotoxic drugs, especially those with long half-lives (e.g., trastuzumab)] may increase the risk of Ellence cardiotoxicity [see Drug Interaction (7.4) and Dosage and Administration (2)]. Although not formally tested, it is probable that the toxicity of Ellence and other anthracyclines or anthracenediones is additive. Cardiac toxicity with Ellence may occur at lower cumulative doses whether or not cardiac risk factors are present.
Although endomyocardial biopsy is recognized as the most sensitive diagnostic tool to detect anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy, this invasive examination is not practically performed on a routine basis. ECG changes such as dysrhythmias, a reduction of the QRS voltage, or a prolongation beyond normal limits of the systolic time interval may be indicative of anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy, but ECG is not a sensitive or specific method for following anthracycline-related cardiotoxicity. The risk of serious cardiac impairment may be decreased through regular monitoring of LVEF during the course of treatment with prompt discontinuation of Ellence at the first sign of impaired function. The preferred method for repeated assessment of cardiac function is evaluation of LVEF measured by multi-gated radionuclide angiography (MUGA) or echocardiography (ECHO). A baseline cardiac evaluation with an ECG and a MUGA scan or an ECHO is recommended, especially in patients with risk factors for increased cardiac toxicity. Perform repeated MUGA or ECHO determinations of LVEF, particularly with higher, cumulative anthracycline doses. The technique used for assessment should be consistent through follow-up. In patients with risk factors, particularly prior anthracycline or anthracenedione use, the monitoring of cardiac function must be particularly strict and the risk-benefit of continuing treatment with Ellence in patients with impaired cardiac function must be carefully evaluated.
Do not administer Ellence in combination with other cardiotoxic agents unless the patient's cardiac function is closely monitored. Patients receiving Ellence after stopping treatment with other cardiotoxic agents, especially those with long half-lives such as trastuzumab, may also be at an increased risk of developing cardiotoxicity. Avoid Ellence-based therapy for up to 24 weeks after stopping trastuzumab when possible. If Ellence is used before this time, monitor cardiac function carefully [see Dosage and Administration (2)].
Secondary Leukemia
The occurrence of secondary acute myelogenous leukemia, with or without a preleukemic phase, has been reported in patients treated with anthracyclines. Secondary leukemia is more common when such drugs are given in combination with DNA-damaging antineoplastic agents, when patients have been heavily pretreated with cytotoxic drugs, or when doses of the anthracyclines have been escalated. These leukemias can have a short 1- to 3-year latency period. Ellence is mutagenic, clastogenic, and carcinogenic in animals [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Hepatic
The major route of elimination of epirubicin is the hepatobiliary system [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Evaluate serum total bilirubin and AST levels before and during treatment with Ellence. Patients with elevated bilirubin or AST may experience slower clearance of drug with an increase in overall toxicity. Lower doses are recommended in these patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Patients with severe hepatic impairment have not been evaluated; therefore, do not use Ellence in this patient population.
Renal
Assess serum creatinine before and during therapy. Dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with serum creatinine >5 mg/dL [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Patients undergoing dialysis have not been studied.
Tumor-Lysis Syndrome
As with other cytotoxic agents, Ellence may induce hyperuricemia as a consequence of the extensive purine catabolism that accompanies drug-induced rapid lysis of highly chemosensitive neoplastic cells (tumor-lysis syndrome). Other metabolic abnormalities may also occur. While not generally a problem in patients with breast cancer, consider the potential for tumor-lysis syndrome in potentially susceptible patients and consider monitoring serum uric acid, potassium, calcium, phosphate, and creatinine immediately after initial chemotherapy administration. Hydration, urine alkalinization, and prophylaxis with allopurinol to prevent hyperuricemia may minimize potential complications of tumor-lysis syndrome.
Immunosuppressant Effects/Increased Susceptibility to Infections
Administration of live or live-attenuated vaccines in patients immunocompromised by chemotherapeutic agents including epirubicin, may result in serious or fatal infections. Avoid vaccination with a live vaccine in patients receiving Ellence. Killed or inactivated vaccines may be administered; however, the response to such vaccines may be diminished.
Gastrointestinal
Ellence is emetigenic. Antiemetics may reduce nausea and vomiting; prophylactic use of antiemetics should be considered before administration of Ellence, particularly when given in conjunction with other emetigenic drugs [see Adverse Reactions (6.X)].
Thrombophlebitis and Thromboembolic Phenomena
As with other cytotoxic agents, thrombophlebitis and thromboembolic phenomena, including pulmonary embolism (in some cases fatal) have been coincidentally reported with the use of Ellence.
Coadministration with Cimetidine
Cimetidine increased the AUC of epirubicin by 50%. Stop Cimetidine treatment during treatment with Ellence. [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]
Pregnancy
Ellence can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Epirubicin was embryolethal and teratogenic in rats and rabbits. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Ellence in pregnant women. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to a fetus. [see Use In Specific Populations (8.1)]
Male Fertility and Reproductive Outcomes
Males with female sexual partners of childbearing potential should use contraception during and after cessation of Ellence therapy. Ellence may damage testicular tissue and spermatozoa. Possible sperm DNA damage raises concerns about loss of fertility and genetic abnormalities in fetuses. The duration of this effect is uncertain. [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]
Laboratory Testing
Assess blood counts, including absolute neutrophil counts, and liver function before and during each cycle of therapy with Ellence. Perform repeated evaluations of LVEF during therapy. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5 and 5.6)]
Inflammation following Irradiation
As with other anthracyclines, administration of Ellence after previous radiation therapy may induce an inflammatory recall reaction at the site of the irradiation.
Adverse Reactions
Clinical Trial Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reactions 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.
Integrated safety data are available from two studies (Studies MA-5 and GFEA-05) [see Clinical Studies (14.1)] evaluating Ellence-containing combination regimens in patients with early breast cancer. Of the 1260 patients treated in these studies, 620 patients received the higher-dose Ellence regimen (FEC-100/CEF-120), 280 patients received the lower-dose Ellence regimen (FEC-50), and 360 patients received CMF. Serotonin-specific antiemetic therapy and colony-stimulating factors were not used in these trials. Clinically relevant acute adverse events are summarized in Table 2.
| Event | % of Patients | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEC-100/CEF-120 | FEC-50 | CMF | ||||
| (N=620) | (N=280) | (N=360) | ||||
| Grades 1–4 | Grades 3/4 | Grades 1–4 | Grades 3/4 | Grades 1–4 | Grades 3/4 | |
| FEC & CEF = cyclophosphamide + Ellence + fluorouracil; CMF = cyclophosphamide + methotrexate + fluorouracil; NA = not available | ||||||
| Grade 1 or 2 changes in transaminase levels were observed but were more frequently seen with CMF than with CEF. | ||||||
| Hematologic Leukopenia Neutropenia Anemia Thrombocytopenia | 80.3 80.3 72.2 48.8 | 58.6 67.2 5.8 5.4 | 49.6 53.9 12.9 4.6 | 1.5 10.5 0 0 | 98.1 95.8 70.9 51.4 | 60.3 78.1 0.9 3.6 |
| Endocrine Amenorrhea Hot flashes | 71.8 38.9 | 0 4.0 | 69.3 5.4 | 0 0 | 67.7 69.1 | 0 6.4 |
| Body as a Whole Lethargy Fever | 45.8 5.2 | 1.9 0 | 1.1 1.4 | 0 0 | 72.7 4.5 | 0.3 0 |
| Gastrointestinal Nausea/vomiting Mucositis Diarrhea Anorexia | 92.4 58.5 24.8 2.9 | 25.0 8.9 0.8 0 | 83.2 9.3 7.1 1.8 | 22.1 0 0 0 | 85.0 52.9 50.7 5.8 | 6.4 1.9 2.8 0.3 |
| Infection Infection Febrile neutropenia | 21.5 NA | 1.6 6.1 | 15.0 0 | 0 0 | 25.9 NA | 0.6 1.1 |
| Ocular Conjunctivitis/keratitis | 14.8 | 0 | 1.1 | 0 | 38.4 | 0 |
| Skin Alopecia Local toxicity Rash/itch Skin changes | 95.5 19.5 8.9 4.7 | 56.6 0.3 0.3 0 | 69.6 2.5 1.4 0.7 | 19.3 0.4 0 0 | 84.4 8.1 14.2 7.2 | 6.7 0 0 0 |
Delayed Events
Table 3 describes the incidence of delayed adverse events in patients participating in the MA-5 and GFEA-05 trials.
Event | % of Patients | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| FEC-100/CEF-120 (N=620) | FEC-50 (N=280) | CMF (N=360) | |
| Two cases of acute lymphoid leukemia (ALL) were also observed in patients receiving Ellence. However, an association between anthracyclines such as Ellence and ALL has not been clearly established. | |||
| |||
| Cardiac events Asymptomatic drops in LVEF CHF | 2.1* 1.5 | 1.4 0.4 | 0.8* 0.3 |
| Leukemia AML | 0.8 | 0 | 0.3 |
Overview of Acute and Delayed Toxicities
Hematologic
Dose-dependent, reversible leukopenia and/or neutropenia is the predominant manifestation of hematologic toxicity associated with Ellence and represents the most common acute dose-limiting toxicity of this drug. In most cases, the white blood cell (WBC) nadir is reached 10 to 14 days from drug administration. Leukopenia/neutropenia is usually transient, with WBC and neutrophil counts generally returning to normal values by Day 21 after drug administration. As with other cytotoxic agents, Ellence at the recommended dose in combination with cyclophosphamide and fluorouracil can produce severe leukopenia and neutropenia. Severe thrombocytopenia and anemia may also occur. Clinical consequences of severe myelosuppression include fever, infection, septicemia, septic shock, hemorrhage, tissue hypoxia, symptomatic anemia, or death. If myelosuppressive complications occur, use appropriate supportive measures (e.g., intravenous antibiotics, colony-stimulating factors, transfusions). Myelosuppression requires careful monitoring. Assess total and differential WBC, red blood cell (RBC), and platelet counts before and during each cycle of therapy with Ellence [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Gastrointestinal A dose-dependent mucositis (mainly oral stomatitis, less often esophagitis) may occur in patients treated with Ellence. Clinical manifestations of mucositis may include a pain or burning sensation, erythema, erosions, ulcerations, bleeding, or infections. Mucositis generally appears early after drug administration and, if severe, may progress over a few days to mucosal ulcerations; most patients recover from this adverse event by the third week of therapy. Hyperpigmentation of the oral mucosa may also occur. Nausea, vomiting, and occasionally diarrhea and abdominal pain can also occur. Severe vomiting and diarrhea may produce dehydration. Antiemetics may reduce nausea and vomiting; consider prophylactic use of antiemetics before therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Cutaneous and Hypersensitivity Reactions Alopecia occurs frequently, but is usually reversible, with hair regrowth occurring within 2 to 3 months from the termination of therapy. Flushes, skin and nail hyperpigmentation, photosensitivity, and hypersensitivity to irradiated skin (radiation-recall reaction) have been observed. Urticaria and anaphylaxis have been reported in patients treated with Ellence; signs and symptoms of these reactions may vary from skin rash and pruritus to fever, chills, and shock.
Cardiovascular
In a retrospective survey, including 9144 patients, mostly with solid tumors in advanced stages, the probability of developing CHF increased with increasing cumulative doses of Ellence (Figure 1). The estimated risk of Ellence-treated patients developing clinically evident CHF was 0.9% at a cumulative dose of 550 mg/m2, 1.6% at 700 mg/m2, and 3.3% at 900 mg/m2. The risk of developing CHF in the absence of other cardiac risk factors increased steeply after an Ellence cumulative dose of 900 mg/m2 [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Figure 1. Risk of CHF in 9144 Patients Treated with Ellence
In another retrospective survey of 469 Ellence-treated patients with metastatic or early breast cancer, the reported risk of CHF was comparable to that observed in the larger study of over 9000 patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Secondary Leukemia
An analysis of 7110 patients who received adjuvant treatment with Ellence in controlled clinical trials as a component of poly-chemotherapy regimens for early breast cancer, showed a cumulative risk of secondary acute myelogenous leukemia or myelodysplastic syndrome (AML/MDS) of about 0.27% (approximate 95% CI, 0.14–0.40) at 3 years, 0.46% (approximate 95% CI, 0.28–0.65) at 5 years, and 0.55% (approximate 95% CI, 0.33–0.78) at 8 years. The risk of developing AML/MDS increased with increasing Ellence cumulative doses as shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2. Risk of AML/MDS in 7110 Patients Treated with Ellence
The cumulative probability of developing AML/MDS was found to be particularly increased in patients who received more than the maximum recommended cumulative dose of Ellence (720 mg/m2) or cyclophosphamide (6,300 mg/m2), as shown in Table 1.
| Years from Treatment Start | Cumulative Probability of Developing AML/MDS % (95% CI) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cyclophosphamide Cumulative Dose ≤6,300 mg/m2 | Cyclophosphamide Cumulative Dose >6,300 mg/m2 | |||
| Ellence Cumulative Dose ≤720 mg/m2 N=4760 | Ellence Cumulative Dose >720 mg/m2 N=111 | Ellence Cumulative Dose ≤720 mg/m2 N=890 | Ellence Cumulative Dose >720 mg/m2 N=261 | |
| 3 | 0.12 (0.01–0.22) | 0.00 (0.00–0.00) | 0.12 (0.00–0.37) | 4.37 (1.69–7.05) |
| 5 | 0.25 (0.08–0.42) | 2.38 (0.00–6.99) | 0.31 (0.00–0.75) | 4.97 (2.06–7.87) |
| 8 | 0.37 (0.13–0.61) | 2.38 (0.00–6.99) | 0.31 (0.00–0.75) | 4.97 (2.06–7.87) |
Injection-Site Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Drug Interactions
Cardioactive Compounds
Do not administer Epirubicin in combination with other cardiotoxic agents unless the patient's cardiac function is closely monitored. Patients receiving epirubicin after stopping treatment with other cardiotoxic agents, especially those with long half-lives such as trastuzumab, may also be at an increased risk of developing cardiotoxicity. Avoid epirubicin-based therapy for up to 24 weeks after stopping trastuzumab when possible. If epirubicin is used before this time, monitor cardiac function carefully [see Dosage and Administration (2) and Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Concomitant use of Ellence with other cardioactive compounds that could cause heart failure (e.g., calcium channel blockers), requires close monitoring of cardiac function throughout treatment.
Cimetidine
Cimetidiene increases the exposure to epirubicin [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Stop Cimetidine during treatment with Ellence.
Other Cytotoxic Drugs
Ellence used in combination with other cytotoxic drugs may show on-treatment additive toxicity, especially hematologic and gastrointestinal effects.
Paclitaxel:
The administration of epirubicin immediately prior to or after paclitaxel increased the systemic exposure of epirubicin, epirubicinol and 7-deoxydoxorubicin aglycone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Docetaxel:
The administration of epirubicin immediately prior to or after docetaxel did not have an effect on the systemic exposure of epirubicin, but increased the systemic exposure of epirubicinol and 7-deoxydoxorubicin aglycone [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Radiation Therapy
There are few data regarding the coadministration of radiation therapy and Ellence. In adjuvant trials of Ellence-containing CEF-120 or FEC-100 chemotherapies, breast irradiation was delayed until after chemotherapy was completed. This practice resulted in no apparent increase in local breast cancer recurrence relative to published accounts in the literature. A small number of patients received Ellence-based chemotherapy concomitantly with radiation therapy but had chemotherapy interrupted in order to avoid potential overlapping toxicities. It is likely that use of Ellence with radiotherapy may sensitize tissues to the cytotoxic actions of irradiation. Administration of Ellence after previous radiation therapy may induce an inflammatory recall reaction at the site of the irradiation.
Concomitant Therapies-Hepatic Function
Epirubicin is extensively metabolized by the liver. Changes in hepatic function induced by concomitant therapies may affect epirubicin metabolism, pharmacokinetics, therapeutic efficacy, and/or toxicity.
Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions
There are no known interactions between Ellence and laboratory tests.
USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
Pregnancy
Pregnancy Category D. See 'Warnings and Precautions' section.
Ellence can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Administration of 0.8 mg/kg/day intravenously of epirubicin to rats (about 0.04 times the maximum recommended single human dose on a body surface area basis) during Days 5 to 15 of gestation was embryotoxic (increased resorptions and post-implantation loss) and caused fetal growth retardation (decreased body weight), but was not teratogenic up to this dose. Administration of 2 mg/kg/day intravenously of epirubicin to rats (about 0.1 times the maximum recommended single human dose on a body surface area basis) on Days 9 and 10 of gestation was embryotoxic (increased late resorptions, post-implantation losses, and dead fetuses; and decreased live fetuses), retarded fetal growth (decreased body weight), and caused decreased placental weight. This dose was also teratogenic, causing numerous external (anal atresia, misshapen tail, abnormal genital tubercle), visceral (primarily gastrointestinal, urinary, and cardiovascular systems), and skeletal (deformed long bones and girdles, rib abnormalities, irregular spinal ossification) malformations. Administration of intravenous epirubicin to rabbits at doses up to 0.2 mg/kg/day (about 0.02 times the maximum recommended single human dose on a body surface area basis) during Days 6 to 18 of gestation was not embryotoxic or teratogenic, but a maternally toxic dose of 0.32 mg/kg/day increased abortions and delayed ossification. Administration of a maternally toxic intravenous dose of 1 mg/kg/day epirubicin to rabbits (about 0.1 times the maximum recommended single human dose on a body surface area basis) on Days 10 to 12 of gestation induced abortion, but no other signs of embryofetal toxicity or teratogenicity were observed. When doses up to 0.5 mg/kg/day epirubicin were administered to rat dams from Day 17 of gestation to Day 21 after delivery (about 0.025 times the maximum recommended single human dose on a body surface area basis), no permanent changes were observed in the development, functional activity, behavior, or reproductive performance of the offspring.
There are no adequate and well-controlled studies of Ellence in pregnant women. Two pregnancies have been reported in women taking epirubicin. A 34-year-old woman, 28 weeks pregnant at her diagnosis of breast cancer, was treated with cyclophosphamide and epirubicin every 3 weeks for 3 cycles. She received the last dose at 34 weeks of pregnancy and delivered a healthy baby at 35 weeks. A second 34-year-old woman with breast cancer metastatic to the liver was randomized to FEC-50 but was removed from study because of pregnancy. She experienced a spontaneous abortion. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Nursing Mothers
Epirubicin was excreted into the milk of rats treated with 0.50 mg/kg/day of epirubicin during peri- and postnatal periods. It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs, including other anthracyclines, are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from Ellence, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Pediatric Use
Safety and effectiveness of Ellence have not been established in pediatric patients. Pediatric patients may be at greater risk for anthracycline-induced acute manifestations of cardiotoxicity and for chronic CHF. The pharmacokinetics of epirubicin in pediatric patients have not been evaluated.
Geriatric Use
Although a lower starting dose of Ellence was not used in trials in elderly female patients, particular care should be taken in monitoring toxicity when Ellence is administered to female patients ≥ 70 years of age [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Hepatic Impairment
Epirubicin is eliminated by both hepatic metabolism and biliary excretion and clearance is reduced in patients with hepatic dysfunction.. Do not treat patients with severe hepatic impairment with Ellence. Reduce the starting dose for patients with less severe hepatic impairment [see Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Renal Impairment
No significant alterations in the pharmacokinetics of epirubicin or its major metabolite, epirubicinol, have been observed in patients with serum creatinine < 5 mg/dL. Consider lower doses in patients with severe renal impairment (serum creatinine > 5 mg/dL), as a reduction in plasma clearance was reported in these patients [see, Dosage and Administration (2.2) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Patients on dialysis have not been studied.
Overdosage
There is no known antidote for overdoses of Ellence. A 36-year-old man with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma received a daily 95 mg/m2 dose of Ellence Injection for 5 consecutive days. Five days later, he developed bone marrow aplasia, grade 4 mucositis, and gastrointestinal bleeding. No signs of acute cardiac toxicity were observed. He was treated with antibiotics, colony-stimulating factors, and antifungal agents, and recovered completely. A 63-year-old woman with breast cancer and liver metastasis received a single 320 mg/m2 dose of Ellence. She was hospitalized with hyperthermia and developed multiple organ failure (respiratory and renal), with lactic acidosis, increased lactate dehydrogenase, and anuria. Death occurred within 24 hours after administration of Ellence. Additional instances of administration of doses higher than recommended have
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