Symfi Tablet, Film Coated
FDA Label NDC 49502-475

Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis B have been reported in patients who are co-infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) and have discontinued lamivudine or tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, two components of SYMFI. Monitor hepatic function closely in these patients and, if appropriate, initiate anti-hepatitis B treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

SYMFI™ (efavirenz, lamivudine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) is indicated as a complete regimen for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) infection in adult and pediatric patients weighing at least 40 kg.

Prior to initiation of SYMFI, test patients for hepatitis B virus infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

It is recommended that serum creatinine, serum phosphorus, estimated creatinine clearance, urine glucose, and urine protein be assessed before initiating SYMFI and during therapy in all patients as clinically appropriate [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Monitor hepatic function prior to and during treatment with SYMFI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

SYMFI is a three-drug fixed-dose combination product containing 600 mg of efavirenz (EFV), 300 mg of lamivudine (3TC), and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF). The recommended dosage of SYMFI in HIV-1-infected adults and pediatric patients who weigh at least 40 kg, and can swallow a solid tablet, is one tablet taken orally once daily. SYMFI tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime. Dosing at bedtime may improve the tolerability of nervous system symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Because SYMFI is a fixed-dose combination tablet and cannot be dose adjusted, it is not recommended for patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min) or patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6)].

SYMFI is not recommended in patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Tablets: 600 mg of efavirenz, 300 mg of lamivudine, and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (equivalent to 245 mg of tenofovir disoproxil).

The tablets are white, film-coated, capsule shaped, debossed with M 152 on one side of the tablet and plain on the other side.

SYMFI is contraindicated:

• in patients with a previous hypersensitivity reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, or toxic skin eruptions) to any of the components contained in the formulation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
• when coadministered with elbasvir and grazoprevir [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported with the use of nucleoside analogs and other antiretrovirals. Treatment should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical or laboratory findings suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity (which may include hepatomegaly and steatosis even in the absence of marked transaminase elevations).

All patients with HIV-1 should be tested for the presence of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) before initiating antiretroviral therapy. Discontinuation of anti-HBV therapy, including 3TC and TDF, may be associated with severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis. Patients infected with HBV who discontinue SYMFI should be closely monitored with both clinical and laboratory follow-up for at least several months after stopping treatment. If appropriate, resumption of anti-hepatitis B therapy may be warranted.

SYMFI tablets contain a higher dose of the same active ingredient, 3TC, than EPIVIR-HBV^® tablets. EPIVIR-HBV was developed for patients with chronic hepatitis B. The formulation and dosage of 3TC in EPIVIR-HBV are not appropriate for patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV. Safety and efficacy of 3TC have not been established for treatment of chronic hepatitis B in patients co-infected with HIV-1 and HBV.

If treatment with EPIVIR-HBV, TDF, or a tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)-containing product is prescribed for chronic hepatitis B for a patient with unrecognized or untreated HIV-1 infection, rapid emergence of HIV-1 resistance is likely to result because of the subtherapeutic dose and the inappropriateness of monotherapy HIV-1 treatment.

The concomitant use of SYMFI and other drugs may result in known or potentially significant drug interactions, some of which may lead to [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.5)]:

• Loss of therapeutic effect of SYMFI and possible development of resistance.
• Possible clinically significant adverse reactions from greater exposures of concomitant drugs.

See Table 3 for steps to prevent or manage these possible and known significant drug interactions, including dosing recommendations [see Drug Interactions (7.5)]. Consider the potential for drug interactions prior to and during SYMFI therapy; review concomitant medications during SYMFI therapy; and monitor for the adverse reactions associated with the concomitant drugs.

TDF, a component of SYMFI is principally eliminated by the kidney. Renal impairment, including cases of acute renal failure and Fanconi syndrome (renal tubular injury with severe hypophosphatemia), has been reported with the use of TDF [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

It is recommended that estimated creatinine clearance be assessed in all patients prior to initiating therapy and as clinically appropriate during therapy with TDF. In patients at risk of renal dysfunction, it is recommended that estimated creatinine clearance, serum phosphorus, urine glucose, and urine protein be assessed prior to initiation of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, and periodically during TDF therapy.

Avoid SYMFI with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent (e.g., high-dose or multiple non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)) [see Drug Interactions (7.3)]. Cases of acute renal failure after initiation of high dose or multiple NSAIDs have been reported in HIV-infected patients with risk factors for renal dysfunction who appeared stable on TDF. Some patients required hospitalization and renal replacement therapy. Alternatives to NSAIDs should be considered, if needed, in patients at risk for renal dysfunction.

Persistent or worsening bone pain, pain in extremities, fractures and/or muscular pain or weakness may be manifestations of proximal renal tubulopathy and should prompt an evaluation of renal function in at-risk patients.

Serious psychiatric adverse experiences have been reported in patients treated with EFV, a component of SYMFI. In controlled trials of 1008 patients treated with regimens containing EFV for a mean of 2.1 years and 635 patients treated with control regimens for a mean of 1.5 years, the frequency (regardless of causality) of specific serious psychiatric events among patients who received EFV or control regimens, respectively, were severe depression (2.4%, 0.9%), suicidal ideation (0.7%, 0.3%), nonfatal suicide attempts (0.5%, 0), aggressive behavior (0.4%, 0.5%), paranoid reactions (0.4%, 0.3%), and manic reactions (0.2%, 0.3%). When psychiatric symptoms similar to those noted above were combined and evaluated as a group in a multifactorial analysis of data from a study using EFV 600 mg, treatment with EFV was associated with an increase in the occurrence of these selected psychiatric symptoms. Other factors associated with an increase in the occurrence of these psychiatric symptoms were history of injection drug use, psychiatric history, and receipt of psychiatric medication at study entry; similar associations were observed in both the EFV and control treatment groups. In a study using EFV 600 mg, onset of new serious psychiatric symptoms occurred throughout the study for both EFV-treated and control-treated patients. One percent of EFV-treated patients discontinued or interrupted treatment because of one or more of these selected psychiatric symptoms.

There have also been occasional postmarketing reports of death by suicide, delusions, psychosis-like behavior, although a causal relationship to the use of EFV cannot be determined from these reports [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Postmarketing cases of catatonia have also been reported and may be associated with increased efavirenz exposure. Patients with serious psychiatric adverse experiences should seek immediate medical evaluation to assess the possibility that the symptoms may be related to the use of EFV, and if so, to determine whether the risks of continued therapy outweigh the benefits.

Fifty-three percent (531/1008) of patients receiving EFV, a component of SYMFI, in controlled trials reported central nervous system symptoms (any grade, regardless of causality) compared to 25% (156/635) of patients receiving control regimens. These symptoms included, but were not limited to, dizziness (28.1% of the 1008 patients), insomnia (16.3%), impaired concentration (8.3%), somnolence (7.0%), abnormal dreams (6.2%), and hallucinations (1.2%). These symptoms were severe in 2.0% of patients and 2.1% of patients discontinued therapy as a result. These symptoms usually begin during the first or second day of therapy and generally resolve after the first 2 to 4 weeks of therapy. After 4 weeks of therapy, the prevalence of nervous system symptoms of at least moderate severity ranged from 5% to 9% in patients treated with regimens containing EFV and from 3% to 5% in patients treated with a control regimen. Inform patients that these common symptoms were likely to improve with continued therapy and were not predictive of subsequent onset of the less frequent psychiatric symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. Dosing at bedtime may improve the tolerability of these nervous system symptoms [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

EFV, a component of SYMFI, may cause fetal harm when administered during the first trimester to a pregnant woman. Advise females of reproductive potential who are receiving EFV to avoid pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

In controlled clinical trials, 26% (266/1008) of patients treated with 600 mg EFV experienced new-onset skin rash compared with 17% (111/635) of patients treated in control groups. Rash associated with blistering, moist desquamation, or ulceration occurred in 0.9% (9/1008) of patients treated with EFV. The incidence of Grade 4 rash (e.g., erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome) in patients treated with EFV in all studies and expanded access was 0.1%. Rashes are usually mild-to-moderate maculopapular skin eruptions that occur within the first 2 weeks of initiating therapy with EFV (median time to onset of rash in adults was 11 days) and, in most patients continuing therapy with EFV, rash resolves within 1 month (median duration, 16 days). The discontinuation rate for rash in clinical trials was 1.7% (17/1008).

EFV can generally be reinitiated in patients interrupting therapy because of rash. EFV should be discontinued in patients developing severe rash associated with blistering, desquamation, mucosal involvement, or fever. Appropriate antihistamines and/or corticosteroids may improve the tolerability and hasten the resolution of rash. For patients who have had a life-threatening cutaneous reaction (e.g., Stevens-Johnson syndrome), alternate therapy should be considered [see Contraindications (4)].

Postmarketing cases of hepatitis, including fulminant hepatitis progressing to liver failure requiring transplantation or resulting in death, have been reported in patients treated with EFV. Reports have included patients with underlying hepatic disease, including coinfection with hepatitis B or C, and patients without pre-existing hepatic disease or other identifiable risk factors.

EFV, a component of SYMFI, is not recommended for patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment. Careful monitoring is recommended for patients with mild hepatic impairment receiving EFV [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].

Monitoring of liver enzymes before and during treatment is recommended for all patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.1)]. Consider discontinuing SYMFI in patients with persistent elevations of serum transaminases to greater than five times the upper limit of the normal range.

Discontinue SYMFI if elevation of serum transaminases is accompanied by clinical signs or symptoms of hepatitis or hepatic decompensation.

In vitro studies have shown ribavirin can reduce the phosphorylation of pyrimidine nucleoside analogues such as 3TC, a component of SYMFI. Although no evidence of a pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interaction (e.g., loss of HIV-1/HCV virologic suppression) was seen when ribavirin was coadministered with 3TC in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], hepatic decompensation (some fatal) has occurred in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 and interferon alfa with or without ribavirin. Patients receiving interferon alfa with or without ribavirin and 3TC should be closely monitored for treatment-associated toxicities, especially hepatic decompensation. Discontinuation of 3TC should be considered as medically appropriate. Dose reduction or discontinuation of interferon alfa, ribavirin, or both should also be considered if worsening clinical toxicities are observed, including hepatic decompensation (e.g., Child-Pugh > 6). See the full prescribing information for interferon and ribavirin.

In pediatric patients with a history of prior antiretroviral nucleoside exposure, a history of pancreatitis, or other significant risk factors for the development of pancreatitis, 3TC, a component of SYMFI, should be used with caution. Treatment with SYMFI should be stopped immediately if clinical signs, symptoms, or laboratory abnormalities suggestive of pancreatitis occur [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Convulsions have been observed in patients receiving EFV, generally in the presence of known medical history of seizures [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)]. Caution should be taken in any patient with a history of seizures. Patients who are receiving concomitant anticonvulsant medications primarily metabolized by the liver, such as phenytoin and phenobarbital, may require periodic monitoring of plasma levels [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].

Treatment with EFV has resulted in increases in the concentration of total cholesterol and triglycerides. Cholesterol and triglyceride testing should be performed before initiating EFV therapy and at periodic intervals during therapy.

In clinical trials in HIV-1-infected adults, TDF was associated with slightly greater decreases in BMD and increases in biochemical markers of bone metabolism, suggesting increased bone turnover relative to comparators. Serum parathyroid hormone levels and 1,25 Vitamin D levels were also higher in subjects receiving TDF [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

The effects of TDF-associated changes in BMD and biochemical markers on long-term bone health and future fracture risk are unknown. Assessment of BMD should be considered for adults who have a history of pathologic bone fracture or other risk factors for osteoporosis or bone loss. Although the effect of supplementation with calcium and vitamin D was not studied, such supplementation may be beneficial for all patients. If bone abnormalities are suspected then appropriate consultation should be obtained.

Cases of osteomalacia associated with proximal renal tubulopathy, manifested as bone pain or pain in extremities and which may contribute to fractures, have been reported in association with the use of TDF [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. Arthralgias and muscle pain or weakness have also been reported in cases of proximal renal tubulopathy. Hypophosphatemia and osteomalacia secondary to proximal renal tubulopathy should be considered in patients at risk of renal dysfunction who present with persistent or worsening bone or muscle symptoms while receiving products containing TDF [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Immune reconstitution syndrome has been reported in HIV-infected patients treated with combination antiretroviral therapy, including EFV, 3TC, and TDF. During the initial phase of combination antiretroviral treatment, patients whose immune system responds may develop an inflammatory response to indolent or residual opportunistic infections (such as Mycobacterium avium infection, cytomegalovirus, Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia [PCP], or tuberculosis), which may necessitate further evaluation and treatment.

Autoimmune disorders (such as Graves’ disease, polymyositis, and Guillain-Barre syndrome) have also been reported to occur in the setting of immune reconstitution; however, the time to onset is more variable, and can occur many months after initiation of treatment.

In HIV-infected patients, redistribution/accumulation of body fat including central obesity, dorsocervical fat enlargement (buffalo hump), peripheral wasting, facial wasting, breast enlargement, and “cushingoid appearance” have been observed in patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy. The mechanism and long-term consequences of these events are currently unknown. A causal relationship has not been established.

QTc prolongation has been observed with the use of EFV [see Drug Interactions (7.2, 7.5) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Consider alternatives to products containing EFV when coadministered with a drug with a known risk of Torsade de Pointes or when administered to patients at higher risk of Torsade de Pointes.

The following adverse reactions are discussed in other sections of the labeling:

• Lactic Acidosis/Severe Hepatomegaly with Steatosis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
• Exacerbations of Hepatitis B [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
• New Onset or Worsening Renal Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
• Psychiatric Symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
• Nervous System Symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
• Skin and Systemic Hypersensitivity Reaction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
• Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
• Hepatic Decompensation in Patients Co-infected with HIV-1 and Hepatitis C [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
• Pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
• Decreases in Bone Mineral Density [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].
• Immune Reconstitution Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15)].
• Fat Redistribution [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)].

Because clinical studies are conducted under widely varying conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in 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.

Treatment-Naïve Patients

The most common adverse reactions seen in a double-blind comparative controlled study in which 600 treatment-naïve subjects received TDF (N = 299) or stavudine (d4T) (N = 301) in combination with 3TC and EFV for 144 weeks were mild to moderate gastrointestinal events and dizziness.

Mild adverse reactions (Grade 1) were common with a similar incidence in both arms, and included dizziness, diarrhea, and nausea. Selected moderate to severe adverse reactions are summarized in Table 1.

With the exception of fasting cholesterol and fasting triglyceride elevations that were more common in the stavudine group (40% and 9%) compared with TDF (19% and 1%) respectively, laboratory abnormalities observed in this study occurred with similar frequency in the tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and stavudine treatment arms. A summary of Grade 3 and 4 laboratory abnormalities is provided in Table 2.

Pancreatitis, which has been fatal in some cases, has been observed in antiretroviral nucleoside-experienced pediatric subjects receiving 3TC alone or in combination with other antiretroviral agents [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].

In HIV-1-infected adult subjects in Study 903, there was a significantly greater mean percentage decrease from baseline in BMD at the lumbar spine in subjects receiving TDF + 3TC + EFV (-2.2% ± 3.9) compared with subjects receiving d4T + 3TC + EFV (-1.0% ± 4.6) through 144 weeks. Changes in BMD at the hip were similar between the two treatment groups (-2.8% ± 3.5 in the TDF group vs. -2.4% ± 4.5 in the d4T group). In both groups, the majority of the reduction in BMD occurred in the first 24-48 weeks of the trial and this reduction was sustained through Week 144. Twenty-eight percent of TDF-treated subjects vs. 21% of the d4T-treated subjects lost at least 5% of BMD at the spine or 7% of BMD at the hip. Clinically relevant fractures (excluding fingers and toes) were reported in 4 subjects in the TDF group and 6 subjects in the d4T group. In addition, there were significant increases in biochemical markers of bone metabolism (serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, serum osteocalcin, serum C telopeptide, and urinary N telopeptide) and higher serum parathyroid hormone levels and 1,25 Vitamin D levels in the TDF group relative to the d4T group; however, except for bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, these changes resulted in values that remained within the normal range [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use for each of the individual components of SYMFI (EFV, 3TC, and TDF). Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of unknown size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish causal relationship to drug exposure. These reactions have been chosen for inclusion due to a combination of their seriousness, frequency of reporting, or potential causal connection to EFV, 3TC, and TDF.

Body as a Whole: allergic reactions, asthenia, redistribution/accumulation of body fat [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)].

Central and Peripheral Nervous System: abnormal coordination, ataxia, cerebellar coordination and balance disturbances, convulsions, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, neuropathy, tremor, vertigo.

Endocrine: gynecomastia.

Gastrointestinal: constipation, malabsorption.

Cardiovascular: flushing, palpitations.

Liver and Biliary System: hepatic enzyme increase, hepatic failure, hepatitis.

Metabolic and Nutritional: hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia.

Musculoskeletal: arthralgia, myalgia, myopathy.

Psychiatric: aggressive reactions, agitation, delusions, emotional lability, mania, neurosis, paranoia, psychosis, suicide, catatonia.

Respiratory: dyspnea.

Skin and Appendages: erythema multiforme, photoallergic dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Special Senses: abnormal vision, tinnitus.

There are retrospective postmarketing reports of findings consistent with neural tube defects, including meningomyelocele, all in infants of mothers exposed to EFV-containing regimens in the first trimester [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].

Based on prospective reports from the APR of approximately 1000 live births following exposure to EFV-containing regimens (including over 800 live births exposed in the first trimester), there was no difference between EFV and overall birth defects compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program. As of the interim APR report issued December 2014, the prevalence of birth defects following first-trimester exposure was 2.3% (95% CI: 1.4%-3.6%). One of these prospectively reported defects with first-trimester exposure was a neural tube defect. A single case of anophthalmia with first-trimester exposure to EFV has also been prospectively reported. This case also included severe oblique facial clefts and amniotic banding, which have a known association with anophthalmia.

Effects of EFV on embryo-fetal development have been studied in three nonclinical species (cynomolgus monkeys, rats, and rabbits). In monkeys, EFV 60 mg/kg/day was administered to pregnant females throughout pregnancy (gestation days 20 through 150). The maternal systemic drug exposures (AUC) were 1.3 times the exposure in humans at the recommended clinical dose (600 mg/day), with fetal umbilical venous drug concentrations approximately 0.7 times the maternal values. Three of 20 fetuses/infants had one or more malformations; there were no malformed fetuses or infants from placebo-treated mothers. The malformations that occurred in these three monkey fetuses included anencephaly and unilateral anophthalmia in one fetus, microophthalmia in a second, and cleft palate in the third. There was no NOAEL (no observable adverse effect level) established for this study because only one dosage was evaluated. In rats, EFV was administered either during organogenesis (gestation days 7 to 18) or from gestation day 7 through lactation day 21 at 50, 100, or 200 mg/kg/day. Administration of 200 mg/kg/day in rats was associated with increase in the incidence of early resorptions; and doses 100 mg/kg/day and greater were associated with early neonatal mortality. The AUC at the NOAEL (50 mg/kg/day) in this rat study was 0.1 times that in humans at the recommended clinical dose. Drug concentrations in the milk on lactation day 10 were approximately 8 times higher than those in maternal plasma. In pregnant rabbits, EFV was neither embryo lethal nor teratogenic when administered at doses of 25, 50, and 75 mg/kg/day over the period of organogenesis (gestation days 6 through 18). The AUC at the NOAEL (75 mg/kg/day) in rabbits was 0.4 times that in humans at the recommended clinical dose.

EFV has been shown to pass into human breast milk. There is no information available on the effects of EFV on the breastfed infant, or the effects of EFV on milk production.

In HIV-1-infected subjects, time-to-peak plasma concentrations were approximately 3 to 5 hours and steady-state plasma concentrations were reached in 6 to 10 days. EFV is highly bound (approximately 99.5 to 99.75%) to human plasma proteins, predominantly albumin. Following administration of ¹⁴C-labeled EFV, 14 to 34% of the dose was recovered in the urine (mostly as metabolites) and 16 to 61% was recovered in feces (mostly as parent drug). In vitro studies suggest CYP3A and CYP2B6 are the major isozymes responsible for EFV metabolism. EFV has been shown to induce CYP enzymes, resulting in induction of its own metabolism. EFV has a terminal half-life of 52 to 76 hours after single doses and 40 to 55 hours after multiple doses.

The pharmacokinetics of EFV have not been studied in patients with renal impairment.

A multiple-dose study showed no significant effect on EFV pharmacokinetics in patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A) compared with controls. There were insufficient data to determine whether moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B or C) affects EFV pharmacokinetics.

EFV has been shown in vivo to cause hepatic enzyme induction, thus increasing the biotransformation of some drugs metabolized by CYP3A and CYP2B6. In vitro studies have shown that EFV inhibited CYP isozymes 2C9, 2C19, and 3A4 with K_i values (8.5 to 17 µM) in the range of observed EFV plasma concentrations. In in vitro studies, EFV did not inhibit CYP2E1 and inhibited CYP2D6 and CYP1A2 (K_i values 82 to 160 µM) only at concentrations well above those achieved clinically. Coadministration of EFV with drugs primarily metabolized by 2C9, 2C19, and 3A isozymes may result in altered plasma concentrations of the coadministered drug. Drugs which induce CYP3A activity would be expected to increase the clearance of EFV resulting in lowered plasma concentrations.

Drug interaction studies were performed with EFV and other drugs likely to be coadministered or drugs commonly used as probes for pharmacokinetic interaction. The effects of coadministration of EFV on the C_max, AUC, and C_min are summarized in Table 6 (effect of EFV on other drugs) and Table 7 (effect of other drugs on EFV). For information regarding clinical recommendations see Drug Interactions (7.5).

EFV is an NNRTI of HIV-1. EFV activity is mediated predominantly by noncompetitive inhibition of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT). HIV-2 RT and human cellular DNA polymerases α, β, γ, and δ are not inhibited by EFV.

The concentration of EFV inhibiting replication of wild-type laboratory adapted strains and clinical isolates in cell culture by 90 to 95% (EC_{90 to 95}) ranged from 1.7 to 25 nM in lymphoblastoid cell lines, peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and macrophage/monocyte cultures. EFV demonstrated antiviral activity against clade B and most non-clade B isolates (subtypes A, AE, AG, C, D, F, G, J, N), but had reduced antiviral activity against group O viruses.

In cell culture, HIV-1 isolates with reduced susceptibility to EFV (> 380-fold increase in EC₉₀ value) emerged rapidly in the presence of drug. Genotypic characterization of these viruses identified single amino acid substitutions L100I or V179D, double substitutions L100I/V108I, and triple substitutions L100I/V179D/Y181C in reverse transcriptase.

Clinical isolates with reduced susceptibility in cell culture to EFV have been obtained. One or more RT substitutions at amino acid positions A98, L100, K101, K103, V106, V108, Y188, G190, P225, F227 and M230 were observed in patients failing treatment with EFV in combination with indinavir, or with 3TC plus zidovudine. The K103N substitution was the most frequently observed.

Cross-resistance among NNRTIs has been observed. Clinical isolates previously characterized as EFV-resistant were also phenotypically resistant in cell culture to delavirdine and nevirapine compared to baseline. Delavirdine- and/or nevirapine-resistant clinical viral isolates with NNRTI resistance-associated substitutions (A98G, L100I, K101E/P, K103N/S, V106A, Y181X, Y188X, G190X, P225H, F227L, or M230L) showed reduced susceptibility to EFV in cell culture. Greater than 90% of NRTI-resistant clinical isolates tested in cell culture retained susceptibility to EFV.

Long-term carcinogenicity studies in mice and rats were carried out with efavirenz. Mice were dosed with 0, 25, 75, 150, or 300 mg/kg/day for 2 years. Incidences of hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas and pulmonary alveolar/bronchiolar adenomas were increased above background in females. No increases in tumor incidence above background were seen in males. There was no NOAEL in female established for this study because tumor findings occurred at all doses. AUC at the NOAEL (150 mg/kg) in the males was approximately 0.9 times that in humans at the recommended clinical dose. In the rat study, no increases in tumor incidence were observed at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day, for which AUCs were 0.1 (males) or 0.2 (females) times those in humans at the recommended clinical dose.

EFV tested negative in a battery of in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity assays. These included bacterial mutation assays in S. typhimurium and E. coli, mammalian mutation assays in Chinese hamster ovary cells, chromosome aberration assays in human peripheral blood lymphocytes or Chinese hamster ovary cells, and an in vivo mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.

EFV did not impair mating or fertility of male or female rats, and did not affect sperm of treated male rats. The reproductive performance of offspring born to female rats given EFV was not affected. The AUCs at the NOAEL values in male (200 mg/kg) and female (100 mg/kg) rats were approximately ≤ 0.15 times that in humans at the recommended clinical dose.

Nonsustained convulsions were observed in 6 of 20 monkeys receiving EFV at doses yielding plasma AUC values 4- to 13-fold greater than those in humans given the recommended dose [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].

Body as a Whole: redistribution/accumulation of body fat [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)].

Endocrine and Metabolic: hyperglycemia.

General: weakness.

Hemic and Lymphatic: anemia (including pure red cell aplasia and severe anemias progressing on therapy).

Hepatic and Pancreatic: lactic acidosis and hepatic steatosis, posttreatment exacerbation of hepatitis B [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.1, 5.2)].

Hypersensitivity: anaphylaxis, urticaria.

Musculoskeletal: muscle weakness, CPK elevation, rhabdomyolysis.

Skin: Alopecia, pruritus.

Based on prospective reports from the APR of over 11,000 exposures to 3TC during pregnancy resulting in live births (including over 4,300 exposed in the first trimester), there was no difference between 3TC and overall birth defects compared with the background birth defect rate of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the MACDP. The prevalence of defects in the first trimester was 3.1% (95% CI: 2.6% to 3.7%).

3TC pharmacokinetics were studied in pregnant women during 2 clinical trials conducted in South Africa. The trials assessed pharmacokinetics in 16 women at 36 weeks gestation using 150 mg 3TC twice daily with zidovudine, 10 women at 38 weeks gestation using 150 mg 3TC twice daily with zidovudine, and 10 women at 38 weeks gestation using 3TC 300 mg twice daily without other antiretrovirals. These trials were not designed or powered to provide efficacy information.

3TC pharmacokinetics in pregnant women were similar to those seen in non-pregnant adults and in postpartum women. 3TC concentrations were generally similar in maternal, neonatal, and umbilical cord serum samples. In a subset of subjects, amniotic fluid specimens were collected following natural rupture of membranes and confirmed that lamivudine crosses the placenta in humans. Amniotic fluid concentrations of lamivudine were typically 2 times greater than maternal serum levels and ranged from 1.2 to 2.5 mcg per mL (150 mg twice daily) and 2.1 to 5.2 mcg per mL (300 mg twice daily).

Studies in pregnant rats showed that 3TC is transferred to the fetus through the placenta. Reproduction studies with orally administered 3TC have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses producing plasma levels up to approximately 35 times that for the recommended adult HIV dose. No evidence of teratogenicity due to 3TC was observed. Evidence of embryo-lethality was seen in the rabbit at exposure levels similar to those observed in humans but there was no indication of this effect in the rat at exposure levels up to 35 times those in humans.

3TC is excreted into human milk. Samples of breast milk obtained from 20 mothers receiving 3TC monotherapy, 300 mg twice daily (2 times the dose in SYMFI), had measurable concentrations of 3TC.There is no information on the effects of 3TC on the breastfed infant, or the effects of 3TC on milk production.

After oral administration of 2 mg/kg of 3TC twice a day to 9 adults with HIV-1, the peak serum 3TC concentration (C_max) was 1.5 ± 0.5 mcg/mL (mean ± SD). The area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC) and C_max increased in proportion to oral dose over the range from 0.25 to 10 mg/kg and absolute bioavailability in 12 adult patients was 86% ± 16% (mean ± SD) for the 150-mg tablet and 87% ± 13% for the oral solution. Binding of 3TC to human plasma proteins is low (< 36%). Within 12 hours after a single oral dose of 3TC in 6 HIV-1-infected adults, 5.2% ± 1.4% (mean ± SD) of the dose was excreted as the trans-sulfoxide metabolite in the urine. The majority of 3TC is eliminated unchanged in urine by active organic cationic secretion and the observed mean elimination half-life (t_1/2) ranged from 5 to 7 hours in most single-dose studies with serum sampling for 24 hours after dosing.

The pharmacokinetics of 3TC are altered in subjects with renal impairment (Table 4).

The pharmacokinetic properties of 3TC have been determined in adults with impaired hepatic function. Pharmacokinetic parameters were not altered by diminishing hepatic function. Safety and efficacy of 3TC have not been established in the presence of decompensated liver disease.

3TC is a synthetic nucleoside analogue with activity against HIV-1 and HBV. Intracellularly, 3TC is phosphorylated to its active 5’‑triphosphate metabolite, lamivudine triphosphate (3TC-TP). The principal mode of action of 3TC‑TP is inhibition of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase (RT) via DNA chain termination after incorporation of the nucleotide analogue.

The antiviral activity of 3TC against HIV-1 was assessed in a number of cell lines (including monocytes and fresh human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBMCs) using standard susceptibility assays. EC₅₀ values were in the range of 3 to 15,000 nM. (1 μM = 0.23 mcg/mL). The median EC₅₀ values of 3TC were 60 nM (range: 20 to 70 nM), 35 nM (range: 30 to 40 nM), 30 nM (range: 20 to 90 nM), 20 nM (range: 3 to 40 nM), 30 nM (range: 1 to 60 nM), 30 nM (range: 20 to 70 nM), 30 nM (range: 3 to 70 nM), and 30 nM (range: 20 to 90 nM) against HIV-1 clades A-G and group O viruses (n = 3 except n = 2 for clade B), respectively. The EC₅₀ values against HIV-2 isolates (n = 4) ranged from 3 to 120 nM in PBMCs. 3TC was not antagonistic to all tested anti-HIV agents. Ribavirin (50 μM) used in the treatment of chronic HCV infection decreased the anti-HIV-1 activity of 3TC by 3.5-fold in MT-4 cells.

3TC-resistant variants of HIV‑1 have been selected in cell culture. Genotypic analysis showed that resistance was predominantly due to a methionine to valine or isoleucine (M184V/I) substitution in reverse transcriptase.

Cross-resistance among NRTIs has been observed. 3TC-resistant HIV-1 isolates were cross-resistant in cell culture to didanosine (ddI). Cross-resistance is also expected with abacavir and emtricitabine as these select M184V substitutions.

Long-term carcinogenicity studies with 3TC in mice and rats showed no evidence of carcinogenic potential at exposures up to 10 times (mice) and 58 times (rats) the human exposures at the recommended dose of 300 mg. 3TC was not mutagenic in a microbial mutagenicity assay, in an in vitro cell transformation assay, in a rat micronucleus test, in a rat bone marrow cytogenetic assay, and in assay for unscheduled DNA synthesis in rat liver. 3TC showed no evidence of in vivo genotoxic activity in the rat at oral doses of up to 2000 mg per kg, producing plasma levels of 35 to 45 times those in humans at the recommended dose for HIV‑1 infection. In a study of reproductive performance, 3TC administered to rats at doses up to 4000 mg per kg per day, producing plasma levels 47 to 70 times those in humans, revealed no evidence of impaired fertility and no effect on the survival, growth, and development to weaning of the offspring.

Immune System Disorders: allergic reaction, including angioedema.

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: lactic acidosis, hypokalemia, hypophosphatemia.

Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: dyspnea.

Gastrointestinal Disorders: pancreatitis, increased amylase, abdominal pain.

Renal and Urinary Disorders: renal insufficiency, acute renal failure, renal failure, acute tubular necrosis, Fanconi syndrome, proximal renal tubulopathy, interstitial nephritis (including acute cases), nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, renal insufficiency, increased creatinine, proteinuria, polyuria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Hepatobiliary Disorders: hepatic steatosis, hepatitis, increased liver enzymes (most commonly AST, ALT gamma GT).

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: rash.

Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders: rhabdomyolysis, osteomalacia (manifested as bone pain and which may contribute to fractures), muscular weakness, myopathy.

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: asthenia.

The following adverse reactions, listed under the body system headings above, may occur as a consequence of proximal renal tubulopathy: rhabdomyolysis, osteomalacia, hypokalemia, muscular weakness, myopathy, hypophosphatemia.

Reproduction studies have been performed in rats and rabbits at doses up to 14 and 19 times the human dose based on body surface area comparisons and revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to tenofovir.

Samples of breast milk obtained from five HIV-1-infected mothers in the first postpartum week show that tenofovir is excreted in human milk at low levels. The impact of this exposure in breastfed infants is unknown and the effects of TDF on milk production is unknown.

Because of the potential for 1) HIV transmission (in HIV-negative infants); 2) developing viral resistance (in HIV-positive infants); and 3) adverse reactions in a breastfed infant similar to those seen in adults, instruct mothers not to breastfeed if they are receiving SYMFI.

Following oral administration of a single 300 mg dose of TDF to HIV-1-infected subjects in the fasted state, maximum serum concentrations (C_max) were achieved in 1.0 ± 0.4 hrs (mean ± SD) and C_max and AUC values were 296 ± 90 ng/mL and 2287 ± 685 ng•hr/mL, respectively. The oral bioavailability of tenofovir from TDF in fasted subjects is approximately 25%. Less than 0.7% of tenofovir binds to human plasma proteins in vitro and the binding is independent of concentration over the range of 0.01 to 25 mcg/mL. Approximately 70 to 80% of the intravenous dose of tenofovir is recovered as unchanged drug in the urine. Tenofovir is eliminated by a combination of glomerular filtration and active tubular secretion with a renal clearance in adults with normal renal function of 243 ± 33 mL/min (mean ± SD). Following a single oral dose, the terminal elimination half-life of tenofovir is approximately 17 hours.

There were insufficient numbers from racial and ethnic groups other than Caucasian to adequately determine potential pharmacokinetic differences among these populations.

The pharmacokinetics of TDF are altered in subjects with renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. In subjects with creatinine clearance below 50 mL/min or with end‑stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis, C_max, and AUC_0‑∞ of tenofovir were increased.

The pharmacokinetics of tenofovir following a 300 mg single dose of TDF have been studied in non-HIV infected subjects with moderate to severe (Child-Pugh B to C) hepatic impairment. There were no substantial alterations in tenofovir pharmacokinetics in subjects with hepatic impairment compared with unimpaired subjects.

At concentrations substantially higher (~300-fold) than those observed in vivo, tenofovir did not inhibit in vitro CYP3A4, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, or CYP2E1. However, a small (6%) but statistically significant reduction in metabolism of CYP1A substrate was observed. Based on the results of in vitro experiments and the known elimination pathway of tenofovir, the potential for CYP mediated interactions involving TDF with other medicinal products is low.

Table 8 summarizes pharmacokinetic effects of coadministered drug on tenofovir pharmacokinetics. No clinically significant drug interactions have been observed between tenofovir and ribavirin.

TDF is an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate diester analog of adenosine monophosphate. TDF requires initial diester hydrolysis for conversion to tenofovir and subsequent phosphorylations by cellular enzymes to form tenofovir diphosphate. Tenofovir diphosphate inhibits the activity of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase and HBV reverse transcriptase by competing with the natural substrate deoxyadenosine 5’-triphosphate and, after incorporation into DNA, by DNA chain termination. Tenofovir diphosphate is a weak inhibitor of mammalian DNA polymerases α, β, and mitochondrial DNA polymerase γ.

The antiviral activity of tenofovir against laboratory and clinical isolates of HIV-1 was assessed in lymphoblastoid cell lines, primary monocyte/macrophage cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes. The EC₅₀ (50% effective concentration) values for tenofovir were in the range of 0.04 μM to 8.5 μM. Tenofovir displayed antiviral activity in cell culture against HIV-1 clades A, B, C, D, E, F, G, and O (EC₅₀ values ranged from 0.5 μM to 2.2 μM) and strain-specific activity against HIV-2 (EC₅₀ values ranged from 1.6 μM to 5.5 μM). Please see the full prescribing information for VIREAD^® for information regarding the inhibitory activity of TDF against HBV.

HIV-1 isolates with reduced susceptibility to tenofovir have been selected in cell culture. These viruses expressed a K65R substitution in reverse transcriptase and showed a 2- to 4-fold reduction in susceptibility to tenofovir. In addition, a K70E substitution in HIV-1 reverse transcriptase has been selected by tenofovir and results in low-level reduced susceptibility to tenofovir. K65R substitutions developed in some subjects failing a tenofovir disoproxil fumarate regimen.

Cross-resistance among NRTIs has been observed. The K65R and K70E substitutions selected by tenofovir are also selected in some HIV-1-infected subjects treated with abacavir or didanosine. HIV-1 isolates with the K65R substitution also showed reduced susceptibility to FTC and 3TC. HIV-1 isolates from subjects (N = 20) whose HIV-1 expressed a mean of 3 zidovudine-associated RT amino acid substitutions (M41L, D67N, K70R, L210W, T215Y/F, or K219Q/E/N) showed a 3.1-fold decrease in the susceptibility to tenofovir. Subjects whose virus expressed an L74V substitution without zidovudine resistance-associated substitutions (N = 8) had reduced response to VIREAD. Limited data are available for patients whose virus expressed a Y115F substitution (N = 3), Q151M substitution (N = 2), or T69 insertion (N = 4), all of whom had a reduced response.

Long-term oral carcinogenicity studies of TDF in mice and rats were carried out at exposures up to approximately 16 times (mice) and 5 times (rats) those observed in humans at the therapeutic dose for HIV-1 infection. At the high dose in female mice, liver adenomas were increased at exposures 16 times that in humans. In rats, the study was negative for carcinogenic findings at exposures up to 5 times that observed in humans at the therapeutic dose.

TDF was mutagenic in the in vitro mouse lymphoma assay and negative in an in vitro bacterial mutagenicity test (Ames test). In an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay, TDF was negative when administered to male mice.

There were no effects on fertility, mating performance or early embryonic development when TDF was administered to male rats at a dose equivalent to 10 times the human dose based on body surface area comparisons for 28 days prior to mating and to female rats for 15 days prior to mating through day seven of gestation. There was, however, an alteration of the estrous cycle in female rats.

Tenofovir and TDF administered in toxicology studies to rats, dogs, and monkeys at exposures (based on AUCs) greater than or equal to 6-fold those observed in humans caused bone toxicity. In monkeys the bone toxicity was diagnosed as osteomalacia. Osteomalacia observed in monkeys appeared to be reversible upon dose reduction or discontinuation of tenofovir. In rats and dogs, the bone toxicity manifested as reduced bone mineral density. The mechanism(s) underlying bone toxicity is unknown.

Evidence of renal toxicity was noted in 4 animal species. Increases in serum creatinine, BUN, glycosuria, proteinuria, phosphaturia, and/or calciuria and decreases in serum phosphate were observed to varying degrees in these animals. These toxicities were noted at exposures (based on AUCs) 2 to 20 times higher than those observed in humans. The relationship of the renal abnormalities, particularly the phosphaturia, to the bone toxicity is not known.

SYMFI is a complete regimen for the treatment of HIV-1 infection; therefore, it should not be administered with other antiretroviral medications for treatment of HIV-1 infection.

There is limited information available on the potential for a pharmacodynamic interaction between EFV and drugs that prolong the QTc interval. QTc prolongation has been observed with the use of EFV [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.2)]. Consider alternatives to EFV when coadministered with a drug with a known risk of Torsade de Pointes.

Since tenofovir is primarily eliminated by the kidneys [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], coadministration of EFV/3TC/TDF with drugs that reduce renal function or compete for active tubular secretion may increase serum concentrations of tenofovir and/or increase the concentrations of other renally eliminated drugs. Some examples include, but are not limited to cidofovir, acyclovir, valacyclovir, ganciclovir, valganciclovir, aminoglycosides (e.g., gentamicin), and high-dose or multiple NSAIDs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

EFV does not bind to cannabinoid receptors. False-positive urine cannabinoid test results have been reported with some screening assays in uninfected and HIV-infected subjects receiving EFV. Confirmation of positive screening tests for cannabinoids by a more specific method is recommended.

EFV has been shown in vivo to induce CYP3A and CYP2B6. Other compounds that are substrates of CYP3A or CYP2B6 may have decreased plasma concentrations when coadministered with EFV.

Drugs that induce CYP3A activity (e.g., phenobarbital, rifampin, rifabutin) would be expected to increase the clearance of EFV resulting in lowered plasma concentrations.

No drug interaction studies have been conducted using SYMFI. However, drug interaction studies have been conducted with the individual components of SYMFI (EFV, 3TC, and TDF) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

Drug interactions with EFV are summarized in Table 3 [for pharmacokinetics data see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3, Tables 6 and 7)]. This table includes potentially significant interactions, but is not all inclusive.

No dosage adjustment is recommended when SYMFI is administered with the following: aluminum/magnesium hydroxide antacids, azithromycin, cetirizine, famotidine, fluconazole, and lorazepam.

3TC, a component of SYMFI, is predominantly eliminated in the urine by active organic cationic secretion. The possibility of interactions with other drugs administered concurrently should be considered, particularly when their main route of elimination is active renal secretion via the organic cationic transport system (e.g., trimethoprim) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. No data are available regarding interactions with other drugs that have renal clearance mechanisms similar to that of 3TC.

Coadministration of single doses of 3TC and sorbitol resulted in a sorbitol dose-dependent reduction in 3TC exposures. When possible, avoid use of sorbitol-containing medicines with 3TC [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to SYMFI during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the Antiretroviral Pregnancy Registry (APR) at 1-800-258-4263.

There are retrospective case reports of neural tube defects in infants whose mothers were exposed to EFV-containing regimens in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Although a causal relationship has not been established between exposure to EFV in the first trimester and neural tube defects, similar malformations have been observed in studies conducted in monkeys at doses similar to the human dose. In addition, fetal and embryonic toxicities occurred in rats, at a dose ten times less than the human exposure at recommended clinical dose. Because of the potential risk of neural tube defects, EFV should not be used in the first trimester of pregnancy. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.

Prospective pregnancy data from the APR are not sufficient to adequately assess this risk of birth defects or miscarriage. EFV and 3TC have been evaluated in a limited number of women as reported to the APR. Available data from the APR show no difference in the risk of major birth defects for EFV and 3TC compared to the background rate for major birth defects of 2.7% in the U.S. reference population of the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program (MACDP) (see Data).

3TC produced embryonic toxicity in rabbits at a dose that produced similar human exposures as the recommended clinical dose. The relevance of animal findings to human pregnancy registry data is not known. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies with TDF in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, TDF should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

The rate of miscarriage is not reported in the APR. The estimated background rate of miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies in the U.S. general population is 15% to 20%. The background risk for major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. The APR uses the MACDP as the U.S. reference population for birth defects in the general population. The MACDP evaluates women and infants from a limited geographic area and does not include outcomes for births that occurred at less than 20 weeks’ gestation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that HIV-1-infected mothers not breastfeed their infants to avoid risking postnatal transmission of HIV-1 infection.

Because of potential teratogenic effects, pregnancy should be avoided in women receiving SYMFI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7),Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Females of reproductive potential should undergo pregnancy testing before initiation of SYMFI.

Females of reproductive potential should use effective contraception during treatment with SYMFI and for 12 weeks after discontinuing SYMFI due to the long half-life of EFV. Barrier contraception should always be used in combination with other methods of contraception. Hormonal methods that contain progesterone may have decreased effectiveness [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].

The safety and effectiveness of SYMFI as a fixed-dose tablet in pediatric patients infected with HIV-1 and weighing at least 40 kg have been established based on clinical studies using the individual components (efavirenz, lamivudine, and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate).

Clinical studies of SYMFI did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, caution should be exercised in the administration of 3TC in elderly patients reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

SYMFI is not recommended for patients with impaired renal function (i.e., creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min) or patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis because it is a fixed-dose combination formulation that cannot be adjusted [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

SYMFI is not recommended for patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment because there are insufficient data to determine whether dose adjustment is necessary. Patients with mild hepatic impairment may be treated with SYMFI without any adjustment in dose [see Dosage and Administration (2.4), Warnings and Precautions (5.9) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

If overdose occurs the patient must be monitored for evidence of toxicity, and standard supportive treatment applied as necessary.

Efavirenz: Some patients accidentally taking 600 mg twice daily have reported increased nervous system symptoms. One patient experienced involuntary muscle contractions.

Treatment of overdose with EFV should consist of general supportive measures, including monitoring of vital signs and observation of the patient’s clinical status. Administration of activated charcoal may be used to aid removal of unabsorbed drug. There is no specific antidote for overdose with efavirenz. Since efavirenz is highly protein bound, dialysis is unlikely to significantly remove the drug from blood.

Lamivudine: There is no known specific treatment for overdose with 3TC. If overdose occurs, the patient should be monitored and standard supportive treatment applied as required because a negligible amount of 3TC was removed via (4-hour) hemodialysis, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis, and automated peritoneal dialysis, it is not known if continuous hemodialysis would provide clinical benefit in a 3TC overdose event.

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: Limited clinical experience at doses higher than the therapeutic dose of TDF 300 mg is available.

Tenofovir is efficiently removed by hemodialysis with an extraction coefficient of approximately 54%. Following a single 300 mg dose of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, a 4-hour hemodialysis session removed approximately 10% of the administered tenofovir dose.

SYMFI tablets contain efavirenz, an HIV-1 specific, non-nucleoside, reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI), lamivudine (also known as 3TC), a synthetic nucleoside analogue with activity against HIV-1 and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate or tenofovir DF (a prodrug of tenofovir), a fumaric acid salt of bis-isopropoxycarbonyloxymethyl ester derivative of tenofovir. In vivo tenofovir DF is converted to tenofovir, an acyclic nucleoside phosphonate (nucleotide) analog of adenosine 5’-monophosphate. Tenofovir exhibits activity against HIV-1 reverse transcriptase.

SYMFI tablets are for oral administration. Each film-coated tablet contains 600 mg of efavirenz, 300 mg of lamivudine and 300 mg of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate, which is equivalent to 245 mg of tenofovir disoproxil, and the following inactive ingredients: croscarmellose sodium, hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polyvinyl alcohol, sodium chloride, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc and titanium dioxide.

Efavirenz: The chemical name of efavirenz is (4S)-6-chloro-4-(cyclopropylethynyl)-1,4-dihydro-4-(trifluoromethyl)-2H-3,1-benzoxazin-2-one. Its molecular formula is C₁₄H₉ClF₃NO₂ and its structural formula is:

Efavirenz Structural Formula (Image 02)

Efavirenz is a white to slightly pink crystalline powder with a molecular mass of 315.68. It is soluble in methanol and practically insoluble in water (< 10 microgram/mL).

Lamivudine: The chemical name of lamivudine is (-)-1-[(2R,5S)-2-(Hydroxymethyl)-1,3-oxathiolan-5-yl]cytosine. Lamivudine is the (-)enantiomer of a dideoxy analogue of cytidine. Lamivudine has also been referred to as (-)2′,3′-dideoxy, 3′-thiacytidine. It has a molecular formula of C₈H₁₁N₃O₃S and a molecular weight of 229.26 g per mol. It has the following structural formula:

Lamivudine Structural Formula (Image 03)

Lamivudine is a white to off-white solid with a solubility of approximately 70 mg per mL in water at 20°C.

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: The chemical name of tenofovir DF is 9-[(R)-2-[[Bis[[(isopropoxycarbonyl)oxy]methoxy]phosphinyl]methoxy]propyl]adenine fumarate (1:1). It has a molecular formula of C₁₉H₃₀N₅O₁₀P•C₄H₄O₄ and a molecular weight of 635.51. It has the following structural formula:

Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate Structural Formula (Image 04)

Tenofovir DF is a white to off-white powder with a solubility of 13.4 mg/mL in distilled water at 25°C. It has an octanol/phosphate buffer (pH 6.5) partition coefficient (log p) of 1.25 at 25°C.

SYMFI is a fixed-dose combination of antiviral drugs EFV, 3TC, and TDF with antiviral activity against HIV-1 [see Microbiology (12.4)].

The effect of EFV on the QTc interval was evaluated in an open-label, positive and placebo-controlled, fixed single sequence 3-period, 3-treatment crossover QT study in 58 healthy subjects enriched for CYP2B6 polymorphisms. The mean C_max of EFV in subjects with CYP2B6 *6/*6 genotype following the administration of 600 mg daily dose for 14 days was 2.25-fold the mean C_max observed in subjects with CYP2B6 *1/*1 genotype. A positive relationship between EFV concentration and QTc prolongation was observed. Based on the concentration-QTc relationship, the mean QTc prolongation and its upper bound 90% confidence interval are 8.7 ms and 11.3 ms in subjects with CYP2B6*6/*6 genotype following the administration of 600 mg daily dose for 14 days [see Warnings and Precautions (5.17)].

The effect of food on SYMFI has not been evaluated.

There are no significant or clinically relevant racial differences in EFV and 3TC pharmacokinetics.

There are no significant or clinically relevant gender differences in the pharmacokinetics of EFV, 3TC, and TDF.

The pharmacokinetics of 3TC and TDF have not been studied in patients over 65 years of age.

[See Use in Specific Populations (8.6).]

[See Drug Interactions (7).]

Based on in vitro study results, 3TC at therapeutic drug exposures is not expected to affect the pharmacokinetics of drugs that are substrates of the following transporters: organic anion transporter polypeptide 1B1/3 (OATP1B1/3), breast cancer resistance protein (BCRP), P-glycoprotein (P-gp), multidrug and toxin extrusion protein 1 (MATE1), MATE2-K, organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1), OCT2, or OCT3.

3TC is a substrate of MATE1, MATE2-K, and OCT2 in vitro. Trimethoprim (an inhibitor of these drug transporters) has been shown to increase 3TC plasma concentrations. This interaction is not considered clinically significant as no dose adjustment of 3TC is needed.

3TC is a substrate of P-gp and BCRP; however, considering its absolute bioavailability (87%), it is unlikely that these transporters play a significant role in the absorption of 3TC. Therefore, coadministration of drugs that are inhibitors of these efflux transporters is unlikely to affect the disposition and elimination of 3TC.

There was no significant pharmacokinetic interaction between 3TC and interferon alfa in a trial of 19 healthy male subjects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

In vitro data indicate ribavirin reduces phosphorylation of 3TC, stavudine, and zidovudine. However, no pharmacokinetic (e.g., plasma concentrations or intracellular triphosphorylated active metabolite concentrations) or pharmacodynamic (e.g., loss of HIV-1/HCV virologic suppression) interaction was observed when ribavirin and 3TC (n = 18), stavudine (n = 10), or zidovudine (n = 6) were coadministered as part of a multi-drug regimen to HIV-1/HCV co-infected subjects [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].

3TC and sorbitol solutions were coadministered to 16 healthy adult subjects in an open-label, randomized sequence, 4-period, crossover trial. Each subject received a single 300-mg dose of 3TC oral solution alone or coadministered with a single dose of 3.2 grams, 10.2 grams, or 13.4 grams of sorbitol in solution. Coadministration of 3TC with sorbitol resulted in dose-dependent decreases of 20%, 39%, and 44% in the AUC_(0-24), 14%, 32%, and 36% in the AUC_(∞), and 28%, 52%, and 55% in the C_max of lamivudine.

3TC and TMP/SMX were coadministered to 14 HIV-1-positive subjects in a single-center, open-label, randomized, crossover trial. Each subject received treatment with a single 300-mg dose of 3TC and TMP 160 mg/SMX 800 mg once a day for 5 days with concomitant administration of 3TC 300 mg with the fifth dose in a crossover design. Coadministration of TMP/SMX with 3TC resulted in an increase of 43% ± 23% (mean ± SD) in 3TC AUC_∞, a decrease of 29% ± 13% in 3TC oral clearance, and a decrease of 30% ± 36% in 3TC renal clearance. The pharmacokinetic properties of TMP and SMX were not altered by coadministration with 3TC. There is no information regarding the effect on 3TC pharmacokinetics of higher doses of TMP/SMX such as those used in treating PCP.

The efficacy of EFV 600 mg, 3TC 300 mg, and TDF 300 mg in the treatment of HIV-1 infection in adults with no antiretroviral treatment history was established in Trial 903.

Data through 144 weeks are reported for Trial 903, a double-blind, active-controlled multicenter trial comparing EFV 600 mg + 3TC 300 mg + TDF 300 mg vs. EFV 600 mg + 3TC 300 mg + stavudine (d4T) 40 mg in 600 antiretroviral-naïve subjects. Subjects had a mean age of 36 years (range 18-64); 74% were male, 64% were Caucasian, and 20% were Black. The mean baseline CD4+ cell count was 279 cells/mm³ (range 3-956) and median baseline plasma HIV-1 RNA was 77,600 copies/mL (range 417−5,130,000). Subjects were stratified by baseline HIV-1 RNA and CD4+ cell count. Forty-three percent of subjects had baseline viral loads > 100,000 copies/mL and 39% had CD4+ cell counts < 200 cells/mm³. Treatment outcomes through 48 and 144 weeks are presented in Table 9.

Achievement of plasma HIV-1 RNA concentrations of less than 400 copies/mL at Week 144 was similar between the two treatment groups for the population stratified at baseline on the basis of HIV-1 RNA concentration (> or ≤ 100,000 copies/mL) and CD4+ cell count (< or ≥ 200 cells/mm³). Through 144 weeks of therapy, 62% and 58% of subjects in the TDF and stavudine arms, respectively, achieved and maintained confirmed HIV-1 RNA < 50 copies/mL. The mean increase from baseline in CD4+ cell count was 263 cells/mm³ for the TDF arm and 283 cells/mm³ for the stavudine arm.

Through 144 weeks, 11 subjects in the TDF group and 9 subjects in the stavudine group experienced a new CDC Class C event.

SYMFI (efavirenz, lamivudine and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate) Tablets 600 mg/300 mg/300 mg are white, film-coated, capsule shaped, debossed with M 152 on one side of the tablet and plain on the other side. They are available as follows:

NDC 49502-475-93
cartons containing bottles of 30 tablets with desiccant, induction seal and child-resistant cap

Store below 30°C (86°F).

Keep the bottle tightly closed.

Dispense in original container.

Do not use if seal over bottle opening is broken or missing.

Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Patient Information).

Drug Interactions: SYMFI may interact with many drugs; therefore, advise patients to report to their healthcare provider the use of any other prescription, nonprescription medication, or herbal products, particularly St. John’s wort [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7)].

Lactic Acidosis and Severe Hepatomegaly: Inform patients that lactic acidosis and severe hepatomegaly with steatosis, including fatal cases, have been reported. Treatment with SYMFI should be suspended in any patient who develops clinical symptoms suggestive of lactic acidosis or pronounced hepatotoxicity (including nausea, vomiting, unusual or unexpected stomach discomfort, and weakness) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].

Post Treatment Acute Exacerbation of Hepatitis B in Patients with HBV Co-Infection: Severe acute exacerbations of hepatitis have been reported in patients who are infected with HBV or coinfected with HBV and HIV-1 and have discontinued 3TC and TDF, components of SYMFI. Test patients with HIV-1 for hepatitis B virus (HBV) before initiating antiretroviral therapy. In patients with chronic hepatitis B, it is important to obtain HIV antibody testing prior to initiating 3TC and TDF, components of SYMFI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].

New Onset or Worsening Renal Impairment: Inform patients that renal impairment, including cases of acute renal failure and Fanconi syndrome, has been reported. Advise patients with impaired renal function (i.e., creatinine clearance less than 50 mL/min) or patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring hemodialysis to avoid SYMFI with concurrent or recent use of a nephrotoxic agent (e.g., high-dose or multiple NSAIDs) for patients [see Dosage and Administration (2.3), Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].

Psychiatric Symptoms: Inform patients that serious psychiatric symptoms including severe depression, suicide attempts, aggressive behavior, delusions, paranoia, psychosis-like symptoms and catatonia have been reported in patients receiving EFV [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. Advise patients to seek immediate medical evaluation if they experience severe psychiatric adverse experiences. Advise patients to inform their physician of any history of mental illness or substance abuse.

Nervous System Symptoms: Inform patients that central nervous system symptoms (NSS) including dizziness, insomnia, impaired concentration, drowsiness, and abnormal dreams are commonly reported during the first weeks of therapy with EFV, a component of SYMFI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)]. Dosing at bedtime may improve the tolerability of these symptoms, which are likely to improve with continued therapy. Alert patients to the potential for additive effects when used concomitantly with alcohol or psychoactive drugs. Instruct patients that if they experience NSS they should avoid potentially hazardous tasks such as driving or operating machinery.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity: Advise female patients that EFV, a component of SYMFI may cause fetal harm when administered during the first trimester to a pregnant woman. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception as well as a barrier method during treatment with SYMFI and for 12 weeks after discontinuation of use. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider if they plan to become pregnant, become pregnant, or if pregnancy is suspected during treatment with SYMFI [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3)].

Rash: Inform patients that rash is a common side effect of EFV [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]. Rashes usually go away without any change in treatment. However, since rash may be serious, patients should be advised to contact their physician promptly if rash occurs.

Hepatotoxicity: Inform patients to watch for early warning signs of liver inflammation or failure, such as fatigue, weakness, lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, as well as later signs such as jaundice, confusion, abdominal swelling, and discolored feces and to consult their healthcare provider promptly if such symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Risk of Hepatic Decompensation in Patients with HIV-1/HCV Co-Infection: Inform patients with HIV-1/HCV co-infection that hepatic decompensation (some fatal) has occurred in HIV-1/HCV co-infected patients receiving combination antiretroviral therapy for HIV-1 and interferon alfa with or without ribavirin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].

Pancreatitis: Advise patients or guardians to monitor pediatric patients for signs and symptoms of pancreatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].

Convulsions: Advise patients that convulsions have been observed in patients receiving EFV, a component of SYMFI, generally in patients with known medical history of seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].

Lipid Elevations: Advise patients treatment with EFV, a component of SYMFI has resulted in increases in the concentration of total cholesterol and triglycerides [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)].

Decreases in Bone Mineral Density: Advise patients that decreases in bone mineral density have been observed with the use of 3TC and TDF, components of SYMFI, in patients with HIV [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].

Immune Reconstitution Syndrome: Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider immediately of any symptoms of infection, as in some patients with advanced HIV infection, signs and symptoms of inflammation from previous infections may occur soon after anti-HIV treatment is started [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15)].

Fat Redistribution: Inform patients that redistribution or accumulation of body fat may occur in patients receiving antiretroviral therapy, including SYMFI, and that the cause and long‑term health effects of these conditions are not known at this time [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)].

Administration Instructions: Inform patients that it is important to take SYMFI once daily on a regular dosing schedule on an empty stomach, preferably at bedtime, and to avoid missing doses as it can result in development of resistance. Advise patients if a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible unless it is almost time for the next dose. Also advise patients that dosing at bedtime may improve the tolerability of nervous system symptoms [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)].

Pregnancy Registry: Advise patients that there is an antiretroviral pregnancy registry to monitor fetal outcomes in women exposed to SYMFI [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

Lactation: Instruct women with HIV-1 infection not to breastfeed because HIV-1 can be passed to the baby in breast milk [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)].

Other brands listed are the registered trademarks of their respective owners and are not trademarks of Mylan Laboratories Limited or Mylan Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Rx only

Manufactured for:
Mylan Specialty L.P.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.

Manufactured by:
Mylan Laboratories Limited
Hyderabad — 500 096, India

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements.

Some medicines interact with SYMFI. SYMFI may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how SYMFI works. Keep a list of your medicines and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

• You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a list of medicines that interact with SYMFI.
• Do not start taking a new medicine without telling your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take SYMFI with other medicines.

The most common side effects of SYMFI are:

This Patient Information has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.     Issued: 3/2018

NDC 49502-475-93     Rx only

SYMFI^TM
(efavirenz, lamivudine,
and tenofovir disoproxil
fumarate) tablets
600 mg/300 mg/300 mg*

Note to pharmacist: Do not cover
ALERT box with pharmacy label.

ALERT: Find out about
medicines that should NOT
be taken with SYMFI™.

30 tablets

*Each film-coated tablet contains:
Efavirenz, USP 600 mg
Lamivudine, USP 300 mg
Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate 300 mg
(equivalent to 245 mg of tenofovir
disoproxil)

Usual Dosage: See accompanying
prescribing information.

Keep this and all medication
out of the reach of children.

Store below 30°C (86°F).

Dispense only in original container.
Keep container tightly closed.

Manufactured for:
Mylan Specialty L.P.
Morgantown, WV 26505 U.S.A.

Made in India

Code No.: MP/DRUGS/25/1/2014

MS:MXI:47593:1C:R2

Mylan.com

Symfi (efavirenz, Lamivudine And Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate) Tablets 600 mg/300 mg/300 mg Carton Label (Image 01)