Other
Malignancies and Serious Infections
- Only physicians experienced in immunosuppressive therapy and management of transplant patients should prescribe everolimus. Patients receiving the drug should be managed in facilities equipped and staffed with adequate laboratory and supportive medical resources. The physician responsible for maintenance therapy should have complete information requisite for the follow-up of the patient [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)].
- Increased susceptibility to infection and the possible development of malignancies such as lymphoma and skin cancer may result from immunosuppression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2, 5.3)].
- Increased nephrotoxicity can occur with use of standard doses of cyclosporine in combination with everolimus. Therefore reduced doses of cyclosporine should be used in combination with everolimus in order to reduce renal dysfunction. It is important to monitor the cyclosporine and everolimus whole blood trough concentrations [see Dosage and Administration (2.4, 2.5), Warnings and Precautions (5.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.7, 12.8)].
- Increased mortality, often associated with serious infections, within the first three months post-transplantation was observed in a clinical trial of de novo heart transplant patients receiving immunosuppressive regimens with or without induction therapy. Use in heart transplantation is not recommended [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)].
- Angioedema [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)]
- Interstitial Lung Disease/Non-Infectious Pneumonitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10), Adverse Reactions (6.1)]
- Pericardial effusions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)]
- Pancreatitis
- Thrombotic Microangiopathy (TMA), Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (TTP), and Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15)]
Kidney Graft Thrombosis
An increased risk of kidney arterial and venous thrombosis, resulting in graft loss, was reported, mostly within the first 30 days post-transplantation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]
Nephrotoxicity
Mortality in Heart Transplantation
Kidney Transplantation
The data described below reflect exposure to everolimus in an open-label, randomized trial of de novo kidney transplant patients of concentration-controlled everolimus at an initial everolimus starting dose of 1.5 mg per day [target trough concentrations 3 to 8 ng/mL with reduced exposure cyclosporine (N=274) compared to mycophenolic acid (N=273) with standard exposure cyclosporine]. All patients received basiliximab induction therapy and corticosteroids. The population was between 18 and 70 years, more than 43% were 50 years of age or older (mean age was 46 years in the everolimus group, 47 years control group); a majority of recipients were male (64% in the everolimus group, 69% control group); and a majority of patients were Caucasian (70% in the everolimus group, 69% control group). Demographic characteristics were comparable between treatment groups. The most frequent diseases leading to transplantation were balanced between groups and included hypertension/nephrosclerosis, glomerulonephritis/glomerular disease and diabetes mellitus. Significantly more patients discontinued everolimus 1.5 mg per day treatment (83/277, 30%) than discontinued the control regimen (60/277, 22%). Of those patients who prematurely discontinued treatment, most discontinuations were due to adverse reactions: 18% in the everolimus group compared to 9% in the control group (p-value = 0.004). This difference was more prominent between treatment groups among female patients. In those patients discontinuing study medication, adverse reactions were collected up to 7 days after study medication discontinuation and serious adverse reactions up to 30 days after study medication discontinuation.
Discontinuation of everolimus at a higher dose (3 mg per day) was 95/279, 34%, including 20% due to adverse reactions, and this regimen is not recommended (see below).
The overall incidences of serious adverse reactions were 57% (159/278) in the everolimus group and 52% (141/273) in the mycophenolic acid group. Infections and infestations reported as serious adverse reactions had the highest incidence in both groups [20% (54/274) in the everolimus group and 25% (69/273) in the control group]. The difference was mainly due to the higher incidence of viral infections in the mycophenolic acid group, mainly CMV and BK virus infections. Injury, poisoning and procedural complications reported as serious adverse reactions had the second highest incidence in both groups [14% (39/274) in the everolimus group and 12% (32/273) in the control group] followed by renal and urinary disorders [10% (28/274) in the everolimus group and 13% (36/273) in the control group] and vascular disorders [10% (26/274) in the everolimus group and 7% (20/273) in the control group].
A total of 13 patients died during the first 12 months of study; 7 (3%) in the everolimus group and 6 (2%) in the control group. The most common causes of death across the study groups were related to cardiac conditions and infections.
There were 12 (4%) graft losses in the everolimus group and 8 (3%) in the control group over the 12 month study period. Of the graft losses, 4 were due to renal artery and two due to renal vein thrombosis in the everolimus group (2%) compared to two renal artery thromboses in the control group (1%) [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
The most common (greater than or equal to 20%) adverse reactions observed in the everolimus group were: peripheral edema, constipation, hypertension, nausea, anemia, urinary tract infection, and hyperlipidemia.
Infections
The overall incidence of bacterial, fungal and viral infections reported as adverse reactions was higher in the control group (68%) compared to the everolimus group (64%) and was primarily due to an increased number of viral infections (21% in the control group and 10% in the everolimus group). The incidence of CMV infections reported as adverse reactions was 8% in the control group compared to 1% in the everolimus group; and 3% of the serious CMV infections in the control group versus 0% in the everolimus group were considered serious [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
BK Virus
BK virus infections were lower in incidence in the everolimus group (2 patients, 1%) compared to the control group (11 patients, 4%). One of the two BK virus infections in the everolimus group, and two of the 11 BK virus infections in the control group were also reported as serious adverse reactions. BK virus infections did not result in graft loss in any of the groups in the clinical trial.
Wound Healing and Fluid Collections
Wound healing-related reactions were identified through a retrospective search and request for additional data. The overall incidence of wound-related reactions, including lymphocele, seroma, hematoma, dehiscence, incisional hernia, and infections was 35% in the everolimus group compared to 26% in the control group. More patients required intraoperative repair debridement or drainage of incisional wound complications and more required drainage of lymphoceles and seromas in the everolimus group compared to control.
Adverse reactions due to major fluid collections such as edema and other types of fluid collections was 45% in the everolimus group and 40% in the control group [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Neoplasms
Adverse reactions due to malignant and benign neoplasms were reported in 3% of patients in the everolimus group and 6% in the control group. The most frequently reported neoplasms in the control group were basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, skin papilloma and seborrheic keratosis. One patient in the everolimus group who underwent a melanoma excision prior to transplantation died due to metastatic melanoma [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
New Onset Diabetes Mellitus (NODM)
NODM reported based on adverse reactions and random serum glucose values, was 9% in the everolimus group compared to 7% in the control group.
Endocrine Effects in Males
In the everolimus group, serum testosterone levels significantly decreased while the FSH levels significantly increased without significant changes being observed in the control group. In both the everolimus and the control groups mean testosterone and FSH levels remained within the normal range with the mean FSH level in the everolimus group being at the upper limit of the normal range (11.1 U/L). More patients were reported with erectile dysfunction in the everolimus treatment group compared to the control group (5% compared to 2%, respectively).
Table 2 compares the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported with an incidence of greater than or equal to 10% for patients receiving everolimus with reduced dose cyclosporine or mycophenolic acid with standard dose cyclosporine. Within each MedDRA system organ class, the adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing frequency.
| Primary System Organ Class Preferred Term | Everolimus tablets 1.5 mg With Reduced Exposure Cyclosporine N = 274 n (%) | Mycophenolic Acid 1.44 g With Standard Exposure Cyclosporine N = 273 n (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Any Adverse Reactions | 271 (99) | 270 (99) |
| Blood Lymphatic System Disorders | 93 (34) | 111 (41) |
| Anemia | 70 (26) | 68 (25) |
| Leukopenia | 8 (3) | 33 (12) |
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | 196 (72) | 207 (76) |
| Constipation | 105 (38) | 117 (43) |
| Nausea | 79 (29) | 85 (31) |
| Diarrhea | 51 (19) | 54 (20) |
| Vomiting | 40 (15) | 60 (22) |
| Abdominal pain | 36 (13) | 42 (15) |
| Dyspepsia | 12 (4) | 31 (11) |
| Abdominal pain upper | 9 (3) | 30 (11) |
| General Disorders and Administrative site Conditions | 181 (66) | 160 (59) |
| Edema Peripheral | 123 (45) | 108 (40) |
| Pyrexia | 51 (19) | 40 (15) |
| Fatigue | 25 (9) | 28 (10) |
| Infections and Infestations | 169 (62) | 185 (68) |
| Urinary Tract Infection | 60 (22) | 63 (23) |
| Upper Respiratory Tract Infection | 44 (16) | 49 (18) |
| Injury, Poisoning and Procedural Complications | 163 (60) | 163 (60) |
| Incision site pain | 45 (16) | 47 (17) |
| Procedural pain | 40 (15) | 37 (14) |
| Investigations | 137 (50) | 133 (49) |
| Blood creatinine Increased | 48 (18) | 59 (22) |
| Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders | 222 (81) | 199 (73) |
| Hyperlipidemia | 57 (21) | 43 (16) |
| Hyperkalemia | 49 (18) | 48 (18) |
| Hypercholesterolemia | 47 (17) | 34 (13) |
| Dyslipidemia | 41 (15) | 24 (9) |
| Hypomagnesemia | 37 (14) | 40 (15) |
| Hypophosphatemia | 35 (13) | 35 (13) |
| Hyperglycemia | 34 (12) | 38 (14) |
| Hypokalemia | 32 (12) | 32 (12) |
| Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders | 112 (41) | 105 (39) |
| Pain in Extremity | 32 (12) | 29 (11) |
| Back pain | 30 (11) | 28 (10) |
| Nervous System Disorders | 92 (34) | 109 (40) |
| Headache | 49 (18) | 40 (15) |
| Tremor | 23 (8) | 38 (14) |
| Psychiatric Disorders | 90 (33) | 72 (26) |
| Insomnia | 47 (17) | 43 (16) |
| Renal and Urinary Disorders | 112 (41) | 124 (45) |
| Hematuria | 33 (12) | 33 (12) |
| Dysuria | 29 (11) | 28 (10) |
| Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders | 86 (31) | 93 (34) |
| Cough | 20 (7) | 30 (11) |
| Vascular Disorders | 122 (45) | 124 (45) |
| Hypertension | 81 (30) | 82 (30) |
Adverse reaction that occurred with at least a 5% higher frequency in the everolimus 1.5 mg group compared to the control group were: peripheral edema (45% compared to 40%), hyperlipidemia (21% compared to 16%), dyslipidemia (15% compared to 9%), and stomatitis/mouth ulceration (8% compared to 3%).
A third treatment group of everolimus 3 mg per day (1.5 mg twice daily; target trough concentrations 6 to 12 ng/mL) with reduced exposure cyclosporine was included in the study described above. Although as effective as the lower dose everolimus group, the overall safety was worse and consequently higher doses of everolimus cannot be recommended. Out of 279 patients, 95 (34%) discontinued the study medication with 57 (20%) doing so because of adverse reactions. The most frequent adverse reactions leading to discontinuation of everolimus when used at this higher dose were injury, poisoning and procedural complications (everolimus 1.5 mg: 5%, everolimus 3 mg: 7%, and control: 2%), infections (2%, 6%, and 3%, respectively), renal and urinary disorders (4%, 7%, and 4%, respectively) and gastrointestinal disorders (1%, 3%, and 2%).
The combination of fixed dose everolimus and standard doses of cyclosporine in previous kidney clinical trials resulted in frequent elevations of serum creatinine with higher mean and median serum creatinine values observed than in the current study with reduced exposure cyclosporine. These results indicate that everolimus increases the cyclosporine-induced nephrotoxicity; and therefore should only be used in a concentration-controlled regimen with reduced exposure cyclosporine [see Boxed Warnings, Indications and Usage (1.1) and Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Liver Transplantation
The data described below reflect exposure to everolimus starting 30 days after transplantation in an open-label, randomized trial of liver transplant patients. Seven hundred and nineteen (719) patients who fulfilled the inclusion/exclusion criteria [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] were randomized into one of the three treatment groups of the study. During the first 30 days prior to randomization patients received tacrolimus and corticosteroids, with or without mycophenolate mofetil (about 70% to 80% received MMF). No induction antibody was administered. At randomization, MMF was discontinued and patients were randomized to everolimus initial dose of 1 mg twice per day (2 mg daily) and adjusted to protocol specified target trough concentrations of 3 to 8 ng/mL with reduced exposure tacrolimus [protocol specified target troughs 3 to 5 ng/mL] (N = 245) [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.7, 12.9)] or to a control group of standard exposure tacrolimus [protocol specified target troughs 8 to 12 ng/mL up to Month 4 post-transplant, then 6 to 10 ng/mL Month 4 through Month 12 post-transplant] (N = 241). A third randomized group was discontinued prematurely [see Clinical Studies (14.2)] and is not described in this section.
The population was between 18 and 70 years, more than 50% were 50 years of age (mean age was 54 years in the everolimus group, 55 years in the tacrolimus control group); 74% were male in both everolimus and control groups, respectively, and a majority were Caucasian (86% everolimus group, 80% control group). Demographic characteristics were comparable between treatment groups. The most frequent diseases leading to transplantation were balanced between groups. The most frequent causes of end-stage liver disease (ESLD) were alcoholic cirrhosis, hepatitis C, and hepatocellular carcinoma and were balanced between groups.
Twenty-seven percent (27%) discontinued study drug in the everolimus group compared with 22% for the tacrolimus control group during the first 12 months of study. The most common reason for discontinuation of study medication was due to adverse reactions (19% and 11%, respectively), including proteinuria, recurrent hepatitis C, and pancytopenia in the everolimus group. At 24 months, the rate of discontinuation of study medication in liver transplant patients was greater for the everolimus group (42%) compared to tacrolimus control group (33%).
The overall incidences of serious adverse reactions were 50% (122/245) in the everolimus group and 43% (104/241) in the control group at 12 months and similar at 24 months (56% and 54% respectively). Infections and infestations were reported as serious adverse reactions with the highest incidence followed by gastrointestinal disorders and hepatobiliary disorders.
During the first 12 months of study, 13 deaths were reported in the everolimus group (one patient never took everolimus). In the same 12 month period, 7 deaths were reported in the tacrolimus control group. Deaths occurred in both groups for a variety of reasons and were mostly associated with liver-related issues, infections and sepsis. In the following 12 months of study, four additional deaths were reported in each treatment group.
The most common adverse reactions (reported for greater or equal to 10% patients in any group) in the everolimus group were: diarrhea, headache, peripheral edema, hypertension, nausea, pyrexia, abdominal pain, and leukopenia (see Table 3).
Infections
The overall incidence of infections reported as adverse reactions was 50% for everolimus and 44% in the control group and similar at 24 months (56% and 52% respectively). The types of infections were reported as follows: bacterial 16% vs 12%, viral 17% vs 13%; and fungal infections 2% vs 5% for everolimus and control, respectively [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)].
Wound Healing and Fluid Collections
Wound healing complications were reported as adverse reactions for 11% of patients in the everolimus group compared to 8% of patients in the control group up to 24 months. Pleural effusions were reported in 5% in both groups, and ascites in 4% of patients in the everolimus group and 3% in the control arm.
Neoplasms
Malignant and benign neoplasms were reported as adverse reactions in 4% of patients in the everolimus group and 7% in the control group at 12 months. In the everolimus group, 3 malignant tumors were reported compared to 9 cases in the control group. For the everolimus group this included lymphoma, lymphoproliferative disorder and a hepatocellular carcinoma, and for the control group included Kaposi's sarcoma (2), metastatic colorectal cancer, glioblastoma, malignant hepatic neoplasm, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor, hemophagocytic histiocytosis, and squamous cell carcinomas. At 24 months, the rates of malignancies were similar (10% and 11% respectively) [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Lipid Abnormalities
Hyperlipidemia adverse reactions (including the preferred terms: hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, blood cholesterol increased, blood triglycerides increased, hypertriglyceridemia lipids increased, total cholesterol/HDL ratio increased, and dyslipidemia) were reported for 24% everolimus patients, and 10% control patients at 12 months. Results were similar at 24 months (28% and 12% respectively).
New Onset of Diabetes After Transplant (NODAT)
Of the patients without diabetes mellitus at randomization, NODAT was reported in 32% in the everolimus group compared to 29% in the control group at 12 months and similar at 24 months.
Table 3 compares the incidence of treatment-emergent adverse reactions reported with an incidence of greater than or equal to 10% for patients receiving everolimus with reduced exposure tacrolimus or standard dose tacrolimus from randomization to 24 months. Within each MedDRA system organ class, the adverse reactions are presented in order of decreasing frequency.
| Primary System Organ Class Preferred Term | 12 month | 24 month | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Everolimus with Reduced Exposure Tacrolimus N = 245 n (%) | Tacrolimus Standard Exposure N = 241 n (%) | Everolimus with Reduced Exposure Tacrolimus N = 245 n (%) | Tacrolimus Standard Exposure N = 242 n (%) | |
| Primary system organ classes are presented alphabetically. | ||||
| ** No de novo hepatitis C cases were reported. | ||||
| Any Adverse Reaction/Infection | 232 (95) | 229 (95) | 236 (96) | 237 (98) |
| Blood & Lymphatic System Disorders | 66 (27) | 47 (20) | 79 (32) | 58 (24) |
| - Leukopenia | 29 (12) | 12 (5) | 31 (13) | 12 (5) |
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | 136 (56) | 121 (50) | 148 (60) | 138 (57) |
| - Diarrhea | 47 (19) | 50 (21) | 59 (24) | 61 (25) |
| - Nausea | 33 (14) | 28 (12) | 36 (15) | 33 (14) |
| - Abdominal pain | 32 (13) | 22 (9) | 37 (15) | 31 (13) |
| General Disorders and Administration site Conditions | 94 (38) | 85 (35) | 113 (46) | 98 (41) |
| - Peripheral Edema | 43 (18) | 26 (11) | 49 (20) | 31 (13) |
| - Pyrexia | 32 (13) | 25 (10) | 43 (18) | 28 (12) |
| - Fatigue | 22 (9) | 26 (11) | 27 (11) | 28 (12) |
| Infections and Infestations | 123 (50) | 105 (44) | 135 (56) | 125 (52) |
| - Hepatitis C The safety analysis population is defined as all randomized liver transplant patients who received at least one dose of treatment and had at least one post-baseline safety assessment. | 28 (11) | 19 (8) | 33 (14) | 24 (10) |
| Investigations | 81 (33) | 78 (32) | 92 (38) | 98 (41) |
| - Liver function test abnormal | 16 (7) | 24 (10) | 19 (8) | 25 (10) |
| Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders | 111 (45) | 92 (38) | 134 (55) | 106 (44) |
| - Hypercholesterolemia | 23 (9) | 6 (3) | 27 (11) | 9 (4) |
| Nervous System Disorders | 89 (36) | 85 (35) | 99 (40) | 101 (42) |
| - Headache | 47 (19) | 46 (19) | 53 (22) | 54 (22) |
| - Tremor | 23 (9) | 29 (12) | 25 (10) | 37 (15) |
| - Insomnia | 14 (6) | 19 (8) | 17 (7) | 24 (10) |
| Renal and Urinary Disorders | 49 (20) | 53 (22) | 67 (27) | 73 (30) |
| - Renal failure | 13 (5) | 17 (7) | 24 (10) | 37 (15) |
| Vascular Disorders | 56 (23) | 57 (24) | 72 (29) | 68 (28) |
| - Hypertension | 42 (17) | 38 (16) | 52 (21) | 44 (18) |
Less common adverse reactions, occurring overall in greater than or equal to 1% to less than 10% of either kidney or liver transplant patients treated with everolimus include:
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: anemia, leukocytosis, lymphadenopathy, neutropenia, pancytopenia, thrombocythemia, thrombocytopenia
Cardiac and Vascular Disorders: angina pectoris, atrial fibrillation, cardiac failure congestive, palpitations, tachycardia, hypertension including hypertensive crisis, hypotension, deep vein thrombosis
Endocrine Disorders: Cushingoid, hyperparathyroidism, hypothyroidism
Eye Disorders: cataract, conjunctivitis, vision blurred
Gastrointestinal Disorders: abdominal distention, abdominal hernia, ascites, constipation, dyspepsia, dysphagia, epigastric discomfort, flatulence, gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, gingival hypertrophy, hematemesis, hemorrhoids, ileus, mouth ulceration, peritonitis, stomatitis
General Disorders and Administrative Site Conditions: chest discomfort, chest pain, chills, fatigue, incisional hernia, inguinal hernia, malaise, edema including generalized edema, pain
Hepatobiliary Disorders: hepatic enzyme increased, bile duct stenosis, bilirubin increased, cholangitis, cholestasis, hepatitis (non-infectious)
Infections and Infestations: BK virus infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13)], bacteremia, bronchitis, candidiasis, cellulitis, CMV, folliculitis, gastroenteritis, herpes infections, influenza, lower respiratory tract, nasopharyngitis, onychomycosis, oral candidiasis, oral herpes, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, pyelonephritis, sepsis, sinusitis, tinea pedis, upper respiratory tract infection, urethritis, urinary tract infection, wound infection [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.3)]
Injury Poisoning and Procedural Complications: incision site complications including infections, perinephric collection, seroma, wound dehiscence, incisional hernia, perinephric hematoma, localized intraabdominal fluid collection, impaired healing, lymophocele, lymphorrhea
Investigations: blood alkaline phosphatase increased, blood creatinine increased, blood glucose increased, hemoglobin decreased, white blood cell count decreased, transaminases increased
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: blood urea increased, acidosis, anorexia, dehydration, diabetes mellitus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)], decreased appetite, fluid retention, gout, hypercalcemia, hypertriglyceridemia, hyperuricemia, hypocalcemia, hypokalemia, hypoglycemia, hypomagnesemia, hyponatremia, iron deficiency, new onset diabetes mellitus, vitamin B12 deficiency
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissues Disorders: arthralgia, joint swelling, muscle spasms, muscular weakness, musculoskeletal pain, myalgia, osteoarthritis, osteonecrosis, osteopenia, osteoporosis, spondylitis
Nervous System Disorders: dizziness, hemiparesis, hypoesthesia, lethargy, migraine, neuralgia, paresthesia, somnolence, syncope, tremor
Psychiatric Disorders: agitation, anxiety, depression, hallucination
Renal and Urinary Disorders: bladder spasm, hydronephrosis, micturation urgency, nephritis interstitial, nocturia, pollakiuria, polyuria, proteinuria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)], pyuria, renal artery thrombosis [see Boxed Warning, Warnings and Precautions (5.4)], acute renal failure, renal impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)], renal tubular necrosis, urinary retention
Reproductive System and Breast Disorders: amenorrhea, benign prostatic hyperplasia, erectile dysfunction, ovarian cyst, scrotal edema
Respiratory, Thoracic, Mediastinal Disorders: atelectasis, bronchitis, dyspnea, cough, epistaxis, lower respiratory tract infection, nasal congestion, oropharyngeal pain, pleural effusions, pulmonary edema, rhinorrhea, sinus congestion, wheezing
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: acne, alopecia, dermatitis acneiform, ecchymosis, hirsutism, hyperhidrosis, hypertrichosis, night sweats, pruritus, rash
Vascular Disorders: venous thromboembolism (including deep vein thrombosis), phlebitis, pulmonary embolism
Less common, serious adverse reactions occurring overall in less than 1% of either kidney or liver transplant patients treated with everolimus include:
Risk Summary
Based on animal studies and the mechanism of action [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.1)], everolimus can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are limited case reports of everolimus use in pregnant women; however, these reports are insufficient to inform a drug associated risk of adverse developmental outcomes. Reproductive studies in animals have demonstrated that everolimus was maternally toxic in rabbits, and caused embryo-fetal toxicities in rats and rabbits, at exposures near or below those achieved in human transplant patients. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus.
The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown; however, in the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects is 2%-4% and of miscarriage is 15%-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Data
Animal Data
Everolimus crossed the placenta and was toxic to the conceptus.
Everolimus administered daily to pregnant rats by oral gavage at 0.1 mg/kg (approximately one tenth the exposure in humans administered the lowest starting dose of 0.75 mg twice daily), from before mating through organogenesis, resulted in increased preimplantation loss and embryonic resorptions. These effects occurred in the absence of maternal toxicities.
Everolimus administered daily by oral gavage to pregnant rabbits during organogenesis resulted in abortions, maternal toxicity and lethality, and increased fetal resorptions. At these doses, exposure to everolimus (AUC) was approximately one-tenth, one-half, and one and one-half fold the exposures in humans administered the starting clinical dose, respectively.
In a pre- and post-natal development study in rats, animals were dosed from implantation through lactation. At a dose of 0.1 mg/kg (0.6 mg/m2), there were no adverse effects on delivery and lactation or signs of maternal toxicity; however, there were reductions in body weight (up to 9% reduction) and in survival of offspring (~5%). There were no drug-related effects on the developmental parameters (morphological development, motor activity, learning, or fertility assessment) in the offspring.
Risk Summary
There is no data regarding the presence of everolimus in human milk, the effects on breastfed infants, or the effects on milk production. Everolimus and/or its metabolites are readily transferred into milk of lactating rats at a concentration 3.5 times higher than in maternal rat serum. In pre-post-natal and juvenile studies in rats, exposure to everolimus during the postnatal period caused developmental toxicity [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1), Nonclinical Toxicology (13.2)]. Advise lactating women not to breastfeed because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants exposed to everolimus.
Contraception
Females should not be pregnant or become pregnant while receiving everolimus. Advise females of reproductive potential that animal studies have been performed showing everolimus to be harmful to the mother and developing fetus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Females of reproductive potential are recommended to use highly effective contraception methods while receiving everolimus and up to 8 weeks after treatment has been stopped.
Infertility
Females
Amenorrhea occurred in female patients taking everolimus [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. everolimus may cause pre-implantation loss in females based on animal data [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Female fertility may be compromised by treatment with everolimus.
Males
Everolimus treatment may impair fertility in males based on human [see Warnings and Precautions (5.18), Adverse Reactions (6.2, 6.3)] and animal findings [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Absorption
After oral dosing, peak everolimus concentrations occur 1 to 2 hours post dose. Over the dose range of 0.5 mg to 2 mg twice daily, everolimus Cmax and AUC are dose proportional in transplant patients at steady-state.
Food Effect
In 24 healthy subjects, a high-fat breakfast (44.5 g fat) reduced everolimus Cmax by 60%, delayed Tmax by a median 1.3 hours, and reduced AUC by 16% compared with a fasting administration. To minimize variability, everolimus should be taken consistently with or without food [see Dosage and Administration (2.6)].
Distribution
The blood-to-plasma ratio of everolimus is concentration dependent ranging from 17% to 73% over the range of 5 ng/mL to 5000 ng/mL. Plasma protein binding is approximately 74% in healthy subjects and in patients with moderate hepatic impairment. The apparent distribution volume associated with the terminal phase (Vz/F) from a single-dose pharmacokinetic study in maintenance kidney transplant patients is 342 to 107 L (range 128 to 589 L).
Elimination
Metabolism
Everolimus is a substrate of CYP3A4 and P-gp. Following oral administration, everolimus is the main circulating component in human blood. Six main metabolites of everolimus have been detected in human blood, including 3 monohydroxylated metabolites, 2 hydrolytic ring-opened products, and a phosphatidylcholine conjugate of everolimus. These metabolites were also identified in animal species used in toxicity studies, and showed approximately 100 times less activity than everolimus itself.
Excretion
After a single dose of radiolabeled everolimus was given to transplant patients receiving cyclosporine, the majority (80%) of radioactivity was recovered from the feces and only a minor amount (5%) was excreted in urine. Parent drug was not detected in urine and feces.
Pharmacokinetics in Kidney Transplant Patients
Steady-state is reached by Day 4 with an accumulation in blood concentrations of 2- to 3-fold compared with the exposure after the first dose. Table 4 below provides a summary of the steady-state pharmacokinetic parameters.
| Cmax | Tmax | AUC | CL/F population pharmacokinetic analysis | Vc/F | Half-life (T1/2) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11.1 ± 4.6 ng/mL | 1-2 h | 75 ± 31 ng∙h/mL | 8.8 L/h | 110 L | 30 ± 11h |
The half-life estimates from 12 maintenance renal transplant patients who received single doses of everolimus capsules at 0.75 mg or 2.5 mg with their maintenance cyclosporine regimen indicate that the pharmacokinetics of everolimus are linear over the clinically-relevant dose range. Results indicate the half-life of everolimus in maintenance renal transplant patients receiving single doses of 0.75 mg or 2.5 mg everolimus during steady-state cyclosporine treatment was 30 ± 11 hours (range 19 to 53 hours).
Cyclosporine (CYP3A4/P-gp Inhibitor and CYP3A4 Substrate): Everolimus should be taken concomitantly with cyclosporine in kidney transplant patients. Everolimus concentrations may decrease when doses of cyclosporine are reduced, unless the everolimus dose is increased [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Drug Interactions (7.2)].
In a single-dose study in healthy subjects, cyclosporine (Neoral) administered at a dose of 175 mg increased everolimus AUC by 168% (range, 46% to 365%) and Cmax by 82% (range, 25% to 158%) when administered with 2 mg everolimus compared with administration of everolimus alone [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].
Ketoconazole and Other Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Multiple-dose administration of 200 mg ketoconazole twice daily for 5 days to 12 healthy volunteers significantly increased everolimus Cmax, AUC, and half-life by 3.9-fold, 15-fold, and 89%, respectively, when coadministered with 2 mg everolimus. It is recommended that strong inhibitors of CYP3A4 (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, voriconazole, clarithromycin, telithromycin, ritonavir, boceprevir, telaprevir) should not be coadministered with everolimus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14), Drug Interactions (7.3)].
Erythromycin (Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitor): Multiple-dose administration of 500 mg erythromycin 3 times daily for 5 days to 16 healthy volunteers significantly increased everolimus Cmax, AUC, and half-life by 2-fold, 4.4-fold, and 39%, respectively, when coadministered with 2 mg everolimus. If erythromycin is coadministered, everolimus blood concentrations should be monitored and a dose adjustment made as necessary [see Drug Interactions (7.4)].
Verapamil (CYP3A4 Inhibitor and P-gp Substrate): Multiple-dose administration of 80 mg verapamil 3 times daily for 5 days to 16 healthy volunteers significantly increased everolimus Cmax and AUC by 2.3-fold and 3.5-fold, respectively, when coadministered with 2 mg everolimus. Everolimus half-life was not changed. If verapamil is coadministered, everolimus blood concentrations should be monitored and a dose adjustment made as necessary [see Drug Interactions (7.5)].
Atorvastatin (CYP3A4 Substrate) and Pravastatin (P-gp Substrate): Following administration of a single dose of 2 mg everolimus to 12 healthy subjects, the concomitant administration of a single oral dose administration of atorvastatin 20 mg or pravastatin 20 mg only slightly decreased everolimus Cmax and AUC by 9% and 10%, respectively. There was no apparent change in the mean T1/2 or median Tmax. In the same study, the concomitant everolimus dose slightly increased the mean Cmax of atorvastatin by 11% and slightly decreased the AUC by 7%. The concomitant everolimus dose decreased the mean Cmax and AUC of pravastatin by 10% and 5%, respectively. No dosage adjustments are needed for concomitant administration of everolimus and atorvastatin and pravastatin [see Drug Interactions (7.6)].
Midazolam (CYP3A4/5 Substrate): In 25 healthy male subjects, co-administration of a single dose of midazolam 4 mg oral solution with steady-state everolimus (10 mg daily dose for 5 days) resulted in a 25% increase in midazolam Cmax and a 30% increase in midazolam AUC; whereas, the terminal half-life of midazolam and the metabolic AUC-ratio (1hydroxymidazolam/midazolam) were not affected [see Drug Interactions (7.9)].
Rifampin (Strong CYP3A4 and P-gp Inducer): Pretreatment of 12 healthy subjects with multiple-dose rifampin (600 mg once-daily for 8 days) followed by a single dose of 4 mg everolimus increased everolimus clearance nearly 3-fold, and decreased Cmax by 58% and AUC by 63%. Combination with rifampin is not recommended [see Drug Interactions (7.8)].
Hepatic Impairment
Relative to the AUC of everolimus in subjects with normal hepatic function, the average AUC in 6 patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A) was 1.6-fold higher following administration of a 10 mg single-dose. In 2 independently studied groups of 8 and 9 patients with moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) the average AUC was 2.1-fold and 3.3-fold higher following administration of a 2 mg or a 10 mg single-dose, respectively; and in 6 patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C) the average AUC was 3.6-fold higher following administration of a 10 mg single-dose. For patients with mild hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class A), the dose should be reduced by approximately one-third of the normally recommended daily dose. For patients with moderate or severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh B or C), the initial daily dose should be reduced to approximately one-half of the normally recommended daily dose. Further dose adjustment and/or dose titration should be made if a patient's whole blood trough concentration of everolimus, as measured by an LC/MS/MS assay, is not within the target trough concentration range of 3 to 8 ng/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.7)].
Renal Impairment
No pharmacokinetic studies in patients with renal impairment were conducted. Post-transplant renal function (creatinine clearance range 11 to 107 mL/min) did not affect the pharmacokinetics of everolimus, therefore, no dosage adjustments are needed in patients with renal impairment.
Geriatrics
A limited reduction in everolimus oral CL of 0.33% per year was estimated in adults (age range studied was 16 to 70 years). There is no evidence to suggest that elderly patients will require a different dosage recommendation from younger adult patients.
Race
Based on analysis of population pharmacokinetics, oral clearance (CL/F) is, on average, 20% higher in black transplant patients.
Everolimus in Kidney Transplantation
Based on exposure-efficacy and exposure-safety analyses of clinical trials and using an LC/MS/MS assay method, kidney transplant patients achieving everolimus whole blood trough concentrations greater than or equal to 3 ng/mL have been found to have a lower incidence of treated biopsy-proven acute rejection compared with patients whose trough concentrations were below 3 ng/mL. Patients who attained everolimus trough concentrations within the range of 6 to 12 ng/mL had similar efficacy and more adverse reactions than patients who attained lower trough concentrations between 3 to 8 ng/mL [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].
In the kidney clinical trial [see Clinical Studies (14.1)], everolimus whole blood trough concentrations were measured at Days 3, 7, and 14 and Months 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, and 12. The proportion of patients receiving 0.75 mg twice daily everolimus treatment regimen who had everolimus whole blood trough concentrations within the protocol specified target range of 3 to 8 ng/mL at Days 3, 7, and 14 were 55%, 71% and 69%, respectively. Approximately 80% of patients had everolimus whole blood trough concentrations within the 3 to 8 ng/mL target range by Month 1 and remained stable within range through Month 12 post-transplant. The median everolimus trough concentration for the 0.75 mg twice daily treatment group was between 3 and 8 ng/mL throughout the study duration.
Everolimus in Liver Transplantation
In the liver clinical trial [see Clinical Studies (14.2)], everolimus dosing was initiated after 30 days following transplantation. Whole blood trough everolimus concentrations were measured within 5 days after first dose, followed by weekly intervals for 3 to 4 weeks, and then monthly thereafter. Approximately 49%, 37%, and 18% of patients, respectively, were below 3 ng/mL at 1, 2, and 4 weeks after initiation of everolimus dosing. The majority of patients (approximately 70% to 80%) had everolimus trough blood concentrations within the target range of 3 to 8 ng/mL from Month 2 through Month 24 post-transplant.
Administration
Inform patients that everolimus should be taken orally twice a day approximately 12 hours apart consistently either with or without food.
Inform patients to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice which increase blood drug concentrations of everolimus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.20)].
Advise patients that everolimus should be used concurrently with reduced doses of cyclosporine and that any change in doses of these medications should be made under physician supervision. A change in the cyclosporine dose may also require a change in the dosage of everolimus.
Inform patients of the necessity of repeated laboratory tests according to physician recommendations while they are taking everolimus.
Development of Lymphomas and Other Malignancies
Inform patients they are at risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin, due to immunosuppression. Advise patients to limit exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) light by wearing protective clothing and using a sunscreen with a high protection factor [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Increased Risk of Infection
Inform patients they are at increased risk of developing a variety of infections, including opportunistic infections, due to immunosuppression. Advise patients to contact their physician if they develop any symptoms of infection [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3, 5.13)].
Kidney Graft Thrombosis
Inform patients that everolimus has been associated with an increased risk of kidney arterial and venous thrombosis, resulting in graft loss, usually within the first 30 days post-transplantation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)].
Everolimus and Calcineurin Inhibitor-Induced Nephrotoxicity
Advise patients of the risks of impaired kidney function with the combination of everolimus and cyclosporine as well as the need for routine blood concentration monitoring for both drugs. Advise patients of the importance of serum creatinine monitoring [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6)].
Angioedema
Inform patients of the risk of angioedema and that concomitant use of ACE inhibitors may increase this risk. Advise patients to seek prompt medical attention if symptoms occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8)].
Wound Healing Complications and Fluid Accumulation
Inform patients the use of everolimus has been associated with impaired or delayed wound healing, fluid accumulation and the need for careful observation of their incision site [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Interstitial Lung Disease/Non-Infectious Pneumonitis
Inform patients the use of everolimus may increase the risk of non-infectious pneumonitis. Advise patients to seek medical attention if they develop clinical symptoms consistent with pneumonia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10)].
Hyperlipidemia
Inform patients the use of everolimus has been associated with increased serum cholesterol and triglycerides that may require treatment and the need for monitoring of blood lipid concentrations [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11)].
Proteinuria
Inform patients the use of everolimus has been associated with an increased risk of proteinuria [see Warnings and Precautions (5.12)].
Pregnancy and Lactation
Advise women of childbearing age to avoid becoming pregnant throughout treatment and for 8 weeks after everolimus therapy has stopped. Everolimus can cause fetal harm if taken during pregnancy. Advise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to a fetus. Also advise not to breastfeed while taking everolimus [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.2)].
Male and Female Fertility
Inform male and female patients that everolimus may impair fertility [see Warnings and Precautions (5.18), Use in Specific Populations (8.1, 8.3), Non-Clinical Toxicology (13.1)].
Medications that Interfere with Everolimus Tablets
Some medications can increase or decrease blood concentrations of everolimus. Advise patients to inform their physician if they are taking any of the following: antifungals, antibiotics, antivirals, anti-epileptic medicines including carbamazepine, phenytoin and barbiturates, herbal/dietary supplements (St. John's Wort), and/or rifampin [see Warnings and Precautions (5.14)].
New Onset Diabetes
Inform patients the use of everolimus may increase the risk of diabetes mellitus and to contact their physician if they develop symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions (5.16)].
Immunizations
Inform patients that vaccinations may be less effective while they are being treated with everolimus. Advise patients live vaccines should be avoided [see Warnings and Precautions (5.19)].
Patients with Hereditary Disorders
Advise patients to inform their physicians that if they have hereditary disorders of galactose intolerance (Lapp-lactase deficiency or glucose-galactose malabsorption) not to take everolimus [see Warnings and Precautions (5.21)].
Manufactured by:
NATCO PHARMA LIMITED
Kothur- 509228,
Telangana, India.
Distributed by:
Breckenridge Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Berlin, CT 06037
Rev.: 03/2021