Clofarabine Injection
FDA Label NDC 63323-572

Full FDA labeling including Indications, Dosage, Usage, and Precautions

Structured Product Label

The following Structured Product Label (SPL) was submitted to the FDA by Fresenius Kabi Usa, Llc for the product Clofarabine (NDC 63323-572). This document serves as the official prescribing information, containing essential scientific data and clinical materials required for healthcare providers and patients.

This specific version of the label includes detailed information regarding other, 2.1 recommended dosage, 2.2 supportive medications and medications to avoid, 2.3 dose modifications and reinitiation of therapy, 2.4 reconstitution/preparation, 2.5 incompatibilities, 5.1 myelosuppression, 5.2 hemorrhage, and other regulatory disclosures. Use the navigation below to review specific sections of the FDA submission.

Label Section Quick Index

Other

Clofarabine Injection is indicated for the treatment of pediatric patients 1 to 21 years old with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia after at least two prior regimens. This indication is based upon response rate. There are no trials verifying an improvement in disease-related symptoms or increased survival with Clofarabine Injection.

20 mg/20 mL (1 mg/mL) single-dose vial.

None.

The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label:

  •   Myelosuppression [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.1)]
  •   Hemorrhage [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.2)]
  •   Serious Infections [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.3)]
  •   Hyperuricemia (Tumor Lysis) [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.4)]
  •   Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) and Capillary Leak Syndrome [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.5)]
  •   Venous Occlusive Disease of the Liver [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.6)]
  •   Hepatotoxicity [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.7)]
  •   Renal Toxicity [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.8)]
  •   Enterocolitis [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.9)]
  •   Skin Reactions [seeWarnings and Precautions (5.10)]

2.1 Recommended Dosage

Administer the recommended pediatric dose of 52 mg/m2 as an intravenous infusion over 2 hours daily for 5 consecutive days.

  •   Treatment cycles are repeated following recovery or return to baseline organ function, approximately every 2 to 6 weeks. The dosage is based on the patient's body surface area (BSA), calculated using the actual height and weight before the start of each cycle. To prevent drug incompatibilities, no other medications should be administered through the same intravenous line.
  •   Provide supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, antihyperuricemic treatment, and alkalinize urine throughout the 5 days of Clofarabine Injection administration to reduce the effects of tumor lysis and other adverse events.
  •   Discontinue Clofarabine Injection if hypotension develops during the 5 days of administration.
  •   Monitor renal and hepatic function during the 5 days of Clofarabine Injection administration [see Warnings and Precautions 5.7, 5.8)] .
  •   Monitor patients taking medications known to affect blood pressure. Monitor cardiac function during administration of Clofarabine Injection.
  •   Reduce the dose by 50% in patients with creatinine clearance (CrCL) between 30 and 60 mL/min. There is insufficient information to make a dosage recommendation in patients with CrCL less than 30 mL/min [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)] .

2.2 Supportive Medications And Medications To Avoid

  •   Consider prophylactic anti-emetic medications as Clofarabine Injection is moderately emetogenic.
  •   Consider the use of prophylactic steroids to mitigate Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) or capillary leak syndrome (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, and pulmonary edema).
  •   Minimize exposure to drugs with known renal toxicity during the 5 days of Clofarabine Injection administration since the risk of renal toxicity may be increased.
  •   Consider avoiding concomitant use of medications known to induce hepatic toxicity.

2.3 Dose Modifications And Reinitiation Of Therapy

  • Hematologic Toxicity
  • Administer subsequent cycles no sooner than 14 days from the starting day of the previous cycle and provided the patient's ANC is ≥ 0.75 x 109/L.
  • If a patient experiences a Grade 4 neutropenia (ANC < 0.5 x 109/L) lasting ≥ 4 weeks, reduce dose by 25% for the next cycle.
    • Non-hematologic Toxicity
    • Withhold Clofarabine Injection if a patient develops a clinically significant infection, until the infection is controlled, then restart at the full dose.
    • Withhold Clofarabine Injection for a Grade 3 non-infectious non-hematologic toxicity (excluding transient elevations in serum transaminases and/or serum bilirubin and/or nausea/vomiting controlled by antiemetic therapy). Re-institute Clofarabine Injection administration at a 25% dose reduction when resolution or return to baseline.
    • Discontinue Clofarabine Injection administration for a Grade 4 non-infectious non-hematologic toxicity.
    • Discontinue Clofarabine Injection administration if a patient shows early signs or symptoms of SIRS or capillary leak (e.g., hypotension, tachycardia, tachypnea, and pulmonary edema) occur and provide appropriate supportive measures.
    • Discontinue Clofarabine Injection administration if Grade 3 or higher increases in creatinine or bilirubin are noted. Re-institute Clofarabine Injection with a 25% dose reduction, when the patient is stable and organ function has returned to baseline. If hyperuricemia is anticipated (tumor lysis), initiate measures to control uric acid.

2.4 Reconstitution/Preparation

Clofarabine Injection should be filtered through a sterile 0.2 micron syringe filter and then diluted with 5% Dextrose Injection, USP, or 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP, prior to intravenous (IV) infusion to a final concentration between 0.15 mg/mL and 0.4 mg/mL. Use within 24 hours of preparation. Store diluted Clofarabine Injection at room temperature (15 °C to 30°C).

2.5 Incompatibilities

Do not administer any other medications through the same intravenous line.

5.1 Myelosuppression

Clofarabine causes myelosuppression which may be severe and prolonged. Febrile neutropenia occurred in 55% and non-febrile neutropenia in an additional 10% of pediatric patients in clinical trials. At initiation of treatment, most patients in the clinical studies had hematological impairment as a manifestation of leukemia. Myelosuppression is usually reversible with interruption of Clofarabine treatment and appears to be dose-dependent. Monitor complete blood counts [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].

5.2 Hemorrhage

Serious and fatal hemorrhage, including cerebral, gastrointestinal and pulmonary hemorrhage, has occurred. The majority of the cases were associated with thrombocytopenia. Monitor platelets and coagulation parameters and treat accordingly [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

5.3 Infections

Clofarabine increases the risk of infection, including severe and fatal sepsis, and opportunistic infections. At baseline, 48% of the pediatric patients had one or more concurrent infections. A total of 83% of patients experienced at least one infection after Clofarabine treatment, including fungal, viral and bacterial infections. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of infection, discontinue Clofarabine, and treat promptly.

5.4 Hyperuricemia (Tumor Lysis)

Administration of Clofarabine may result in tumor lysis syndrome associated with the break-down metabolic products from peripheral leukemia cell death. Monitor patients undergoing treatment for signs and symptoms of tumor lysis syndrome and initiate preventive measures including adequate intravenous fluids and measures to control uric acid.

5.5 Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (Sirs) And Capillary Leak Syndrome

Clofarabine may cause a cytokine release syndrome (e.g., tachypnea, tachycardia, hypotension, pulmonary edema) that may progress to the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) with capillary leak syndrome and organ impairment which may be fatal. Monitor patients frequently for these conditions. In clinical trials, SIRS was reported in two patients (2%); capillary leak syndrome was reported in four patients (4%). Symptoms included rapid onset of respiratory distress, hypotension, pleural and pericardial effusion, and multi-organ failure. Close monitoring for this syndrome and early intervention may reduce the risk. Immediately discontinue Clofarabine and provide appropriate supportive measures. The use of prophylactic steroids (e.g., 100 mg/m2 hydrocortisone on Days 1 through 3) may be of benefit in preventing signs or symptoms of SIRS or capillary leak. Consider use of diuretics and/or albumin. After the patient is stabilized and organ function has returned to baseline, re-treatment with Clofarabine can be considered with a 25% dose reduction.

5.6 Venous Occlusive Disease Of The Liver

Patients who have previously received a hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) are at higher risk for veno-occlusive disease (VOD) of the liver following treatment with clofarabine (40 mg/m2) when used in combination with etoposide (100 mg/m2) and cyclophosphamide (440 mg/m2). Severe hepatotoxic events have been reported in a combination study of clofarabine in pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory acute leukemia. Two cases (2%) of VOD in the mono-therapy studies were considered related to study drug. Monitor for and discontinue Clofarabine if VOD is suspected.

5.7 Hepatotoxicity

Severe and fatal hepatotoxicity, including hepatitis and hepatic failure, has occurred with the use of Clofarabine [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)]. In clinical studies, Grade 3-4 liver enzyme elevations were observed in pediatric patients during treatment with Clofarabine at the following rates: elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST) occurred in 36% of patients; elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) occurred in 44% of patients. AST and ALT elevations typically occurred within 10 days of Clofarabine administration and returned to Grade 2 or less within 15 days. Grade 3 or 4 elevated bilirubin occurred in 13% of patients, with 2 events reported as Grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia (2%), one of which resulted in treatment discontinuation and one patient had multi-organ failure and died. Eight patients (7%) had Grade 3 or 4 elevations in serum bilirubin at the last time point measured; these patients died due to sepsis and/or multi-organ failure. Monitor hepatic function and for signs and symptoms of hepatitis and hepatic failure. Discontinue Clofarabine immediately for Grade 3 or greater liver enzyme and/or bilirubin elevations [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.8 Renal Toxicity

Clofarabine may cause acute renal failure. In Clofarabine treated patients in clinical studies, Grade 3 or 4 elevated creatinine occurred in 8% of patients and acute renal failure was reported as Grade 3 in three patients (3%) and Grade 4 in two patients (2%). Patients with infection, sepsis, or tumor lysis syndrome may be at increased risk of renal toxicity when treated with Clofarabine. Hematuria occurred in 13% of Clofarabine treated patients overall. Monitor patients for renal toxicity and interrupt or discontinue Clofarabine as necessary [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

5.9 Enterocolitis

Fatal and serious cases of enterocolitis, including neutropenic colitis, cecitis, and C. difficile colitis, have occurred during treatment with clofarabine. This has occurred more frequently within 30 days of treatment, and in the setting of combination chemotherapy. Enterocolitis may lead to necrosis, perforation, hemorrhage or sepsis complications. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of enterocolitis and treat promptly [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

5.10 Skin Reactions

Serious and fatal cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), have been reported. Discontinue Clofarabine for exfoliative or bullous rash, or if SJS or TEN is suspected [see Adverse Reactions (6.2)].

5.11 Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Clofarabine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Intravenous doses of clofarabine in rats and rabbits administered during organogenesis caused an increase in resorptions, malformations, and variations [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].

6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

The data described below reflect exposure to Clofarabine in 115 pediatric patients with relapsed or refractory Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) (70 patients) or Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML) (45 patients).

In total, 115 pediatric patients treated in clinical trials received the recommended dose of Clofarabine 52 mg/m2 daily x 5. The median number of cycles was 2. The median cumulative amount of Clofarabine received by pediatric patients during all cycles was 540 mg.

Most common adverse reactions (≥ 25%): vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, febrile neutropenia, pruritus, headache, bacteremia, pyrexia, rash, tachycardia, abdominal pain, chills, fatigue, anorexia, pain in extremity, hypotension, epistaxis, and petechiae.

Table 1 lists adverse reactions by System Organ Class (SOC), including severe or life-threatening (NCI CTC Grade 3 or Grade 4), reported in ≥ 5% of the 115 patients in the 52 mg/m2/day dose group (pooled analysis of pediatric patients with ALL and AML). More detailed information and follow-up of certain events is given below.

Table 1 Most Commonly Reported (≥ 5% Overall) Adverse Reactions by System Organ Class (N=115 pooled analysis)

1 Patients with more than one preferred term within a SOC are counted only once in the SOC totals. Patients with more than one occurrence of the same preferred term are counted only once within that term and at the highest severity grade.

ALL/AML (N=115)
 Worst NCI Common Terminology Criteria Grade1



 3
 4
 5
System Organ Class1
 Preferred Term1
 N
 %
 N
 %
 N
 %
 N
 %
Blood and Lymphatic
 Febrile neutropenia
 63
 55
 59
 51
 3
 3
 .
 .
System Disorders
 Neutropenia
 11
 10
 3
 3
 8
 7
 .
 .
Cardiac Disorders
 Pericardial effusion
 9
 8
 .
 .
 1
 1
 .
 .
Tachycardia
 40
 35
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Gastrointestinal
Abdominal pain
 40
 35
 8
 7
 .
 .
 .
 .
Disorders
 Abdominal pain upper
 9
 8
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Diarrhea
 64
 56
 14
 12
 .
 .
 .
 .
Gingival or mouth bleeding
 20
 17
 8
 7
 1
 1
 .
 .
Nausea
 84
 73
 16
 14
 1
 1
 .
 .
Oral mucosal petechiae
 6
 5
 4
 4
 .
 .
 .
 .
Proctalgia
 9
 8
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Stomatitis
 8
 7
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Vomiting
 90
 78
 9
 8
 1
 1
 .
 .
General Disorders and
Asthenia
 12
 10
 1
 1
 1
 1
 .
 .
Administration Site
Chills
 39
 34
 3
 3
 .
 .
 .
 .
Conditions
 Fatigue
 39
 34
 3
 3
 2
 2
 .
 .
Irritability
 11
 10
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Mucosal inflammation
 18
 16
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Edema
 14
 12
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Pain
 17
 15
 7
 6
 1
 1
 .
 .
Pyrexia
 45
 39
 16
 14
 .
 .
 .
 .
Hepatobiliary Disorder
 Jaundice
 9
 8
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Infections and
Bacteremia
 10
 9
 10
 9
 .
 .
 .
 .
Infestations
 Candidiasis
 8
 7
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Catheter related infection
 14
 12
 13
 11
 .
 .
 .
 .
Cellulitis
 9
 8
 7
 6
 .
 .
 .
 .
Clostridium colitis
 8
 7
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Herpes simplex
 11
 10
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Herpes zoster
 8
 7
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Oral candidiasis
 13
 11
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Pneumonia
 11
 10
 6
 5
 1
 1
 1
 1
Sepsis, including septic shock
 19
 17
 6
 5
 4
 4
 9
 8
Staphylococcal bacteremia
 7
 6
 5
 4
 1
 1
 .
 .
Staphylococcal sepsis
 6
 5
 5
 4
 1
 1
 .
 .
Upper respiratory tract infection
 6
 5
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
 Anorexia
 34
 30
 6
 5
 8
 7
 .
 .
Musculoskeletal and
Arthralgia
 10
 9
 3
 3
 .
 .
 .
 .
Connective Tissue
Back pain
 12
 10
 3
 3
 .
 .
 .
 .
Disorders
 Bone pain
 11
 10
 3
 3
 .
 .
 .
 .
Myalgia
 16
 14
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
Pain in extremity
 34
 30
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Neoplasms Benign, Malignant and Unspecified (incl. cysts and polyps)
 Tumor lysis syndrome
 7
 6
 7
 6
 .
 .
 .
 .
Nervous System
Headache
 49
 43
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Disorders
 Lethargy
 12
 10
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Somnolence
 11
 10
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Psychiatric Disorders
 Agitation
 6
 5
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Anxiety
 24
 21
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Renal and Urinary Disorders
 Hematuria
 15
 13
 2
 2
 .
 .
 .
 .
Respiratory, Thoracic
Dyspnea
 15
 13
 6
 5
 2
 2
 .
 .
and Mediastinal
Epistaxis
 31
 27
 15
 13
 .
 .
 .
 .
Disorders
 Pleural effusion
 14
 12
 4
 4
 2
 2
 .
 .
Respiratory distress
 12
 10
 5
 4
 4
 4
 1
 1
Tachypnea
 10
 9
 4
 4
 1
 1
 .
 .
Skin and Subcutaneous
Erythema
 13
 11
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
Tissue Disorders
 Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome
 18
 16
 8
 7
 .
 .
 .
 .
Petechiae
 30
 26
 7
 6
 .
 .
 .
 .
Pruritus
 49
 43
 1
 1
 .
 .
 .
 .
Rash
 44
 38
 8
 7
 .
 .
 .
 .
Rash pruritic
 9
 8
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
Vascular Disorders
 Flushing
 22
 19
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
 .
Hypertension
 15
 13
 6
 5
 .
 .
 .
 .
Hypotension
 33
 29
 13
 11
 9
 8
 .
 .

The following less common adverse reactions have been reported in 1 to 4% of the 115 pediatric patients with ALL or AML:

Gastrointestinal Disorders: cecitis, pancreatitis

Hepatobiliary Disorders: hyperbilirubinemia

Immune System Disorders: hypersensitivity

Infections and Infestations: bacterial infection, Enterococcal bacteremia, Escherichia bacteremia, Escherichia sepsis, fungal infection, fungal sepsis, gastroenteritis adenovirus, infection, influenza, parainfluenza virus infection, pneumonia fungal, pneumonia primary atypical, Respiratory syncytial virus infection, sinusitis, staphylococcal infection

Investigations: blood creatinine increased

Psychiatric Disorders: mental status change

Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorder: pulmonary edema

Table 2 lists the incidence of treatment-emergent laboratory abnormalities after Clofarabine administration at 52 mg/m2 among pediatric patients with ALL and AML (N=115).

Table 2 Incidence of Treatment-Emergent Laboratory Abnormalities after Clofarabine Administration
Parameter
 Any Grade
 Grade 3 or higher
Anemia (N=114)
 83%
 75%
Leukopenia (N=114)
 88%
 88%
Lymphopenia (N=113)
 82%
 82%
Neutropenia (N=113)
 64%
 64%
Thrombocytopenia (N=114)
 81%
 80%
Elevated Creatinine (N=115)
 50%
 8%
Elevated SGOT (N=100)
 74%
 36%
Elevated SGPT (N=113)
 81%
 43%
Elevated Total Bilirubin (N=114)
 45%
 13%

6.2 Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of Clofarabine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure. Decisions to include these reactions in labeling are typically based on one or more of the following factors: (1) seriousness of the reaction, (2) reported frequency of the reaction, or (3) strength of causal connection to Clofarabine.

  • Gastrointestinal disorders: Gastrointestinal hemorrhage including fatalities.
  • Metabolism and nutrition disorders: hyponatremia
  • Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders: Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) (including fatal cases).

8.1 Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category D

Clofarabine may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman.

Clofarabine was teratogenic in rats and rabbits. Developmental toxicity (reduced fetal body weight and increased post-implantation loss) and increased incidences of malformations and variations (gross external, soft tissue, skeletal and retarded ossification) were observed in rats receiving 54 mg/m2/day (approximately equivalent to the recommended clinical dose on a mg/m2 basis), and in rabbits receiving 12 mg/m2/day (approximately 23% of the recommended clinical dose on a mg/m2 basis).

There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women using clofarabine. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.

Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant while receiving treatment with clofarabine. All patients should be advised to use effective contraceptive measures to prevent pregnancy.

8.3 Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether clofarabine or its metabolites are excreted in human milk. Because of the potential for tumorigenicity shown for clofarabine in animal studies and the potential for serious adverse reactions, women treated with clofarabine should not nurse. Female patients should be advised to avoid breastfeeding during treatment with Clofarabine.

8.4 Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness have been established in pediatric patients 1 to 21 years old with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

8.5 Geriatric Use

Safety and effectiveness of Clofarabine has not been established in geriatric patients aged 65 and older.

8.6 Adults With Hematologic Malignancies

Safety and effectiveness have not been established in adults.

8.7 Renal Impairment

Reduce the Clofarabine starting dose by 50% in patients with CrCL of 30 to 60 mL/min. There is insufficient information to make a dosage recommendation in patients with CrCL less than 30 mL/min or in patients on dialysis.

The pharmacokinetics of clofarabine in patients with renal impairment and normal renal function were obtained from a population pharmacokinetic analysis of three pediatric and two adult studies. In patients with CrCL 60 to less than 90 mL/min (N = 47) and CrCL 30 to less than 60 mL/min (N = 30), the average AUC of clofarabine increased by 60% and 140%, respectively, compared to patients with normal (N = 66) renal function (CrCL greater than 90 mL/min).

10 Overdosage

There were no known overdoses of Clofarabine. The highest daily dose administered to a human to date (on a mg/m2 basis) has been 70 mg/m2/day x 5 days (2 pediatric ALL patients). The toxicities included in these 2 patients included Grade 4 hyperbilirubinemia, Grade 2 and 3 vomiting, and Grade 3 maculopapular rash. 

In a Phase 1 study of adults with refractory and/or relapsed hematologic malignancies, the recommended pediatric dose of 52 mg/m2/day was not tolerated.

11 Description

Clofarabine Injection contains clofarabine, a purine nucleoside metabolic inhibitor. Clofarabine Injection (1 mg/mL) is supplied in a 20 mL, single-dose vial. The 20 mL vial contains 20 mg clofarabine formulated in 20 mL unbuffered normal saline (comprised of Water for Injection, USP, and Sodium Chloride, USP). The pH range of the solution is 4.5 to 7.5. The solution is sterile, clear and practically colorless, and is preservative-free.

12.1 Mechanism Of Action

Clofarabine is sequentially metabolized intracellularly to the 5'-monophosphate metabolite by deoxycytidine kinase and mono- and di-phospho-kinases to the active 5'-triphosphate metabolite. Clofarabine has affinity for the activating phosphorylating enzyme, deoxycytidine kinase, equal to or greater than that of the natural substrate, deoxycytidine. Clofarabine inhibits DNA synthesis by decreasing cellular deoxynucleotide triphosphate pools through an inhibitory action on ribonucleotide reductase, and by terminating DNA chain elongation and inhibiting repair through incorporation into the DNA chain by competitive inhibition of DNA polymerases. The affinity of clofarabine triphosphate for these enzymes is similar to or greater than that of deoxyadenosine triphosphate. In preclinical models, clofarabine has demonstrated the ability to inhibit DNA repair by incorporation into the DNA chain during the repair process. Clofarabine 5'-triphosphate also disrupts the integrity of mitochondrial membrane, leading to the release of the pro-apoptotic mitochondrial proteins, cytochrome C and apoptosis-inducing factor, leading to programmed cell death.

Clofarabine is cytotoxic to rapidly proliferating and quiescent cancer cell types in vitro.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics

The population pharmacokinetics of Clofarabine were studied in 40 pediatric patients aged 2 to 19 years (21 males/19 females) with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). At the given 52 mg/m2 dose, similar concentrations were obtained over a wide range of body surface areas (BSAs). Clofarabine was 47% bound to plasma proteins, predominantly to albumin. Based on non-compartmental analysis, systemic clearance and volume of distribution at steady-state were 28.8 L/h/m2 and 172 L/m2, respectively. The terminal half-life was 5.2 hours. No apparent difference in pharmacokinetics was observed between patients with ALL and AML or between males and females.

No relationship between clofarabine or clofarabine triphosphate exposure and toxicity or response was found in this population.

Based on 24 hour urine collections in the pediatric studies, 49 to 60% of the dose is excreted in the urine unchanged. In vitro studies using isolated human hepatocytes indicate very limited metabolism (0.2%). The pathways of non-hepatic elimination remain unknown.

Clofarabine has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment.

Drug-Drug Interactions

In vitro studies suggested that clofarabine undergoes limited metabolism and does not inhibit or induce major CYP enzymes. CYP inhibitors and inducers are unlikely to affect the metabolism of clofarabine. Clofarabine is unlikely to affect the metabolism of CYP substrates. However, no in vivo drug interaction studies have been conducted.

An in vitro transporter study suggested that clofarabine is a substrate of human transporters OAT1, OAT3, and OCT1. A preclinical study using perfused rat kidney demonstrated that the renal excretion of clofarabine was decreased by cimetidine, an inhibitor of the hOCT2. Although the clinical implications of this finding have not been determined, signs of Clofarabine toxicity should be monitored when administered with other hOAT1, hOAT3, hOCT1 and hOCT2 substrates or inhibitors.

13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

Clofarabine has not been tested for carcinogenic potential.

Clofarabine showed clastogenic activity in the in vitro mammalian cell chromosome aberration assay (CHO cells) and in the in vivo rat micronucleus assay. It did not show evidence of mutagenic activity in the bacterial mutation assay (Ames test).

Studies in mice, rats, and dogs have demonstrated dose-related adverse effects on male reproductive organs. Seminiferous tubule and testicular degeneration and atrophy were reported in male mice receiving intraperitoneal (IP) doses of 3 mg/kg/day (9 mg/m2/day, approximately 17% of clinical recommended dose on a mg/m2 basis). The testes of rats receiving 25 mg/kg/day (150 mg/m2/day, approximately 3 times the recommended clinical dose on a mg/m2 basis) in a 6-month IV study had bilateral degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium with retained spermatids and atrophy of interstitial cells. In a 6-month IV dog study, cell degeneration of the epididymis and degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium in the testes were observed in dogs receiving 0.375 mg/kg/day (7.5 mg/m2/day, approximately 14% of the clinical recommended dose on a mg/m2 basis). Ovarian atrophy or degeneration and uterine mucosal apoptosis were observed in female mice at 75 mg/kg/day (225 mg/m2/day, approximately 4-fold of recommended human dose on a mg/m2 basis), the only dose administered to female mice. The effect on human fertility is unknown.

14 Clinical Studies

Seventy-eight (78) pediatric patients with ALL were exposed to Clofarabine. Seventy (70) of the patients received the recommended pediatric dose of Clofarabine 52 mg/m2 daily for 5 days as an intravenous (IV) infusion.

Dose Escalation Study in Pediatric Patients with Hematologic Malignancies

The safety and efficacy of Clofarabine were evaluated in pediatric patients with refractory or relapsed hematologic malignancies in an open-label, dose-escalation, noncomparative study. The starting dose of Clofarabine was 11.25 mg/m2/day IV infusion daily x 5 and escalated to 70 mg/m2/day IV infusion daily x 5. This dosing schedule was repeated every 2 to 6 weeks depending on toxicity and response. Nine of 17 ALL patients were treated with Clofarabine 52 mg/m2 daily for 5 days. In the 17 ALL patients there were 2 complete remissions (12%) and 2 partial remissions (12%) at varying doses. Dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) in this study were reversible hyperbilirubinemia and elevated transaminase levels and skin rash, experienced at 70 mg/m2. As a result of this study, the recommended dose for subsequent study in pediatric patients was determined to be 52 mg/m2/day for 5 days.

Single-Arm Study in Pediatric ALL

Clofarabine was evaluated in an open-label, single-arm study of 61 pediatric patients with relapsed/refractory ALL. Patients received a dose of 52 mg/m2 over 2 hours for 5 consecutive days repeated every 2 to 6 weeks for up to 12 cycles. There was no dose escalation in this study.

All patients had disease that had relapsed after and/or was refractory to two or more prior therapies. Most patients, 38/61 (62%), had received > 2 prior regimens and 18/61 (30%) of the patients had undergone at least 1 prior transplant. The median age of the treated patients was 12 years, 61% were male, 39% were female, 44% were Caucasian, 38% were Hispanic, 12% were African-American, 2% were Asian and 5% were Other race.

The overall remission (OR) rate (Complete Remission [CR] + CR in the absence of total platelet recovery [CRp]) was evaluated. CR was defined as no evidence of circulating blasts or extramedullary disease, an M1 bone marrow (≤ 5% blasts), and recovery of peripheral counts [platelets ≥ 100 x 109/L and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) ≥ 1.0 x 109/L]. CRp was defined as meeting all criteria for CR except for recovery of platelet counts to ≥ 100 x 109/L. Partial Response (PR) was also determined, defined as complete disappearance of circulating blasts, an M2 bone marrow (≥ 5% and ≤ 25% blasts), and appearance of normal progenitor cells or an M1 marrow that did not qualify for CR or CRp. Duration of remission was also evaluated. Transplantation rate was not a study endpoint.

Response rates for these studies were determined by an unblinded Independent Response Review Panel (IRRP).

Table 3 summarizes results for the pediatric ALL study. Responses were seen in both pre-B and T-cell immunophenotypes of ALL. The median cumulative dose was 530 mg (range 29 to 2,815 mg) in 1 (41%), 2 (44%) or 3 or more (15%) cycles. The median number of cycles was 2 (range 1 to 12). The median time between cycles was 28 days with a range of 12 to 55 days.

Table 3 Results in Single-Arm Pediatric ALL

CR = Complete response

CRp = Complete response without platelet recovery

1 Does not include 4 patients who were transplanted (duration of response, including response after transplant, in these 4 patients was 28.6 to 107.7 weeks).

N = 61
CR % [95% CI]
11.5 (4.7, 22.2)
CRp % [95% CI]
8.2 (2.7, 18.1)
Median Duration of CR plus CRp (range in weeks)1
 10.7 (4.3 to 58.6)

Six (9.8%) patients achieved a PR; the clinical relevance of a PR in this setting is unknown.

Of 35 patients who were refractory to their immediately preceding induction regimen, 6 (17%) achieved a CR or CRp. Of 18 patients who had at least 1 prior hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), 5 (28%) achieved a CR or CRp.

Among the 12 patients who achieved at least a CRp, 6 patients achieved the best response after 1 cycle of clofarabine, 5 patients required 2 courses and 1 patient achieved a CR after 3 cycles of therapy.

15 References

1. OSHA Hazardous Drugs. OSHA. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardousdrugs/index.html.

16 How Supplied/Storage And Handling

Clofarabine Injection is supplied in single-dose flint vials containing 20 mg of clofarabine in 20 mL of solution. Each box contains one Clofarabine Injection vial. The 20 mL flint vials contain 20 mL (20 mg) of solution. The pH range of the solution is 4.5 to 7.5.

Product
No.
 NDC
No.
 Clofarabine injection 20 mg/20 mL (1 mg/mL)
 Packaging
572270
 63323-572-70
 20 mg/20 mL (1 mg/mL), Single-dose Vial
 1 vial per carton

Vials containing undiluted Clofarabine Injection should be stored at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F).

Diluted admixtures may be stored at room temperature, but must be used within 24 hours of preparation.

Procedures for proper handling and disposal should be utilized. Handling and disposal of Clofarabine Injection should conform to guidelines issued for cytotoxic drugs. Several guidelines on this subject have been published. 1

17 Patient Counseling Information

Hematologic Toxicity: Advise patients to return for regular blood counts and to report any symptoms associated with hematologic toxicity (such as weakness, fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, easy bruising, petechiae, purpura, fever) to their physician [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Infection: Advise patients of the signs or symptoms of infection (e.g., fever) and report to the physician immediately if any occur [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Hepatic and Renal Toxicity: Advise patients to avoid medications including over the counter and herbal medications, which may be hepatotoxic or nephrotoxic, during the 5 days of Clofarabine administration. Also, advise patients of the possibility of developing liver function abnormalities and to immediately report signs or symptoms of jaundice. Advise patients of the signs or symptoms of renal failure/ acute renal failure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7), (5.8)]. 

Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS)/Capillary Leak Syndrome: Advise patients of the signs or symptoms of SIRS, such as fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, dyspnea and symptoms suggestive of hypotension [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)].

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Advise male and female patients with reproductive potential to use effective contraceptive measures to prevent pregnancy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11), Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Advise female patients to avoid breastfeeding during Clofarabine treatment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

Gastrointestinal Disorders: Advise patients that they may experience nausea,vomiting, and/or diarrhea with Clofarabine. If these symptoms are significant, they should seek medical attention [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].

Rash: Advise patients that they may experience skin rash with Clofarabine. If this symptom is significant, they should seek medical attention.

Manufactured for:

Lake Zurich, IL 60047

Made in India

www.fresenius-kabi.us

451531

Issued: November 2016

Principal Display Panel - 20 Ml Container Label

NDC 63323-572-70

Clofarabine Injection

 20 mg/20 mL

(1 mg/mL)

Must Be Diluted Prior To Intravenous Use

Rx only

Single-Use 20 mL Vial

Principal Display Panel - 20 Ml Carton Label

NDC 63323-572-70

Rx only

Clofarabine Injection

20 mg/20 mL

(1 mg/mL)

Must Be Diluted Prior To Intravenous Use

Contains 1 (20 mL) Single-Use Vial

Sterile

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