No Information Provided
None.
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
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 clinical practice.
The data described below reflect exposure to RITUXAN in 2783 patients, with exposures ranging from a single infusion up to 2 years. RITUXAN was studied in both single-arm and controlled trials (n=356 and n=2427). The population included 1180 patients with low grade or follicular lymphoma, 927 patients with DLBCL, and 676 patients with CLL. Most NHL patients received RITUXAN as an infusion of 375 mg/m2 per infusion, given as a single agent weekly for up to 8 doses, in combination with chemotherapy for up to 8 doses, or following chemotherapy for up to 16 doses.
CLL patients received RITUXAN 375 mg/m2 as an initial infusion followed by 500 mg/m2 for up to 5 doses, in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide. Seventy-one percent of CLL patients received 6 cycles and 90% received at least 3 cycles of RITUXAN-based therapy.
The most common adverse reactions of RITUXAN (incidence ≥25%) observed in clinical trials of patients with NHL were infusion reactions, fever, lymphopenia, chills, infection, and asthenia.
The most common adverse reactions of RITUXAN (incidence ≥25%) observed in clinical trials of patients with CLL were: infusion reactions and neutropenia.
Infusion ReactionsIn the majority of patients with NHL, infusion reactions consisting of fever, chills/rigors, nausea, pruritus, angioedema, hypotension, headache, bronchospasm, urticaria, rash, vomiting, myalgia, dizziness, or hypertension occurred during the first RITUXAN infusion. Infusion reactions typically occurred within 30 to 120 minutes of beginning the first infusion and resolved with slowing or interruption of the RITUXAN infusion and with supportive care (diphenhydramine, acetaminophen, and intravenous saline). The incidence of infusion reactions was highest during the first infusion (77%) and decreased with each subsequent infusion.. In patients with previously untreated follicular NHL or previously untreated DLBCL, who did not experience a Grade 3 or 4 infusion-related reaction in Cycle 1 and received a 90-minute infusion of RITUXAN at Cycle 2, the incidence of Grade 3-4 infusion-related reactions on the day of, or day after the infusion was 1.1% (95% CI [0.3%, 2.8%]). For Cycles 2-8, the incidence of Grade 3-4 infusion reactions on the day of or day after the 90-minute infusion, was 2.8% (95% CI [1.3%, 5.0%])..
InfectionsSerious infections (NCI CTCAE Grade 3 or 4), including sepsis, occurred in less than 5% of patients with NHL in the single-arm studies. The overall incidence of infections was 31% (bacterial 19%, viral 10%, unknown 6%, and fungal 1%)..
In randomized, controlled studies where RITUXAN was administered following chemotherapy for the treatment of follicular or low-grade NHL, the rate of infection was higher among patients who received RITUXAN. In diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients, viral infections occurred more frequently in those who received RITUXAN.
Cytopenias And HypogammaglobulinemiaIn patients with NHL receiving rituximab monotherapy, NCI-CTC Grade 3 and 4 cytopenias were reported in 48% of patients. These included lymphopenia (40%), neutropenia (6%), leukopenia (4%), anemia (3%), and thrombocytopenia (2%). The median duration of lymphopenia was 14 days (range, 1-588 days) and of neutropenia was 13 days (range, 2-116 days). A single occurrence of transient aplastic anemia (pure red cell aplasia) and two occurrences of hemolytic anemia following RITUXAN therapy occurred during the single-arm studies.
In studies of monotherapy, RITUXAN-induced B-cell depletion occurred in 70% to 80% of patients with NHL. Decreased IgM and IgG serum levels occurred in 14% of these patients.
In CLL trials, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia and late-onset neutropenia was higher in patients treated with R-FC compared to patients treated with FC. Prolonged neutropenia is defined as Grade 3-4 neutropenia that has not resolved between 24 and 42 days after the last dose of study treatment. Late-onset neutropenia is defined as Grade 3-4 neutropenia starting at least 42 days after the last treatment dose.
In patients with previously untreated CLL, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia was 8.5% for patients who received R-FC (n=402) and 5.8% for patients who received FC (n=398). In patients who did not have prolonged neutropenia, the frequency of late-onset neutropenia was 14.8% of 209 patients who received R-FC and 4.3% of 230 patients who received FC.
For patients with previously treated CLL, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia was 24.8% for patients who received R-FC (n=274) and 19.1% for patients who received FC (n=274). In patients who did not have prolonged neutropenia, the frequency of late-onset neutropenia was 38.7% in 160 patients who received R-FC and 13.6% of 147 patients who received FC.
Relapsed Or Refractory, Low-Grade NHLAdverse reactions presented in Table 1 occurred in 356 patients with relapsed or refractory, low-grade or follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL treated in single-arm studies of RITUXAN administered as a single agent. Most patients received RITUXAN 375 mg/m2 weekly for 4 doses.
Table 1
Incidence of Adverse Reactions in ≥5% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory, Low-Grade or Follicular
NHL, Receiving Single-agent RITUXAN (N=356)a,b
| All Grades (%) | Grade 3 and 4 (%) | |
| Any Adverse Reactions | 99 | 57 |
| Body as a Whole | 86 | 10 |
| Fever | 53 | 1 |
| Chills | 33 | 3 |
| Infection | 31 | 4 |
| Asthenia | 26 | 1 |
| Headache | 19 | 1 |
| Abdominal Pain | 14 | 1 |
| Pain | 12 | 1 |
| Back Pain | 10 | 1 |
| Throat Irritation | 9 | 0 |
| Flushing | 5 | 0 |
| Heme and Lymphatic System | 67 | 48 |
| Lymphopenia | 48 | 40 |
| Lymphopenia | 14 | 4 |
| Thrombocytopenia | 12 | 2 |
| Anemia | 8 | 3 |
| Skin and Appendages | 44 | 2 |
| Night Sweats | 15 | 1 |
| Rash | 15 | 1 |
| Pruritus | 14 | 1 |
| Urticaria | 8 | 1 |
| Respiratory System | 38 | 4 |
| Increased Cough | 13 | 1 |
| Rhinitis | 12 | 1 |
| Bronchospasm | 8 | 1 |
| Dyspnea | 7 | 1 |
| Sinusitis | 6 | 0 |
| Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders | 38 | 3 |
| Angioedema | 11 | 1 |
| Hyperglycemia | 9 | 1 |
| Peripheral Edema | 8 | 0 |
| LDH Increase | 7 | 0 |
| Digestive System | 37 | 2 |
| Nausea | 23 | 1 |
| Diarrhea | 10 | 1 |
| Vomiting | 10 | 1 |
| Nervous System | 32 | 1 |
| Dizziness | 10 | 1 |
| Anxiety | 5 | 1 |
| Musculoskeletal System | 26 | 3 |
| Myalgia | 10 | 1 |
| Arthralgia | 10 | 1 |
| Cardiovascular System | 25 | 3 |
| Hypotension | 10 | 1 |
| Hypertension | 6 | 1 |
| a Adverse reactions observed up to 12 months following RITUXAN. b Adverse reactions graded for severity by NCI-CTC criteria. |
In these single-arm RITUXAN studies, bronchiolitis obliterans occurred during and up to 6 months after RITUXAN infusion.
Previously Untreated, Low-Grade Or Follicular, NHLIn Study 4, patients in the R-CVP arm experienced a higher incidence of infusional toxicity and neutropenia compared to patients in the CVP arm. The following adverse reactions occurred more frequently (≥5%) in patients receiving R-CVP compared to CVP alone: rash (17% vs. 5%), cough (15% vs. 6%), flushing (14% vs. 3%), rigors (10% vs. 2%), pruritus (10% vs. 1%), neutropenia (8% vs. 3%), and chest tightness (7% vs. 1%)..
In Study 5, detailed safety data collection was limited to serious adverse reactions, Grade ≥ 2 infections, and Grade ≥ 3 adverse reactions. In patients receiving RITUXAN as single-agent maintenance therapy following RITUXAN plus chemotherapy, infections were reported more frequently compared to the observation arm (37% vs. 22%). Grade 3-4 adverse reactions occurring at a higher incidence (≥ 2%) in the RITUXAN group were infections (4% vs. 1%) and neutropenia (4% vs. <1%).
In Study 6, the following adverse reactions were reported more frequently (≥ 5%) in patients receiving RITUXAN following CVP compared to patients who received no further therapy: fatigue (39% vs. 14%), anemia (35% vs. 20%), peripheral sensory neuropathy (30% vs. 18%), infections (19% vs. 9%), pulmonary toxicity (18% vs. 10%), hepato-biliary toxicity (17% vs. 7%), rash and/or pruritus (17% vs. 5%), arthralgia (12% vs. 3%), and weight gain (11% vs. 4%). Neutropenia was the only Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction that occurred more frequently (≥2%) in the RITUXAN arm compared with those who received no further therapy (4% vs. 1%)..
DLBCLIn Studies 7 and 8, , the following adverse reactions, regardless of severity, were reported more frequently (≥5%) in patients age ≥60 years receiving R-CHOP as compared to CHOP alone: pyrexia (56% vs. 46%), lung disorder (31% vs. 24%), cardiac disorder (29% vs. 21%), and chills (13% vs. 4%). Detailed safety data collection in these studies was primarily limited to Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions and serious adverse reactions.
In Study 8, a review of cardiac toxicity determined that supraventricular arrhythmias or tachycardia accounted for most of the difference in cardiac disorders (4.5% for R-CHOP vs. 1.0% for CHOP).
The following Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently among patients in the R-CHOP arm compared with those in the CHOP arm: thrombocytopenia (9% vs. 7%) and lung disorder (6% vs. 3%). Other Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurring more frequently among patients receiving R-CHOP were viral infection (Study 8), neutropenia (Studies 8 and 9), and anemia (Study 9).
CLLThe data below reflect exposure to RITUXAN in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide in 676 patients with CLL in Study 11 or Study 12. The age range was 30-83 years and 71% were men. Detailed safety data collection in Study 11 was limited to Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions and serious adverse reactions.
Infusion-related adverse reactions were defined by any of the following adverse events occurring during or within 24 hours of the start of infusion: nausea, pyrexia, chills, hypotension, vomiting, and dyspnea.
In Study 11, the following Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in R-FC-treated patients compared to FC-treated patients: infusion reactions (9% in R-FC arm), neutropenia (30% vs. 19%), febrile neutropenia (9% vs. 6%), leukopenia (23% vs. 12%), and pancytopenia (3% vs. 1%).
In Study 12, the following Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in R-FC-treated patients compared to FC-treated patients: infusion reactions (7% in R-FC arm), neutropenia (49% vs. 44%), febrile neutropenia (15% vs. 12%), thrombocytopenia (11% vs. 9%), hypotension (2% vs. 0%), and hepatitis B (2% vs.<1%). Fifty-nine percent of R-FC-treated patients experienced an infusion reaction of any severity.
Clinical Trials Experience In Rheumatoid ArthritisBecause clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, 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.
The data presented below reflect the experience in 2578 RA patients treated with RITUXAN in controlled and long-term studies with a total exposure of 5014 patient-years.
Among all exposed patients, adverse reactions reported in greater than 10% of patients include infusion-related reactions, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, urinary tract infection, and bronchitis.
In placebo-controlled studies, patients received 2 x 500 mg or 2 x 1000 mg intravenous infusions of RITUXAN or placebo, in combination with methotrexate, during a 24-week period. From these studies, 938 patients treated with RITUXAN (2 x 1000 mg) or placebo have been pooled (see Table 2). Adverse reactions reported in ≥ 5% of patients were hypertension, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, pyrexia and pruritus (see Table 2). The rates and types of adverse reactions in patients who received RITUXAN 2 x 500 mg were similar to those observed in patients who received RITUXAN 2 x 1000 mg.
Table 2* Incidence of All Adverse Reactions** Occurring in ≥2%
and at Least 1% Greater than Placebo Among Rheumatoid
Arthritis Patients in Clinical Studies Up to Week 24 (Pooled)
| Adverse Reactions | Placebo + MTX N=398 n (%) |
RITUXAN + MTX N=540 n (%) |
| Hypertension | 21 (5) | 43 (8) |
| Nausea | 19 (5) | 41 (8) |
| Upper Respiratory Tract Infection | 23 (6) | 37 (7) |
| Arthralgia | 14 (4) | 31 (6) |
| Pyrexia | 8 (2) | 27 (5) |
| Pruritus | 5 (1) | 26 (5) |
| Chills | 9 (2) | 16 (3) |
| Dyspepsia | 3 ( < 1) | 16 (3) |
| Rhinitis | 6 (2) | 14 (3) |
| Paresthesia | 3 ( < 1) | 12 (2) |
| Urticaria | 3 ( < 1) | 12 (2) |
| Abdominal Pain Upper | 4 (1) | 11 (2) |
| Throat Irritation | 0 (0) | 11 (2) |
| Anxiety | 5 (1) | 9 (2) |
| Migraine | 2 ( < 1) | 9 (2) |
| Asthenia | 1 ( < 1) | 9 (2) |
| *These data are based on 938 patients treated in Phase 2 and 3 studies of RITUXAN (2 x 1000 mg) or placebo administered in combination with methotrexate. **Coded using MedDRA. |
In the RITUXAN RA pooled placebo-controlled studies, 32% of RITUXAN-treated patients experienced an adverse reaction during or within 24 hours following their first infusion, compared to 23% of placebo-treated patients receiving their first infusion. The incidence of adverse reactions during the 24-hour period following the second infusion, RITUXAN or placebo, decreased to 11% and 13%, respectively. Acute infusion-related reactions (manifested by fever, chills, rigors, pruritus, urticaria/rash, angioedema, sneezing, throat irritation, cough, and/or bronchospasm, with or without associated hypotension or hypertension) were experienced by 27% of RITUXAN-treated patients following their first infusion, compared to 19% of placebo-treated patients receiving their first placebo infusion. The incidence of these acute infusion reactions following the second infusion of RITUXAN or placebo decreased to 9% and 11%, respectively. Serious acute infusion reactions were experienced by <1% of patients in either treatment group. Acute infusion reactions required dose modification (stopping, slowing, or interruption of the infusion) in 10% and 2% of patients receiving rituximab or placebo, respectively, after the first course. The proportion of patients experiencing acute infusion reactions decreased with subsequent courses of RITUXAN. The administration of intravenous glucocorticoids prior to RITUXAN infusions reduced the incidence and severity of such reactions, however, there was no clear benefit from the administration of oral glucocorticoids for the prevention of acute infusion reactions. Patients in clinical studies also received antihistamines and acetaminophen prior to RITUXAN infusions.
InfectionsIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, 39% of patients in the RITUXAN group experienced an infection of any type compared to 34% of patients in the placebo group. The most common infections were nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
The incidence of serious infections was 2% in the RITUXAN-treated patients and 1% in the placebo group.
In the experience with RITUXAN in 2578 RA patients, the rate of serious infections was 4.31 per 100 patient years. The most common serious infections ( ≥ 0.5%) were pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infections, cellulitis and urinary tract infections. Fatal serious infections included pneumonia, sepsis and colitis. Rates of serious infection remained stable in patients receiving subsequent courses. In 185 RITUXAN-treated RA patients with active disease, subsequent treatment with a biologic DMARD, the majority of which were TNF antagonists, did not appear to increase the rate of serious infection. Thirteen serious infections were observed in 186.1 patient years (6.99 per 100 patient years) prior to exposure and 10 were observed in 182.3 patient years (5.49 per 100 patient years) after exposure.
Cardiovascular Adverse ReactionsIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, the proportion of patients with serious cardiovascular reactions was 1.7% and 1.3% in the RITUXAN and placebo treatment groups, respectively. Three cardiovascular deaths occurred during the double-blind period of the RA studies including all rituximab regimens (3/769=0.4%) as compared to none in the placebo treatment group (0/389).
In the experience with RITUXAN in 2578 RA patients, the rate of serious cardiac reactions was 1.93 per 100 patient years. The rate of myocardial infarction (MI) was 0.56 per 100 patient years (28 events in 26 patients), which is consistent with MI rates in the general RA population. These rates did not increase over three courses of RITUXAN.
Since patients with RA are at increased risk for cardiovascular events compared with the general population, patients with RA should be monitored throughout the infusion and RITUXAN should be discontinued in the event of a serious or life-threatening cardiac event.
Hypophosphatemia And HyperuricemiaIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, newly-occurring hypophosphatemia (<2.0 mg/dl) was observed in 12% (67/540) of patients on RITUXAN versus 10% (39/398) of patients on placebo. Hypophosphatemia was more common in patients who received corticosteroids. Newly-occurring hyperuricemia (>10 mg/dl) was observed in 1.5% (8/540) of patients on RITUXAN versus 0.3% (1/398) of patients on placebo.
In the experience with RITUXAN in RA patients, newly-occurring hypophosphatemia was observed in 21% (528/2570) of patients and newly-occurring hyperuricemia was observed in 2% (56/2570) of patients. The majority of the observed hypophosphatemia occurred at the time of the infusions and was transient.
Retreatment In Patients With RAIn the experience with RITUXAN in RA patients, 2578 patients have been exposed to RITUXAN and have received up to 10 courses of RITUXAN in RA clinical trials, with 1890, 1043, and 425 patients having received at least two, three, and four courses, respectively. Most of the patients who received additional courses did so 24 weeks or more after the previous course and none were retreated sooner than 16 weeks. The rates and types of adverse reactions reported for subsequent courses of RITUXAN were similar to rates and types seen for a single course of RITUXAN.
In RA Study 2, where all patients initially received RITUXAN, the safety profile of patients who were retreated with RITUXAN was similar to those who were retreated with placebo.
Clinical Trials Experience In Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, 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.
The data presented below reflect the experience in 197 patients with GPA and MPA treated with RITUXAN or cyclophosphamide in a single controlled study, which was conducted in two phases: a 6 month randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled remission induction phase and an additional 12 month remission maintenance phase. In the 6-month remission induction phase, 197 patients with GPA and MPA were randomized to either RITUXAN 375 mg/ m2 once weekly for 4 weeks plus glucocorticoids, or oral cyclophosphamide 2 mg/kg daily (adjusted for renal function, white blood cell count, and other factors) plus glucocorticoids to induce remission. Once remission was achieved or at the end of the 6 month remission induction period, the cyclophosphamide group received azathioprine to maintain remission. The RITUXAN group did not receive additional therapy to maintain remission. The primary analysis was at the end of the 6 month remission induction period and the safety results for this period are described below.
Adverse reactions presented below in Table 3 were adverse events which occurred at a rate of greater than or equal to 10% in the RITUXAN group. This table reflects experience in 99 GPA and MPA patients treated with RITUXAN, with a total of 47.6 patient-years of observation and 98 GPA and MPA patients treated with cyclophosphamide, with a total of 47.0 patient-years of observation. Infection was the most common category of adverse events reported (47-62%) and is discussed below.
Table 3 Incidence of All Adverse Reactions
Occurring in ≥ 10% of RITUXAN-treated GPA and MPA
Patients in the Clinical Study Up to Month 6*
| Adverse Reactions | RITUXAN N=99 n (%) |
Cyclophosphamide N=98 n (%) |
| Nausea | 18 (18%) | 20 (20%) |
| Diarrhea | 17 (17%) | 12 (12%) |
| Headache | 17 (17%) | 19 (19%) |
| Muscle spasms | 17 (17%) | 15 (15%) |
| Anemia | 16 (16%) | 20 (20%) |
| Peripheral edema | 16 (16%) | 6 (6%) |
| Insomnia | 14 (14%) | 12 (12%) |
| Arthralgia | 13 (13%) | 9 (9%) |
| Cough | 13 (13%) | 11 (11%) |
| Fatigue | 13 (13%) | 21 (21%) |
| Increased ALT | 13 (13%) | 15 (15%) |
| Hypertension | 12 (12%) | 5 (5%) |
| Epistaxis | 11 (11%) | 6 (6%) |
| Dyspnea | 10 (10%) | 11 (11%) |
| Leukopenia | 10 (10%) | 26 (27%) |
| Rash | 10 (10%) | 17 (17%) |
| *The study design allowed for crossover or treatment by best medical judgment, and 13 patients in each treatment group received a second therapy during the 6 month study period. |
Infusion-related reactions in the active-controlled, double-blind study were defined as any adverse event occurring within 24 hours of an infusion and considered to be infusion-related by investigators. Among the 99 patients treated with RITUXAN, 12% experienced at least one infusion-related reaction, compared with 11% of the 98 patients in the cyclophosphamide group. Infusion-related reactions included cytokine release syndrome, flushing, throat irritation, and tremor. In the RITUXAN group, the proportion of patients experiencing an infusion-related reaction was 12%, 5%, 4%, and 1% following the first, second, third, and fourth infusions, respectively. Patients were pre-medicated with antihistamine and acetaminophen before each RITUXAN infusion and were on background oral corticosteroids which may have mitigated or masked an infusion reaction; however, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether premedication diminishes the frequency or severity of infusion reactions.
InfectionsIn the active-controlled, double-blind study, 62% (61/99) of patients in the RITUXAN group experienced an infection of any type compared to 47% (46/98) patients in the cyclophosphamide group by Month 6. The most common infections in the RITUXAN group were upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and herpes zoster.
The incidence of serious infections was 11% in the RITUXAN-treated patients and 10% in the cyclophosphamide treated patients, with rates of approximately 25 and 28 per 100 patient-years, respectively. The most common serious infection was pneumonia.
HypogammaglobulinemiaHypogammaglobulinemia (IgA, IgG or IgM below the lower limit of normal) has been observed in patients with GPA and MPA treated with RITUXAN. At 6 months, in the RITUXAN group, 27%, 58% and 51% of patients with normal immunoglobulin levels at baseline, had low IgA, IgG and IgM levels, respectively compared to 25%, 50% and 46% in the cyclophosphamide group.
Retreatment In Patients With GPA And MPAIn the active-controlled, double-blind study, subsequent courses of RITUXAN were allowed for patients experiencing a relapse of disease. The limited data preclude any conclusions regarding the safety of subsequent courses of RITUXAN with GPA and MPA.
ImmunogenicityAs with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to RITUXAN in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other products may be misleading.
Using an ELISA assay, anti-rituximab antibody was detected in 4 of 356 (1.1%) patients with low-grade or follicular NHL receiving single-agent RITUXAN. Three of the four patients had an objective clinical response.
A total of 273/2578 (11%) patients with RA tested positive for anti-rituximab antibodies at any time after receiving RITUXAN. Anti-rituximab antibody positivity was not associated with increased rates of infusion-related reactions or other adverse events. Upon further treatment, the proportions of patients with infusion reactions were similar between anti-rituximab antibody positive and negative patients, and most reactions were mild to moderate. Four anti-rituximab antibody positive patients had serious infusion reactions, and the temporal relationship between anti-rituximab antibody positivity and infusion reaction was variable.
A total of 23/99 (23%) RITUXAN-treated patients with GPA and MPA tested positive for antirituximab antibodies by 18 months. The clinical relevance of anti-rituximab antibody formation in RITUXAN-treated patients is unclear.
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of RITUXAN. 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.
RITUXAN (rituximab) is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with:
RITUXAN is indicated, in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide (FC), for the treatment of adult patients with previously untreated and previously treated CD20-positive CLL.
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)RITUXAN in combination with methotrexate is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with moderately-to severely-active rheumatoid arthritis who have had an inadequate response to one or more TNF antagonist therapies.
Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)RITUXAN, in combination with glucocorticoids, is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) and Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA).
In NHL patients, administration of RITUXAN resulted in depletion of circulating and tissue-based B cells. Among 166 patients in Study 1, circulating CD19-positive B cells were depleted within the first three weeks with sustained depletion for up to 6 to 9 months post treatment in 83% of patients.
B-cell recovery began at approximately 6 months and median B-cell levels returned to normal by 12 months following completion of treatment.
There were sustained and statistically significant reductions in both IgM and IgG serum levels observed from 5 through 11 months following rituximab administration; 14% of patients had IgM and/or IgG serum levels below the normal range.
Rheumatoid ArthritisIn RA patients, treatment with RITUXAN induced depletion of peripheral B lymphocytes, with the majority of patients demonstrating near complete depletion (CD19 counts below the lower limit of quantification, 20 cells/µl) within 2 weeks after receiving the first dose of RITUXAN. The majority of patients showed peripheral B-cell depletion for at least 6 months. A small proportion of patients (~4%) had prolonged peripheral B-cell depletion lasting more than 3 years after a single course of treatment.
Total serum immunoglobulin levels, IgM, IgG, and IgA were reduced at 6 months with the greatest change observed in IgM. At Week 24 of the first course of RITUXAN treatment, small proportions of patients experienced decreases in IgM (10%), IgG (2.8%), and IgA (0.8%) levels below the lower limit of normal (LLN). In the experience with RITUXAN in RA patients during repeated RITUXAN treatment, 23.3%, 5.5%, and 0.5% of patients experienced decreases in IgM, IgG, and IgA concentrations below LLN at any time after receiving RITUXAN, respectively. The clinical consequences of decreases in immunoglobulin levels in RA patients treated with RITUXAN are unclear.
Treatment with rituximab in patients with RA was associated with reduction of certain biologic markers of inflammation such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid protein (SAA), S100 A8/S100 A9 heterodimer complex (S100 A8/9), anti-citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP), and RF.
Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic PolyangiitisIn GPA and MPA patients, peripheral blood CD19 B-cells depleted to less than 10 cells/µl following the first two infusions of RITUXAN, and remained at that level in most (84%) patients through Month 6. By Month 12, the majority of patients (81%) showed signs of B-cell return with counts >10 cells/µL. By Month 18, most patients (87%) had counts >10 cells/µL.
Pharmacokinetics were characterized in 203 NHL patients receiving 375 mg/m2 RITUXAN weekly by intravenous infusion for 4 doses. Rituximab was detectable in the serum of patients 3 to 6 months after completion of treatment.
The pharmacokinetic profile of rituximab when administered as 6 infusions of 375 mg/m2 in combination with 6 cycles of CHOP chemotherapy was similar to that seen with rituximab alone. Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of data from 298 NHL patients who received rituximab once weekly or once every three weeks, the estimated median terminal elimination half-life was 22 days (range, 6.1 to 52 days). Patients with higher CD19-positive cell counts or larger measurable tumor lesions at pretreatment had a higher clearance. However, dose adjustment for pretreatment CD19 count or size of tumor lesion is not necessary. Age and gender had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of rituximab.
Pharmacokinetics were characterized in 21 patients with CLL receiving rituximab according to the recommended dose and schedule. The estimated median terminal half-life of rituximab was 32 days (range, 14 to 62 days).
Rheumatoid ArthritisFollowing administration of 2 doses of RITUXAN in patients with RA, the mean (± S.D.; % CV) concentrations after the first infusion (Cmax first) and second infusion (Cmax second) were 157 ( ± 46; 29%) and 183 ( ± 55; 30%) mcg/mL, and 318 ( ± 86; 27%) and 381 ( ± 98; 26%) mcg/mL for the 2 x 500 mg and 2 x 1000 mg doses, respectively.
Based on a population pharmacokinetic analysis of data from 2005 RA patients who received RITUXAN, the estimated clearance of rituximab was 0.335 L/day; volume of distribution was 3.1 L and mean terminal elimination half-life was 18.0 days (range, 5.17 to 77.5 days). Age, weight and gender had no effect on the pharmacokinetics of rituximab in RA patients.
Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic PolyangiitisBased on the population pharmacokinetic analysis of data in 97 GPA and MPA patients who received 375 mg/m2 rituximab once weekly by intravenous infusion for four weeks, the estimated median terminal elimination half-life was 23 days (range, 9 to 49 days). Rituximab mean clearance and volume of distribution were 0. 312 L/day (range, 0.115 to 0.728 L/day) and 4.50 L (range, 2.21 to 7.52 L) respectively. Male patients and patients with higher BSA or positive anti-rituximab antibody levels have higher clearance. However, further dose adjustment based on gender or antirituximab antibody status is not necessary.
Based on human data, RITUXAN can cause adverse developmental outcomes including B-cell lymphocytopenia in infants exposed to RITUXAN in-utero (see Clinical Considerations). In animal reproduction studies, intravenous administration of rituximab to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during the period of organogenesis caused lymphoid B-cell depletion in the newborn offspring at doses resulting in 80% of the exposure (based on AUC) of those achieved following a dose of 2 grams in humans. Advise pregnant women of the risk to a fetus.
Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. The estimated background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2%-4% and of miscarriage is 15%-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Clinical ConsiderationsFetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Observe newborns and infants for signs of infection and manage accordingly.
DataHuman data
Postmarketing data indicate that B-cell lymphocytopenia generally lasting less than six months can occur in infants exposed to rituximab in-utero. Rituximab was detected postnatally in the serum of infants exposed in-utero.
Animal Data
An embryo-fetal developmental toxicity study was performed on pregnant cynomolgus monkeys. Pregnant animals received rituximab via the intravenous route during early gestation (organogenesis period; post-coitum days 20 through 50). Rituximab was administered as loading doses on postcoitum (PC) Days 20, 21 and 22, at 15, 37.5 or 75 mg/kg/day, and then weekly on PC Days 29, 36, 43 and 50, at 20, 50 or 100 mg/kg/week. The 100 mg/kg/week dose resulted in 80% of the exposure (based on AUC) of those achieved following a dose of 2 grams in humans. Rituximab crosses the monkey placenta. Exposed offspring did not exhibit any teratogenic effects but did have decreased lymphoid tissue B cells.
A subsequent pre-and postnatal reproductive toxicity study in cynomolgus monkeys was completed to assess developmental effects including the recovery of B cells and immune function in infants exposed to rituximab in utero. Animals were treated with a loading dose of 0, 15, or 75 mg/kg every day for 3 days, followed by weekly dosing with 0, 20, or 100 mg/kg dose. Subsets of pregnant females were treated from PC Day 20 through postpartum Day 78, PC Day 76 through PC Day 134, and from PC Day 132 through delivery and postpartum Day 28. Regardless of the timing of treatment, decreased B cells and immunosuppression were noted in the offspring of rituximab- treated pregnant animals. The B-cell counts returned to normal levels, and immunologic function was restored within 6 months postpartum.
RITUXAN is a colorless, clear solution for intravenous infusion:
RITUXAN vials [100 mg/10 mL single-use vials (NDC 50242-051-21) and 500 mg/50 mL single-use vials (NDC 50242-053-06)] are stable at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F). RITUXAN vials should be protected from direct sunlight. Do not freeze or shake.
Manufactured by: Genentech, Inc. A Member of the Roche Group 1 DNA Way South San Francisco, CA 94080 4990. Revised: April 2018.
Included as part of the "PRECAUTIONS" Section
PRECAUTIONS Infusion ReactionsRITUXAN can cause severe, including fatal, infusion-related reactions. Severe reactions typically occurred during the first infusion with time to onset of 30-120 minutes. RITUXAN-induced infusion reactions and sequelae include urticaria, hypotension, angioedema, hypoxia, bronchospasm, pulmonary infiltrates, acute respiratory distress syndrome, myocardial infarction, ventricular fibrillation, cardiogenic shock, anaphylactoid events, or death.
Premedicate patients with an antihistamine and acetaminophen prior to dosing. For RA patients, methylprednisolone 100 mg intravenously or its equivalent is recommended 30 minutes prior to each infusion. Institute medical management (e.g. glucocorticoids, epinephrine, bronchodilators, or oxygen) for infusion-related reactions as needed. Depending on the severity of the infusion reaction and the required interventions, temporarily or permanently discontinue RITUXAN. Resume infusion at a minimum 50% reduction in rate after symptoms have resolved. Closely monitor the following patients: those with pre-existing cardiac or pulmonary conditions, those who experienced prior cardiopulmonary adverse reactions, and those with high numbers of circulating malignant cells (≥25,000/mm3)..
Severe Mucocutaneous ReactionsMucocutaneous reactions, some with fatal outcome, can occur in patients treated with RITUXAN. These reactions include paraneoplastic pemphigus, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, lichenoid dermatitis, vesiculobullous dermatitis, and toxic epidermal necrolysis. The onset of these reactions has been variable and includes reports with onset on the first day of RITUXAN exposure. Discontinue RITUXAN in patients who experience a severe mucocutaneous reaction. The safety of re-administration of RITUXAN to patients with severe mucocutaneous reactions has not been determined.
Hepatitis B Virus ReactivationHepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation, in some cases resulting in fulminant hepatitis, hepatic failure and death, can occur in patients treated with drugs classified as CD20-directed cytolytic antibodies, including RITUXAN. Cases have been reported in patients who are hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive and also in patients who are HBsAg negative but are hepatitis B core antibody (anti-HBc) positive. Reactivation also has occurred in patients who appear to have resolved hepatitis B infection (i.e., HBsAg negative, anti-HBc positive and hepatitis B surface antibody [anti-HBs] positive).
HBV reactivation is defined as an abrupt increase in HBV replication manifesting as a rapid increase in serum HBV DNA levels or detection of HBsAg in a person who was previously HBsAg negative and anti-HBc positive. Reactivation of HBV replication is often followed by hepatitis, i.e., increase in transaminase levels. In severe cases increase in bilirubin levels, liver failure, and death can occur.
Screen all patients for HBV infection by measuring HBsAg and anti-HBc before initiating treatment with RITUXAN. For patients who show evidence of prior hepatitis B infection (HBsAg positive [regardless of antibody status] or HBsAg negative but anti-HBc positive), consult with physicians with expertise in managing hepatitis B regarding monitoring and consideration for HBV antiviral therapy before and/or during RITUXAN treatment.
Monitor patients with evidence of current or prior HBV infection for clinical and laboratory signs of hepatitis or HBV reactivation during and for several months following RITUXAN therapy. HBV reactivation has been reported up to 24 months following completion of RITUXAN therapy.
In patients who develop reactivation of HBV while on RITUXAN, immediately discontinue RITUXAN and any concomitant chemotherapy, and institute appropriate treatment. Insufficient data exist regarding the safety of resuming RITUXAN treatment in patients who develop HBV reactivation. Resumption of RITUXAN treatment in patients whose HBV reactivation resolves should be discussed with physicians with expertise in managing HBV.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)JC virus infection resulting in PML and death can occur in RITUXAN-treated patients with hematologic malignancies or with autoimmune diseases. The majority of patients with hematologic malignancies diagnosed with PML received RITUXAN in combination with chemotherapy or as part of a hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The patients with autoimmune diseases had prior or concurrent immunosuppressive therapy. Most cases of PML were diagnosed within 12 months of their last infusion of RITUXAN.
Consider the diagnosis of PML in any patient presenting with new-onset neurologic manifestations. Evaluation of PML includes, but is not limited to, consultation with a neurologist, brain MRI, and lumbar puncture.
Discontinue RITUXAN and consider discontinuation or reduction of any concomitant chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy in patients who develop PML.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)Acute renal failure, hyperkalemia, hypocalcemia, hyperuricemia, or hyperphosphatemia from tumor lysis, sometimes fatal, can occur within 12-24 hours after the first infusion of RITUXAN in patients with NHL. A high number of circulating malignant cells (≥25,000/mm3) or high tumor burden, confers a greater risk of TLS.
Administer aggressive intravenous hydration and anti-hyperuricemic therapy in patients at high risk for TLS. Correct electrolyte abnormalities, monitor renal function and fluid balance, and administer supportive care, including dialysis as indicated..
InfectionsSerious, including fatal, bacterial, fungal, and new or reactivated viral infections can occur during and following the completion of RITUXAN-based therapy. Infections have been reported in some patients with prolonged hypogammaglobulinemia (defined as hypogammaglobulinemia >11 months after rituximab exposure). New or reactivated viral infections included cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus, parvovirus B19, varicella zoster virus, West Nile virus, and hepatitis B and C.
Discontinue RITUXAN for serious infections and institute appropriate anti-infective therapy.. RITUXAN is not recommended for use in patients with severe, active infections.
Cardiovascular Adverse ReactionsCardiac adverse reactions, including ventricular fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and cardiogenic shock may occur in patients receiving RITUXAN. Discontinue infusions for serious or life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Perform cardiac monitoring during and after all infusions of RITUXAN for patients who develop clinically significant arrhythmias, or who have a history of arrhythmia or angina..
Renal ToxicitySevere, including fatal, renal toxicity can occur after RITUXAN administration in patients with NHL. Renal toxicity has occurred in patients who experience tumor lysis syndrome and in patients with NHL administered concomitant cisplatin therapy during clinical trials. The combination of cisplatin and RITUXAN is not an approved treatment regimen. Monitor closely for signs of renal failure and discontinue RITUXAN in patients with a rising serum creatinine or oliguria..
Bowel Obstruction And PerforationAbdominal pain, bowel obstruction and perforation, in some cases leading to death, can occur in patients receiving RITUXAN in combination with chemotherapy. In postmarketing reports, the mean time to documented gastrointestinal perforation was 6 (range 1-77) days in patients with NHL. Evaluate if symptoms of obstruction such as abdominal pain or repeated vomiting occur.
ImmunizationThe safety of immunization with live viral vaccines following RITUXAN therapy has not been studied and vaccination with live virus vaccines is not recommended before or during treatment.
For RA patients, physicians should follow current immunization guidelines and administer non-live vaccines at least 4 weeks prior to a course of RITUXAN.
The effect of RITUXAN on immune responses was assessed in a randomized, controlled study in patients with RA treated with RITUXAN and methotrexate (MTX) compared to patients treated with MTX alone.
A response to pneumococcal vaccination (a T-cell independent antigen) as measured by an increase in antibody titers to at least 6 of 12 serotypes was lower in patients treated with RITUXAN plus MTX as compared to patients treated with MTX alone (19% vs. 61%). A lower proportion of patients in the RITUXAN plus MTX group developed detectable levels of anti-keyhole limpet hemocyanin antibodies (a novel protein antigen) after vaccination compared to patients on MTX alone (47% vs. 93%).
A positive response to tetanus toxoid vaccine (a T-cell dependent antigen with existing immunity) was similar in patients treated with RITUXAN plus MTX compared to patients on MTX alone (39% vs. 42%). The proportion of patients maintaining a positive Candida skin test (to evaluate delayed type hypersensitivity) was also similar (77% of patients on RITUXAN plus MTX vs. 70% of patients on MTX alone).
Most patients in the RITUXAN-treated group had B-cell counts below the lower limit of normal at the time of immunization. The clinical implications of these findings are not known.
Embryo-Fetal ToxicityBased on human data, RITUXAN can cause fetal harm due to B-cell lymphocytopenia in infants exposed to rituximab in-utero. Advise pregnant women of the risk to a fetus. Females of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while receiving RITUXAN and for 12 months following the last dose of RITUXAN.
Concomitant Use With Other Biologic Agents And DMARDS Other Than Methotrexate In RA, GPA And MPALimited data are available on the safety of the use of biologic agents or disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) other than methotrexate in RA patients exhibiting peripheral B-cell depletion following treatment with rituximab. Observe patients closely for signs of infection if biologic agents and/or DMARDs are used concomitantly. Use of concomitant immunosuppressants other than corticosteroids has not been studied in GPA or MPA patients exhibiting peripheral B-cell depletion following treatment with RITUXAN.
Use In RA Patients Who Have Not Had Prior Inadequate Response To Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) AntagonistsWhile the efficacy of RITUXAN was supported in four controlled trials in patients with RA with prior inadequate responses to non-biologic DMARDs, and in a controlled trial in MTX-naïve patients, a favorable risk-benefit relationship has not been established in these populations. The use of RITUXAN in patients with RA who have not had prior inadequate response to one or more TNF antagonists is not recommended.
Retreatment In Patients With Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)Limited data are available on the safety and efficacy of subsequent courses of RITUXAN in patients with GPA and MPA. The safety and efficacy of retreatment with RITUXAN have not been established.
Patient Counseling InformationAdvise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).
Infusion ReactionsInform patients about the signs and symptoms of infusion reactions. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately to report symptoms of infusion reactions including urticaria, hypotension, angioedema, sudden cough, breathing problems, weakness, dizziness, palpitations, or chest pain.
Severe Mucocutaneous ReactionsAdvise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for symptoms of severe mucocutaneous reactions, including painful sores or ulcers on the mouth, blisters, peeling skin, rash, and pustules.
Hepatitis B Virus ReactivationAdvise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for symptoms of hepatitis including worsening fatigue or yellow discoloration of skin or eyes.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML)Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs and symptoms of PML, including new or changes in neurological symptoms such as confusion, dizziness or loss of balance, difficulty talking or walking, decreased strength or weakness on one side of the body, or vision problems.
Tumor Lysis Syndrome (TLS)Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs and symptoms of tumor lysis syndrome such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
InfectionsAdvise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs and symptoms of infections including fever, cold symptoms (e.g., rhinorrhea or laryngitis), flu symptoms (e.g., cough, fatigue, body aches), earache or headache, dysuria, oral herpes simplex infection, and painful wounds with erythema and advise patients of the increased risk of infections during and after treatment with RITUXAN.
Cardiovascular Adverse ReactionsAdvise patients of the risk of cardiovascular adverse reactions, including ventricular fibrillation, myocardial infarction, and cardiogenic shock. Advise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately to report chest pain and irregular heartbeats.
Renal ToxicityAdvise patients of the risk of renal toxicity. Inform patients of the need for healthcare providers to monitor kidney function.
Bowel Obstruction And PerforationAdvise patients to contact their healthcare provider immediately for signs and symptoms of bowel obstruction and perforation, including severe abdominal pain or repeated vomiting.
Embryo-Fetal ToxicityAdvise a pregnant woman of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise female patients that rituximab can cause fetal harm if taken during pregnancy and to use effective contraception during treatment with RITUXAN and for at least 12 months after the last dose of RITUXAN. Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider of a known or suspected pregnancy.
LactationAdvise women not to breastfeed during treatment with RITUXAN and for 6 months after the last dose.
Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of FertilityNo long-term animal studies have been performed to establish the carcinogenic or mutagenic potential of RITUXAN or to determine potential effects on fertility in males or females.
Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Risk SummaryBased on human data, RITUXAN can cause adverse developmental outcomes including B-cell lymphocytopenia in infants exposed to RITUXAN in-utero (see Clinical Considerations). In animal reproduction studies, intravenous administration of rituximab to pregnant cynomolgus monkeys during the period of organogenesis caused lymphoid B-cell depletion in the newborn offspring at doses resulting in 80% of the exposure (based on AUC) of those achieved following a dose of 2 grams in humans. Advise pregnant women of the risk to a fetus.
Adverse outcomes in pregnancy occur regardless of the health of the mother or the use of medications. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated populations is unknown. The estimated background risk in the U.S. general population of major birth defects is 2%-4% and of miscarriage is 15%-20% of clinically recognized pregnancies.
Clinical ConsiderationsFetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions
Observe newborns and infants for signs of infection and manage accordingly.
DataHuman data
Postmarketing data indicate that B-cell lymphocytopenia generally lasting less than six months can occur in infants exposed to rituximab in-utero. Rituximab was detected postnatally in the serum of infants exposed in-utero.
Animal Data
An embryo-fetal developmental toxicity study was performed on pregnant cynomolgus monkeys. Pregnant animals received rituximab via the intravenous route during early gestation (organogenesis period; post-coitum days 20 through 50). Rituximab was administered as loading doses on postcoitum (PC) Days 20, 21 and 22, at 15, 37.5 or 75 mg/kg/day, and then weekly on PC Days 29, 36, 43 and 50, at 20, 50 or 100 mg/kg/week. The 100 mg/kg/week dose resulted in 80% of the exposure (based on AUC) of those achieved following a dose of 2 grams in humans. Rituximab crosses the monkey placenta. Exposed offspring did not exhibit any teratogenic effects but did have decreased lymphoid tissue B cells.
A subsequent pre-and postnatal reproductive toxicity study in cynomolgus monkeys was completed to assess developmental effects including the recovery of B cells and immune function in infants exposed to rituximab in utero. Animals were treated with a loading dose of 0, 15, or 75 mg/kg every day for 3 days, followed by weekly dosing with 0, 20, or 100 mg/kg dose. Subsets of pregnant females were treated from PC Day 20 through postpartum Day 78, PC Day 76 through PC Day 134, and from PC Day 132 through delivery and postpartum Day 28. Regardless of the timing of treatment, decreased B cells and immunosuppression were noted in the offspring of rituximab- treated pregnant animals. The B-cell counts returned to normal levels, and immunologic function was restored within 6 months postpartum.
LactationThere are no data on the presence of rituximab in human milk, the effect on the breastfed child, or the effect on milk production. However, rituximab is detected in the milk of lactating cynomolgus monkeys, and IgG is present in human milk. Since many drugs including antibodies are present in human milk, advise a lactating woman not to breastfeed during treatment and for at least 6 months after the last dose of RITUXAN due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants.
Females And Males Of Reproductive PotentialRituximab can cause fetal harm.
ContraceptionFemales
Females of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while receiving RITUXAN and for 12 months following treatment.
Pediatric UseThe safety and effectiveness of RITUXAN in pediatric patients have not been established.
FDA has not required pediatric studies in polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (PJIA) patients ages 0 to 16 due to concerns regarding the potential for prolonged immunosuppression as a result of B-cell depletion in the developing juvenile immune system. Hypogammaglobulinemia has been observed in pediatric patients treated with RITUXAN.
Geriatric Use Diffuse Large B-Cell NHLAmong patients with DLBCL evaluated in three randomized, active-controlled trials, 927 patients received RITUXAN in combination with chemotherapy. Of these, 396 (43%) were age 65 or greater and 123 (13%) were age 75 or greater. No overall differences in effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. Cardiac adverse reactions, mostly supraventricular arrhythmias, occurred more frequently among elderly patients. Serious pulmonary adverse reactions were also more common among the elderly, including pneumonia and pneumonitis.
Low-Grade Or Follicular Non-Hodgkin’s LymphomaPatients with previously untreated follicular NHL evaluated in Study 5 were randomized to RITUXAN as single-agent maintenance therapy (n=505) or observation (n=513) after achieving a response to RITUXAN in combination with chemotherapy. Of these, 123 (24%) patients in the RITUXAN arm were age 65 or older. No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. Other clinical studies of RITUXAN in low-grade or follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
Chronic Lymphocytic LeukemiaAmong patients with CLL evaluated in two randomized active-controlled trials, 243 of 676 RITUXAN-treated patients (36%) were 65 years of age or older; of these, 100 RITUXAN-treated patients (15%) were 70 years of age or older.
In exploratory analyses defined by age, there was no observed benefit from the addition of RITUXAN to fludarabine and cyclophosphamide among patients 70 years of age or older in Study 11 or in Study 12; there was also no observed benefit from the addition of RITUXAN to fludarabine and cyclophosphamide among patients 65 years of age or older in Study 12. Patients 70 years or older received lower dose intensity of fludarabine and cyclophosphamide compared to younger patients, regardless of the addition of RITUXAN. In Study 11, the dose intensity of RITUXAN was similar in older and younger patients, however in Study 12 older patients received a lower dose intensity of RITUXAN.
The incidence of Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions was higher among patients receiving R-FC who were 70 years or older compared to younger patients for neutropenia [44% vs. 31% (Study 11); 56% vs. 39% (Study 12)], febrile neutropenia [16% vs. 6% (Study 10)], anemia [5% vs. 2% (Study 11); 21% vs. 10% (Study 12)], thrombocytopenia [19% vs. 8% (Study 12)], pancytopenia [7% vs. 2% (Study 11); 7% vs. 2% (Study 12)] and infections [30% vs. 14% (Study 12)].
Rheumatoid ArthritisAmong the 2578 patients in global RA studies completed to date, 12% were 65-75 years old and 2% were 75 years old and older. The incidences of adverse reactions were similar between older and younger patients. The rates of serious adverse reactions, including serious infections, malignancies, and cardiovascular events were higher in older patients.
Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic PolyangiitisOf the 99 RITUXAN-treated GPA and MPA patients, 36 (36%) were 65 years old and over, while 8 (8%) were 75 years and over. No overall differences in efficacy were observed between patients that were 65 years old and over and younger patients. The overall incidence and rate of all serious adverse events was higher in patients 65 years old and over. The clinical study did not include sufficient numbers of patients aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.
.
Do not administer as an intravenous push or bolus. RITUXAN should only be administered by a healthcare professional with appropriate medical support to manage severe infusion-related reactions that can be fatal if they occur.
Premedicate before each infusion.
Prior To First InfusionScreen all patients for HBV infection by measuring HBsAg and anti-HBc before initiating treatment with RITUXAN. Obtain complete blood counts including platelets (CBC) prior to the first dose.
During RITUXAN TherapyIn patients with lymphoid malignancies, during treatment with RITUXAN monotherapy, obtain complete blood counts (CBC) with differential and platelet counts prior to each RITUXAN course. During treatment with RITUXAN and chemotherapy, obtain CBC with differential and platelet counts at weekly to monthly intervals and more frequently in patients who develop cytopenias. In patients with RA, GPA or MPA, obtain CBC with differential and platelet counts at two to four month intervals during RITUXAN therapy. Continue to monitor for cytopenias after final dose and until resolution.
For previously untreated follicular NHL and DLBCL patients:
If patients did not experience a Grade 3 or 4 infusion related adverse event during Cycle 1, a 90-minute infusion can be administered in Cycle 2 with a glucocorticoid-containing chemotherapy regimen.
Initiate at a rate of 20% of the total dose given in the first 30 minutes and the remaining 80% of the total dose given over the next 60 minutes. If the 90-minute infusion is tolerated in Cycle 2, the same rate can be used when administering the remainder of the treatment regimen (through Cycle 6 or 8).
Patients who have clinically significant cardiovascular disease or who have a circulating lymphocyte count ≥5000/mm3 before Cycle 2 should not be administered the 90-minute infusion.
The recommended dose is 375 mg/m2 as an intravenous infusion according to the following schedules:
Administer on Day 1 of each cycle of chemotherapy, for up to 8 doses. In patients with complete or partial response, initiate RITUXAN maintenance eight weeks following completion of RITUXAN in combination with chemotherapy. Administer RITUXAN as a single-agent every 8 weeks for 12 doses.
Following completion of 6-8 cycles of CVP chemotherapy, administer once weekly for 4 doses at 6-month intervals to a maximum of 16 doses.
Administer on Day 1 of each cycle of chemotherapy for up to 8 infusions.
The recommended dose is:
Premedicate with acetaminophen and an antihistamine before each infusion of RITUXAN. For patients administered RITUXAN according to the 90-minute infusion rate, the glucocorticoid component of their chemotherapy regimen should be administered prior to infusion.
For RA patients, methylprednisolone 100 mg intravenously or its equivalent is recommended 30 minutes prior to each infusion.
For GPA and MPA patients, glucocorticoids are given in combination with RITUXAN. Provide prophylaxis treatment for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) and herpes virus infections for patients with CLL during treatment and for up to 12 months following treatment as appropriate.
PCP prophylaxis is also recommended for patients with GPA and MPA during treatment and for at least 6 months following the last RITUXAN infusion.
Administration And StorageUse appropriate aseptic technique. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. RITUXAN should be a clear, colorless liquid. Do not use vial if particulates or discoloration is present.
AdministrationWithdraw the necessary amount of RITUXAN and dilute to a final concentration of 1 mg/mL to 4 mg/mL in an infusion bag containing either 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP, or 5% Dextrose in Water, USP. Gently invert the bag to mix the solution. Do not mix or dilute with other drugs. Discard any unused portion left in the vial.
StorageRITUXAN solutions for infusion may be stored at 2°C-8°C (36°F-46°F) for 24 hours.
RITUXAN solutions for infusion have been shown to be stable for an additional 24 hours at room temperature. However, since RITUXAN solutions do not contain a preservative, diluted solutions should be stored refrigerated (2°C-8°C). No incompatibilities between RITUXAN and polyvinylchloride or polyethylene bags have been observed.
The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the labeling:
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 clinical practice.
The data described below reflect exposure to RITUXAN in 2783 patients, with exposures ranging from a single infusion up to 2 years. RITUXAN was studied in both single-arm and controlled trials (n=356 and n=2427). The population included 1180 patients with low grade or follicular lymphoma, 927 patients with DLBCL, and 676 patients with CLL. Most NHL patients received RITUXAN as an infusion of 375 mg/m2 per infusion, given as a single agent weekly for up to 8 doses, in combination with chemotherapy for up to 8 doses, or following chemotherapy for up to 16 doses.
CLL patients received RITUXAN 375 mg/m2 as an initial infusion followed by 500 mg/m2 for up to 5 doses, in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide. Seventy-one percent of CLL patients received 6 cycles and 90% received at least 3 cycles of RITUXAN-based therapy.
The most common adverse reactions of RITUXAN (incidence ≥25%) observed in clinical trials of patients with NHL were infusion reactions, fever, lymphopenia, chills, infection, and asthenia.
The most common adverse reactions of RITUXAN (incidence ≥25%) observed in clinical trials of patients with CLL were: infusion reactions and neutropenia.
Infusion ReactionsIn the majority of patients with NHL, infusion reactions consisting of fever, chills/rigors, nausea, pruritus, angioedema, hypotension, headache, bronchospasm, urticaria, rash, vomiting, myalgia, dizziness, or hypertension occurred during the first RITUXAN infusion. Infusion reactions typically occurred within 30 to 120 minutes of beginning the first infusion and resolved with slowing or interruption of the RITUXAN infusion and with supportive care (diphenhydramine, acetaminophen, and intravenous saline). The incidence of infusion reactions was highest during the first infusion (77%) and decreased with each subsequent infusion.. In patients with previously untreated follicular NHL or previously untreated DLBCL, who did not experience a Grade 3 or 4 infusion-related reaction in Cycle 1 and received a 90-minute infusion of RITUXAN at Cycle 2, the incidence of Grade 3-4 infusion-related reactions on the day of, or day after the infusion was 1.1% (95% CI [0.3%, 2.8%]). For Cycles 2-8, the incidence of Grade 3-4 infusion reactions on the day of or day after the 90-minute infusion, was 2.8% (95% CI [1.3%, 5.0%])..
InfectionsSerious infections (NCI CTCAE Grade 3 or 4), including sepsis, occurred in less than 5% of patients with NHL in the single-arm studies. The overall incidence of infections was 31% (bacterial 19%, viral 10%, unknown 6%, and fungal 1%)..
In randomized, controlled studies where RITUXAN was administered following chemotherapy for the treatment of follicular or low-grade NHL, the rate of infection was higher among patients who received RITUXAN. In diffuse large B-cell lymphoma patients, viral infections occurred more frequently in those who received RITUXAN.
Cytopenias And HypogammaglobulinemiaIn patients with NHL receiving rituximab monotherapy, NCI-CTC Grade 3 and 4 cytopenias were reported in 48% of patients. These included lymphopenia (40%), neutropenia (6%), leukopenia (4%), anemia (3%), and thrombocytopenia (2%). The median duration of lymphopenia was 14 days (range, 1-588 days) and of neutropenia was 13 days (range, 2-116 days). A single occurrence of transient aplastic anemia (pure red cell aplasia) and two occurrences of hemolytic anemia following RITUXAN therapy occurred during the single-arm studies.
In studies of monotherapy, RITUXAN-induced B-cell depletion occurred in 70% to 80% of patients with NHL. Decreased IgM and IgG serum levels occurred in 14% of these patients.
In CLL trials, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia and late-onset neutropenia was higher in patients treated with R-FC compared to patients treated with FC. Prolonged neutropenia is defined as Grade 3-4 neutropenia that has not resolved between 24 and 42 days after the last dose of study treatment. Late-onset neutropenia is defined as Grade 3-4 neutropenia starting at least 42 days after the last treatment dose.
In patients with previously untreated CLL, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia was 8.5% for patients who received R-FC (n=402) and 5.8% for patients who received FC (n=398). In patients who did not have prolonged neutropenia, the frequency of late-onset neutropenia was 14.8% of 209 patients who received R-FC and 4.3% of 230 patients who received FC.
For patients with previously treated CLL, the frequency of prolonged neutropenia was 24.8% for patients who received R-FC (n=274) and 19.1% for patients who received FC (n=274). In patients who did not have prolonged neutropenia, the frequency of late-onset neutropenia was 38.7% in 160 patients who received R-FC and 13.6% of 147 patients who received FC.
Relapsed Or Refractory, Low-Grade NHLAdverse reactions presented in Table 1 occurred in 356 patients with relapsed or refractory, low-grade or follicular, CD20-positive, B-cell NHL treated in single-arm studies of RITUXAN administered as a single agent. Most patients received RITUXAN 375 mg/m2 weekly for 4 doses.
Table 1
Incidence of Adverse Reactions in ≥5% of Patients with Relapsed or Refractory, Low-Grade or Follicular
NHL, Receiving Single-agent RITUXAN (N=356)a,b
| All Grades (%) | Grade 3 and 4 (%) | |
| Any Adverse Reactions | 99 | 57 |
| Body as a Whole | 86 | 10 |
| Fever | 53 | 1 |
| Chills | 33 | 3 |
| Infection | 31 | 4 |
| Asthenia | 26 | 1 |
| Headache | 19 | 1 |
| Abdominal Pain | 14 | 1 |
| Pain | 12 | 1 |
| Back Pain | 10 | 1 |
| Throat Irritation | 9 | 0 |
| Flushing | 5 | 0 |
| Heme and Lymphatic System | 67 | 48 |
| Lymphopenia | 48 | 40 |
| Lymphopenia | 14 | 4 |
| Thrombocytopenia | 12 | 2 |
| Anemia | 8 | 3 |
| Skin and Appendages | 44 | 2 |
| Night Sweats | 15 | 1 |
| Rash | 15 | 1 |
| Pruritus | 14 | 1 |
| Urticaria | 8 | 1 |
| Respiratory System | 38 | 4 |
| Increased Cough | 13 | 1 |
| Rhinitis | 12 | 1 |
| Bronchospasm | 8 | 1 |
| Dyspnea | 7 | 1 |
| Sinusitis | 6 | 0 |
| Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders | 38 | 3 |
| Angioedema | 11 | 1 |
| Hyperglycemia | 9 | 1 |
| Peripheral Edema | 8 | 0 |
| LDH Increase | 7 | 0 |
| Digestive System | 37 | 2 |
| Nausea | 23 | 1 |
| Diarrhea | 10 | 1 |
| Vomiting | 10 | 1 |
| Nervous System | 32 | 1 |
| Dizziness | 10 | 1 |
| Anxiety | 5 | 1 |
| Musculoskeletal System | 26 | 3 |
| Myalgia | 10 | 1 |
| Arthralgia | 10 | 1 |
| Cardiovascular System | 25 | 3 |
| Hypotension | 10 | 1 |
| Hypertension | 6 | 1 |
| a Adverse reactions observed up to 12 months following RITUXAN. b Adverse reactions graded for severity by NCI-CTC criteria. |
In these single-arm RITUXAN studies, bronchiolitis obliterans occurred during and up to 6 months after RITUXAN infusion.
Previously Untreated, Low-Grade Or Follicular, NHLIn Study 4, patients in the R-CVP arm experienced a higher incidence of infusional toxicity and neutropenia compared to patients in the CVP arm. The following adverse reactions occurred more frequently (≥5%) in patients receiving R-CVP compared to CVP alone: rash (17% vs. 5%), cough (15% vs. 6%), flushing (14% vs. 3%), rigors (10% vs. 2%), pruritus (10% vs. 1%), neutropenia (8% vs. 3%), and chest tightness (7% vs. 1%)..
In Study 5, detailed safety data collection was limited to serious adverse reactions, Grade ≥ 2 infections, and Grade ≥ 3 adverse reactions. In patients receiving RITUXAN as single-agent maintenance therapy following RITUXAN plus chemotherapy, infections were reported more frequently compared to the observation arm (37% vs. 22%). Grade 3-4 adverse reactions occurring at a higher incidence (≥ 2%) in the RITUXAN group were infections (4% vs. 1%) and neutropenia (4% vs. <1%).
In Study 6, the following adverse reactions were reported more frequently (≥ 5%) in patients receiving RITUXAN following CVP compared to patients who received no further therapy: fatigue (39% vs. 14%), anemia (35% vs. 20%), peripheral sensory neuropathy (30% vs. 18%), infections (19% vs. 9%), pulmonary toxicity (18% vs. 10%), hepato-biliary toxicity (17% vs. 7%), rash and/or pruritus (17% vs. 5%), arthralgia (12% vs. 3%), and weight gain (11% vs. 4%). Neutropenia was the only Grade 3 or 4 adverse reaction that occurred more frequently (≥2%) in the RITUXAN arm compared with those who received no further therapy (4% vs. 1%)..
DLBCLIn Studies 7 and 8, , the following adverse reactions, regardless of severity, were reported more frequently (≥5%) in patients age ≥60 years receiving R-CHOP as compared to CHOP alone: pyrexia (56% vs. 46%), lung disorder (31% vs. 24%), cardiac disorder (29% vs. 21%), and chills (13% vs. 4%). Detailed safety data collection in these studies was primarily limited to Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions and serious adverse reactions.
In Study 8, a review of cardiac toxicity determined that supraventricular arrhythmias or tachycardia accounted for most of the difference in cardiac disorders (4.5% for R-CHOP vs. 1.0% for CHOP).
The following Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently among patients in the R-CHOP arm compared with those in the CHOP arm: thrombocytopenia (9% vs. 7%) and lung disorder (6% vs. 3%). Other Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurring more frequently among patients receiving R-CHOP were viral infection (Study 8), neutropenia (Studies 8 and 9), and anemia (Study 9).
CLLThe data below reflect exposure to RITUXAN in combination with fludarabine and cyclophosphamide in 676 patients with CLL in Study 11 or Study 12. The age range was 30-83 years and 71% were men. Detailed safety data collection in Study 11 was limited to Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions and serious adverse reactions.
Infusion-related adverse reactions were defined by any of the following adverse events occurring during or within 24 hours of the start of infusion: nausea, pyrexia, chills, hypotension, vomiting, and dyspnea.
In Study 11, the following Grade 3 and 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in R-FC-treated patients compared to FC-treated patients: infusion reactions (9% in R-FC arm), neutropenia (30% vs. 19%), febrile neutropenia (9% vs. 6%), leukopenia (23% vs. 12%), and pancytopenia (3% vs. 1%).
In Study 12, the following Grade 3 or 4 adverse reactions occurred more frequently in R-FC-treated patients compared to FC-treated patients: infusion reactions (7% in R-FC arm), neutropenia (49% vs. 44%), febrile neutropenia (15% vs. 12%), thrombocytopenia (11% vs. 9%), hypotension (2% vs. 0%), and hepatitis B (2% vs.<1%). Fifty-nine percent of R-FC-treated patients experienced an infusion reaction of any severity.
Clinical Trials Experience In Rheumatoid ArthritisBecause clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, 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.
The data presented below reflect the experience in 2578 RA patients treated with RITUXAN in controlled and long-term studies with a total exposure of 5014 patient-years.
Among all exposed patients, adverse reactions reported in greater than 10% of patients include infusion-related reactions, upper respiratory tract infection, nasopharyngitis, urinary tract infection, and bronchitis.
In placebo-controlled studies, patients received 2 x 500 mg or 2 x 1000 mg intravenous infusions of RITUXAN or placebo, in combination with methotrexate, during a 24-week period. From these studies, 938 patients treated with RITUXAN (2 x 1000 mg) or placebo have been pooled (see Table 2). Adverse reactions reported in ≥ 5% of patients were hypertension, nausea, upper respiratory tract infection, arthralgia, pyrexia and pruritus (see Table 2). The rates and types of adverse reactions in patients who received RITUXAN 2 x 500 mg were similar to those observed in patients who received RITUXAN 2 x 1000 mg.
Table 2* Incidence of All Adverse Reactions** Occurring in ≥2%
and at Least 1% Greater than Placebo Among Rheumatoid
Arthritis Patients in Clinical Studies Up to Week 24 (Pooled)
| Adverse Reactions | Placebo + MTX N=398 n (%) |
RITUXAN + MTX N=540 n (%) |
| Hypertension | 21 (5) | 43 (8) |
| Nausea | 19 (5) | 41 (8) |
| Upper Respiratory Tract Infection | 23 (6) | 37 (7) |
| Arthralgia | 14 (4) | 31 (6) |
| Pyrexia | 8 (2) | 27 (5) |
| Pruritus | 5 (1) | 26 (5) |
| Chills | 9 (2) | 16 (3) |
| Dyspepsia | 3 ( < 1) | 16 (3) |
| Rhinitis | 6 (2) | 14 (3) |
| Paresthesia | 3 ( < 1) | 12 (2) |
| Urticaria | 3 ( < 1) | 12 (2) |
| Abdominal Pain Upper | 4 (1) | 11 (2) |
| Throat Irritation | 0 (0) | 11 (2) |
| Anxiety | 5 (1) | 9 (2) |
| Migraine | 2 ( < 1) | 9 (2) |
| Asthenia | 1 ( < 1) | 9 (2) |
| *These data are based on 938 patients treated in Phase 2 and 3 studies of RITUXAN (2 x 1000 mg) or placebo administered in combination with methotrexate. **Coded using MedDRA. |
In the RITUXAN RA pooled placebo-controlled studies, 32% of RITUXAN-treated patients experienced an adverse reaction during or within 24 hours following their first infusion, compared to 23% of placebo-treated patients receiving their first infusion. The incidence of adverse reactions during the 24-hour period following the second infusion, RITUXAN or placebo, decreased to 11% and 13%, respectively. Acute infusion-related reactions (manifested by fever, chills, rigors, pruritus, urticaria/rash, angioedema, sneezing, throat irritation, cough, and/or bronchospasm, with or without associated hypotension or hypertension) were experienced by 27% of RITUXAN-treated patients following their first infusion, compared to 19% of placebo-treated patients receiving their first placebo infusion. The incidence of these acute infusion reactions following the second infusion of RITUXAN or placebo decreased to 9% and 11%, respectively. Serious acute infusion reactions were experienced by <1% of patients in either treatment group. Acute infusion reactions required dose modification (stopping, slowing, or interruption of the infusion) in 10% and 2% of patients receiving rituximab or placebo, respectively, after the first course. The proportion of patients experiencing acute infusion reactions decreased with subsequent courses of RITUXAN. The administration of intravenous glucocorticoids prior to RITUXAN infusions reduced the incidence and severity of such reactions, however, there was no clear benefit from the administration of oral glucocorticoids for the prevention of acute infusion reactions. Patients in clinical studies also received antihistamines and acetaminophen prior to RITUXAN infusions.
InfectionsIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, 39% of patients in the RITUXAN group experienced an infection of any type compared to 34% of patients in the placebo group. The most common infections were nasopharyngitis, upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
The incidence of serious infections was 2% in the RITUXAN-treated patients and 1% in the placebo group.
In the experience with RITUXAN in 2578 RA patients, the rate of serious infections was 4.31 per 100 patient years. The most common serious infections ( ≥ 0.5%) were pneumonia or lower respiratory tract infections, cellulitis and urinary tract infections. Fatal serious infections included pneumonia, sepsis and colitis. Rates of serious infection remained stable in patients receiving subsequent courses. In 185 RITUXAN-treated RA patients with active disease, subsequent treatment with a biologic DMARD, the majority of which were TNF antagonists, did not appear to increase the rate of serious infection. Thirteen serious infections were observed in 186.1 patient years (6.99 per 100 patient years) prior to exposure and 10 were observed in 182.3 patient years (5.49 per 100 patient years) after exposure.
Cardiovascular Adverse ReactionsIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, the proportion of patients with serious cardiovascular reactions was 1.7% and 1.3% in the RITUXAN and placebo treatment groups, respectively. Three cardiovascular deaths occurred during the double-blind period of the RA studies including all rituximab regimens (3/769=0.4%) as compared to none in the placebo treatment group (0/389).
In the experience with RITUXAN in 2578 RA patients, the rate of serious cardiac reactions was 1.93 per 100 patient years. The rate of myocardial infarction (MI) was 0.56 per 100 patient years (28 events in 26 patients), which is consistent with MI rates in the general RA population. These rates did not increase over three courses of RITUXAN.
Since patients with RA are at increased risk for cardiovascular events compared with the general population, patients with RA should be monitored throughout the infusion and RITUXAN should be discontinued in the event of a serious or life-threatening cardiac event.
Hypophosphatemia And HyperuricemiaIn the pooled, placebo-controlled studies, newly-occurring hypophosphatemia (<2.0 mg/dl) was observed in 12% (67/540) of patients on RITUXAN versus 10% (39/398) of patients on placebo. Hypophosphatemia was more common in patients who received corticosteroids. Newly-occurring hyperuricemia (>10 mg/dl) was observed in 1.5% (8/540) of patients on RITUXAN versus 0.3% (1/398) of patients on placebo.
In the experience with RITUXAN in RA patients, newly-occurring hypophosphatemia was observed in 21% (528/2570) of patients and newly-occurring hyperuricemia was observed in 2% (56/2570) of patients. The majority of the observed hypophosphatemia occurred at the time of the infusions and was transient.
Retreatment In Patients With RAIn the experience with RITUXAN in RA patients, 2578 patients have been exposed to RITUXAN and have received up to 10 courses of RITUXAN in RA clinical trials, with 1890, 1043, and 425 patients having received at least two, three, and four courses, respectively. Most of the patients who received additional courses did so 24 weeks or more after the previous course and none were retreated sooner than 16 weeks. The rates and types of adverse reactions reported for subsequent courses of RITUXAN were similar to rates and types seen for a single course of RITUXAN.
In RA Study 2, where all patients initially received RITUXAN, the safety profile of patients who were retreated with RITUXAN was similar to those who were retreated with placebo.
Clinical Trials Experience In Granulomatosis With Polyangiitis (GPA) (Wegener’s Granulomatosis) And Microscopic Polyangiitis (MPA)Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, 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.
The data presented below reflect the experience in 197 patients with GPA and MPA treated with RITUXAN or cyclophosphamide in a single controlled study, which was conducted in two phases: a 6 month randomized, double-blind, double-dummy, active-controlled remission induction phase and an additional 12 month remission maintenance phase. In the 6-month remission induction phase, 197 patients with GPA and MPA were randomized to either RITUXAN 375 mg/ m2 once weekly for 4 weeks plus glucocorticoids, or oral cyclophosphamide 2 mg/kg daily (adjusted for renal function, white blood cell count, and other factors) plus glucocorticoids to induce remission. Once remission was achieved or at the end of the 6 month remission induction period, the cyclophosphamide group received azathioprine to maintain remission. The RITUXAN group did not receive additional therapy to maintain remission. The primary analysis was at the end of the 6 month remission induction period and the safety results for this period are described below.
Adverse reactions presented below in Table 3 were adverse events which occurred at a rate of greater than or equal to 10% in the RITUXAN group. This table reflects experience in 99 GPA and MPA patients treated with RITUXAN, with a total of 47.6 patient-years of observation and 98 GPA and MPA patients treated with cyclophosphamide, with a total of 47.0 patient-years of observation. Infection was the most common category of adverse events reported (47-62%) and is discussed below.
Table 3 Incidence of All Adverse Reactions
Occurring in ≥ 10% of RITUXAN-treated GPA and MPA
Patients in the Clinical Study Up to Month 6*
| Adverse Reactions | RITUXAN N=99 n (%) |
Cyclophosphamide N=98 n (%) |
| Nausea | 18 (18%) | 20 (20%) |
| Diarrhea | 17 (17%) | 12 (12%) |
| Headache | 17 (17%) | 19 (19%) |
| Muscle spasms | 17 (17%) | 15 (15%) |
| Anemia | 16 (16%) | 20 (20%) |
| Peripheral edema | 16 (16%) | 6 (6%) |
| Insomnia | 14 (14%) | 12 (12%) |
| Arthralgia | 13 (13%) | 9 (9%) |
| Cough | 13 (13%) | 11 (11%) |
| Fatigue | 13 (13%) | 21 (21%) |
| Increased ALT | 13 (13%) | 15 (15%) |
| Hypertension | 12 (12%) | 5 (5%) |
| Epistaxis | 11 (11%) | 6 (6%) |
| Dyspnea | 10 (10%) | 11 (11%) |
| Leukopenia | 10 (10%) | 26 (27%) |
| Rash | 10 (10%) | 17 (17%) |
| *The study design allowed for crossover or treatment by best medical judgment, and 13 patients in each treatment group received a second therapy during the 6 month study period. |
Infusion-related reactions in the active-controlled, double-blind study were defined as any adverse event occurring within 24 hours of an infusion and considered to be infusion-related by investigators. Among the 99 patients treated with RITUXAN, 12% experienced at least one infusion-related reaction, compared with 11% of the 98 patients in the cyclophosphamide group. Infusion-related reactions included cytokine release syndrome, flushing, throat irritation, and tremor. In the RITUXAN group, the proportion of patients experiencing an infusion-related reaction was 12%, 5%, 4%, and 1% following the first, second, third, and fourth infusions, respectively. Patients were pre-medicated with antihistamine and acetaminophen before each RITUXAN infusion and were on background oral corticosteroids which may have mitigated or masked an infusion reaction; however, there is insufficient evidence to determine whether premedication diminishes the frequency or severity of infusion reactions.
InfectionsIn the active-controlled, double-blind study, 62% (61/99) of patients in the RITUXAN group experienced an infection of any type compared to 47% (46/98) patients in the cyclophosphamide group by Month 6. The most common infections in the RITUXAN group were upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, and herpes zoster.
The incidence of serious infections was 11% in the RITUXAN-treated patients and 10% in the cyclophosphamide treated patients, with rates of approximately 25 and 28 per 100 patient-years, respectively. The most common serious infection was pneumonia.
HypogammaglobulinemiaHypogammaglobulinemia (IgA, IgG or IgM below the lower limit of normal) has been observed in patients with GPA and MPA treated with RITUXAN. At 6 months, in the RITUXAN group, 27%, 58% and 51% of patients with normal immunoglobulin levels at baseline, had low IgA, IgG and IgM levels, respectively compared to 25%, 50% and 46% in the cyclophosphamide group.
Retreatment In Patients With GPA And MPAIn the active-controlled, double-blind study, subsequent courses of RITUXAN were allowed for patients experiencing a relapse of disease. The limited data preclude any conclusions regarding the safety of subsequent courses of RITUXAN with GPA and MPA.
ImmunogenicityAs with all therapeutic proteins, there is a potential for immunogenicity. The detection of antibody formation is highly dependent on the sensitivity and specificity of the assay. Additionally, the observed incidence of antibody (including neutralizing antibody) positivity in an assay may be influenced by several factors including assay methodology, sample handling, timing of sample collection, concomitant medications, and underlying disease. For these reasons, comparison of the incidence of antibodies to RITUXAN in the studies described below with the incidence of antibodies in other studies or to other products may be misleading.
Using an ELISA assay, anti-rituximab antibody was detected in 4 of 356 (1.1%) patients with low-grade or follicular NHL receiving single-agent RITUXAN. Three of the four patients had an objective clinical response.
A total of 273/2578 (11%) patients with RA tested positive for anti-rituximab antibodies at any time after receiving RITUXAN. Anti-rituximab antibody positivity was not associated with increased rates of infusion-related reactions or other adverse events. Upon further treatment, the proportions of patients with infusion reactions were similar between anti-rituximab antibody positive and negative patients, and most reactions were mild to moderate. Four anti-rituximab antibody positive patients had serious infusion reactions, and the temporal relationship between anti-rituximab antibody positivity and infusion reaction was variable.
A total of 23/99 (23%) RITUXAN-treated patients with GPA and MPA tested positive for antirituximab antibodies by 18 months. The clinical relevance of anti-rituximab antibody formation in RITUXAN-treated patients is unclear.
Postmarketing ExperienceThe following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of RITUXAN. 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.
