Unituxin

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Overdose

No information provided.

Contraindications

Unituxin is contraindicated in patients with a history of anaphylaxis to dinutuximab.

Undesirable effects

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

  • Serious Infusion Reactions
  • Neurotoxicity, including Pain, Peripheral Neuropathy, Neurological Disorders of the Eye, Prolonged Urinary Retention, Transverse Myelitis, and Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome
  • Capillary Leak Syndrome
  • Hypotension
  • Infection
  • Bone Marrow Suppression
  • Electrolyte Abnormalities
  • Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
  • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
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 rates observed in clinical practice.

The data described below reflect exposure to Unituxin at the recommended dose and schedule in 1021 patients with high-risk neuroblastoma enrolled in an open label, randomized (Study 1) or single arm clinical trials (Study 2 and Study 3). Prior to enrollment, patients received therapy consisting of induction combination chemotherapy, maximum feasible surgical resection, myeloablative consolidation chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant, and radiation therapy to residual soft tissue disease. Patients received Unituxin in combination with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and 13-cisretinoic acid (RA). Treatment commenced within 95 days post autologous stem cell transplant in Study 1, within 210 days of autologous stem cell transplant in Study 2, and within 110 days of autologous stem cell transplant in Study 3.

Study 1

In a randomized, open label, multi-center study (Study 1), 134 patients received dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF, IL-2 and RA (Unituxin/RA group), including 109 randomized patients and 25 patients with biopsy-proven residual disease who were non-randomly assigned to receive dinutuximab. A total of 106 randomized patients received RA alone (RA group). Patients had a median age at enrollment of 3.8 years (range: 0.94 to 15.3 years), and were predominantly male (60%) and White (82%). In Study 1, adverse reactions of Grade 3 or greater severity were comprehensively collected, but adverse reactions of Grade 1 or 2 severity were collected sporadically and laboratory data were not comprehensively collected.

Approximately 71% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group and 77% of patients in the RA group completed planned treatment. The most common reason for premature discontinuation of study therapy was adverse reactions in the Unituxin/RA group (19%) and progressive disease (17%) in the RA group.

The most common adverse drug reactions ( ≥ 25%) in the Unituxin/RA group were pain, pyrexia, thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, infusion reactions, hypotension, hyponatremia, increased alanine aminotransferase, anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, hypokalemia, capillary leak syndrome, neutropenia, urticaria, hypoalbuminemia, increased aspartate aminotransferase, and hypocalcemia. The most common serious adverse reactions ( ≥ 5%) in the Unituxin/RA group were infections, infusion reactions, hypokalemia, hypotension, pain, fever, and capillary leak syndrome.

Table 5 lists the adverse reactions reported in at least 10% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group for which there was a between group difference of at least 5% (all grades) or 2% (Grade 3 or greater severity).

Table 5: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in at Least 10% of Patients in the Unituxin/RA Group in Study 1

Adverse Reaction1,2 Unituxin/RA
(N=134)
RA
(N=106)
All Grades (%) Grades 3-4 (%) All Grades (%) Grades 3-4 (%)
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
  Pain3 85 51 16 6
  Pyrexia 72 40 27 6
  Edema 17 0 0 0
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders4
  Thrombocytopenia 66 39 43 25
  Lymphopenia4 62 51 36 20
  Anemia 51 34 22 16
  Neutropenia 39 34 16 13
Immune System Disorders
  Infusion reactions 60 25 9 1
Vascular Disorders
  Hypotension 60 16 3 0
  Capillary leak syndrome5 40 23 1 0
  Hemorrhage6 17 6 6 3
  Hypertension 14 2 7 1
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
  Hyponatremia4 58 23 12 4
  Hypokalemia4 43 37 4 2
  Hypoalbuminemia4 33 7 3 0
  Hypocalcemia4 27 7 0 0
  Hypophosphatemia4 20 8 3 0
  Hyperglycemia4 18 6 4 1
  Hypertriglyceridemia4 16 1 11 1
  Decreased appetite 15 10 5 4
  Hypomagnesemia4 12 2 1 0
Investigations
  Increased alanine aminotransferase4 56 23 31 3
  Increased aspartate aminotransferase4 28 10 7 0
  Increased serum creatinine4 15 2 6 0
  Increased weight 10 0 0 0
Gastrointestinal Disorders
  Vomiting 46 6 19 3
  Diarrhea 43 13 15 1
  Nausea 10 2 3 1
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
  Urticaria 37 13 3 0
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders
  Hypoxia 24 12 2 1
Cardiac Disorders
  Tachycardia7 19 2 1 0
Infections and Infestations
  Sepsis 18 16 9 9
  Device related infection 16 16 11 11
Renal and Urinary Disorders
  Proteinuria4 16 0 3 1
Nervous System Disorders
  Peripheral neuropathy 13 3 6 0
1 Includes adverse reactions that occurred in at least 10% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group with at least a 5% (All Grades) or 2% (Grades 3-5) absolute higher incidence in the Unituxin/RA group compared to the RA group.
2 Adverse drug reactions were graded using CTCAE version 3.0.
3 Includes preferred terms abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, arthralgia, back pain, bladder pain, bone pain, chest pain, facial pain, gingival pain, infusion related reaction, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, neuralgia, oropharyngeal pain, pain, pain in extremity, and proctalgia.
4 Based on investigator reported adverse reactions.
5 One Grade 5 adverse reaction.
6 Includes preferred terms gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematochezia, rectal hemorrhage, hematemesis, upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematuria, hemorrhage urinary tract, renal hemorrhage, epistaxis, respiratory tract hemorrhage, disseminated intravascular coagulation, catheter site hemorrhage, hemorrhage and hematoma.
7 Includes preferred terms tachycardia and sinus tachycardia.

Table 6 compares the per-patient incidence of selected adverse reactions occurring during cycles containing dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF (Cycles 1, 3, and 5) with cycles containing dinutuximab in combination with IL-2 (Cycles 2 and 4).

Table 6: Comparison of Adverse Events by Treatment Cycle in the Unituxin/RA Group in Study 1

Preferred Term1,2 All Grades Severe
GM-CSF
N=134 (%)
IL-23
N=127 (%)
GM-CSF
N=134 (%)
IL-23
N=127 (%)
General Disorders and administration site conditions
Pyrexia 55 65 10 37
Pain5 77 61 43 35
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders4
Thrombocytopenia 62 61 31 33
Lymphopenia 54 61 33 50
Anemia 42 42 21 24
Neutropenia 25 32 19 28
Immune System Disorders
Infusion reactions 47 54 10 20
Vascular Disorders
Hypotension 43 54 5 16
Capillary leak syndrome 22 36 11 20
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders4
Hyponatremia 36 55 5 21
Hypokalemia 26 39 13 33
Hypoalbuminemia 29 29 3 5
Hypocalcemia 20 21 2 6
Investigations4
Increased alanine aminotransferase 43 48 15 13
Aspartate aminotransferase increased 16 21 4 7
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Diarrhea 31 37 6 13
Vomiting 33 35 3 2
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Urticaria 25 29 7 7
Abbreviations: GM-CSF: granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor; IL-2: interleukin-2.
1 Includes preferred terms with a per-patient incidence of at least 20% in the Unituxin and RA group for either IL-2 or GM-CSF containing cycles.
2 Adverse drug reactions were graded using CTCAE version 3.0.
3 Seven patients who received GM-CSF in Cycle 1 discontinued prior to starting Cycle 2.
4 Based on investigator reported adverse reactions.
5 Includes preferred terms abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, arthralgia, back pain, bladder pain, bone pain, chest pain, facial pain, gingival pain, infusion related reaction, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, neuralgia, oropharyngeal pain, pain, pain in extremity, and proctalgia.

Study 2 and Study 3 Study 2 was a single arm, multicenter expanded access trial that enrolled patients with high-risk neuroblastoma (N=783). The reported adverse event profile of dinutuximab in Study 2 was similar to that observed in Study 1.

Study 3 was a multicenter, single arm safety study of dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF, IL-2 and RA. In Study 3, adverse events of all CTCAE grades and laboratory data were systematically and comprehensively collected. Of 104 patients enrolled and treated in Study 3, 77% of patients completed study therapy. In general, the adverse reaction profile of dinutuximab observed in Study 3 was similar to that observed in Study 1 and Study 2. The following adverse reactions not previously reported in Study 1 were reported in at least 10% of patients in Study 3: nasal congestion (20%) and wheezing (15%). Table 7 provides the per-patient incidence of laboratory abnormalities in Study 3.

Table 7: Per-Patient Incidence of Selected ( ≥ 5% Grade 3-4) Laboratory Abnormalities in Study 3

Laboratory Test1 Grade2
All Grades % Grades 3-4 %
Hematology
  Anemia 100 46
  Neutropenia 99 63
  Thrombocytopenia 98 49
Chemistry
  Hypoalbuminemia 100 8
  Hypocalcemia 97 7
  Hyponatremia 93 36
  Hyperglycemia 87 6
  Aspartate Aminotransferase Increased 84 8
  Alanine Aminotransferase Increased 83 13
  Hypokalemia 82 41
  Hypophosphatemia 78 6
Urinalysis3
  Urine protein 66 ND
  Red blood cell casts 38 ND
ND: not determined
1 Laboratory abnormalities with a per-patient incidence of at least 20% (all grades) and at least a 5% per-patient incidence of severe (Grade 3 or 4) laboratory abnormalities.
2 Based on CTCAE version 4.0.
3 Urinalysis results were reported as positive or negative without assessment of grade.
Immunogenicity

As with all therapeutic proteins, patients treated with Unituxin may develop anti-drug antibodies. In clinical studies, 52 of 284 (18%) patients from Study 2 and 13 of 103 (13%) patients from Study 3 tested positive for anti-dinutuximab binding antibodies. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in 3.6% of patients who were tested for anti-dinutuximab binding antibodies in Study 2 and Study 3. However, due to the limitations of the assay, the incidence of neutralizing antibodies may not have been reliably determined.

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 incidence of antibodies to Unituxin with the incidences of antibodies to other products may be misleading.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Unituxin. 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.

  • Neurotoxicity: prolonged urinary retention, transverse myelitis, and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS).

Therapeutic indications

Unituxin (dinutuximab) is indicated, in combination with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and 13-cis-retinoic acid (RA), for the treatment of pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma who achieve at least a partial response to prior first-line multiagent, multimodality therapy.

Pharmacokinetic properties

The pharmacokinetics of dinutuximab was evaluated by a population pharmacokinetic analysis in a clinical study of Unituxin in combination with GM-CSF, IL-2, and RA. In this study, 27 children with high-risk neuroblastoma (age: 3.9±1.9 years) received up to 5 cycles of Unituxin at 17.5 mg/m²/day as an intravenous infusion over 10 to 20 hours for 4 consecutive days every 28 days. The observed maximum plasma dinutuximab concentration (Cmax) was 11.5 mcg/mL [20%, coefficient of variation (CV)]. The mean volume of distribution at steady state (Vdss) was 5.4 L (28%). The clearance was 0.21 L/day (62%) and increased with body size. The terminal half-life was 10 days (56%).

No formal pharmacokinetic studies were conducted in patients with renal or hepatic impairment.

Date of revision of the text

Mar 2017

Name of the medicinal product

Unituxin

Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Risk Summary

Based on its mechanism of action, Unituxin may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no studies in pregnant women and no reproductive studies in animals to inform the drug-associated risk. Monoclonal antibodies are transported across the placenta in a linear fashion as pregnancy progresses, with the largest amount transferred during the third trimester. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. However, the 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.

Qualitative and quantitative composition

Dosage Forms And Strengths

Injection: 17.5 mg/5 mL (3.5 mg/mL) solution in a single-use vial.

Storage And Handling

Unituxin is supplied in a carton containing one 17.5 mg/5 mL (3.5 mg/mL) single-use vial.

NDC 66302-014-01

Store Unituxin vials under refrigeration at 2°C to 8°C until time of use. Do not freeze or shake the vial. Keep the vial in the outer carton in order to protect from light.

Unituxin manufactured by: United Therapeutics Corp. Silver Spring, MD 20910. Revised: Mar 2017

Special warnings and precautions for use

WARNINGS

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

PRECAUTIONS Serious Infusion Reactions

Serious infusion reactions requiring urgent intervention including blood pressure support, bronchodilator therapy, corticosteroids, infusion rate reduction, infusion interruption, or permanent discontinuation of Unituxin included facial and upper airway edema, dyspnea, bronchospasm, stridor, urticaria, and hypotension. Infusion reactions generally occurred during or within 24 hours of completing the Unituxin infusion. Due to overlapping signs and symptoms, it was not possible to distinguish between infusion reactions and hypersensitivity reactions in some cases.

In Study 1, Severe (Grade 3 or 4) infusion reactions occurred in 35 (26%) patients in the Unituxin/13-cis-retinoic acid (RA) group compared to 1 (1%) patient receiving RA alone. Severe urticaria occurred in 17 (13%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group but did not occur in the RA group. Serious adverse reactions consistent with anaphylaxis and resulting in permanent discontinuation of Unituxin occurred in 2 (1%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group. Additionally, 1 (0.1%) patient had multiple cardiac arrests and died within 24 hours after having received Unituxin in Study 2.

Prior to each Unituxin dose, administer required intravenous hydration and premedication with antihistamines, analgesics, and antipyretics. Monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of infusion reactions during and for at least 4 hours following completion of each Unituxin infusion in a setting where cardiopulmonary resuscitation medication and equipment are available.

For mild to moderate infusion reactions such as transient rash, fever, rigors, and localized urticaria that respond promptly to antihistamines or antipyretics, decrease the Unituxin infusion rate and monitor closely. Immediately interrupt or permanently discontinue Unituxin and institute supportive management for severe or prolonged infusion reactions. Permanently discontinue Unituxin and institute supportive management for life-threatening infusion reactions.

Neurotoxicity Pain

In Study 1, 114 (85%) patients treated in the Unituxin/RA group experienced pain despite pretreatment with analgesics including morphine sulfate infusion. Severe (Grade 3) pain occurred in 68 (51%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group compared to 5 (5%) patients in the RA group. Pain typically occurred during the Unituxin infusion and was most commonly reported as abdominal pain, generalized pain, extremity pain, back pain, neuralgia, musculoskeletal chest pain, and arthralgia.

Premedicate with analgesics including intravenous opioids prior to each dose of Unituxin and continue analgesics until two hours following completion of Unituxin.

For severe pain, decrease the Unituxin infusion rate to 0.875 mg/m²/hour. Discontinue Unituxin if pain is not adequately controlled despite infusion rate reduction and institution of maximum supportive measures.

Peripheral Neuropathy

In Study 1, severe (Grade 3) peripheral sensory neuropathy occurred in 2 (1%) patients and severe peripheral motor neuropathy occurred in 2 (1%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group. No patients treated with RA alone experienced severe peripheral neuropathy. The duration and reversibility of peripheral neuropathy occurring in Study 1 was not documented. In Study 3, no patients experienced peripheral motor neuropathy. Among the 9 (9%) patients who experienced peripheral sensory neuropathy of any severity, the median (min, max) duration of peripheral sensory neuropathy was 9 (3, 163) days.

In a study of a related anti-GD2 antibody conducted in 12 adult patients with metastatic melanoma, 2 (13%) patients developed severe motor neuropathy. One patient developed lower extremity weakness and inability to ambulate that persisted for approximately 6 weeks. Another patient developed severe lower extremity weakness resulting in an inability to ambulate without assistance that lasted for approximately 16 weeks and neurogenic bladder that lasted for approximately 3 weeks. Complete resolution of motor neuropathy was not documented in this case.

Permanently discontinue Unituxin in patients with peripheral motor neuropathy of Grade 2 or greater severity, Grade 3 sensory neuropathy that interferes with daily activities for more than 2 weeks, or Grade 4 sensory neuropathy.

Neurological Disorders Of The Eye

Neurological disorders of the eye experienced by two or more patients treated with Unituxin in Studies 1, 2, or 3 included blurred vision, photophobia, mydriasis, fixed or unequal pupils, optic nerve disorder, eyelid ptosis, and papilledema.

In Study 1, 3 (2%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group experienced blurred vision, compared to no patients in the RA group. Diplopia, mydriasis, and unequal pupillary size occurred in 1 patient each in the Unituxin/RA group, compared to no patients in the RA group. The duration of eye disorders occurring in Study 1 was not documented. In Study 3, eye disorders occurred in 16 (15%) patients, and in 3 (3%) patients resolution of the eye disorder was not documented. Among the cases with documented resolution, the median duration of eye disorders was 4 days (range: 0, 221 days).

Interrupt Unituxin in patients experiencing dilated pupil with sluggish light reflex or other visual disturbances that do not cause visual loss. Upon resolution and if continued treatment with Unituxin is warranted, decrease the Unituxin dose by 50%. Permanently discontinue Unituxin in patients with recurrent signs or symptoms of an eye disorder following dose reduction and in patients who experience loss of vision.

Prolonged Urinary Retention

Urinary retention that persists for weeks to months following discontinuation of opioids has occurred in patients treated with Unituxin. Permanently discontinue Unituxin in patients with urinary retention that does not resolve following discontinuation of opioids.

Transverse Myelitis

Transverse myelitis has occurred in patients treated with Unituxin. Promptly evaluate any patient with signs or symptoms of transverse myelitis such as weakness, paresthesia, sensory loss, or incontinence. Permanently discontinue Unituxin in patients who develop transverse myelitis.

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome

Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome (RPLS) has occurred in patients treated with Unituxin. Institute appropriate medical treatment and permanently discontinue Unituxin in patients with signs and symptoms of RPLS (e.g., severe headache, hypertension, visual changes, lethargy, or seizures).

Capillary Leak Syndrome

In Study 1, severe (Grade 3 to 5) capillary leak syndrome occurred in 31 (23%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group and in no patients treated with RA alone. Additionally, capillary leak syndrome was reported as a serious adverse reaction in 9 (6%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group and in no patients treated with RA alone. Immediately interrupt or discontinue Unituxin and institute supportive management in patients with symptomatic or severe capillary leak syndrome.

Hypotension

In Study 1, severe (Grade 3 or 4) hypotension occurred in 22 (16%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group compared to no patients in the RA group.

Prior to each Unituxin infusion, administer required intravenous hydration. Closely monitor blood pressure during Unituxin treatment. Immediately interrupt or discontinue Unituxin and institute supportive management in patients with symptomatic hypotension, systolic blood pressure (SBP) less than lower limit of normal for age, or SBP that is decreased by more than 15% compared to baseline.

Infection

In Study 1, severe (Grade 3 or 4) bacteremia requiring intravenous antibiotics or other urgent intervention occurred in 17 (13%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group compared to 5 (5%) patients treated with RA alone. Sepsis occurred in 24 (18%) patients in the Unituxin/RA group and in 10 (9%) patients in the RA group.

Monitor patients closely for signs and symptoms of systemic infection and temporarily discontinue Unituxin in patients who develop systemic infection until resolution of the infection.

Bone Marrow Suppression

In Study 1, severe (Grade 3 or 4) thrombocytopenia (39% vs. 25%), anemia (34% vs. 16%), neutropenia (34% vs. 13%), and febrile neutropenia (4% vs. 0 patients) occurred more commonly in patients in the Unituxin/RA group compared to patients treated with RA alone. Monitor peripheral blood counts closely during therapy with Unituxin.

Electrolyte Abnormalities

Electrolyte abnormalities occurring in at least 25% of patients who received Unituxin/RA in Study 1 included hyponatremia, hypokalemia, and hypocalcemia. Severe (Grade 3 or 4) hypokalemia and hyponatremia occurred in 37% and 23% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group respectively compared to 2% and 4% of patients in the RA group. In a study of a related antiGD2 antibody conducted in 12 adult patients with metastatic melanoma, 2 (13%) patients developed syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion resulting in severe hyponatremia. Monitor serum electrolytes daily during therapy with Unituxin.

Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Hemolytic uremic syndrome in the absence of documented infection and resulting in renal insufficiency, electrolyte abnormalities, anemia, and hypertension occurred in two patients enrolled in Study 2 following receipt of the first cycle of dinutuximab. Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome recurred following rechallenge with Unituxin in one patient. Permanently discontinue Unituxin and institute supportive management for signs of hemolytic uremic syndrome.

Embryo-Fetal Toxicity

Based on its mechanism of action, Unituxin may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment, and for two months after the last dose of Unituxin.

Nonclinical Toxicology Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment Of Fertility

No animal studies have been conducted to evaluate the carcinogenic or mutagenic potential of dinutuximab.

Dedicated studies examining the effects of dinutuximab on fertility in animals have not been conducted. No clear effects on reproductive organs were observed in general toxicology studies conducted in rats.

Use In Specific Populations Pregnancy Risk Summary

Based on its mechanism of action, Unituxin may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. There are no studies in pregnant women and no reproductive studies in animals to inform the drug-associated risk. Monoclonal antibodies are transported across the placenta in a linear fashion as pregnancy progresses, with the largest amount transferred during the third trimester. Advise pregnant women of the potential risk to a fetus. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. However, the 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.

Lactation Risk Summary

There is no information available on the presence of dinutuximab in human milk, the effects of the drug on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. However, human IgG is present in human milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in a breastfed infant, advise a nursing woman to discontinue breastfeeding during treatment with Unituxin.

Females and Males of Reproductive Potential Contraception

Females

Unituxin may cause fetal harm. Advise females of reproductive potential to use effective contraception during treatment and for two months after the last dose of Unituxin.

Pediatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of Unituxin as part of multi-agent, multimodality therapy have been established in pediatric patients with high-risk neuroblastoma based on results of an open-label, randomized (1:1) trial conducted in 226 patients aged 11 months to 15 years (median age 3.8 years) (Study 1). Prior to enrollment, patients achieved at least a partial response to prior first-line therapy for high-risk neuroblastoma consisting of induction combination chemotherapy, maximum feasible surgical resection, myeloablative consolidation chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant, and received radiation therapy to residual soft tissue disease. Patients randomized to the Unituxin/13-cis-retinoic acid (RA) arm (Unituxin/RA) received up to five cycles of Unituxin in combination with alternating cycles of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-2 (IL-2) plus RA, followed by one cycle of RA alone. Patients randomized to the RA arm received up to six cycles of RA monotherapy. Study 1 demonstrated an improvement in event-free survival and overall survival in patients in the Unituxin/RA arm compared to those in the RA arm.

Geriatric Use

The safety and effectiveness of Unituxin in geriatric patients have not been established.

Renal Impairment

Unituxin has not been studied in patients with renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment

Unituxin has not been studied in patients with hepatic impairment.

Dosage (Posology) and method of administration

  • Verify that patients have adequate hematologic, respiratory, hepatic, and renal function prior to initiating each course of Unituxin.
  • Administer required premedication and hydration prior to initiation of each Unituxin infusion.
Recommended Dose
  • The recommended dose of Unituxin is 17.5 mg/m²/day administered as an intravenous infusion over 10 to 20 hours for 4 consecutive days for a maximum of 5 cycles (Tables 1 and 2 ).
  • Initiate at an infusion rate of 0.875 mg/m²/hour for 30 minutes. The infusion rate can be gradually increased as tolerated to a maximum rate of 1.75 mg/m²/hour. Follow dose modification instructions for adverse reactions.

Table 1: Schedule of Unituxin Administration for Cycles 1, 3, and 5

Cycle Day 1 through 3 4 5 6 7 8 through 24*
Unituxin   X X X X  
*Cycles 1, 3, and 5 are 24 days in duration.

Table 2: Schedule of Unituxin Administration for Cycles 2 and 4

Cycle Day 1 through 7 8 9 10 11 12 through 32*
Unituxin   X X X X  
*Cycles 2 and 4 are 32 days in duration.
Required Pre-treatment And Guidelines For Pain Management Intravenous Hydration
  • Administer 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP 10 mL/kg as an intravenous infusion over one hour just prior to initiating each Unituxin infusion.
Analgesics
  • Administer morphine sulfate (50 mcg/kg) intravenously immediately prior to initiation of Unituxin and then continue as a morphine sulfate drip at an infusion rate of 20 to 50 mcg/kg/hour during and for two hours following completion of Unituxin.
  • Administer additional 25 mcg/kg to 50 mcg/kg intravenous doses of morphine sulfate as needed for pain up to once every 2 hours followed by an increase in the morphine sulfate infusion rate in clinically stable patients.
  • Consider using fentanyl or hydromorphone if morphine sulfate is not tolerated.
  • If pain is inadequately managed with opioids, consider use of gabapentin or lidocaine in conjunction with intravenous morphine.
Antihistamines And Antipyretics
  • Administer an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine (0.5 to 1 mg/kg; maximum dose 50 mg) intravenously over 10 to 15 minutes starting 20 minutes prior to initiation of Unituxin and as tolerated every 4 to 6 hours during the Unituxin infusion.
  • Administer acetaminophen (10 to 15 mg/kg; maximum dose 650 mg) 20 minutes prior to each Unituxin infusion and every 4 to 6 hours as needed for fever or pain. Administer ibuprofen (5 to 10 mg/kg) every 6 hours as needed for control of persistent fever or pain.
Dosage Modifications

Manage adverse reactions by infusion interruption, infusion rate reduction, dose reduction, or permanent discontinuation of Unituxin (Table 3 and Table 4).

Table 3: Adverse Reactions Requiring Permanent Discontinuation of Unituxin

Table 3: Adverse Reactions Requiring Permanent Discontinuation of Unituxin

Grade 3 or 4 anaphylaxis
Grade 3 or 4 serum sickness
Grade 3 pain unresponsive to maximum supportive measures
Grade 4 sensory neuropathy or Grade 3 sensory neuropathy that interferes with daily activities for more than 2 weeks
Grade 2 peripheral motor neuropathy
Subtotal or total vision loss
Grade 4 hyponatremia despite appropriate fluid management

Table 4: Dose Modification for Selected Unituxin Adverse Reactions

Infusion-related reactions
Mild to moderate adverse reactions such as transient rash, fever, rigors, and localized urticaria that respond promptly to symptomatic treatment
Onset of reaction: Reduce Unituxin infusion rate to 50% of the previous rate and monitor closely.
After resolution: Gradually increase infusion rate up to a maximum rate of 1.75 mg/m2/hour.
Prolonged or severe adverse reactions such as mild bronchospasm without other symptoms, angioedema that does not affect the airway
Onset of reaction: Immediately interrupt Unituxin.
After resolution: If signs and symptoms resolve rapidly, resume Unituxin at 50% of the previous rate and observe closely.
First recurrence: Discontinue Unituxin until the following day.
If symptoms resolve and continued treatment is warranted, premedicate with hydrocortisone 1 mg/kg (maximum dose 50 mg) intravenously and administer Unituxin at a rate of 0.875 mg/m2/hour in an intensive care unit.
Second recurrence: Permanently discontinue Unituxin.
Neurological Disorders of the Eye
Onset of reaction: Discontinue Unituxin infusion until resolution.
After resolution: Reduce the Unituxin dose by 50%.
First recurrence or if accompanied by visual impairment: Permanently discontinue Unituxin.
Capillary leak syndrome
Moderate to severe but not life-threatening capillary leak syndrome
Onset of reaction: Immediately interrupt Unituxin.
After resolution: Resume Unituxin infusion at 50% of the previous rate.
Life-threatening capillary leak syndrome
Onset of reaction: Discontinue Unituxin for the current cycle.
After resolution: In subsequent cycles, administer Unituxin at 50% of the previous rate.
First recurrence: Permanently discontinue Unituxin.
Hypotension* requiring medical intervention
Onset of reaction:. Interrupt Unituxin infusion
After resolution: Resume Unituxin infusion at 50% of the previous rate.
If blood pressure remains stable for at least 2 hours, increase the infusion rate as tolerated up to a maximum rate of 1.75 mg/m2/hour.
Severe systemic infection or sepsis
Onset of reaction: Discontinue Unituxin until resolution of infection, and then proceed with subsequent cycles of therapy.
*Symptomatic hypotension, systolic blood pressure (SBP) less than lower limit of normal for age, or SBP decreased by more than 15% compared to baseline.
Instructions For Preparation And Administration Preparation
  • Store vials in a refrigerator at 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F). Protect from light by storing in the outer carton. DO NOT FREEZE OR SHAKE vials.
  • Inspect visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration. Do not administer Unituxin and discard the single-use vial if the solution is cloudy, has pronounced discoloration, or contains particulate matter.
  • Aseptically withdraw the required volume of Unituxin from the single-use vial and inject into a 100 mL bag of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP. Mix by gentle inversion. Do not shake. Discard unused contents of the vial.
  • Store the diluted Unituxin solution under refrigeration (2°C to 8°C). Initiate infusion within 4 hours of preparation.
  • Discard diluted Unituxin solution 24 hours after preparation.
Administration
  • Administer Unituxin as a diluted intravenous infusion only. Do not administer Unituxin as an intravenous push or bolus.

Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

SIDE EFFECTS

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

  • Serious Infusion Reactions
  • Neurotoxicity, including Pain, Peripheral Neuropathy, Neurological Disorders of the Eye, Prolonged Urinary Retention, Transverse Myelitis, and Reversible Posterior Leukoencephalopathy Syndrome
  • Capillary Leak Syndrome
  • Hypotension
  • Infection
  • Bone Marrow Suppression
  • Electrolyte Abnormalities
  • Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome
  • Embryo-Fetal Toxicity
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 rates observed in clinical practice.

The data described below reflect exposure to Unituxin at the recommended dose and schedule in 1021 patients with high-risk neuroblastoma enrolled in an open label, randomized (Study 1) or single arm clinical trials (Study 2 and Study 3). Prior to enrollment, patients received therapy consisting of induction combination chemotherapy, maximum feasible surgical resection, myeloablative consolidation chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplant, and radiation therapy to residual soft tissue disease. Patients received Unituxin in combination with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and 13-cisretinoic acid (RA). Treatment commenced within 95 days post autologous stem cell transplant in Study 1, within 210 days of autologous stem cell transplant in Study 2, and within 110 days of autologous stem cell transplant in Study 3.

Study 1

In a randomized, open label, multi-center study (Study 1), 134 patients received dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF, IL-2 and RA (Unituxin/RA group), including 109 randomized patients and 25 patients with biopsy-proven residual disease who were non-randomly assigned to receive dinutuximab. A total of 106 randomized patients received RA alone (RA group). Patients had a median age at enrollment of 3.8 years (range: 0.94 to 15.3 years), and were predominantly male (60%) and White (82%). In Study 1, adverse reactions of Grade 3 or greater severity were comprehensively collected, but adverse reactions of Grade 1 or 2 severity were collected sporadically and laboratory data were not comprehensively collected.

Approximately 71% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group and 77% of patients in the RA group completed planned treatment. The most common reason for premature discontinuation of study therapy was adverse reactions in the Unituxin/RA group (19%) and progressive disease (17%) in the RA group.

The most common adverse drug reactions ( ≥ 25%) in the Unituxin/RA group were pain, pyrexia, thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, infusion reactions, hypotension, hyponatremia, increased alanine aminotransferase, anemia, vomiting, diarrhea, hypokalemia, capillary leak syndrome, neutropenia, urticaria, hypoalbuminemia, increased aspartate aminotransferase, and hypocalcemia. The most common serious adverse reactions ( ≥ 5%) in the Unituxin/RA group were infections, infusion reactions, hypokalemia, hypotension, pain, fever, and capillary leak syndrome.

Table 5 lists the adverse reactions reported in at least 10% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group for which there was a between group difference of at least 5% (all grades) or 2% (Grade 3 or greater severity).

Table 5: Selected Adverse Reactions Occurring in at Least 10% of Patients in the Unituxin/RA Group in Study 1

Adverse Reaction1,2 Unituxin/RA
(N=134)
RA
(N=106)
All Grades (%) Grades 3-4 (%) All Grades (%) Grades 3-4 (%)
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
  Pain3 85 51 16 6
  Pyrexia 72 40 27 6
  Edema 17 0 0 0
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders4
  Thrombocytopenia 66 39 43 25
  Lymphopenia4 62 51 36 20
  Anemia 51 34 22 16
  Neutropenia 39 34 16 13
Immune System Disorders
  Infusion reactions 60 25 9 1
Vascular Disorders
  Hypotension 60 16 3 0
  Capillary leak syndrome5 40 23 1 0
  Hemorrhage6 17 6 6 3
  Hypertension 14 2 7 1
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
  Hyponatremia4 58 23 12 4
  Hypokalemia4 43 37 4 2
  Hypoalbuminemia4 33 7 3 0
  Hypocalcemia4 27 7 0 0
  Hypophosphatemia4 20 8 3 0
  Hyperglycemia4 18 6 4 1
  Hypertriglyceridemia4 16 1 11 1
  Decreased appetite 15 10 5 4
  Hypomagnesemia4 12 2 1 0
Investigations
  Increased alanine aminotransferase4 56 23 31 3
  Increased aspartate aminotransferase4 28 10 7 0
  Increased serum creatinine4 15 2 6 0
  Increased weight 10 0 0 0
Gastrointestinal Disorders
  Vomiting 46 6 19 3
  Diarrhea 43 13 15 1
  Nausea 10 2 3 1
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
  Urticaria 37 13 3 0
Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders
  Hypoxia 24 12 2 1
Cardiac Disorders
  Tachycardia7 19 2 1 0
Infections and Infestations
  Sepsis 18 16 9 9
  Device related infection 16 16 11 11
Renal and Urinary Disorders
  Proteinuria4 16 0 3 1
Nervous System Disorders
  Peripheral neuropathy 13 3 6 0
1 Includes adverse reactions that occurred in at least 10% of patients in the Unituxin/RA group with at least a 5% (All Grades) or 2% (Grades 3-5) absolute higher incidence in the Unituxin/RA group compared to the RA group.
2 Adverse drug reactions were graded using CTCAE version 3.0.
3 Includes preferred terms abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, arthralgia, back pain, bladder pain, bone pain, chest pain, facial pain, gingival pain, infusion related reaction, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, neuralgia, oropharyngeal pain, pain, pain in extremity, and proctalgia.
4 Based on investigator reported adverse reactions.
5 One Grade 5 adverse reaction.
6 Includes preferred terms gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematochezia, rectal hemorrhage, hematemesis, upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage, hematuria, hemorrhage urinary tract, renal hemorrhage, epistaxis, respiratory tract hemorrhage, disseminated intravascular coagulation, catheter site hemorrhage, hemorrhage and hematoma.
7 Includes preferred terms tachycardia and sinus tachycardia.

Table 6 compares the per-patient incidence of selected adverse reactions occurring during cycles containing dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF (Cycles 1, 3, and 5) with cycles containing dinutuximab in combination with IL-2 (Cycles 2 and 4).

Table 6: Comparison of Adverse Events by Treatment Cycle in the Unituxin/RA Group in Study 1

Preferred Term1,2 All Grades Severe
GM-CSF
N=134 (%)
IL-23
N=127 (%)
GM-CSF
N=134 (%)
IL-23
N=127 (%)
General Disorders and administration site conditions
Pyrexia 55 65 10 37
Pain5 77 61 43 35
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders4
Thrombocytopenia 62 61 31 33
Lymphopenia 54 61 33 50
Anemia 42 42 21 24
Neutropenia 25 32 19 28
Immune System Disorders
Infusion reactions 47 54 10 20
Vascular Disorders
Hypotension 43 54 5 16
Capillary leak syndrome 22 36 11 20
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders4
Hyponatremia 36 55 5 21
Hypokalemia 26 39 13 33
Hypoalbuminemia 29 29 3 5
Hypocalcemia 20 21 2 6
Investigations4
Increased alanine aminotransferase 43 48 15 13
Aspartate aminotransferase increased 16 21 4 7
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Diarrhea 31 37 6 13
Vomiting 33 35 3 2
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Urticaria 25 29 7 7
Abbreviations: GM-CSF: granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor; IL-2: interleukin-2.
1 Includes preferred terms with a per-patient incidence of at least 20% in the Unituxin and RA group for either IL-2 or GM-CSF containing cycles.
2 Adverse drug reactions were graded using CTCAE version 3.0.
3 Seven patients who received GM-CSF in Cycle 1 discontinued prior to starting Cycle 2.
4 Based on investigator reported adverse reactions.
5 Includes preferred terms abdominal pain, abdominal pain upper, arthralgia, back pain, bladder pain, bone pain, chest pain, facial pain, gingival pain, infusion related reaction, musculoskeletal chest pain, myalgia, neck pain, neuralgia, oropharyngeal pain, pain, pain in extremity, and proctalgia.

Study 2 and Study 3 Study 2 was a single arm, multicenter expanded access trial that enrolled patients with high-risk neuroblastoma (N=783). The reported adverse event profile of dinutuximab in Study 2 was similar to that observed in Study 1.

Study 3 was a multicenter, single arm safety study of dinutuximab in combination with GM-CSF, IL-2 and RA. In Study 3, adverse events of all CTCAE grades and laboratory data were systematically and comprehensively collected. Of 104 patients enrolled and treated in Study 3, 77% of patients completed study therapy. In general, the adverse reaction profile of dinutuximab observed in Study 3 was similar to that observed in Study 1 and Study 2. The following adverse reactions not previously reported in Study 1 were reported in at least 10% of patients in Study 3: nasal congestion (20%) and wheezing (15%). Table 7 provides the per-patient incidence of laboratory abnormalities in Study 3.

Table 7: Per-Patient Incidence of Selected ( ≥ 5% Grade 3-4) Laboratory Abnormalities in Study 3

Laboratory Test1 Grade2
All Grades % Grades 3-4 %
Hematology
  Anemia 100 46
  Neutropenia 99 63
  Thrombocytopenia 98 49
Chemistry
  Hypoalbuminemia 100 8
  Hypocalcemia 97 7
  Hyponatremia 93 36
  Hyperglycemia 87 6
  Aspartate Aminotransferase Increased 84 8
  Alanine Aminotransferase Increased 83 13
  Hypokalemia 82 41
  Hypophosphatemia 78 6
Urinalysis3
  Urine protein 66 ND
  Red blood cell casts 38 ND
ND: not determined
1 Laboratory abnormalities with a per-patient incidence of at least 20% (all grades) and at least a 5% per-patient incidence of severe (Grade 3 or 4) laboratory abnormalities.
2 Based on CTCAE version 4.0.
3 Urinalysis results were reported as positive or negative without assessment of grade.
Immunogenicity

As with all therapeutic proteins, patients treated with Unituxin may develop anti-drug antibodies. In clinical studies, 52 of 284 (18%) patients from Study 2 and 13 of 103 (13%) patients from Study 3 tested positive for anti-dinutuximab binding antibodies. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in 3.6% of patients who were tested for anti-dinutuximab binding antibodies in Study 2 and Study 3. However, due to the limitations of the assay, the incidence of neutralizing antibodies may not have been reliably determined.

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 incidence of antibodies to Unituxin with the incidences of antibodies to other products may be misleading.

Postmarketing Experience

The following adverse reactions have been identified during post-approval use of Unituxin. 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.

  • Neurotoxicity: prolonged urinary retention, transverse myelitis, and reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS).
DRUG INTERACTIONS

No drug-drug interaction studies have been conducted with dinutuximab.