Lupkynis Drug Information
Generic name: VOCLOSPORIN
Calcineurin Inhibitor Immunosuppressant [EPC]
Uses of Lupkynis
is indicated in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen for the treatment of adult patients with active lupus nephritis (LN). Limitations of Use: Safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS have not been established in combination with cyclophosphamide. Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in this situation. LUPKYNIS is a calcineurin-inhibitor immunosuppressant indicated in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen for the treatment of adult patients with active lupus nephritis (LN). Limitations of Use: Safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS have not been established in combination with cyclophosphamide.
Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in this situation.
Dosage & Administration of Lupkynis
Important
Administration Instructions LUPKYNIS capsules must be swallowed whole and must not be opened, crushed, or divided. LUPKYNIS should be taken on an empty stomach consistently as close to a 12-hour schedule as possible, and with a minimum of 8 hours between doses. If a dose is missed, instruct the patient to take it as soon as possible within 4 hours after missing the dose.
Beyond the 4-hour time frame, instruct the patient to wait until the usual scheduled time to take the next regular dose. Instruct the patient not to double the next dose. Instruct patients to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking LUPKYNIS .
Prior to Initiating
LUPKYNIS Therapy Establish an accurate baseline estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in patients with a baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 unless the benefit exceeds the risk; these patients may be at increased risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity . Check blood pressure (BP) at baseline. Do not initiate LUPKYNIS in patients with BP >165/105 mmHg or with hypertensive emergency .
Dosage Recommendations
The recommended starting dose of LUPKYNIS is 23.7 mg twice a day. Use LUPKYNIS in combination with mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and corticosteroids . Safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS have not been established in combination with cyclophosphamide. Use of LUPKYNIS is not recommended in this situation.
Assess eGFR every two weeks for the first month, every four weeks through the first year and quarterly thereafter. Dosage of LUPKYNIS is based on the patient’s eGFR. Modify LUPKYNIS dosage based on eGFR : If eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 and reduced from baseline by >20% and <30%, reduce the dose by 7.9 mg twice a day. Re-assess eGFR within two weeks; if eGFR is still reduced from baseline by >20%, reduce the dose again by 7.9 mg twice a day.
If eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 and reduced from baseline by ≥30%, discontinue LUPKYNIS. Re-assess eGFR within two weeks; consider re-initiating LUPKYNIS at a lower dose (7.9 mg twice a day) only if eGFR has returned to ≥80% of baseline. For patients that had a decrease in dose due to eGFR, consider increasing the dose by 7.9 mg twice a day for each eGFR measurement that is ≥80% of baseline; do not exceed the starting dose. Monitor blood pressure every two weeks for the first month after initiating LUPKYNIS, and as clinically indicated thereafter . For patients with BP >165/105 mmHg or with hypertensive emergency, discontinue LUPKYNIS and initiate antihypertensive therapy.
If the patient does not experience therapeutic benefit by 24 weeks, consider discontinuation of LUPKYNIS.
Dosage Recommendations in Patients with Renal and Hepatic Impairment Use of
LUPKYNIS is not recommended in patients with a baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 unless the benefit exceeds the risk; LUPKYNIS has not been studied in patients with a baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2. If used in patients with severe renal impairment at baseline, the recommended starting dose is 15.8 mg twice a day . In patients with mild and moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh A and Child-Pugh B), the recommended dose is 15.8 mg twice daily. LUPKYNIS is not recommended to be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh C) .
Dosage Adjustments due to Drug Interactions
When co-administering LUPKYNIS with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, fluconazole, diltiazem), reduce LUPKYNIS daily dosage to 15.8 mg in the morning and 7.9 mg in the evening. No dose adjustment of LUPKYNIS is recommended when LUPKYNIS is co-administered with mild CYP3A4 inhibitors .
Side Effects of Lupkynis
Clinical Trials Experience
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. A total of 355 patients with LN were treated with voclosporin in the Phase 2 and 3 clinical studies with 224 exposed for at least 48 weeks, and 92 exposed for 3 years. Patients in Study 1 were randomized to LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day or placebo.
A proportion of patients (n=216, 60%) in Study 1 continued in Study 1 extension, a double-blinded continuation study, and these patients were observed for up to 2 additional years . Patients in Study 2 were randomized to LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day, voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day, or placebo. Patients received background treatment with MMF 2 g daily and an IV bolus of corticosteroids followed by a pre-specified oral corticosteroid taper dosing schedule; LUPKYNIS dosing was adjusted based on eGFR and BP. A total of 267 patients received at least 1 dose of LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day with 184 exposed for at least 48 weeks. A total of 88 patients received at least 1 dose of voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day with 40 exposed for 48 weeks.
Table 1 lists common adverse reactions occurring in at least 3% of patients receiving LUPKYNIS and at an incidence at least 2% greater than placebo in Studies 1 and 2. Table 1: Adverse Reactions in ≥3% of Patients Treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg Twice a Day and ≥2% Higher than Placebo in Studies 1 and 2 Adverse Reaction LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day (n=267) Placebo (n=266) Glomerular filtration rate decreased See Specific Adverse Reactions below (Nephrotoxicity) 26% 9% Hypertension 19% 9% Diarrhea 19% 13% Headache 15% 8% Anemia 12% 6% Cough 11% 2% Urinary tract infection 10% 6% Abdominal pain upper 7% 2% Dyspepsia 6% 3% Alopecia 6% 3% Renal Impairment 6% 3% Abdominal pain 5% 2% Mouth ulceration 4% 1% Fatigue 4% 1% Tremor 3% 1% Acute kidney injury 3% 1% Decreased appetite 3% 1% Other adverse reactions reported in less than 3% of patients in the LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg group and at a 2% higher rate than in the placebo group through 48/52 weeks included gingivitis and hypertrichosis. The overall profile of adverse events seen in Study 1 extension (representing 203 patient-years of additional exposure) were similar in both nature and severity to those seen in the first year of treatment (Study 1). The annual incidence of adverse reactions reduced each successive year in both treatment groups. The integrated LN dataset is presented in the Specific Adverse Reactions section: Placebo-controlled Studies: Studies 1 and 2 were integrated to represent safety through 48/52 weeks for placebo (n=266), LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day (n=267), and voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day (n=88). Among patients from Study 1, 100 patients (56.2%) on placebo twice a day and 116 patients (64.8%) on LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day continued in a follow-on study period for up to 2 additional years (Study 1 extension), with safety assessments through a total of up to 3 years.
Exposure adjusted incidence rates were adjusted by study for all the adverse events reported in this section. Specific Adverse Reactions Infections In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, infections were reported in 146 patients (107.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 166 patients (135.2 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 58 patients (167.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. The most frequent infections were upper respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections, viral upper respiratory tract infections, and herpes zoster.
Serious infections were reported in 27 patients (12.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 27 patients (11.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 10 patients (14.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. The most frequent serious infections were pneumonia, gastroenteritis, and urinary tract infections. Opportunistic infections were reported in 2 patients (0.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 3 patients (1.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 1 patient (1.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
The most frequent opportunistic infections were cytomegalovirus chorioretinitis, cytomegalovirus infection, and herpes zoster cutaneous disseminated. In Study 1 extension, infections and infestations were reported in 43 patients (32.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 57 patients (41.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg. There were 8 serious infections reported in both placebo treated patients (4.5 per 100 patient-years) and LUPKYNIS treated patients (3.9 per 100 patient-years). Nephrotoxicity In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, glomerular filtration rate decreased was the most frequently reported adverse reaction, reported in 25 patients (11.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 70 patients (37.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 27 patients (48.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
In patients treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice a day, decreases in glomerular filtration rate occurred within the first 3 months of LUPKYNIS treatment in 50/70 (71%), with 39/50 (78%) resolved or improved following dose modification, and of those 25/39 (64%) resolved or improved within 1 month . Decreases in glomerular filtration rate resulted in permanent discontinuation of LUPKYNIS in 10/70 (14%), and resolved in 4/10 (40%) 3 months after treatment discontinuation. Renal adverse reactions (defined as renal impairment, acute kidney injury, blood creatinine increased, azotemia, renal failure, oliguria, and proteinuria) were reported in 22 patients (9.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 26 patients (11.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 11 patients (16.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. Serious renal adverse reactions were reported in 9 patients (3.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 13 patients (5.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 0 patients (0 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
The most frequent serious renal adverse reactions were acute kidney injury and renal impairment. In Study 1 extension, eGFR decreased was reported in 5 patients (2.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 12 patients (6.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg. Renal and urinary adverse events were reported in 10 patients (5.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 21 patients (10.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS. Serious renal and urinary adverse events were reported in 5 patients (2.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 2 patients (0.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS, and included lupus nephritis in both treatment groups.
Hypertension In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, hypertension was reported in 23 patients (10.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 51 patients (25.2 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 16 patients (26.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. Serious hypertension was reported in 1 patient (0.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 5 patients (2.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 2 patients (2.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. In Study 1 extension, hypertension was reported in 7 patients (4.0 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 10 patients (4.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg.
Neurotoxicity In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, nervous system disorders were reported in 44 patients (21.6 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 74 patients (38.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 24 patients (42.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. The most frequent neurological adverse reactions were headache, tremor, dizziness, post herpetic neuralgia, migraine, paresthesia, hypoaesthesia, seizure, tension headache, and disturbance in attention. Serious nervous system disorders were reported in 2 patients (0.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 9 patients (3.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 3 patients (4.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
The most frequent serious neurological adverse reactions were headache, migraine, seizure, and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. In Study 1 extension, nervous system disorders (including headache) were reported in 8 patients (4.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo and 14 patients (7.3 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg. Malignancy In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, malignancies were reported in 0 patients (0 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 4 patients (1.7 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 0 patients (0 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
These consisted of single occurrences of stage 0 cervical carcinoma, skin neoplasm, pyoderma gangrenosum, and breast tumor excision. In Study 1 extension, there were no reports of malignancies in either treatment arm. Hyperkalemia In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, hyperkalemia was reported in 2 patients (0.8 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 5 patients (2.1 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 1 patient (1.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day.
In Study 1 extension, hyperkalemia was reported in 0 patients treated with placebo and 1 patient (0.5 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg. QT Prolongation In the integrated Study 1 and Study 2 data sets, QT prolongation was reported in 0 patients (0 per 100 patient-years) treated with placebo, 2 patients (0.9 per 100 patient-years) treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg, and 1 patient (1.4 per 100 patient-years) treated with voclosporin 39.5 mg twice a day. In Study 1 extension, no patient treated with LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg reported QT prolongation.
Postmarketing Experience
The following adverse recations have been identified during post approval use of LUPKYNIS. 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: Hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema Nausea, vomiting
Warnings & Cautions for Lupkynis
Lymphoma and Other Malignancies Immunosuppressants, including
LUPKYNIS, increase the risk of developing lymphomas and other malignancies, particularly of the skin. The risk appears to be related to the intensity and duration of immunosuppression rather than to the use of any specific agent. Examine patients for skin changes and advise to avoid or limit sun exposure and to avoid artificial UV light (tanning beds, sun lamps) by wearing protective clothing and using a broad spectrum sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 30 or higher).
Serious Infections Immunosuppressants, including
LUPKYNIS, increase the risk of developing bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections, including opportunistic infections. These infections may lead to serious, including fatal, outcomes. Viral infections reported include cytomegalovirus and herpes zoster infections.
Monitor for the development of infection. Consider the benefits and risks for the individual patient; use the lowest effective dose needed to maintain response.
Nephrotoxicity
LUPKYNIS, like other calcineurin-inhibitors, can cause acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity. Nephrotoxicity was reported in clinical trials . Monitor eGFR regularly during treatment, and consider dose reduction or discontinuation in patients with decreases in eGFR from baseline ; persistent decrease of eGFR should be evaluated for chronic calcineurin-inhibitor nephrotoxicity. Consider the risks and benefits of LUPKYNIS treatment in light of the patient’s treatment response and risk of worsening nephrotoxicity, including co-administration with drugs associated with nephrotoxicity.
The risk for acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity is increased when LUPKYNIS is concomitantly administered with drugs associated with nephrotoxicity.
Hypertension Hypertension is a common adverse reaction of
LUPKYNIS therapy and may require antihypertensive therapy . Some antihypertensive drugs can increase the risk for hyperkalemia . Certain calcium-channel blocking agents (verapamil and diltiazem) may increase voclosporin blood concentrations and require dosage reduction of LUPKYNIS . Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment and treat new-onset hypertension and exacerbations of pre-existing hypertension. If a patient experiences increases in blood pressure that cannot be managed with dose reduction of LUPKYNIS or other appropriate medical intervention, consider discontinuation of LUPKYNIS .
Neurotoxicity
LUPKYNIS, like other calcineurin-inhibitors, may cause a spectrum of neurotoxicities . The most severe neurotoxicities include posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES), delirium, seizure, and coma; others include tremors, paresthesias, headache, mental status changes, and changes in motor and sensory functions. Monitor for neurologic symptoms and consider dosage reduction or discontinuation of LUPKYNIS if neurotoxicity occurs.
Hyperkalemia Hyperkalemia, which may be serious and require treatment, has been reported
with calcineurin inhibitors including LUPKYNIS . Concomitant use of agents associated with hyperkalemia (e.g., potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers) may increase the risk for hyperkalemia. Monitor serum potassium levels periodically during treatment.
QTc Prolongation
LUPKYNIS prolongs the QTc interval in a dose-dependent manner after single dose administration at a dose higher than the recommended lupus nephritis therapeutic dose . The use of LUPKYNIS in combination with other drugs that are known to prolong QTc may result in clinically significant QT prolongation. Certain circumstances may increase the risk of the occurrence of torsade de pointes and/or sudden death in association with the use of drugs that prolong the QTc interval, including bradycardia; hypokalemia or hypomagnesemia; concomitant use of other drugs that prolong the QTc interval; and presence of congenital prolongation of the QT interval.
Hypersensitivity Reactions Postmarketing cases of hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis and angioedema, have
been reported with LUPKYNIS. If signs or symptoms of a hypersensitivity reaction occur, discontinue LUPKYNIS; treat and monitor until signs and symptoms resolve .
Immunizations
Avoid the use of live attenuated vaccines during treatment with LUPKYNIS (e.g., intranasal influenza, measles, mumps, rubella, oral polio, BCG, yellow fever, varicella, and TY21a typhoid vaccines). Inactivated vaccines noted to be safe for administration may not be sufficiently immunogenic during treatment with LUPKYNIS. 5.10 Pure Red Cell Aplasia Cases of pure red cell aplasia (PRCA) have been reported in patients treated with another calcineurin-inhibitor immunosuppressant. All of these patients reported risk factors for PRCA such as parvovirus B19 infection, underlying disease, or concomitant medications associated with PRCA. A mechanism for calcineurin-inhibitor-induced PRCA has not been elucidated. If PRCA is diagnosed, consider discontinuation of LUPKYNIS.
Drug Interactions with Lupkynis
Effect of Other Drugs on
LUPKYNIS Strong and Moderate CYP3A4 Inhibitors Voclosporin is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate. Co-administration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors increases voclosporin exposure , which may increase the risk of LUPKYNIS adverse reactions. Co-administration of LUPKYNIS with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) is contraindicated . Reduce LUPKYNIS dosage when co-administered with moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., verapamil, fluconazole, diltiazem) . Avoid food or drink containing grapefruit when taking LUPKYNIS. Strong and Moderate CYP3A4 Inducers Voclosporin is a sensitive CYP3A4 substrate.
Co-administration with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers decreases voclosporin exposure , which may decrease the efficacy of LUPKYNIS. Avoid co-administration of LUPKYNIS with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inducers.
Effect of
LUPKYNIS on Other Drugs Certain P-gp Substrates Voclosporin is a P-gp inhibitor. Co-administration of voclosporin increases exposure of P-gp substrates , which may increase the risk of adverse reactions of these substrates. For certain P-gp substrates with a narrow therapeutic window, reduce the dosage of the substrate as recommended in its prescribing information, if needed.
OATP1B1 Substrates Voclosporin is an inhibitor of OATP1B1 and OATP1B3 transporters. In one clinical study the concomitant administration of a single 40 mg dose of simvastatin with 23.7 mg BID voclosporin increased C max and AUC of the active metabolite simvastatin acid (an OATP1B1 substrate) by 3.1-fold and 1.8-fold, respectively . Monitor for adverse reactions such as myopathy and rhabdomyolysis when OATP1B1/OATP1B3 substrates (e.g., simvastatin, atorvastatin, pravastatin, rosuvastatin, pitavastatin, fluvastatin) are used concomitantly with LUPKYNIS and reduce the dosage of these substrates as recommended in their prescribing information. For example, when taking LUPKYNIS with simvastatin, limit the simvastatin dosage to 20 mg daily, or 40 mg daily for patients who have previously tolerated simvastatin 80 mg daily for at least one year without evidence of muscle toxicity.
Pregnancy Safety for Lupkynis
Pregnancy Risk Summary Avoid use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant women due to the alcohol content of the drug formulation. The available data on the use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant patients are insufficient to determine whether there is a drug-associated risk for major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (see Clinical Considerations ). LUPKYNIS may be used in combination with a background immunosuppressive therapy regimen that includes MMF. MMF used in pregnant women and men whose female partners are pregnant can cause fetal harm (major birth defects and miscarriage). Refer to the MMF prescribing information for more information on its use during pregnancy.
In animal reproductive studies, oral administration of either voclosporin or a 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer was embryocidal and fetocidal in rats and rabbits at doses 15- and 1-times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 23.7 mg twice a day, based on drug exposure AUC. There were no treatment-related fetal malformations or variations. Additional findings of reduced placental and fetal body weights occurred in rabbits at 0.1 to 0.3-times the MRHD and in rats at higher drug exposures. Voclosporin was transferred across the placenta in pregnant rats.
For rats, but not all doses in rabbits, these effects were associated with maternal toxicity consisting of reductions in body weight gain. Dystocia was evident in a pre- and postnatal study in rats, but there were no effects of voclosporin on postnatal growth and development (see Data ). The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes.
In the U.S. general population, the background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk Pregnant women with SLE are at increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including worsening of the underlying disease, premature birth, miscarriage, and intrauterine growth restriction. Maternal LN increases the risk of hypertension and preeclampsia/eclampsia.
Passage of maternal autoantibodies across the placenta may result in adverse neonatal outcomes, including neonatal lupus and congenital heart block. Fetal/Neonatal adverse reactions The formulation of LUPKYNIS contains alcohol (21.6 mg of dehydrated ethanol per capsule for a total daily dose of 129.4 mg/day). Published studies have demonstrated that alcohol is associated with fetal harm including central nervous system abnormalities, behavioral disorders and impaired intellectual development. There is no safe level of alcohol exposure in pregnancy; therefore, avoid use of LUPKYNIS in pregnant women.
Data Animal Data Voclosporin (90 to 95% trans-isomer) is the active ingredient in LUPKYNIS. Animal reproductive studies were primarily conducted with an approximate 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer. Similarity of the toxicity effects of the 50:50 mixture and voclosporin was demonstrated in comparative toxicity studies with adult rats. Interconversion between cis and trans isomers was not detected with in vitro or in vivo studies.
In an embryofetal developmental study, pregnant rats were dosed orally, during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-17, with the 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer, litter size was reduced due to increased fetal resorptions and deaths at drug exposures approximately 15-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 25 mg/kg/day). Surviving fetuses had reduced placental weights and slightly reduced fetal weights. There were no treatment-related fetal malformations or variations with doses up to 15-times the MRHD, although reductions in ossification sites were observed in the metatarsal bones. This dose was associated with maternal toxicity based on decreased body weight gain.
The no effect dose for both fetal and maternal effects occurred at a drug exposure approximately 7-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 10 mg/kg/day). Two embryofetal developmental studies were conducted in pregnant rabbits that received either the 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer or voclosporin during the period of organogenesis from gestation days 6-18. Litter size was reduced due to increased fetal resorptions and deaths with 50:50 mixture at drug exposures approximately the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 20 mg/kg/day). Increased resorptions were observed with voclosporin at 0.1-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal dose of 20 mg/kg/day); however, litter size was not significantly affected. Decreased placental weights and fetal body weights were observed with the 50:50 mixture at doses 0.3-times the MRHD and higher (on an AUC basis with maternal oral doses of 10 mg/kg/day and higher). Decreased fetal body weights were observed with voclosporin at doses 0.1-times the MRHD and higher (on an AUC basis with maternal oral doses of 5 mg/kg/day and higher). There were no treatment-related malformations or variations. Both studies had reductions of ossification sites in the metacarpal bones with the 50:50 mixture at doses 2-times the MRHD, and the sternabrae and hyoid body and/or arches with voclosporin at doses 0.1-times the MRHD and higher.
The high dose of 20 mg/kg/day 50:50 mixture of voclosporin was associated with maternal toxicity based on decreased body weight gains. These rabbit studies indicated that the toxicity of 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer and voclosporin were qualitatively similar; however, voclosporin was more potent than the 50:50 mixture, consistent with its pharmacological potency. The no effect dose for the fetal effects of voclosporin occurred at a drug exposure approximately 0.01-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 1 mg/kg/day). In a pre-and post-natal developmental study, rats were dosed from gestation day 7 through lactation day 20 with a 50:50 mixture of voclosporin and its cis-isomer.
Dystocia (delayed parturition) occurred at a dose 12-times the MRHD (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 25 mg/kg/day) that resulted in reductions of the mean number of total pups delivered and surviving pups per litter. This dose was associated with maternal toxicity based on decreased body weight gain. No adverse effects on dams or their pups were observed at doses 3-times the MRHD and lower (on an AUC basis with a maternal oral dose of 10 mg/kg/day). There were no effects on behavioral and physical development, or the reproductive performance of male or female pups.
The no effect dose for delivery and pup survival was 10 mg/kg/day.
Pediatric Use of Lupkynis
Pediatric Use The safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS in pediatric patients has not been established.
Contraindications for Lupkynis
is contraindicated in: Patients concomitantly using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) because these medications can significantly increase exposure to LUPKYNIS which may increase the risk of acute and/or chronic nephrotoxicity . Patients with a history of serious or severe hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis, to LUPKYNIS or any of its excipients . Patients concomitantly using strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin). History of serious or severe hypersensitivity reaction, including anaphylaxis, to LUPKYNIS or any of its excipients.
Overdosage Information for Lupkynis
Cases of accidental overdose have been reported with LUPKYNIS; symptoms may include tremor, headache, nausea and vomiting, infections, tachycardia, urticaria, lethargy, and increases in blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, and alanine aminotransferase levels. No specific antidote to LUPKYNIS therapy is available. If overdose occurs, general supportive measures and symptomatic treatment should be conducted, including stopping treatment with LUPKYNIS and assessing blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, eGFR and alanine aminotransferase levels.
Consider contacting a poison center (1-800-222-1222) or medical toxicologist for advice and review of overdosage management recommendations.
Clinical Studies of Lupkynis
The safety and efficacy of LUPKYNIS were investigated in Study 1 (NCT03021499), a 52-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in patients with a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus and with International Society of Nephrology / Renal Pathology Society (ISN/RPS) biopsy-proven active Class III or IV LN (alone or in combination with Class V LN) or Class V LN. Patients with Class III or IV LN (alone or in combination with Class V LN) were required to have a urine protein to creatinine (UPCR) ratio of ≥1.5 mg/mg; patients with Class V LN were required to have a UPCR of ≥2 mg/mg. A total of 357 patients with LN were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either LUPKYNIS 23.7 mg twice daily or placebo. Patients in both arms received background treatment with MMF and corticosteroids as follows: Oral MMF at a target dose of 2 g/day (1 g twice a day). (Patients not already receiving MMF were started on MMF 500 mg twice a day with escalation to MMF 1 g twice a day after the first week.) Dose increases up to 3 g/day were allowed.
Intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone on Day 1 and Day 2 at a dose of 500 mg/day (body weight ≥45 kg) or 250 mg/day (body weight <45 kg) followed by a reducing taper of oral corticosteroids. Throughout the study, patients were prohibited from using immunosuppressants (other than MMF and hydroxychloroquine/chloroquine) and from changing/commencing angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) or angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Patients with baseline eGFR ≤45 mL/min/1.73 m 2 were not enrolled in this study.
Dosage was adjusted based on eGFR and BP in a pre-defined dosage adjustment protocol. Dosage adjustments should follow the dosage recommendations . The median age of patients was 31 years (range 18 to 72). The proportion of women was 88%. Approximately 36.1% were White, 9.5% were Black, 30.5% were Asian, 1.1% were American Indian or Alaska Native, and 22.7% were multiple race or other. Approximately 32.5% were Hispanic or Latino.
The mean (SD) daily dose of voclosporin was 41.3 (±9.7) mg/day. The mean (SD) daily dose of MMF was 1.9 (±0.4) g/day; 9% received >2 but ≤3 g/day of MMF. The mean (SD) daily dose of IV methylprednisolone (on Day 1 was 495 (±90) mg/day and Day 2 was 487 (±55) mg/day). The mean (SD) starting oral corticosteroid dose (Day 3) was 22.8 (±4.8) mg/day; approximately 81% received ≤2.5 mg/day of oral corticosteroids at Week 16. The distribution by kidney biopsy class was Class III or IV (60.8%), Class III or IV in combination with Class V (24.9%), and Class V (14.3%). Mean (SD) eGFR on entry was 91 (±30) mL/min/1.73 m 2. Mean (SD) UPCR on entry was 4.0 (±2.5) mg/mg. The primary efficacy endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving complete renal response at Week 52. Complete renal response was defined as follows (both must be met): UPCR of ≤0.5 mg/mg, and eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 or no confirmed decrease from baseline in eGFR of >20% or no treatment- or disease-related eGFR-associated event (defined as blood creatinine increased, creatinine renal clearance decreased, glomerular filtration rate decreased, serum creatinine increased, renal impairment, renal failure, or renal failure acute) at time of assessment.
In order to be considered a responder, the patient must not have received more than 10 mg prednisone for ≥3 consecutive days or for ≥7 days in total during Weeks 44 through 52. Patients who received rescue medication or withdrew from the study were considered non-responders. A higher proportion of patients in the LUPKYNIS arm than the placebo arm achieved complete renal response at Week 52 (Table 4). Table 4: Complete Renal Response at Week 52 (Study 1) CI = Confidence interval; eGFR = Estimated glomerular filtration rate; UPCR = Urine protein to creatinine ratio. a. In order to be considered a responder, the patient must not have received more than 10 mg prednisone for ≥3 consecutive days or for ≥7 days in total during Weeks 44 through 52. Patients who received rescue medication or withdrew from the study were considered non-responders. b.
Treatment- or disease-related eGFR-associated event is defined as blood creatinine increased, creatinine renal clearance decreased, glomerular filtration rate decreased, serum creatinine increased, renal impairment, renal failure, or renal failure acute. LUPKYNIS (N=179) Placebo (N=178) Odds Ratio Primary Endpoint Complete Renal Response at Week 52 a 73 40 2.7 (95% CI: 1.6, 4.3); p<0.001 Components of Primary Endpoint UPCR ≤0.5 mg/mg 81 41 3.1 (95% CI: 1.9, 5.0) eGFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m 2 or no confirmed decrease from baseline in eGFR of >20% or no treatment- or disease-related eGFR-associated adverse event b at time of assessment 147 135 1.5 (95% CI: 0.8, 2.5) A higher proportion of patients in the LUPKYNIS arm than the placebo arm achieved complete renal response at Week 24 (32.4% vs. 19.7%; odds ratio: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.3, 3.7). Time to UPCR of ≤0.5 mg/mg was shorter in the LUPKYNIS arm than the placebo arm (median time of 169 days vs. 372 days; hazard ratio: 2.0; 95% CI: 1.5, 2.7). A 2-year extension study (NCT03597464) followed Study 1. After reconsenting, patients remained on blinded randomized treatment. From the LUPKYNIS arm, 116 patients (64.8%) and from the placebo arm, 100 patients (56.2%) agreed to continue treatment for up to a further 2 years.
Over 52% of the 357 patients completed the study (LUPKYNIS 56.4%, placebo 47.8%); 51.4% of LUPKYNIS patients and 41.0% of placebo patients were still on study treatment at the end of study. Among the 179 LUPKYNIS patients and 178 placebo patients who entered Study 1, 36 (20.1%) LUPKYNIS patients and 21 (11.8%) placebo patients were observed to achieve sustained complete renal response, where achieving sustained complete renal response is defined as achieving renal response at Month 12 and maintaining the renal response at each subsequent study visit through Month 36 (the end of the extension study). Thirty-nine (21.8%) LUPKYNIS subjects and 41 (23.0%) placebo subjects had missing data either at the end of the first year or by the end of the 2 year extension and therefore have an unknown status for sustained complete renal response.
Drug information sourced from the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional before making any medication decisions.
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