Monday, 30 July 2012

TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules


Pronunciation: KLOR-fen-IR-a-meen/hye-droe-KOE-done
Generic Name: Chlorpheniramine/Hydrocodone
Brand Name: TussiCaps


TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules are used for:

Treating symptoms of the common cold, hay fever, and other upper respiratory allergies such as cough, runny nose, sneezing, itching of the nose and throat, and itchy, watery eyes. TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules are a narcotic antitussive (cough suppressant) and antihistamine combination. The antitussive (hydrocodone) works by suppressing the cough center in the brain. The antihistamine (chlorpheniramine) works by blocking the action of histamine, which reduces the symptoms of an allergic reaction such as itch, watery eyes and runny nose.


Do NOT use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules or to any other codeine-related medicine (eg, morphine)

  • you have diarrhea caused by food poisoning, antibiotic use, or a bacterial infection (from eating or drinking contaminated food or water)

  • you are taking sodium oxybate (GHB)

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules:


Some medical conditions may interact with TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances

  • if you have or have ever had alcoholism, substance abuse, or narcotic dependence, or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic drinks per day

  • if you have a history of mental or mood problems or suicidal thoughts or attempts

  • if you have increased pressure in the eyes or glaucoma, or if you are are at risk for glaucoma

  • if you have a head injury, increased pressure in the head, a brain injury or tumor, epilepsy or seizures, or Reye syndrome

  • if you are having an asthma attack or have lung or breathing problems, including shortness of breath or sleep apnea

  • if you have a stomach or intestinal problem; chronic inflammation and ulceration of the bowel; chronic constipation; difficulty urinating; enlargement of the prostate gland; heart problems, including heart failure; low blood pressure; liver problems; kidney problems; Parkinson disease; the blood disease porphyria; stomach, intestinal, or urinary blockage; or thyroid problems

  • if you have recently had surgery

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Anticholinergics (eg, scopolamine) because an intestinal problem (paralytic ileus) may occur

  • Barbiturate anesthetics (eg, thiopental), cimetidine, ketorolac, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (eg, phenelzine), naltrexone, sodium oxybate (GHB), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because they may increase the risk of TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules's side effects, including dangerous sleepiness and a decrease in the ability to breathe

  • Rifampin or risperidone because they may decrease TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules's effectiveness

  • Hydantoins (eg, phenytoin) because the risk of their side effects may be increased by TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules

  • Mexiletine because its effectiveness may be decreased by TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules

  • Naltrexone because TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules's effectiveness will be decreased and withdrawal symptoms may occur in patients who have become physically dependent on opioids. You must not take naltrexone until you have stopped taking TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules for 7 to 10 days and after a naloxone challenge test is negative

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules:


Use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • Take TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules by mouth with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation.

  • Swallow TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules whole. Do not, break, crush, chew, open, or dissolve before swallowing.

  • If you miss a dose of TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once. Do not take more than 2 capsules in 24 hours.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules.



Important safety information:


  • TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules may cause drowsiness or dizziness. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.

  • Do not drink alcohol while you are using TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules.

  • Check with your doctor before you use medicines that may cause drowsiness (eg, sleep aids, muscle relaxers) while you are using TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules; it may add to their effects. Ask your pharmacist if you have questions about which medicines may cause drowsiness.

  • Do not take more than the recommended dose or use for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor.

  • If your symptoms do not get better within 7 days or if you develop a high fever or persistent headache, check with your doctor.

  • Tell your doctor or dentist that you take TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.

  • Use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially possible breathing problems and drowsiness.

  • TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules should not be used in CHILDREN younger than 6 years old; safety and effectiveness in these children have not been confirmed.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules has been shown to cause harm to the fetus, especially during the last 3 months of pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules while you are pregnant. TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules are found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules.

When used for long periods of time or at high doses, TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules may not work as well and may require higher doses to obtain the same effect as when originally taken. This is known as TOLERANCE. Talk with your doctor if TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules stops working well. Do not take more than prescribed.


Some people who use TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules for a long time without a break may develop a physical need to continue taking it. This is known as physical DEPENDENCE. The early sign of addiction is medicine ineffectiveness. Dependence is not an issue in terminal illness in which pain relief is more important. If using TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules for an extended period of time, do not suddenly stop taking TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules without your doctor's approval. If you suddenly stop taking TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules, you may experience WITHDRAWAL symptoms, including anxiety; diarrhea; fever; runny nose or sneezing; goose bumps and abnormal skin sensations; nausea and vomiting; pain; rigid muscles; seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there; shivering or tremors; sweating; and trouble sleeping. Contact your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms after stopping this medication.



Possible side effects of TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth, throat, or nose; excitement; nausea; stomach upset; thickening or mucus in nose or throat.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); difficulty urinating; flushing or redness of face; mental or mood changes; rapid or pounding heartbeat; severe drowsiness or dizziness; shortness of breath.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.


See also: TussiCaps side effects (in more detail)


If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include agitation; coma; confusion; deep sleep or loss of consciousness; difficulty breathing; diminished mental alertness; hallucinations; hot or cold skin; large and unchanging pupils; sedation; seizures; shaking; sleeplessness; slow heartbeat; slowed breathing.


Proper storage of TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules:

Store TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules are to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about TussiCaps Extended Release Capsules. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

More TussiCaps resources


  • TussiCaps Side Effects (in more detail)
  • TussiCaps Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • TussiCaps Drug Interactions
  • TussiCaps Support Group
  • 5 Reviews for TussiCaps - Add your own review/rating


Compare TussiCaps with other medications


  • Cold Symptoms
  • Cough

Friday, 27 July 2012

Esgic-Plus


Generic Name: acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine (a SEET a MIN oh fen, bue TAL bi tal, and KAF een)

Brand Names: Alagesic, Anolor 300, Dolgic LQ, Dolgic Plus, Esgic, Esgic-Plus, Fioricet, Geone, Margesic, Medigesic, Repan, Zebutal


What is Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer.


Butalbital is in a group of drugs called barbiturates. It relaxes muscle contractions involved in a tension headache.


Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. It relaxes muscle contractions in blood vessels to improve blood flow.


The combination of acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine is used to treat tension headaches that are caused by muscle contractions.


Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.


What is the most important information I should know about Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?


Do not use acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects. Tell your doctor if you have ever had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis) or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day. You may not be able to take medicine that contains acetaminophen. Do not take more of this medication than is recommended. An overdose of acetaminophen can damage your liver or cause death. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold, allergy, pain, or sleep medication. Acetaminophen (sometimes abbreviated as APAP) is contained in many combination medicines. Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much acetaminophen which can lead to a fatal overdose. Check the label to see if a medicine contains acetaminophen or APAP. Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of liver damage while taking acetaminophen.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?


Do not use acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine if you have used an MAO inhibitor such as furazolidone (Furoxone), isocarboxazid (Marplan), phenelzine (Nardil), rasagiline (Azilect), selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam, Zelapar), or tranylcypromine (Parnate) in the last 14 days. A dangerous drug interaction could occur, leading to serious side effects. Tell your doctor if you have ever had alcoholic liver disease (cirrhosis) or if you drink more than 3 alcoholic beverages per day. You may not be able to take medicine that contains acetaminophen. You should not take this medication if you are allergic to acetaminophen, butalbital, or caffeine, or if you have porphyria.

To make sure you can safely take acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:



  • kidney disease,




  • liver disease; or




  • a history of mental illness or suicidal thoughts.




Butalbital may be habit forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Never share this medication with another person, especially someone with a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication. Acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?


Take exactly as prescribed. Never take acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine in larger amounts, or for longer than recommended by your doctor. An overdose of this medication can damage your liver or cause death.Follow the directions on your prescription label. Tell your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working as well in relieving your pain. Take the medicine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Keep track of the amount of medicine used from each new bottle. Butalbital is a drug of abuse and you should be aware if anyone is using your medicine improperly or without a prescription.


What happens if I miss a dose?


Since this medication is usually taken as needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are taking the medication regularly, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.


What happens if I overdose?


Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

The first signs of an acetaminophen overdose include loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, sweating, and confusion or weakness. Later symptoms may include pain in your upper stomach, dark urine, and yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes.


Overdose symptoms may also include insomnia, restlessness, tremor, dizziness, drowsiness, diarrhea, increased sweating, shallow breathing, confusion, uneven heartbeats, seizure (convulsions), or coma.


What should I avoid while taking Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?


This medication can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of liver damage while taking acetaminophen. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any other cold, allergy, pain, or sleep medication. Acetaminophen (sometimes abbreviated as APAP) is contained in many combination medicines. Taking certain products together can cause you to get too much acetaminophen which can lead to a fatal overdose. Check the label to see if a medicine contains acetaminophen or APAP.

While you are taking this medication, avoid taking diet pills, caffeine pills, or other stimulants (such as ADHD medications) without your doctor's advice.


Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine) side effects


Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Stop using this medication and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat;




  • feeling light-headed or short of breath;




  • nausea, upper stomach pain, itching, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or




  • easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness, fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms.



Less serious side effects may include:



  • drowsiness;




  • dizziness, confusion or lightheadedness;




  • dry mouth;




  • nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite;




  • feeling anxious or jittery;




  • drunk feeling; or




  • headache.



This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.


What other drugs will affect Esgic-Plus (acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine)?


Tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by butalbital.

Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use, especially:



  • an antibiotic;




  • a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven);




  • isoniazid (for treating tuberculosis);




  • zidovudine (Retrovir, AZT);




  • seizure medication such as phenytoin (Dilantin) or phenobarbital (Luminal, Solfoton);




  • gout medications such as probenecid (Benemid) or sulfinpyrazone;




  • steroids such as prednisone, fluticasone (Advair), mometasone (Asmanex, Nasonex), dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol) and others; or




  • an antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil, Vanatrip, Limbitrol), clomipramine (Anafranil), desipramine (Norpramin), imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil), and others.



This list is not complete and other drugs may interact with acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine. Tell your doctor about all medications you use. This includes prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.



More Esgic-Plus resources


  • Esgic-Plus Side Effects (in more detail)
  • Esgic-Plus Use in Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
  • Drug Images
  • Esgic-Plus Drug Interactions
  • Esgic-Plus Support Group
  • 10 Reviews for Esgic-Plus - Add your own review/rating


  • Esgic-Plus Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Esgic-Plus MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Capacet Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Dolgic LQ Elixir MedFacts Consumer Leaflet (Wolters Kluwer)

  • Dolgic Plus Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Esgic Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Esgic-Plus Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Fioricet Consumer Overview

  • Fioricet Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Margesic Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Nonbac Advanced Consumer (Micromedex) - Includes Dosage Information

  • Orbivan Prescribing Information (FDA)

  • Zebutal Prescribing Information (FDA)



Compare Esgic-Plus with other medications


  • Headache


Where can I get more information?


  • Your pharmacist can provide more information about acetaminophen, butalbital, and caffeine.

See also: Esgic-Plus side effects (in more detail)


Thursday, 26 July 2012

EES Oral Suspension



erythromycin ethylsuccinate

Dosage Form: granule, for oral suspension
E.E.S.®

(ERYTHROMYCIN ETHYLSUCCINATE)

Rx only


To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of E.E.S. and other antibacterial drugs, E.E.S. should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by bacteria.



EES Oral Suspension Description


Erythromycin is produced by a strain of Saccharopolyspora erythraea (formerly Streptomyces erythraeus) and belongs to the macrolide group of antibiotics. It is basic and readily forms salts with acids. The base, the stearate salt, and the esters are poorly soluble in water. Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is an ester of erythromycin suitable for oral administration. Erythromycin ethylsuccinate is known chemically as erythromycin 2′-(ethylsuccinate). The molecular formula is C43H75NO16 and the molecular weight is 862.06. The structural formula is:



E.E.S. Granules are intended for reconstitution with water. Each 5-mL teaspoonful of reconstituted cherry-flavored suspension contains erythromycin ethylsuccinate equivalent to 200 mg of erythromycin.


The pleasant tasting, fruit-flavored liquids are supplied ready for oral administration.


E.E.S. 200 Liquid: Each 5-mL teaspoonful of fruit-flavored suspension contains erythromycin ethylsuccinate equivalent to 200 mg of erythromycin.


E.E.S. 400 Liquid: Each 5-mL teaspoonful of orange-flavored suspension contains erythromycin ethylsuccinate equivalent to 400 mg of erythromycin.


Granules and ready-made suspensions are intended primarily for pediatric use but can also be used in adults.


E.E.S. 400® Film-coated Tablets: Each tablet contains erythromycin ethylsuccinate equivalent to 400 mg of erythromycin.


The Film-coated tablets are intended primarily for adults or older children.



Inactive Ingredients


E.E.S. 200 Liquid: FD&C Red No. 40, methylparaben, polysorbate 60, propylparaben, sodium citrate, sucrose, water, xanthan gum and natural and artificial flavors.


E.E.S. 400 Liquid: D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Yellow No. 6, methylparaben, polysorbate 60, propylparaben, sodium citrate, sucrose, water, xanthan gum and natural and artificial flavors.


E.E.S. Granules: Citric acid, FD&C Red No. 3, magnesium aluminum silicate, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, sodium citrate, sucrose and artificial flavor.


E.E.S. 400 Film-coated Tablets: Cellulosic polymers, confectioner's sugar (contains corn starch), cornstarch, D&C Red No. 30, D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Red No. 40, magnesium stearate, polacrilin potassium, polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, sodium citrate, sorbic acid, and titanium dioxide.



EES Oral Suspension - Clinical Pharmacology


Orally administered erythromycin ethylsuccinate suspensions and Filmtab tablets are readily and reliably absorbed. Comparable serum levels of erythromycin are achieved in the fasting and non-fasting states.


Erythromycin diffuses readily into most body fluids. Only low concentrations are normally achieved in the spinal fluid, but passage of the drug across the blood-brain barrier increases in meningitis. In the presence of normal hepatic function, erythromycin is concentrated in the liver and excreted in the bile; the effect of hepatic dysfunction on excretion of erythromycin by the liver into the bile is not known. Less than 5 percent of the orally administered dose of erythromycin is excreted in active form in the urine.


Erythromycin crosses the placental barrier, but fetal plasma levels are low. The drug is excreted in human milk.



Microbiology


Erythromycin acts by inhibition of protein synthesis by binding 50 S ribosomal subunits of susceptible organisms. It does not affect nucleic acid synthesis. Antagonism has been demonstrated in vitro between erythromycin and clindamycin, lincomycin, and chloramphenicol.


Many strains of Haemophilus influenzae are resistant to erythromycin alone but are susceptible to erythromycin and sulfonamides used concomitantly.


Staphylocci resistant to erythromycin may emerge during a course of therapy.


Erythromycin has been shown to be active against most strains of the following microorganisms, both in vitro and in clinical infections as described in the INDICATIONS AND USAGE section.


Gram-positive Organisms


 

Corynebacterium diphtheriae

 

Corynebacterium minutissimum

 

Listeria monocytogenes

 

Staphylococcus aureus (resistant organisms may emerge during treatment)

 

Streptococcus pneumoniae

 

Streptococcus pyogenes

Gram-negative Organisms


 

Bordetella pertussis

 

Legionella pneumophila

 

Neisseria gonorrhoeae

 

Other Microorganisms

 

Chlamydia trachomatis

 

Entamoeba histolytica

 

Mycoplasma pneumoniae

 

Treponema pallidum

 

Ureaplasma urealyticum

The following in vitro data are available, but their clinical significance is unknown.


Erythromycin exhibits in vitro minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC's) of 0.5 µg/mL or less against most (≥ 90%) strains of the following microorganisms; however, the safety and effectiveness of erythromycin in treating clinical infections due to these microorganisms have not been established in adequate and well controlled clinical trials.


Gram-positive Organisms


 

Viridans group streptococci

Gram-negative Organisms


 

Moraxella catarrhalis


Susceptibility Tests


Dilution Techniques

Quantitative methods are used to determine antimicrobial minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC's). These MIC's provide estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. The MIC's should be determined using a standardized procedure. Standardized procedures are based on a dilution method1,2 (broth or agar) or equivalent with standardized inoculum concentrations and standardized concentrations of erythromycin powder. The MIC values should be interpreted according to the following criteria:


For Staphylococcus spp:










MIC (µg/mL)Interpretation
≤ 0.5Susceptible (S)
1-4Intermediate (I)
≥ 8Resistant (R)

For Streptococcus spp. and Streptococcus pneumoniae:










MIC (µg/mL)Interpretation
≤ 0.25Susceptible (S)
0.5Intermediate (I)
≥ 1Resistant (R)

A report of "Susceptible" indicates that the pathogen is likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentrations usually achievable. A report of "Intermediate" indicates that the result should be considered equivocal, and, if the microorganism is not fully susceptible to alternative, clinically feasible drugs, the test should be repeated. This category implies possible clinical applicability in body sites where the drug is physiologically concentrated or in situations where high dosage of drug can be used. This category also provides a buffer zone which prevents small uncontrolled technical factors from causing major discrepancies in interpretation. A report of "Resistant" indicates that the pathogen is not likely to be inhibited if the antimicrobial compound in the blood reaches the concentrations usually achievable; other therapy should be selected.


Standardized susceptibility test procedures require the use of laboratory control microorganisms to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedures. Standard erythromycin powder should provide the following MIC values:











MicroorganismMIC (µg/mL)

*

ATCC is a registered trademark of the American Type Culture Collection

S. aureus ATCC* 292130.25-1
E. faecalis ATCC 292121-4
S. pneumoniae ATCC 496190.03-0.12
Diffusion Techniques

Quantitative methods that require measurement of zone diameters also provide reproducible estimates of the susceptibility of bacteria to antimicrobial compounds. One such standardized procedure2,3 requires the use of standardized inoculum concentrations. This procedure uses paper disks impregnated with 15-µg erythromycin to test the susceptibility of microorganisms to erythromycin.


Reports from the laboratory providing results of the standard single-disk susceptibility test with a 15-µg erythromycin disk should be interpreted according to the following criteria:


For Staphylococcus spp:










Zone Diameter (mm)Interpretation
≥ 23Susceptible (S)
14-22Intermediate (I)
≤ 13Resistant (R)

For Streptococcus spp. and Streptococcus pneumoniae:










Zone Diameter (mm)Interpretation
≥ 21Susceptible (S)
16-20Intermediate (I)
≤ 15Resistant (R)

Interpretation should be as stated above for results using dilution techniques. Interpretation involves correlation of the diameter obtained in the disk test with the MIC for erythromycin.


As with standardized dilution techniques, diffusion methods require the use of laboratory control microorganisms that are used to control the technical aspects of the laboratory procedures. For the diffusion technique, the 15-µg erythromycin disk should provide the following zone diameters in these laboratory test quality control strains:








MicroorganismZone Diameter (mm)
S. aureus ATCC 2592322-30
S. pneumoniae ATCC 4961925-30

Indications and Usage for EES Oral Suspension


To reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria and maintain the effectiveness of E.E.S. and other antibacterial drugs, E.E.S. should be used only to treat or prevent infections that are proven or strongly suspected to be caused by susceptible bacteria. When culture and susceptibility information are available, they should be considered in selecting or modifying antibacterial therapy. In the absence of such data, local epidemiology and susceptibility patterns may contribute to the empiric selection of therapy.


E.E.S. is indicated in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible strains of the designated organisms in the diseases listed below


Upper respiratory tract infections of mild to moderate degree caused by Streptococcus pyogenes , Streptococcus pneumoniae, or Haemophilus influenzae (when used concomitantly with adequate doses of sulfonamides, since many strains of H. influenzae are not susceptible to the erythromycin concentrations ordinarily achieved). (See appropriate sulfonamide labeling for prescribing information.)


Lower-respiratory tract infections of mild to moderate severity caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Streptococcus pyogenes.


Listeriosis caused by Listeria monocytogenes.


Pertussis (whooping cough) caused by Bordetella pertussis. Erythromycin is effective in eliminating the organism from the nasopharynx of infected individuals rendering them noninfectious. Some clinical studies suggest that erythromycin may be helpful in the prophylaxis of pertussis in exposed susceptible individuals.


Respiratory tract infections due to Mycoplasma pneumoniae.


Skin and skin structure infections of mild to moderate severity caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Staphylococcus aureus (resistant staphylococci may emerge during treatment).


Diphtheria: Infections due to Corynebacterium diphtheriae, as an adjunct to antitoxin, to prevent establishment of carriers and to eradicate the organism in carriers.


Erythrasma: In the treatment of infections due to Corynebacterium minutissimum.


Intestinal amebiasis caused by Entamoeba histolytica (oral erythromycins only). Extraenteric amebiasis requires treatment with other agents.


Acute pelvic inflammatory disease caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae: As an alternative drug in treatment of acute pelvic inflammatory disease caused by N. gonorrhoeae in female patients with a history of sensitivity to penicillin. Patients should have a serologic test for syphilis before receiving erythromycin as treatment of gonorrhea and a follow-up serologic test for syphilis after 3 months.


Syphilis caused by Treponema pallidum: Erythromycin is an alternate choice of treatment for primary syphilis in patients allergic to the penicillins. In treatment of primary syphilis, spinal fluid examinations should be done before treatment and as part of follow-up after therapy.


Erythromycins are indicated for the treatment of the following infections caused by Chlamydia trachomatis: conjunctivitis of the newborn, pneumonia of infancy, and urogenital infections during pregnancy. When tetracyclines are contraindicated or not tolerated, erythromycin is indicated for the treatment of uncomplicated urethral, endocervical, or rectal infections in adults due to Chlamydia trachomatis.


When tetracyclines are contraindicated or not tolerated, erythromycin is indicated for the treatment of nongonococcal urethritis caused by Ureaplasma urealyticum.


Legionnaires' Disease caused by Legionella pneumophila. Although no controlled clinical efficacy studies have been conducted, in vitro and limited preliminary clinical data suggest that erythromycin may be effective in treating Legionnaires' Disease.



Prophylaxis


Prevention of Initial Attacks of Rheumatic Fever

Penicillin is considered by the American Heart Association to be the drug of choice in the prevention of initial attacks of rheumatic fever (treatment of Streptococcus pyogenes infections of the upper respiratory tract, e.g., tonsillitis or pharyngitis). Erythromycin is indicated for the treatment of penicillin-allergic patients.4 The therapeutic dose should be administered for 10 days.


Prevention of Recurrent Attacks of Rheumatic Fever

Penicillin or sulfonamides are considered by the American Heart Association to be the drugs of choice in the prevention of recurrent attacks of rheumatic fever. In patients who are allergic to penicillin and sulfonamides, oral erythromycin is recommended by the American Heart Association in the long-term prophylaxis of streptococcal pharyngitis (for the prevention of recurrent attacks of rheumatic fever).4



Contraindications


Erythromycin is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to this antibiotic.


Erythromycin is contraindicated in patients taking terfenadine, astemizole, pimozide, or cisapride. (See PRECAUTIONS - Drug Interactions.)



Warnings


There have been reports of hepatic dysfunction, including increased liver enzymes, and hepatocellular and/or cholestatic hepatitis, with or without jaundice, occurring in patients receiving oral erythromycin products.


There have been reports suggesting that erythromycin does not reach the fetus in adequate concentration to prevent congenital syphilis. Infants born to women treated during pregnancy with oral erythromycin for early syphilis should be treated with an appropriate penicillin regimen.


Clostridium difficile associated diarrhea (CDAD) has been reported with use of nearly all antibacterial agents, including E.E.S., and may range in severity from mild diarrhea to fatal colitis. Treatment with antibacterial agents alters the normal flora of the colon leading to overgrowth of C. difficile.


C. difficile produces toxins A and B which contribute to the development of CDAD. Hypertoxin producing strains of C. difficile cause increased morbidity and mortality, as these infections can be refractory to antimicrobial therapy and may require colectomy. CDAD must be considered in all patients who present with diarrhea following antibiotic use. Careful medical history is necessary since CDAD has been reported to occur over two months after the administration of antibacterial agents.


If CDAD is suspected or confirmed, ongoing antibiotic use not directed against C. difficile may need to be discontinued. Appropriate fluid and electrolyte management, protein supplementation, antibiotic treatment of C. difficile, and surgical evaluation should be instituted as clinically indicated.


Rhabdomyolysis with or without renal impairment has been reported in seriously ill patients receiving erythromycin concomitantly with lovastatin. Therefore, patients receiving concomitant lovastatin and erythromycin should be carefully monitored for creatine kinase (CK) and serum transaminase levels. (See package insert for lovastatin.)



Precautions



General


Prescribing E.E.S. in the absence of a proven or strongly suspected bacterial infection or a prophylactic indication is unlikely to provide benefit to the patient and increases the risk of the development of drug-resistant bacteria.


Since erythromycin is principally excreted by the liver, caution should be exercised when erythromycin is administered to patients with impaired hepatic function. (See CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY and WARNINGS sections.)


Exacerbation of symptoms of myasthenia gravis and new onset of symptoms of myasthenic syndrome has been reported in patients receiving erythromycin therapy.


There have been reports of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis (IHPS) occurring in infants following erythromycin therapy. In one cohort of 157 newborns who were given erythromycin for pertussis prophylaxis, seven neonates (5%) developed symptoms of non-bilious vomiting or irritability with feeding and were subsequently diagnosed as having IHPS requiring surgical pyloromyotomy. A possible dose-response effect was described with an absolute risk of IHPS of 5.1% for infants who took erythromycin for 8-14 days and 10% for infants who took erythromycin for 15-21 days.5 Since erythromycin may be used in the treatment of conditions in infants which are associated with significant mortality or morbidity (such as pertussis or neonatal Chlamydia trachomatis infections), the benefit of erythromycin therapy needs to be weighed against the potential risk of developing IHPS. Parents should be informed to contact their physician if vomiting or irritability with feeding occurs.


Prolonged or repeated use of erythromycin may result in an overgrowth of nonsusceptible bacteria or fungi. If superinfection occurs, erythromycin should be discontinued and appropriate therapy instituted.


When indicated, incision and drainage or other surgical procedures should be performed in conjunction with antibiotic therapy.



Information for Patients


Patients should be counseled that antibacterial drugs including E.E.S. should only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not treat viral infections (e.g., the common cold). When E.E.S. is prescribed to treat a bacterial infection, patients should be told that although it is common to feel better early in the course of therapy, the medication should be taken exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may (1) decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and (2) increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by E.E.S. or other antibacterial drugs in the future.


Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics which usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, patients can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, patients should contact their physician as soon as possible.



Drug Interactions


Erythromycin use in patients who are receiving high doses of theophylline may be associated with an increase in serum theophylline levels and potential theophylline toxicity. In case of theophylline toxicity and/or elevated serum theophylline levels, the dose of theophylline should be reduced while the patient is receiving concomitant erythromycin therapy.


Concomitant administration of erythromycin and digoxin has been reported to result in elevated digoxin serum levels.


There have been reports of increased anticoagulant effects when erythromycin and oral anticoagulants were used concomitantly. Increased anticoagulation effects due to interactions of erythromycin with various oral anticoagulants may be more pronounced in the elderly.


Erythromycin is a substrate and inhibitor of the 3A isoform subfamily of the cytochrome p450 enzyme system (CYP3A). Coadministration of erythromycin and a drug primarily metabolized by CYP3A may be associated with elevations in drug concentrations that could increase or prolong both the therapeutic and adverse effects of the concomitant drug. Dosage adjustments may be considered, and when possible, serum concentrations of drugs primarily metabolized by CYP3A should be monitored closely in patients concurrently receiving erythromycin.


The following are examples of some clinically significant CYP3A based drug interactions. Interactions with other drugs metabolized by the CYP3A isoform are also possible. The following CYP3A based drug interactions have been observed with erythromycin products in post-marketing experience:


Ergotamine/dihydroergotamine

Concurrent use of erythromycin and ergotamine or dihydroergotamine has been associated in some patients with acute ergot toxicity characterized by severe peripheral vasospasm and dysesthesia.


Triazolobenzodiazepines (such as triazolam and alprazolam) and related benzodiazepines


Erythromycin has been reported to decrease the clearance of triazolam and midazolam, and thus, may increase the pharmacologic effect of these benzodiazepines.


HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitors

Erythromycin has been reported to increase concentrations of HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (e.g., lovastatin and simvastatin). Rare reports of rhabdomyolysis have been reported in patients taking these drugs concomitantly.


Sildenafil (Viagra)

Erythromycin has been reported to increase the systemic exposure (AUC) of sildenafil. Reduction of sildenafil dosage should be considered. (See Viagra package insert.)


There have been spontaneous or published reports of CYP3A based interactions of erythromycin with cyclosporine, carbamazepine, tacrolimus, alfentanil, disopyramide, rifabutin, quinidine, methylprednisolone, cilostazol, vinblastine, and bromocriptine.


Concomitant administration of erythromycin with cisapride, pimozide, astemizole, or terfenadine is contraindicated. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS.)



In addition, there have been reports of interactions of erythromycin with drugs not thought to be metabolized by CYP3A, including hexobarbital, phenytoin, and valproate.


Erythromycin has been reported to significantly alter the metabolism of the nonsedating antihistamines terfenadine and astemizole when taken concomitantly. Rare cases of serious cardiovascular adverse events, including electrocardiographic QT/QTc interval prolongation, cardiac arrest, torsades de pointes, and other ventricular arrhythmias have been observed. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS.) In addition, deaths have been reported rarely with concomitant administration of terfenadine and erythromycin.


There have been post-marketing reports of drug interactions when erythromycin is co-administered with cisapride, resulting in QT prolongation, cardiac arrhythmias, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation, and torsades de pointes, most likely due to inhibition of hepatic metabolism of cisapride by erythromycin. Fatalities have been reported. (See CONTRAINDICATIONS.)



Drug/Laboratory Test Interactions


Erythromycin interferes with the fluorometric determination of urinary catecholamines.



Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility


Long-term (2-year) oral studies in rats with erythromycin ethylsuccinate and erythromycin base did not provide evidence of tumorigenicity. Mutagenicity studies have not been conducted. There was no apparent effect on male or female fertility in rats fed erythromycin (base) at levels up to 0.25% of diet.



Pregnancy


Teratogenic Effects

Pregnancy Category B


There is no evidence of teratogenicity or any other adverse effect on reproduction in female rats fed erythromycin base (up to 0.25% of diet) prior to and during mating, during gestation, and through weaning of two successive litters. There are, however, no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, this drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.



Labor and Delivery


The effect of erythromycin on labor and delivery is unknown.



Nursing Mothers


Erythromycin is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when erythromycin is administered to a nursing woman.



Pediatric Use


See INDICATIONS AND USAGE and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION sections.



Geriatric Use


Elderly patients, particularly those with reduced renal or hepatic function, may be at increased risk for developing erythromycin-induced hearing loss. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).


Elderly patients may be more susceptible to the development of torsades de pointes arrhythmias than younger patients. (See ADVERSE REACTIONS).


Elderly patients may experience increased effects of oral anticoagulant therapy while undergoing treatment with erythromycin. (See PRECAUTIONS - Drug Interactions).


E.E.S.® Granules contains 25.9 mg (1.1 mEq) of sodium per individual dose.



Adverse Reactions


The most frequent side effects of oral erythromycin preparations are gastrointestinal and are dose-related. They include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea and anorexia. Symptoms of hepatitis, hepatic dysfunction and/or abnormal liver function test results may occur. (See WARNINGS.)


Onset of pseudomembranous colitis symptoms may occur during or after antibiotic treatment. (See WARNINGS.)


Erythromycin has been associated with QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including ventricular tachycardia and torsades de pointes.


Allergic reactions ranging from urticaria to anaphylaxis have occurred. Skin reactions ranging from mild eruptions to erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis have been reported rarely.


There have been rare reports of pancreatitis and convulsions.


There have been isolated reports of reversible hearing loss occurring chiefly in patients with renal insufficiency and in patients receiving high doses of erythromycin.



Overdosage


In case of overdosage, erythromycin should be discontinued. Overdosage should be handled with the prompt elimination of unabsorbed drug and all other appropriate measures should be instituted.


Erythromycin is not removed by peritoneal dialysis or hemodialysis.



EES Oral Suspension Dosage and Administration


Erythromycin ethylsuccinate suspensions and Film-coated tablets may be administered without regard to meals.



Children


Age, weight, and severity of the infection are important factors in determining the proper dosage. In mild to moderate infections the usual dosage of erythromycin ethylsuccinate for children is 30 to 50 mg/kg/day in equally divided doses every 6 hours. For more severe infections this dosage may be doubled. If twice-a-day dosage is desired, one-half of the total daily dose may be given every 12 hours. Doses may also be given three times daily by administering one-third of the total daily dose every 8 hours.


The following dosage schedule is suggested for mild to moderate infections:
















Body WeightTotal Daily Dose
Under 10 lbs30-50 mg/kg/day

15-25 mg/kg/q 12 h
10 to 15 lbs200 mg
16 to 25 lbs400 mg
26 to 50 lbs800 mg
51 to 100 lbs1200 mg
over 100 lbs1600 mg

Adults


400 mg erythromycin ethylsuccinate every 6 hours is the usual dose. Dosage may be increased up to 4 g per day according to the severity of the infection. If twice-a-day dosage is desired, one-half of the total daily dose may be given every 12 hours. Doses may also be given three times daily by administering one-third of the total daily dose every 8 hours.


For adult dosage calculation, use a ratio of 400 mg of erythromycin activity as the ethylsuccinate to 250 mg of erythromycin activity as the stearate, base or estolate.


In the treatment of streptococcal infections, a therapeutic dosage of erythromycin ethylsuccinate should be administered for at least 10 days. In continuous prophylaxis against recurrences of streptococcal infections in persons with a history of rheumatic heart disease, the usual dosage is 400 mg twice a day.



For Treatment of Urethritis Due to C. trachomatis or U. urealyticum


800 mg three times a day for 7 days.



For Treatment of Primary Syphilis


Adults: 48 to 64 g given in divided doses over a period of 10 to 15 days.



For Intestinal Amebiasis


Adults: 400 mg four times daily for 10 to 14 days.


Children: 30 to 50 mg/kg/day in divided doses for 10 to 14 days.



For Use in Pertussis


Although optimal dosage and duration have not been established, doses of erythromycin utilized in reported clinical studies were 40 to 50 mg/kg/day, given in divided doses for 5 to 14 days.



For Treatment of Legionnaires' Disease


Although optimal doses have not been established, doses utilized in reported clinical data were those recommended above (1.6 to 4 g daily in divided doses.)



How is EES Oral Suspension Supplied


E.E.S. 200 LIQUID (erythromycin ethylsuccinate oral suspension, USP) is supplied in 1 pint bottles (NDC 24338-140-13) and in l00-mL bottles (NDC 24338-142-13).


E.E.S. 400 LIQUID (erythromycin ethylsuccinate oral suspension, USP) is supplied in 1 pint bottles (NDC 24338-144-13) and in l00-mL bottles (NDC 24338-146-13).


E.E.S. GRANULES (erythromycin ethylsuccinate for oral suspension, USP) is supplied in 100-mL (NDC 24338-134-02) and 200-mL (NDC 24338-136-10) size bottles.


E.E.S. 400 Film-coated tablets (erythromycin ethylsuccinate tablets, USP) 400 mg, are supplied as pink tablets imprinted with the



Recommended storage


Store tablets below 86°F (30°C).


Store granules, prior to mixing, below 86°F (30°C). After mixing, refrigerate and use within 10 days.



REFERENCES


  1. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Methods for Dilution Antimicrobial Susceptibility Tests for Bacteria that Grow Aerobically, 7th ed. Approved Standard, CLSI Document M07-A7, Vol. 26(2). CLSI, Wayne, PA, Jan. 2006.

  2. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing, 18th Informational Supplement, CLSI Document M100-S18, Vol 28(1). CLSI, Wayne, PA, Jan. 2008.

  3. Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Disk Susceptibility Tests, 9th ed. Approved Standard CLSI Document M02-A9, Vol. 26(1). CLSI, Wayne, PA, Jan. 2006.

  4. Committee on Rheumatic Fever, Endocarditis, and Kawasaki Disease of the Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young, the American Heart Association: Prevention of Rheumatic Fever. Circulation. 78(4):1082-1086, October 1988.

  5. Honein, M.A., et. al.: Infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis after pertussis prophylaxis with erythromycin: a case review and cohort study. The Lancet 1999;354 (9196):2101-5.


Revised: 12/2010 Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.


The


Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Raleigh, NC


arbor™

PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.


www.arborpharma.com



PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL - 200 mg/5 mL Bottle Label


NDC 24338-134-02

100 mL (when mixed)

For Oral Suspension


E.E.S.® Granules


ERYTHROMYCIN

ETHYLSUCCINATE FOR

ORAL SUSPENSION, USP


Erythromycin activity

200 mg per 5 mL

when reconstituted


Rx only


arbor™

PHARMACEUTICALS, INC.

www.arborpharma.com










E.E.S 
erythromycin ethylsuccinate  granule, for suspension










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)24338-134
Route of AdministrationORALDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
erythromycin ethylsuccinate (erythromycin)erythromycin ethylsuccinate200 mg  in 5 mL
















Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
citric acid monohydrate 
sodium citrate 
sucrose 
carboxymethylcellulose sodium 
magnesium aluminum silicate 
FD&C Red No. 3 


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
124338-134-02100 mL In 1 BOTTLENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA05020704/18/2011


Labeler - Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (781796417)
Revised: 04/2011Arbor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

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Compare EES Oral Suspension with other medications


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  • Bartonellosis
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  • Bronchitis
  • Bullous Pemphigoid
  • Campylobacter Gastroenteritis
  • Chancroid
  • Chlamydia Infection
  • Dental Abscess
  • Legionella Pneumonia
  • Lyme Disease
  • Lymphogranuloma Venereum
  • Mycoplasma Pneumonia
  • Nongonococcal Urethritis
  • Ocular Rosacea
  • Otitis Media
  • Pemphigoid
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  • Pharyngitis
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Wednesday, 25 July 2012

Asclera




Generic Name: laureth-9

Dosage Form: injection, solution
FULL PRESCRIBING INFORMATION 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

Asclera(R) (polidocanol) is indicated to sclerose uncomplicated spider veins (varicose veins less than or equal to 1 mm in diameter) and uncomplicated reticular veins (varicose veins 1 to 3 mm in diameter) in the lower extremity. Asclera has not been studied in varicose veins more than 3 mm in diameter.


2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

For intravenous use only. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. Do not use if particulate matter is seen or if the contents of the vial are discolored or of the vial is damaged in any way.


For spider veins (varicose veins less than or equal to 1 mm in diameter), use Asclera 0.5%. For reticular veins (varicose veins 1 to 3 mm in diameter), use Asclera 1%. Use 0.1 to 0.3 mL per injection and no more than 10 mL per session.


Use a syringe (glass or plastic) with a fine needle (typically, 26 or 30 gauge). Insert the needle tangentially into the vein and inject the solution slowly while the needle is still in the vein. Apply only gentle pressure during injection to prevent vein rupture. After the needle has been removed and the injection site has been covered, apply compression in the form of a stocking or bandage. After the treatment session, encourage the patient to walk for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep the patient under observation to detect any anaphylactic or allergic reaction (see Warnings and Precautions [5]).


Maintain compression for 2 to 3 days after treatment of spider veins and 5 to 7 days for reticular veins. For extensive varicosities, longer compression treatment with compression bandages or a gradient compression stocking of a higher compression class is recommended. Post-treatment compression is necessary to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis.


Repeat treatments may be necessary if the extent of the varicose veins require more than 10 mL. These treatments should be separated by 1 to 2 weeks.


Small intravaricose blood clots (thrombi) that develop may be removed by stab incision and thrombus expression (microthrombectomy).

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS


Asclera is available as a 0.5% and 1% solution in 2 mL glass ampules.










4 CONTRAINDICATION


Asclera is contraindicated for patients with known allergy (anaphylaxis) to polidocanol and patients with acute thromboembolic diseases.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS


5.1 Anaphylaxis


Severe allergic reactions have been reported following polidocanol use, including anaphylactic reactions, some them fatal. Severe reactions are more frequent with use of larger volumes (greater than 3 mL). The dose of polidocanol should therefore be minimized. Be prepared to treat anaphylaxis appropriately.


Severe adverse local effects, including tissue necrosis, may occur following extravasation; therefore, care should be taken in intravenous needle placement and the smallest effective volume at each injection site should be used.


After the injection session is completed, apply compression with a stocking or bandage, and have the patient walk for 15-20 minutes. Keep the patient under supervision during this period to treat any anaphylactic or allergic reaction (see Dosage and Administration [2]).


5.2 Accidental Intra-arterial Injection


Intra-arterial injection can cause severe necrosis, ischemia or gangrene. If this occurs consult a vascular surgeon immediately.


5.3 Inadvertent Perivascular Injection


Inadvertent perivascular injection of Asclera can cause pain. If pain is severe, a local anesthetic (without adrenaline) may be injected.






6 ADVERSE REACTIONS


6.1 Clinical Study 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.


In 5 controlled randomized clinical trials, Asclera has been administered to 401 patients with small or very small varicose veins (reticular and spider veins) and compared with another sclerosing agent and with placebo. Patients were 18 to 70 years old. The patient population was predominantly female and consisted of Caucasian and Asian patients.


Table 1 shows adverse events more common with Asclera or sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) 1% than with placebo by at least 3% in the placebo-controlled EASI study (see Clinical Studies [14]). All of these were injection site reactions and most were mild.


Table 1: Adverse Reactions in EASI-study







































Asclera (180 patients)STS 1% (105 patients)Placebo (53 patients)
Injection site haematoma42%
65%
19%
Injection site irritation41%
73%
30%
Injection site discoloration38%
74%
4%
Injection site pain24%
31%
9%
Injection site pruritus19%
27%
4%
Injection site warmth16%
21%
6%
Neovascularisation
8%
20%
4%
Injection site thrombosis6%
1%
0%

Ultrasound examinations at one week (plus or minus 3 days) and 12 weeks (plus or minus 2 weeks) after treatment did not reveal deep vein thrombosis in any treatment group.


6.2 Post-marketing Safety Experience


The following adverse reactions have been reported during the use of polidocanol in world-wide experience; in some of these cases these adverse events have been serious or troublesome. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size without a control group, it is not possible to estimate their frequency reliably or to establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.


Immune system disorders: Anaphylactic shock, angioedema, urticaria generalized, asthma


Nervous system disorders: Cerebrovascular accident, migraine, paresthesia (local), loss of consciousness, confusional state, dizziness


Cardiac disorders: Cardiac arrest, palpitations


Vascular disorders: Deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, syncope vasovagal, circulatory collapse, vasculitis


Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders: Dyspnea


General disorders and injection site conditions: Injection site necrosis, pyrexia, hot flush


Injury, poisoning and procedural complications: Nerve injury 7   DRUG INTERACTIONS


No drug-drug interactions have been studied with Asclera.

8   USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS


8.1 Pregnancy


Pregnancy Category C. Polidocanol has been shown to have an embryocidal effect in rabbits when given in doses approximately equal (on the basis of body surface area) to the human dose. This effect may have been secondary to maternal toxicity. There are no adequate and well controlled studies in pregnant women. Asclera should not be used during pregnancy.


Animal Studies


Developmental reproductive toxicity testing was performed in rats and rabbits with intravenous administration. Polidocanol induced maternal and fetal toxicity in rabbits, including reduced mean fetal weight and reduced fetal survival, when administered during gestation days 6-20 at doses 4 and 10 mg/kg, but it did not cause skeletal or visceral abnormalities. No adverse maternal or fetal effects were observed in rabbits at a dose of 2 mg/kg. No evidence of teratogenicity or fetal toxicity was observed in rats dosed during gestation days 6-17 with doses up to 10 mg/kg. Polidocanol did not affect the ability of rats to deliver and rear pups when administered intermittently by intravenous injection from gestation day 17 to post-partum day 21 at doses up to 10 mg/kg.


Human Studies


There are no adequate and well-controlled studies on the use of Asclera in pregnant women.


8.2 Labor and Delivery


The effects of Asclera on labor and delivery in pregnant women are unknown.


8.3 Nursing Mothers


It is not known whether polidocanol is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, avoid administering to a nursing woman.


8.4 Pediatric Use


The safety and effectiveness of Asclera in pediatric patients have not been established.


8.5 Geriatric Use


Clinical studies of Asclera did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. 10   OVERDOSAGE


Overdose may result in a higher incidence of localized reactions such as necrosis.

11 DESCRIPTION


Asclera is a sterile, nonpyrogenic, and colorless to faintly greenish-yellow solution of polidocanol for intravenous use as a sclerosing agent.


The active ingredient, polidocanol is a non-ionic detergent, consisting of two components, a polar hydrophillic (dodecyl alcohol) and an apolar hydrophobic (polyethylene oxide) chain. Polidocanol has the following structural formula:



C12H25(OCH2CH2)nOH              Polyethylene glycol monododecyl ether



Mean extent of polymerization (n): Approximately 9


Mean molecular weight: Approximately 600


Each mL contains 5 mg (0.5%) or 10 mg (1.0%) polidocanol in water for injection with 5% (v/v) ethanol at pH 6.5-8.0; disodium hydrogen phosphate dihydrate, potassium dihydrogen phosphate are added for pH adjustment.



12   CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY


12.1 Mechanism of Action


The active ingredient of Asclera is polidocanol.


Polidocanol is a sclerosing agent that locally damages the endothelium of blood vessels. When injected intravenously, polidocanol induces endothelial damage. Platelets then aggregate at the site of damage and attach to the venous wall. Eventually, a dense network of platelets, cellular debris, and fibrin occludes the vessel. Finally, the occluded vein is replaced with connective fibrous tissue.


12.2 Pharmacodynamics


Polidocanol has a concentration and volume dependent damaging effect on the endothelium of blood vessels.


12.3 Pharmacokinetics


During the major effectiveness study (EASI-trial), scheduled blood samples were taken from a sub-group of 22 patients to measure plasma levels of polidocanol after Asclera treatment of spider and reticular veins. Low systemic blood levels of polidocanol were seen in some patients.


13    NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY


13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility


Long-term studies to evaluate carcinogenic potential have not been conducted with polidocanol. Poliodocanol was negative in bacterial reverse mutation assays in Salmonella and E. Coli, and in micronucleus assay conducted in mice. Polidocanol induced numerical chromosonal aberrations in cultured newborn Chinese hamster lung fibroblasts in the absence of metabolic activation.


Polidocanol did not affect reproductive performance (fertility) of rats when administered intermittently at dosages up to 10 mg/kg (approximately equal to the maximum human dose on the basis of body surface area). 14 CLINICAL STUDIES


Asclera was evaluated in a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo and comparator controlled trial (EASI-study) in patients with spider or reticular varicose veins. A total of 338 patients were treated with Asclera [0.5% for spider veins (n=94), 1% for reticular veins (n=86)], sodium tetradecyl sulfate (STS) 1% (n=105), or placebo (0.9% isotonic saline solution) (n=53) for either spider or reticular veins. Patients were predominantly female, ranging in age from 19 to 70 years old. All of them received an intravenous injection in the first treatment session; repeat injections were given three to six weeks later if the previous injection was evaluated as unsuccessful (defined as 1, 2, or 3 on a 5-point scale, see below). Patients returned at 12 and 26 weeks after the last injection for final assessments.


The primary effectiveness endpoint was improvement of veins judges by a blinded panel. Digital images of the selected treatment area were taken prior to injection, compared with those taken at 12 weeks post-treatment, and rated on a 5-point scale (1 = worse than before, 2 = same as before, 3 = moderate improvement, 4 = good improvement, 5 = complete treatment success_; results are shown in Table 2.


Table 2: Improvement of veins in digital photographs after 12 weeks and 26





















Treatment GroupPolidocanol (n=155)STS (n=105)Placebo (n=53)
Digital Photograph Scores at 12 Weeks


Mean + SD4.5* + 0.7
4.5* + 0.72.2 + 0.7
Digital Photograph Scores at 26 Weeks


Mean + SD4.5* + 0.74.5* + 0.82.2 + 0.7

*p less than 0.0001 compared to placebo (Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test)


The secondary efficacy criterion was the rate of treatment success, pre-defined as a score of 4 or 5 with patients scoring 1, 2, or 3 considered treatment failures; results are shown in Table 3.


Table 3: Treatment success rates at 12 weeks and 26 weeks

































Treatment success?*Polidocanol (n=155)STS (n=105)Placebo (n=53)
At 12 weeks (Visit 4)


Yes95%**
92%**
8%
No5%
8%
92%
Missing0.6%
0%
0%
At 26 weeks (Visit 5)


Yes95%**
91%**
6%
No5%
9%
94%

*Treatment success: Yes = Grade 4 to 5, no = Grade 1 to 3; derived from median of evaluation; **p less than 0.0001 compared to placebo.


At 12 and 26 weeks, patients' judgement of the results was assessed by showing them the digital images of their treatment area taken at baseline and asking them to rate their satisfaction with their treatment using a verbal rating scale (1 = very unsatisfied, 2 = somewhat satisfied, 3 = slightly satisfied, 4 = satisfied, and 5 = very satisfied); results are shown in Table 4.


Table 4: Patient satisfaction after 12 weeks and 26 weeks






















Polidocanol (n=155)STS (n=105)Placebo (n=53)
Patient satisfaction with treatment after 12 weeks (Visit 4)


Satisfied or very satisfied87%*
64%
14%
Patient satisfaction with treatment after 26 weeks (Visit 5)


Satisfied or very satisfied84%*
63%
16%

*p less than 0.0001 compared to STS and placebo




16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING


Asclera is supplied in single use, preservative free ampules in the following packages:


NDC 46783-121-52   Five 0.5% ampules (2 mL)

NDC 46783-221-52   Five 1.0% ampules (2 mL)


Each ampule is intended for immediate use in a single patient. Each unopened ampule is stable up to three years.


Store at 15-30 degrees Celsius; (59-86 degrees Fahrenheit).

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION


Advise patient to wear compression stockings or support hose on the treated legs continuously for 2 to 3 days and for 2 to 3 weeks during the daytime. Compression stockings or support hose  should be thigh or knee high depending on the area treated in order to provide adequate coverage.


Advise patient to walk for 15 to 20 minutes immediately after the procedure and daily for the next few days.


For two to three days following treatment, advise the patient to avoid heavy exercise, sunbathing, long plane flights, and hot baths or sauna.



 

















Asclera 
laureth-9  injection, solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)46783-221
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUSDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
LAURETH-9 (LAURETH-9)LAURETH-90.01000 g  in 1 mL












Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
ALCOHOL0.04200 g  in 1 mL
POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE, MONOBASIC0.00085 g  in 1 mL
SODIUM PHOSPHATE, DIBASIC0.00240 g  in 1 mL
WATER0.93875 g  in 1 mL


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
146783-221-522 mL In 1 AMPULENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02120106/01/2010







Asclera 
laureth-9  injection, solution










Product Information
Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGNDC Product Code (Source)46783-121
Route of AdministrationINTRAVENOUSDEA Schedule    








Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
LAURETH-9 (LAURETH-9)LAURETH-90.00500 g  in 1 mL












Inactive Ingredients
Ingredient NameStrength
ALCOHOL0.04200 g  in 1 mL
POTASSIUM PHOSPHATE, MONOBASIC0.00043 g  in 1 mL
SODIUM PHOSPHATE, DIBASIC0.00120 g  in 1 mL
WATER0.94437 g  in 1 mL


















Product Characteristics
Color    Score    
ShapeSize
FlavorImprint Code
Contains      










Packaging
#NDCPackage DescriptionMultilevel Packaging
146783-121-522 mL In 1 AMPULENone










Marketing Information
Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
NDANDA02120106/01/2010


Labeler - Merz Aesthetics, Inc. (137113929)
Revised: 01/2011Merz Aesthetics, Inc.




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