ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS. QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7)].. Most common adverse reactions:Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (>=3%): Headache, and constipation (6.1)To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Akorn, Inc. at 1-800-932-5676 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.. Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (>=3%): Headache, and constipation (6.1). 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience. Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in patients.. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and VomitingThe following have been reported during controlled clinical trials or in the routine management of patients. The percentage figures are based on clinical trial experience only. Table gives the comparative frequencies of the two most commonly reported adverse reactions (>=3%) in patients receiving granisetron hydrochloride injection, in single-day chemotherapy trials. These patients received chemotherapy, primarily cisplatin, and intravenous fluids during the 24-hour period following granisetron hydrochloride injection administration. Reactions were generally recorded over seven days post-granisetron hydrochloride injection administration.Table Principal Adverse Reactions in Clinical Trials Single-Day ChemotherapyMetoclopramide/dexamethasone and phenothiazines/dexamethasone.Percent of Patients With EventGranisetron Injection40 mcg/kg(n=1268)Comparator(n-422)HeadacheConstipation14%3%6%3%Additional adverse events reported in clinical trials were asthenia, somnolence and diarrhea.In over 3,000 patients receiving granisetron hydrochloride injection (2 to 160 mcg/kg) in single-day and multiple-day clinical trials with emetogenic cancer therapies, adverse events, other than those adverse reactions listed in Table 1, were observed; attribution of many of these events to granisetron hydrochloride is uncertain.Hepatic: In comparative trials, mainly with cisplatin regimens, elevations of AST and ALT (>2 times the upper limit of normal) following administration of granisetron hydrochloride injection occurred in 2.8% and 3.3% of patients, respectively. These frequencies were not significantly different from those seen with comparators (AST: 2.1%; ALT: 2.4%).Cardiovascular: Hypertension (2%); hypotension, arrhythmias such as sinus bradycardia, atrial fibrillation, varying degrees of A-V block, ventricular ectopy including non-sustained tachycardia, and ECG abnormalities have been observed rarely.Central Nervous System: Agitation, anxiety, CNS stimulation and insomnia were seen in less than 2% of patients. Extrapyramidal syndrome occurred rarely and only in the presence of other drugs associated with this syndrome.Hypersensitivity: Rare cases of hypersensitivity reactions, sometimes severe (e.g., anaphylaxis, shortness of breath, hypotension, urticaria) have been reported.Other: Fever (3%), taste disorder (2%), skin rashes (1%). In multiple-day comparative studies, fever occurred more frequently with granisetron hydrochloride injection (8.6%) than with comparative drugs (3.4%, <0.014), which usually included dexamethasone.. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience. The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of granisetron hydrochloride. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish causal relationship to granisetron hydrochloride exposure.QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7)].

CARCINOGENESIS & MUTAGENESIS & IMPAIRMENT OF FERTILITY SECTION.

13.1 Carcinogenesis Mutagenesis Impairment of Fertility. In 24-month carcinogenicity study, rats were treated orally with granisetron 1, or 50 mg/kg/day (6, 30 or 300 mg/m2/day). The 50 mg/kg/day dose was reduced to 25 mg/kg/day (150 mg/m2/day) during week 59 due to toxicity. For 50 kg person of average height (1.46 body surface area), these doses represent 16, 81 and 405 times the recommended clinical dose (0.37 mg/m2, IV) on body surface area basis. There was statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinomas and adenomas in males treated with mg/kg/day (30 mg/m2/day, 81 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and above, and in females treated with 25 mg/kg/day (150 mg/m2/day, 405 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area). No increase in liver tumors was observed at dose of mg/kg/day (6 mg/m2/day, 16 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) in males and mg/kg/day (30 mg/m2/day, 81 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) in females. In 12-month oral toxicity study, treatment with granisetron 100 mg/kg/day (600 mg/m2/day, 1622 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) produced hepatocellular adenomas in male and female rats while no such tumors were found in the control rats. 24-month mouse carcinogenicity study of granisetron did not show statistically significant increase in tumor incidence, but the study was not conclusive.Because of the tumor findings in rat studies, granisetron hydrochloride injection should be prescribed only at the dose and for the indication recommended [see Indications and Usage (1) and Dosage and Administration (2)].Granisetron was not mutagenic in an in vitro Ames test and mouse lymphoma cell forward mutation assay, and in vivo mouse micronucleus test and in vitro and ex vivo rat hepatocyte UDS assays. It, however, produced significant increase in UDS in HeLa cells in vitro and significant increased incidence of cells with polyploidy in an in vitro human lymphocyte chromosomal aberration test.Granisetron at subcutaneous doses up to mg/kg/day (36 mg/m2/day, 97 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) was found to have no effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of Action. Granisetron is selective 5-hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist with little or no affinity for other serotonin receptors, including 5-HT1 5-HT1A 5-HT1B/C 5-HT2 for alpha1 -, alpha2 or beta-adrenoreceptors; for dopamine-D2 or for histamine-H1 benzodiazepine; picrotoxin or opioid receptors.Serotonin receptors of the 5-HT3 type are located peripherally on vagal nerve terminals and centrally in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the area postrema. During chemotherapy-induced vomiting, mucosal enterochromaffin cells release serotonin, which stimulates 5-HT3 receptors. This evokes vagal afferent discharge and may induce vomiting. Animal studies demonstrate that, in binding to 5-HT3 receptors, granisetron blocks serotonin stimulation and subsequent vomiting after emetogenic stimuli such as cisplatin. In the ferret animal model, single granisetron injection prevented vomiting due to high-dose cisplatin or arrested vomiting within to 30 seconds.In most human studies, granisetron has had little effect on blood pressure, heart rate or ECG. No evidence of an effect on plasma prolactin or aldosterone concentrations has been found in other studies.Granisetron hydrochloride injection exhibited no effect on oro-cecal transit time in normal volunteers given single intravenous infusion of 50 mcg/kg or 200 mcg/kg. Single and multiple oral doses slowed colonic transit in normal volunteers.. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and VomitingIn adult cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and in volunteers, mean pharmacokinetic data obtained from an infusion of single 40 mcg/kg dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection are shown in Table 3.Table Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Adult Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy and in Volunteers, Following Single Intravenous 40 mcg/kg Dose of Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection5-minute infusion+3-minute infusionPeak PlasmaConcentration(ng/mL)Terminal Phase Plasma Half-Life(h)TotalClearance(L/h/kg)Volume of Distribution(L/kg)Cancer PatientsMeanRange63.818.0 to 1768.950.90 to 31.10.380.14 to 1.543.070.85 to 10.4Volunteers21 to 42 yearsMeanRange65 to 81 yearsMeanRange64.3+11.2 to 18257.0+14.6 to 1534.91+0.88 to 15.27.69+2.65 to 17.70.79+0.20 to 2.560.44+0.17 to 1.063.04+1.68 to 6.133.97+1.75 to 7.01. DistributionPlasma protein binding is approximately 65% and granisetron distributes freely between plasma and red blood cells.. MetabolismGranisetron metabolism involves N-demethylation and aromatic ring oxidation followed by conjugation. In vitro liver microsomal studies show that granisetrons major route of metabolism is inhibited by ketoconazole, suggestive of metabolism mediated by the cytochrome P-450 3A subfamily. Animal studies suggest that some of the metabolites may also have 5-HT3 receptor antagonist activity.. EliminationClearance is predominantly by hepatic metabolism. In normal volunteers, approximately 12% of the administered dose is eliminated unchanged in the urine in 48 hours. The remainder of the dose is excreted as metabolites, 49% in the urine, and 34% in the feces.. Subpopulations. GenderThere was high inter- and intra-subject variability noted in these studies. No difference in mean AUC was found between males and females, although males had higher generally.. ElderlyThe ranges of the pharmacokinetic parameters in elderly volunteers (mean age 71 years), given single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection, were generally similar to those in younger healthy volunteers; mean values were lower for clearance and longer for half-life in the elderly patients (see Table 3).. Pediatric PatientsA pharmacokinetic study in pediatric cancer patients (2 to 16 years of age), given single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection, showed that volume of distribution and total clearance increased with age. No relationship with age was observed for peak plasma concentration or terminal phase plasma half-life. When volume of distribution and total clearance are adjusted for body weight, the pharmacokinetics of granisetron are similar in pediatric and adult cancer patients.. Renal Failure PatientsTotal clearance of granisetron was not affected in patients with severe renal failure who received single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection.. Hepatically Impaired PatientsA pharmacokinetic study in patients with hepatic impairment due to neoplastic liver involvement showed that total clearance was approximately halved compared to patients without hepatic impairment. Given the wide variability in pharmacokinetic parameters noted in patients, dosage adjustment in patients with hepatic functional impairment is not necessary.

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES. 14.1 Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting. Single-Day Chemotherapy. Cisplatin-Based ChemotherapyIn double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 28 cancer patients, granisetron hydrochloride injection, administered as single intravenous infusion of 40 mcg/kg, was significantly more effective than placebo in preventing nausea and vomiting induced by cisplatin chemotherapy (see Table 5).Table Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting -- Single-Day Cisplatin Therapy Cisplatin administration began within 10 minutes of granisetron hydrochloride injection infusion and continued for 1.5 to hours. Mean cisplatin dose was 86 mg/m2 in the granisetron hydrochloride injection group and 80 mg/m2 in the placebo group.+No vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea.Granisetron InjectionPlaceboP-ValueNumber of Patients Response Over 24 Hours Complete Response+ No VomitingNo More Than Mild Nausea14 93%93%93%14 7%14%7%<0.001<0.001<0.001Granisetron hydrochloride injection was also evaluated in randomized dose response study of cancer patients receiving cisplatin >=75 mg/m2. Additional chemotherapeutic agents included: anthracyclines, carboplatin, cytostatic antibiotics, folic acid derivatives, methylhydrazine, nitrogen mustard analogs, podophyllotoxin derivatives, pyrimidine analogs, and vinca alkaloids. Granisetron hydrochloride injection doses of 10 and 40 mcg/kg were superior to mcg/kg in preventing cisplatin-induced nausea and vomiting, but 40 mcg/kg was not significantly superior to 10 mcg/kg (see Table 6).Table Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting -- Single-Day High-Dose Cisplatin Therapy Ciplatin administration began within 10 minutes of granisetron hydrochloride injection infusion and continued for 2.6 hours (mean). Mean cisplatin doses were 96 to 99 mg/m2.+No vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea.Granisetron Injection(mcg/kg)P-Value(vs. mcg/kg)210401040Number of Patients Response Over 24 Hours Complete Response+ No VomitingNo More Than Mild Nausea52 31%38%58%52 62%65%75%53 68%74%79%<0.002<0.001NS<0.001<0.001<0.007Granisetron hydrochloride injection was also evaluated in double-blind, randomized dose response study of 353 patients stratified for high (>=80 to 120 mg/m2) or low (50 to 79 mg/m2) cisplatin dose. Response rates of patients for both cisplatin strata are given in Table 7.Table Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting -- Single-Day High-Dose and Low-Dose Cisplatin Therapy Cisplatin administration began within 10 minutes of granisetron hydrochloride injection infusion and continued for hours (mean). Mean cisplatin doses were 64 and 98 mg/m2 for low and high strata.+No vomiting and no use of rescue antiemetic.Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection(mcg/kg)P-Value(vs. mcg/kg)5102040102040High-Dose CisplatinNumber of PatientsResponse Over 24 Hours Complete Response+ No Vomiting No Nausea4018%28%15%4941%47%35%4840%44%38%4747%53%43%0.018NS0.0360.025NS0.0190.0040.0160.005Low-Dose CisplatinNumber of PatientsResponse Over 24 Hours Complete Response+ No Vomiting No Nausea4229%36%29%4156%63%56%4058%65%38%4641%43%33%0.0120.0120.0120.0090.008NSNSNSNSFor both the low and high cisplatin strata, the 10, 20, and 40 mcg/kg doses were more effective than the mcg/kg dose in preventing nausea and vomiting within 24 hours of chemotherapy administration. The 10 mcg/kg dose was at least as effective as the higher doses.. Moderately Emetogenic ChemotherapyGranisetron hydrochloride injection, 40 mcg/kg, was compared with the combination of chlorpromazine (50 to 200 mg/24 hours) and dexamethasone (12 mg) in patients treated with moderately emetogenic chemotherapy, including primarily carboplatin >300 mg/m2 cisplatin 20 to 50 mg/m2 and cyclophosphamide >600 mg/m2. Granisetron hydrochloride injection was superior to the chlorpromazine regimen in preventing nausea and vomiting (see Table 8).Table Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting--Single-Day Moderately Emetogenic ChemotherapyPatients also received dexamethasone, 12 mg.+No vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea.Granisetron HydrochlorideInjectionChlorpromazineP-ValueNumber of PatientsResponse Over 24 Hours Complete Response+ No Vomiting No More Than Mild Nausea133 68%73%77%133 47%53%59%<0.001<0.001<0.001In other studies of moderately emetogenic chemotherapy, no significant difference in efficacy was found between granisetron hydrochloride doses of 40 mcg/kg and 160 mcg/kg.. Repeat-Cycle ChemotherapyIn an uncontrolled trial, 512 cancer patients received granisetron hydrochloride injection, 40 mcg/kg, prophylactically, for two cycles of chemotherapy, 224 patients received it for at least four cycles, and 108 patients received it for at least six cycles. Granisetron hydrochloride injection efficacy remained relatively constant over the first six repeat cycles, with complete response rates (no vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea in 24 hours) of 60% to 69%. No patients were studied for more than 15 cycles.. Pediatric StudiesA randomized double-blind study evaluated the 24-hour response of 80 pediatric cancer patients (age to 16 years) to granisetron hydrochloride injection 10, 20 or 40 mcg/kg. Patients were treated with cisplatin >=60 mg/m2, cytarabine >=3 g/m2, cyclophosphamide >= g/m2 or nitrogen mustard >=6 mg/m2 (see Table 9).Table Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Pediatric PatientsNo vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea.Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection Dose (mcg/kg)102040Number of PatientsMedian Number of Vomiting EpisodesComplete Response Over 24 Hours29221%26331%25132%A second pediatric study compared granisetron hydrochloride injection 20 mcg/kg to chlorpromazine plus dexamethasone in 88 patients treated with ifosfamide >=3 g/m2/day for two or three days. Granisetron hydrochloride injection was administered on each day of ifosfamide treatment. At 24 hours, 22% of granisetron hydrochloride injection patients achieved complete response (no vomiting and no moderate or severe nausea in 24 hours) compared with 10% on the chlorpromazine regimen. The median number of vomiting episodes with granisetron hydrochloride injection was 1.5; with chlorpromazine it was 7.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

4 CONTRAINDICATIONS. Granisetron hydrochloride injection is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, shortness of breath, hypotension, urticaria) to the drug or to any of its components.. Hypersensitivity to granisetron hydrochloride injection or to any of its components. (4). Hypersensitivity to granisetron hydrochloride injection or to any of its components. (4).

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

11 DESCRIPTION. Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection, USP is serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist. Chemically it is endo-N-(9-methyl-9-azabicyclo [3.3.1] non-3-yl)-1-methyl-1H-indazole-3-carboxamide hydrochloride.Its chemical structure is:Granisetron hydrochlorideC18H24N4OoHCl M.W. 348.9 (312.4 free base)Granisetron hydrochloride is white to off-white solid that is readily soluble in water and normal saline at 20C. Granisetron hydrochloride injection, USP is clear, colorless, sterile, nonpyrogenic, aqueous solution for intravenous administration.Granisetron hydrochloride injection, USP mg/mL is available in mL Single-dose and mL Multiple-dose vials. Granisetron hydrochloride injection, USP 0.1 mg/mL is available in 1 mL single-dose vial.1 mg/mL: Each mL contains: Active: Granisetron hydrochloride 1.12 mg, equivalent to granisetron, mg; Inactives: Sodium Chloride, mg; Citric Acid, mg; Sodium Citrate, Dihydrate, Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid may be added to adjust pH (approximately 4.0 to 6.0), and Water for Injection q.s. to mL; Preservative: Benzyl Alcohol, 10 mg.0.1 mg/mL (preservative-free): Each mL contains: Active: Granisetron hydrochloride 0.112 mg, equivalent to granisetron, 0.1 mg; Inactives: Sodium Chloride, mg; Citric Acid, mg: Sodium Citrate, Dihydrate, Sodium Hydroxide and/or Hydrochloric Acid may be added to adjust pH (approximately 4.0 to 6.0), and Water for Injection q.s. to mL.. Chemical Structure.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. Prevention of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (2.1):Recommended dosage is 10 mcg/kg intravenously within 30 minutes before initiation of chemotherapyPediatric patients (2 to 16 years): Recommended dosage is 10 mcg/kg. Recommended dosage is 10 mcg/kg intravenously within 30 minutes before initiation of chemotherapy. Pediatric patients (2 to 16 years): Recommended dosage is 10 mcg/kg. 2.1 Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting. Adult PatientsThe recommended dosage for granisetron hydrochloride injection is 10 mcg/kg administered intravenously within 30 minutes before initiation of chemotherapy, and only on the day(s) chemotherapy is given.. Infusion PreparationGranisetron hydrochloride injection may be administered intravenously either undiluted over 30 seconds, or diluted with 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose and infused over minutes.. StabilityIntravenous infusion of granisetron hydrochloride injection should be prepared at the time of administration. However, granisetron hydrochloride injection has been shown to be stable for at least 24 hours when diluted in 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose and stored at room temperature under normal lighting conditions.As general precaution, granisetron hydrochloride injection should not be mixed in solution with other drugs. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration before administration whenever solution and container permit.. Pediatric PatientsThe recommended dose in pediatric patients to 16 years of age is 10 mcg/kg [see Clinical Studies (14)].Pediatric patients under years of age have not been studied.

DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION.

3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS. Single-dose Vials for Injection: mg/mL, 0.1 mg/mLMultiple-dose Vials for Injection: mg/4 mL. Injection mg/mL (free base). (3)Injection 0.1 mg/mL (free base). (3). Injection mg/mL (free base). (3). Injection 0.1 mg/mL (free base). (3).

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Granisetron does not induce or inhibit the cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzyme system in vitro. There have been no definitive drug-drug interaction studies to examine pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic interaction with other drugs; however, in humans, granisetron hydrochloride injection has been safely administered with drugs representing benzodiazepines, neuroleptics and anti-ulcer medications commonly prescribed with antiemetic treatments. Granisetron hydrochloride injection also does not appear to interact with emetogenic cancer chemotherapies. Because granisetron is metabolized by hepatic cytochrome P-450 drug-metabolizing enzymes, inducers or inhibitors of these enzymes may change the clearance and, hence, the half-life of granisetron. No specific interaction studies have been conducted in anesthetized patients. In addition, the activity of the cytochrome P-450 subfamily 3A4 (involved in the metabolism of some of the main narcotic analgesic agents) is not modified by granisetron hydrochloride in vitro.In in vitro human microsomal studies, ketoconazole inhibited ring oxidation of granisetron hydrochloride. However, the clinical significance of in vivo pharmacokinetic interactions with ketoconazole is not known. In human pharmacokinetic study, hepatic enzyme induction with phenobarbital resulted in 25% increase in total plasma clearance of intravenous granisetron hydrochloride. The clinical significance of this change is not known.QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride. Use of granisetron hydrochloride in patients concurrently treated with drugs known to prolong the QT interval and/or are arrhythmogenic may result in clinical consequences.Serotonin syndrome (including altered mental status, autonomic instability, and neuromuscular symptoms) has been described following the concomitant use of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists and other serotonergic drugs, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Granisetron hydrochloride injection has been administered safely with benzodiazepines, neuroleptics, and anti-ulcer medications. (7)Does not appear to interact with emetogenic cancer chemotherapies. (7)Inducers or inhibitors of CYP450 enzymes may change the clearance and therefore the half-life of granisetron. (7)Coadministration of granisetron hydrochloride injection with drugs known to prolong the QT interval and/or are arrhythmogenic may result in clinical consequences. (7). Granisetron hydrochloride injection has been administered safely with benzodiazepines, neuroleptics, and anti-ulcer medications. (7). Does not appear to interact with emetogenic cancer chemotherapies. (7). Inducers or inhibitors of CYP450 enzymes may change the clearance and therefore the half-life of granisetron. (7). Coadministration of granisetron hydrochloride injection with drugs known to prolong the QT interval and/or are arrhythmogenic may result in clinical consequences. (7).

GERIATRIC USE SECTION.

8.5 Geriatric Use. During chemotherapy clinical trials, 713 patients 65 years of age or older received granisetron hydrochloride injection. The safety and effectiveness were similar in patients of various ages.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING. Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection, USP, mg/mL (free base), is supplied in mL Single-dose vials and mL Multi-dose vials. CONTAINS BENZYL ALCOHOL.NDC 17478-546-02 (package of Single-dose Vial)NDC 17478-546-05 (package of Multi-dose Vial)Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection, USP 0.1 mg/mL (free base), is supplied in mL Single-dose Vials. CONTAINS NO PRESERVATIVE.NDC 17478-547-01 (package of 10 Single-dose Vial). Storage: Store single-dose vials and multiple-dose vials at 20o to 25C (68o to 77F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].Protect from light. Do not freeze. Retain in carton until time of use.Once the multiple-dose vial is penetrated, its contents should be used within 30 days.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE. Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection, USP is serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist indicated for:The prevention of nausea and/or vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer therapy, including high-dose cisplatin.. The prevention of nausea and/or vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer therapy, including high-dose cisplatin.. Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection, USP is serotonin-3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist indicated for:The prevention of nausea and/or vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer therapy, including high-dose cisplatin. (1). The prevention of nausea and/or vomiting associated with initial and repeat courses of emetogenic cancer therapy, including high-dose cisplatin. (1).

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. Patients should be informed that the most common adverse reactions for the indication of chemotherapy induced nausea and vomiting are headache and constipation (see Table 1).Patients should be advised of the risk of allergic reactions if they have prior allergic reaction to class of antiemetics known as 5-HT3 receptor antagonists.Electrocardiogram changes (QT prolongation) have been reported with the use of granisetron hydrochloride. Patients should be cautioned about the use of this drug if they have heart problems or take medications for heart problems.Advise patients of the possibility of serotonin syndrome with concomitant use of granisetron and another serotonergic agent such as medications to treat depression and migraines. Advise patients to seek immediate medical attention if the following symptoms occur: changes in mental status autonomic instability neuromuscular symptoms with or without gastrointestinal symptoms.AKORN Manufactured by: Akorn, Inc. Lake Forest, IL 60045GR00N Rev. 05/18.

MECHANISM OF ACTION SECTION.

12.1 Mechanism of Action. Granisetron is selective 5-hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) receptor antagonist with little or no affinity for other serotonin receptors, including 5-HT1 5-HT1A 5-HT1B/C 5-HT2 for alpha1 -, alpha2 or beta-adrenoreceptors; for dopamine-D2 or for histamine-H1 benzodiazepine; picrotoxin or opioid receptors.Serotonin receptors of the 5-HT3 type are located peripherally on vagal nerve terminals and centrally in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the area postrema. During chemotherapy-induced vomiting, mucosal enterochromaffin cells release serotonin, which stimulates 5-HT3 receptors. This evokes vagal afferent discharge and may induce vomiting. Animal studies demonstrate that, in binding to 5-HT3 receptors, granisetron blocks serotonin stimulation and subsequent vomiting after emetogenic stimuli such as cisplatin. In the ferret animal model, single granisetron injection prevented vomiting due to high-dose cisplatin or arrested vomiting within to 30 seconds.In most human studies, granisetron has had little effect on blood pressure, heart rate or ECG. No evidence of an effect on plasma prolactin or aldosterone concentrations has been found in other studies.Granisetron hydrochloride injection exhibited no effect on oro-cecal transit time in normal volunteers given single intravenous infusion of 50 mcg/kg or 200 mcg/kg. Single and multiple oral doses slowed colonic transit in normal volunteers.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION.

13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY. 13.1 Carcinogenesis Mutagenesis Impairment of Fertility. In 24-month carcinogenicity study, rats were treated orally with granisetron 1, or 50 mg/kg/day (6, 30 or 300 mg/m2/day). The 50 mg/kg/day dose was reduced to 25 mg/kg/day (150 mg/m2/day) during week 59 due to toxicity. For 50 kg person of average height (1.46 body surface area), these doses represent 16, 81 and 405 times the recommended clinical dose (0.37 mg/m2, IV) on body surface area basis. There was statistically significant increase in the incidence of hepatocellular carcinomas and adenomas in males treated with mg/kg/day (30 mg/m2/day, 81 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and above, and in females treated with 25 mg/kg/day (150 mg/m2/day, 405 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area). No increase in liver tumors was observed at dose of mg/kg/day (6 mg/m2/day, 16 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) in males and mg/kg/day (30 mg/m2/day, 81 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) in females. In 12-month oral toxicity study, treatment with granisetron 100 mg/kg/day (600 mg/m2/day, 1622 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) produced hepatocellular adenomas in male and female rats while no such tumors were found in the control rats. 24-month mouse carcinogenicity study of granisetron did not show statistically significant increase in tumor incidence, but the study was not conclusive.Because of the tumor findings in rat studies, granisetron hydrochloride injection should be prescribed only at the dose and for the indication recommended [see Indications and Usage (1) and Dosage and Administration (2)].Granisetron was not mutagenic in an in vitro Ames test and mouse lymphoma cell forward mutation assay, and in vivo mouse micronucleus test and in vitro and ex vivo rat hepatocyte UDS assays. It, however, produced significant increase in UDS in HeLa cells in vitro and significant increased incidence of cells with polyploidy in an in vitro human lymphocyte chromosomal aberration test.Granisetron at subcutaneous doses up to mg/kg/day (36 mg/m2/day, 97 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) was found to have no effect on fertility and reproductive performance of male and female rats.

NURSING MOTHERS SECTION.

8.3 Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether granisetron is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when granisetron hydrochloride injection is administered to nursing woman.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

10 OVERDOSAGE. There is no specific antidote for granisetron hydrochloride injection overdosage. In case of overdosage, symptomatic treatment should be given. Overdosage of up to 38.5 mg of granisetron hydrochloride injection has been reported without symptoms or only the occurrence of slight headache.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

Principal Display Panel Text for Container Label:. NDC 17478-546-02GranisetronHydrochlorideInjection, USP1 mg/mLFor I.V. Use Only1 mL Single-dose Vial. Principal Display Panel Text for Container Label.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.

8.4 Pediatric Use. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting[See Dosage and Administration (2)] for use in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients to 16 years of age. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under years of age have not been established.. Postoperative Nausea and VomitingSafety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Granisetron has been evaluated in pediatric patient clinical trial for use in the prevention of PONV. Due to the lack of efficacy and the QT prolongation observed in this trial, use of granisetron for the prevention of PONV in children is not recommended. The trial was prospective, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial that evaluated 157 children aged to 16 years who were undergoing elective surgery for tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy. The purpose of the trial was to assess two dose levels (20 mcg/kg and 40 mcg/kg) of intravenous granisetron in the prevention of PONV. There was no active comparator or placebo. The primary endpoint was total control of nausea and vomiting (defined as no nausea, vomiting/retching, or use of rescue medication) in the 24 hours following surgery. Efficacy was not established due to lack of dose response.The trial also included standard 12 lead ECGs performed pre-dose and after the induction of anesthesia. ECGs were repeated at the end of surgery after the administration of granisetron and just prior to reversal of anesthesia. QT prolongation was seen at both dose levels. Five patients in this trial experienced an increase of >= 60 msec in QTcF. In addition, there were two patients whose QTcF was >= 500 msec. Interpretation of the QTcF prolongation was confounded by multiple factors, including the use of concomitant medication and the lack of either placebo or active control. thorough QT trial in adults has not been performed.Other adverse events that occurred in the study included: vomiting (5 to 8%), post-procedural hemorrhage (3 to 5%), and dehydration (0 to 5%).Pediatric patients under years of age have not been studied.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and VomitingIn adult cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and in volunteers, mean pharmacokinetic data obtained from an infusion of single 40 mcg/kg dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection are shown in Table 3.Table Pharmacokinetic Parameters in Adult Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy and in Volunteers, Following Single Intravenous 40 mcg/kg Dose of Granisetron Hydrochloride Injection5-minute infusion+3-minute infusionPeak PlasmaConcentration(ng/mL)Terminal Phase Plasma Half-Life(h)TotalClearance(L/h/kg)Volume of Distribution(L/kg)Cancer PatientsMeanRange63.818.0 to 1768.950.90 to 31.10.380.14 to 1.543.070.85 to 10.4Volunteers21 to 42 yearsMeanRange65 to 81 yearsMeanRange64.3+11.2 to 18257.0+14.6 to 1534.91+0.88 to 15.27.69+2.65 to 17.70.79+0.20 to 2.560.44+0.17 to 1.063.04+1.68 to 6.133.97+1.75 to 7.01. DistributionPlasma protein binding is approximately 65% and granisetron distributes freely between plasma and red blood cells.. MetabolismGranisetron metabolism involves N-demethylation and aromatic ring oxidation followed by conjugation. In vitro liver microsomal studies show that granisetrons major route of metabolism is inhibited by ketoconazole, suggestive of metabolism mediated by the cytochrome P-450 3A subfamily. Animal studies suggest that some of the metabolites may also have 5-HT3 receptor antagonist activity.. EliminationClearance is predominantly by hepatic metabolism. In normal volunteers, approximately 12% of the administered dose is eliminated unchanged in the urine in 48 hours. The remainder of the dose is excreted as metabolites, 49% in the urine, and 34% in the feces.. Subpopulations. GenderThere was high inter- and intra-subject variability noted in these studies. No difference in mean AUC was found between males and females, although males had higher generally.. ElderlyThe ranges of the pharmacokinetic parameters in elderly volunteers (mean age 71 years), given single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection, were generally similar to those in younger healthy volunteers; mean values were lower for clearance and longer for half-life in the elderly patients (see Table 3).. Pediatric PatientsA pharmacokinetic study in pediatric cancer patients (2 to 16 years of age), given single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection, showed that volume of distribution and total clearance increased with age. No relationship with age was observed for peak plasma concentration or terminal phase plasma half-life. When volume of distribution and total clearance are adjusted for body weight, the pharmacokinetics of granisetron are similar in pediatric and adult cancer patients.. Renal Failure PatientsTotal clearance of granisetron was not affected in patients with severe renal failure who received single 40 mcg/kg intravenous dose of granisetron hydrochloride injection.. Hepatically Impaired PatientsA pharmacokinetic study in patients with hepatic impairment due to neoplastic liver involvement showed that total clearance was approximately halved compared to patients without hepatic impairment. Given the wide variability in pharmacokinetic parameters noted in patients, dosage adjustment in patients with hepatic functional impairment is not necessary.

PREGNANCY SECTION.

8.1 Pregnancy. Pregnancy Category BReproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats at intravenous doses up to mg/kg/day (54 mg/m2/day, 146 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at intravenous doses up to mg/kg/day (35.4 mg/m2/day, 96 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to granisetron. 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.

RECENT MAJOR CHANGES SECTION.

Warnings and Precautions (5.4)08/2014.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

2.1 Prevention of Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting. Adult PatientsThe recommended dosage for granisetron hydrochloride injection is 10 mcg/kg administered intravenously within 30 minutes before initiation of chemotherapy, and only on the day(s) chemotherapy is given.. Infusion PreparationGranisetron hydrochloride injection may be administered intravenously either undiluted over 30 seconds, or diluted with 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose and infused over minutes.. StabilityIntravenous infusion of granisetron hydrochloride injection should be prepared at the time of administration. However, granisetron hydrochloride injection has been shown to be stable for at least 24 hours when diluted in 0.9% Sodium Chloride or 5% Dextrose and stored at room temperature under normal lighting conditions.As general precaution, granisetron hydrochloride injection should not be mixed in solution with other drugs. Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration before administration whenever solution and container permit.. Pediatric PatientsThe recommended dose in pediatric patients to 16 years of age is 10 mcg/kg [see Clinical Studies (14)].Pediatric patients under years of age have not been studied.

STORAGE AND HANDLING SECTION.

Storage: Store single-dose vials and multiple-dose vials at 20o to 25C (68o to 77F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].Protect from light. Do not freeze. Retain in carton until time of use.Once the multiple-dose vial is penetrated, its contents should be used within 30 days.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. (8.1)Nursing mothers: Caution should be exercised when administered to nursing woman. (8.3)Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established for use in postoperative nausea and vomiting. (8.4)Geriatric use: No differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients were observed in reported clinical experience. (8.5). Pregnancy: Use only if clearly needed. (8.1). Nursing mothers: Caution should be exercised when administered to nursing woman. (8.3). Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established for use in postoperative nausea and vomiting. (8.4). Geriatric use: No differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients were observed in reported clinical experience. (8.5). 8.1 Pregnancy. Pregnancy Category BReproduction studies have been performed in pregnant rats at intravenous doses up to mg/kg/day (54 mg/m2/day, 146 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and pregnant rabbits at intravenous doses up to mg/kg/day (35.4 mg/m2/day, 96 times the recommended human dose based on body surface area) and have revealed no evidence of impaired fertility or harm to the fetus due to granisetron. 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.. 8.3 Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether granisetron is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when granisetron hydrochloride injection is administered to nursing woman.. 8.4 Pediatric Use. Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting[See Dosage and Administration (2)] for use in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in pediatric patients to 16 years of age. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients under years of age have not been established.. Postoperative Nausea and VomitingSafety and efficacy have not been established in pediatric patients for the prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). Granisetron has been evaluated in pediatric patient clinical trial for use in the prevention of PONV. Due to the lack of efficacy and the QT prolongation observed in this trial, use of granisetron for the prevention of PONV in children is not recommended. The trial was prospective, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel-group trial that evaluated 157 children aged to 16 years who were undergoing elective surgery for tonsillectomy or adenotonsillectomy. The purpose of the trial was to assess two dose levels (20 mcg/kg and 40 mcg/kg) of intravenous granisetron in the prevention of PONV. There was no active comparator or placebo. The primary endpoint was total control of nausea and vomiting (defined as no nausea, vomiting/retching, or use of rescue medication) in the 24 hours following surgery. Efficacy was not established due to lack of dose response.The trial also included standard 12 lead ECGs performed pre-dose and after the induction of anesthesia. ECGs were repeated at the end of surgery after the administration of granisetron and just prior to reversal of anesthesia. QT prolongation was seen at both dose levels. Five patients in this trial experienced an increase of >= 60 msec in QTcF. In addition, there were two patients whose QTcF was >= 500 msec. Interpretation of the QTcF prolongation was confounded by multiple factors, including the use of concomitant medication and the lack of either placebo or active control. thorough QT trial in adults has not been performed.Other adverse events that occurred in the study included: vomiting (5 to 8%), post-procedural hemorrhage (3 to 5%), and dehydration (0 to 5%).Pediatric patients under years of age have not been studied.. 8.5 Geriatric Use. During chemotherapy clinical trials, 713 patients 65 years of age or older received granisetron hydrochloride injection. The safety and effectiveness were similar in patients of various ages.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS. Granisetron hydrochloride does not stimulate gastric or intestinal peristalsis and should not be used instead of nasogastric suction. (5.1)QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing arrhythmias or cardiac conduction disorders. (5.2)Contains benzyl alcohol (5.5)Hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, shortness of breath, hypotension, and urticaria, may occur in patients with known hypersensitivity to other selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. (5.3)Serotonin syndrome has been reported with granisetron, alone but particularly with concomitant use of serotogenic drugs. (5.4). Granisetron hydrochloride does not stimulate gastric or intestinal peristalsis and should not be used instead of nasogastric suction. (5.1). QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride. Use with caution in patients with pre-existing arrhythmias or cardiac conduction disorders. (5.2). Contains benzyl alcohol (5.5). Hypersensitivity reactions, such as anaphylaxis, shortness of breath, hypotension, and urticaria, may occur in patients with known hypersensitivity to other selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. (5.3). Serotonin syndrome has been reported with granisetron, alone but particularly with concomitant use of serotogenic drugs. (5.4). 5.1 Gastric or Intestinal Peristalsis. Granisetron hydrochloride is not drug that stimulates gastric or intestinal peristalsis. It should not be used instead of nasogastric suction. The use of granisetron hydrochloride in patients following abdominal surgery or in patients with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting may mask progressive ileus and/or gastric distention.. 5.2 Cardiovascular Events. An adequate QT assessment has not been conducted, but QT prolongation has been reported with granisetron hydrochloride. Therefore, granisetron hydrochloride should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing arrhythmias or cardiac conduction disorders, as this might lead to clinical consequences. Patients with cardiac disease, on cardio-toxic chemotherapy, with concomitant electrolyte abnormalities and/or on concomitant medications that prolong the QT interval are particularly at risk.. 5.3 Hypersensitivity Reactions. Hypersensitivity reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, shortness of breath, hypotension, urticaria) may occur in patients who have exhibited hypersensitivity to other selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonists.. 5.4 Serotonin Syndrome. The development of serotonin syndrome has been reported with 5-HT3 receptor antagonists. Most reports have been associated with concomitant use of serotonergic drugs (e.g., selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors, mirtazapine, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, and intravenous methylene blue). Some of the reported cases were fatal. Serotonin syndrome occurring with overdose of another 5-HT3 receptor antagonist alone has also been reported. The majority of reports of serotonin syndrome related to 5-HT3 receptor antagonist use occurred in post-anesthesia care unit or an infusion center.Symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome may include the following combination of signs and symptoms: mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, with or without gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Patients should be monitored for the emergence of serotonin syndrome, especially with concomitant use of granisetron and other serotonergic drugs. If symptoms of serotonin syndrome occur, discontinue granisetron and initiate supportive treatment. Patient should be informed of the increased risk of serotonin syndrome, especially if granisetron is used concomitantly with other serotonergic drugs [see Drug Interaction (7), Patient Counseling Information (17.4)].. 5.5 Benzyl Alcohol. Granisetron hydrochloride injection, USP mg/mL contains benzyl alcohol. Benzyl alcohol, component of granisetron hydrochloride injection, USP mg/mL, has been associated with serious adverse reactions and death, particularly in neonates. The gasping syndrome, characterized by central nervous system depression, metabolic acidosis, gasping respirations, and high levels of benzyl alcohol and metabolites in blood and urine, has been associated with benzyl alcohol dosages >99 mg/kg/day in neonates and low birth-weight neonates. Additional symptoms may include gradual neurological deterioration, seizures, intracranial hemorrhage, hematologic abnormalities, skin breakdown, hepatic and renal failure, hypotension, bradycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. Although normal therapeutic doses of this product deliver amounts of benzyl alcohol that are substantially lower than those reported in association with the gasping syndrome, the minimum amount of benzyl alcohol at which toxicity may occur is not known. Premature and low birth-weight infants, as well as patients receiving high dosages, may be more likely to develop toxicity. Practitioners administering this and other medications containing benzyl alcohol should consider the combined daily metabolic load of benzyl alcohol from all sources.