ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.


6 ADVERSE REACTIONS. The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 10% incidence) are: alopecia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, constipation, anorexia, convulsions, rash, hemiparesis, diarrhea, asthenia, fever, dizziness, coordination abnormal, viral infection, amnesia, and insomnia. (6.1)The most common Grade to hematologic laboratory abnormalities (greater than or equal to 10% incidence) that have developed during treatment with temozolomide are: lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and leukopenia. (6.1) Allergic reactions have also been reported. (6)To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Lannett Company, Inc. at 1-800-325-9994 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.. The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 10% incidence) are: alopecia, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headache, constipation, anorexia, convulsions, rash, hemiparesis, diarrhea, asthenia, fever, dizziness, coordination abnormal, viral infection, amnesia, and insomnia. (6.1). The most common Grade to hematologic laboratory abnormalities (greater than or equal to 10% incidence) that have developed during treatment with temozolomide are: lymphopenia, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and leukopenia. (6.1) Allergic reactions have also been reported. (6). 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 practice. Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme: During the concomitant phase (temozolomide+radiotherapy), adverse reactions including thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and constipation were more frequent in the temozolomide+RT arm. The incidence of other adverse reactions was comparable in the two arms. The most common adverse reactions across the cumulative temozolomide experience were alopecia, nausea, vomiting, anorexia, headache, and constipation (see Table 7). Forty-nine percent (49%) of patients treated with temozolomide reported one or more severe or life-threatening reactions, most commonly fatigue (13%), convulsions (6%), headache (5%), and thrombocytopenia (5%). Overall, the pattern of reactions during the maintenance phase was consistent with the known safety profile of temozolomide.TABLE 7: Number (%) of Patients with Adverse Reactions: All and Severe/Life Threatening (Incidence of 5% or Greater)ConcomitantPhaseRT Alone(n=285)ConcomitantPhaseRT+TMZ(n=288)MaintenancePhaseTMZ(n=224)AllGrade >=3AllGrade >=3AllGrade >=3Subjects Reporting any Adverse Reaction258(91)74(26)266(92)80(28)206(92)82(37)Body as Whole -- General Disorders Anorexia25(9)1(<1)56(19)2(1)61(27)3(1)Dizziness10(4)0 12(4)2(1)12(5)0Fatigue139(49)15(5)156(54)19(7)137(61)20(9)Headache49(17)11(4)56(19)5(2)51(23)9(4)Weakness9(3)3(1)10(3)5(2)16(7)4(2)Central and Peripheral Nervous System Disorders Confusion12(4)6(2)11(4)4(1)12(5)4(2)Convulsions20(7)9(3)17(6)10(3)25(11)7(3)Memory Impairment12(4)1(<1)8(3)1(<1)16(7)2(1)Disorders of the Eye Vision Blurred25(9)4(1)26(9)2(1)17(8)0Disorders of the Immune System Allergic Reaction7(2)1(<1)13(5)0 6(3)0 Gastrointestinal System Disorders Abdominal Pain2(1)07(2)1(<1)11(5)1(<1)Constipation18(6)053(18)3(1)49(22)0 Diarrhea9(3)018(6)023(10)2(1)Nausea45(16)1(<1)105(36)2(1)110(49)3(1)Stomatitis14(5)1(<1)19(7)020(9)3(1)Vomiting16(6)1(<1)57(20)1(<1)66(29)4(2)Injury and Poisoning Radiation Injury NOS11(4)1(<1)20(7)05(2)0Musculoskeletal System Disorders Arthralgia2(1)07(2)1(<1)14(6)0Platelet, Bleeding and Clotting Disorders Thrombocytopenia3(1)011(4)8(3)19(8)8(4)Psychiatric Disorders Insomnia9(3)1(<1)14(5)09(4)0Respiratory System Disorders Coughing3(1)015(5)2(1)19(8)1(<1)Dyspnea9(3)4(1)11(4)5(2)12(5)1(<1)Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders Alopecia179(63)0199(69)0124(55)0Dry Skin6(2)07(2)011(5)1(<1)Erythema15(5)014(5)02(1)0Pruritus4(1)011(4)011(5)0Rash42(15)056(19)3(1)29(13)3(1)Special Senses, Other Disorders Taste Perversion6(2)018(6)011(5)0One patient who was randomized to RT only arm received RT+temozolomide. RT+TMZ=radiotherapy plus temozolomide; NOS=not otherwise specified. Note: Grade (fatal) adverse reactions are included in the Grade >=3 column.Myelosuppression (neutropenia and thrombocytopenia), which is known dose-limiting toxicity for most cytotoxic agents, including temozolomide, was observed. When laboratory abnormalities and adverse reactions were combined, Grade or Grade neutrophil abnormalities including neutropenic reactions were observed in 8% of the patients, and Grade or Grade platelet abnormalities, including thrombocytopenic reactions, were observed in 14% of the patients treated with temozolomide. Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma: Tables and show the incidence of adverse reactions in the 158 patients in the anaplastic astrocytoma study for whom data are available. In the absence of control group, it is not clear in many cases whether these reactions should be attributed to temozolomide or the patients underlying conditions, but nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and hematologic effects appear to be clearly drug-related. The most frequently occurring adverse reactions were nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. The adverse reactions were usually NCI Common Toxicity Criteria (CTC) Grade or (mild to moderate in severity) and were self-limiting, with nausea and vomiting readily controlled with antiemetics. The incidence of severe nausea and vomiting (CTC Grade or 4) was 10% and 6%, respectively. Myelosuppression (thrombocytopenia and neutropenia) was the dose-limiting adverse reaction. It usually occurred within the first few cycles of therapy and was not cumulative. Myelosuppression occurred late in the treatment cycle and returned to normal, on average, within 14 days of nadir counts. The median nadirs occurred at 26 days for platelets (range: 21-40 days) and 28 days for neutrophils (range: 1-44 days). Only 14% (22/158) of patients had neutrophil nadir and 20% (32/158) of patients had platelet nadir, which may have delayed the start of the next cycle. Less than 10% of patients required hospitalization, blood transfusion, or discontinuation of therapy due to myelosuppression. In clinical trial experience with 110 to 111 women and 169 to 174 men (depending on measurements), there were higher rates of Grade neutropenia (ANC less than 500 cells/uL) and thrombocytopenia (less than 20,000 cells/uL) in women than men in the first cycle of therapy (12% vs. 5% and 9% vs. 3%, respectively).In the entire safety database for which hematologic data exist (N=932), 7% (4/61) and 9.5% (6/63) of patients over age 70 experienced Grade neutropenia or thrombocytopenia in the first cycle, respectively. For patients less than or equal to age 70, 7% (62/871) and 5.5% (48/879) experienced Grade neutropenia or thrombocytopenia in the first cycle, respectively. Pancytopenia, leukopenia, and anemia have also been reported.TABLE 8: Adverse Reactions in the Anaplastic Astrocytoma Trial in Adults (>=5%)No. (%) of Temozolomide Patients (N=158)All ReactionsGrade 3/4Any Adverse Reaction153 (97)79 (50)Body as WholeHeadache65 (41)10 (6)Fatigue54 (34)7 (4)Asthenia20 (13)9 (6)Fever21 (13)3 (2)Back pain12 (8)4 (3)CardiovascularEdema peripheral17 (11)1 (1)Central and Peripheral Nervous SystemConvulsions36 (23)8 (5)Hemiparesis29 (18)10 (6)Dizziness19 (12)1 (1)Coordination abnormal17 (11)2 (1)Amnesia16 (10)6 (4)Insomnia16 (10)0Paresthesia15 (9)1 (1)Somnolence15 (9)5 (3)Paresis13 (8)4 (3)Urinary incontinence13 (8)3 (2)Ataxia12 (8)3 (2)Dysphasia11 (7)1 (1)Convulsions local9 (6)0Gait abnormal9 (6)1 (1)Confusion8 (5)0EndocrineAdrenal hypercorticism13 (8)0Gastrointestinal SystemNausea84 (53)16 (10)Vomiting66 (42)10 (6)Constipation52 (33)1 (1)Diarrhea25 (16)3 (2)Abdominal pain14 (9)2 (1)Anorexia14 (9)1 (1)MetabolicWeight increase8 (5)0Musculoskeletal SystemMyalgia8 (5)Psychiatric DisordersAnxiety11 (7)1 (1)Depression10 (6)0Reproductive DisordersBreast pain, female4 (6)Resistance Mechanism DisordersInfection viral17 (11)0Respiratory SystemUpper respiratory tract infection13 (8)0Pharyngitis12 (8)0Sinusitis10 (6)0Coughing8 (5)0Skin and AppendagesRash13 (8)0Pruritus12 (8)2 (1)Urinary SystemUrinary tract infection12 (8)0Micturition increased frequency9 (6)0VisionDiplopia8 (5)0Vision abnormal8 (5)Blurred vision; visual deficit; vision changes; vision troublesTABLE 9: Adverse Hematologic Effects (Grade to 4) in the Anaplastic Astrocytoma Trial in AdultsTemozolomideHemoglobin7/158 (4%)Lymphopenia83/152 (55%)Neutrophils20/142 (14%)Platelets29/156 (19%)WBC18/158 (11%)Change from Grade to at baseline to Grade or during treatment.Temozolomide for injection delivers equivalent temozolomide dose and exposure to both temozolomide and 5-(3-methyltriazen-1-yl)-imidazole-4-carboxamide (MTIC) as the corresponding temozolomide capsules. Adverse reactions probably related to treatment that were reported from the studies with the intravenous formulation (n=35) that were not reported in studies using the temozolomide capsules were: pain, irritation, pruritus, warmth, swelling, and erythema at infusion site as well as the following adverse reactions: petechiae and hematoma. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience. The following adverse reactions have been identified during postapproval use of temozolomide. 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 the drug exposure. Dermatologic disorders: Toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens-Johnson syndrome Immune system disorders: Allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Erythema multiforme, which resolved after discontinuation of temozolomide and, in some cases, recurred upon rechallenge. Hematopoietic disorders: Prolonged pancytopenia, which may result in aplastic anemia and fatal outcomes [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Hepatobiliary disorders: Fatal and severe hepatotoxicity, elevation of liver enzymes, hyperbilirubinemia, cholestasis, and hepatitis [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5)]. Infections and infestations: Opportunistic infections including Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)], primary and reactivated cytomegalovirus (CMV), and reactivation of hepatitis infections including some cases with fatal outcomes. Pulmonary disorders: Interstitial pneumonitis, pneumonitis, alveolitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Endocrine disorders: Diabetes insipidus.

ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY & OR TOXICOLOGY SECTION.


13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology. Toxicology studies in rats and dogs identified low incidence of hemorrhage, degeneration, and necrosis of the retina at temozolomide doses equal to or greater than 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (125 mg/m2). These changes were most commonly seen at doses where mortality was observed.

BOXED WARNING SECTION.


IMPORTANT DISPENSING INFORMATION. For every patient, temozolomide must be dispensed in separate vial or in original packaging making sure each container lists the strength per capsule and that patients take the appropriate number of capsules from each package or vial.Please see the dispensing instructions below for more information.

CARCINOGENESIS & MUTAGENESIS & IMPAIRMENT OF FERTILITY SECTION.


13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. Temozolomide is carcinogenic in rats at doses less than the maximum recommended human dose. Temozolomide induced mammary carcinomas in both males and females at doses 0.13 to 0.63 times the maximum human dose (25-125 mg/m2) when administered orally on consecutive days every 28 days for cycles. Temozolomide also induced fibrosarcomas of the heart, eye, seminal vesicles, salivary glands, abdominal cavity, uterus, and prostate, carcinomas of the seminal vesicles, schwannomas of the heart, optic nerve, and harderian gland, and adenomas of the skin, lung, pituitary, and thyroid at doses 0.5 times the maximum daily dose. Mammary tumors were also induced following cycles of temozolomide at the maximum recommended daily dose.Temozolomide is mutagen and clastogen. In reverse bacterial mutagenesis assay (Ames assay), temozolomide increased revertant frequency in the absence and presence of metabolic activation. Temozolomide was clastogenic in human lymphocytes in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.Temozolomide impairs male fertility. Temozolomide caused syncytial cells/immature sperm formation at 0.25 and 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (50 and 125 mg/m2) in rats and dogs, respectively, and testicular atrophy in dogs at 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (125 mg/m2).

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.


12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of Action. Temozolomide is not directly active but undergoes rapid nonenzymatic conversion at physiologic pH to the reactive compound 5-(3-methyltriazen-1-yl)-imidazoIe-4-carboxamide (MTIC). The cytotoxicity of MTIC is thought to be primarily due to alkylation of DNA. Alkylation (methylation) occurs mainly at the O6 and N7 positions of guanine.. 12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Absorption: Temozolomide is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration with peak plasma concentration (Cmax) achieved in median Tmax of hour. Food reduces the rate and extent of temozolomide absorption. Mean peak plasma concentration and AUC decreased by 32% and 9%, respectively, and median Tmax increased by 2-fold (from 1-2.25 hours) when temozolomide was administered after modified high-fat breakfast.A pharmacokinetic study comparing oral and intravenous temozolomide in 19 patients with primary CNS malignancies showed that 150 mg/m2 temozolomide for injection administered over 90 minutes is bioequivalent to 150 mg/m2 temozolomide oral capsules with respect to both Cmax and AUC of temozolomide and MTIC. Following single 90-minute intravenous infusion of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean Cmax values for temozolomide and MTIC were 7.3 mcg/mL and 276 ng/mL, respectively. Following single oral dose of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean Cmax values for temozolomide and MTIC were 7.5 mcg/mL and 282 ng/mL, respectively. Following single 90-minute intravenous infusion of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean AUC values for temozolomide and MTIC were 24.6 mcg.hr/mL and 891 ng.hr/mL, respectively. Following single oral dose of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean AUC values for temozolomide and MTIC were 23.4 mcg.hr/mL and 864 ng.hr/mL, respectively. Distribution: Temozolomide has mean apparent volume of distribution of 0.4 L/kg (%CV=13%). It is weakly bound to human plasma proteins; the mean percent bound of drug-related total radioactivity is 15%. Metabolism and Elimination: Temozolomide is spontaneously hydrolyzed at physiologic pH to the active species, MTIC and to temozolomide acid metabolite. MTIC is further hydrolyzed to 5-amino-imidazole-4-carboxamide (AIC), which is known to be an intermediate in purine and nucleic acid biosynthesis, and to methylhydrazine, which is believed to be the active alkylating species. Cytochrome P450 enzymes play only minor role in the metabolism of temozolomide and MTIC. Relative to the AUC of temozolomide, the exposure to MTIC and AIC is 2.4% and 23%, respectively. Excretion: About 38% of the administered temozolomide total radioactive dose is recovered over days: 37.7% in urine and 0.8% in feces. The majority of the recovery of radioactivity in urine is unchanged temozolomide (5.6%), AIC (12%), temozolomide acid metabolite (2.3%), and unidentified polar metabolite(s) (17%). Overall clearance of temozolomide is about 5.5 L/hr/m2. Temozolomide is rapidly eliminated, with mean elimination half-life of 1.8 hours, and exhibits linear kinetics over the therapeutic dosing range of 75 to 250 mg/m2/day. Effect of Age: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that age (range: 19-78 years) has no influence on the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide. Effect of Gender: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that women have an approximately 5% lower clearance (adjusted for body surface area) for temozolomide than men. Effect of Race: The effect of race on the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide has not been studied. Tobacco Use: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the oral clearance of temozolomide is similar in smokers and nonsmokers. Effect of Renal Impairment: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that creatinine clearance over the range of 36 to 130 mL/min/m2 has no effect on the clearance of temozolomide after oral administration. The pharmacokinetics of temozolomide have not been studied in patients with severely impaired renal function (CLcr less than 36 mL/min/m2). Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe renal impairment [see Use in Special Populations (8.6)]. Temozolomide has not been studied in patients on dialysis. Effect of Hepatic Impairment: study showed that the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide in patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class - II) were similar to those observed in patients with normal hepatic function. Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]. Effect of Other Drugs on Temozolomide Pharmacokinetics: In multiple-dose study, administration of temozolomide capsules with ranitidine did not change the Cmax or AUC values for temozolomide or MTIC. population analysis indicated that administration of valproic acid decreases the clearance of temozolomide by about 5% [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. population analysis did not demonstrate any influence of coadministered dexamethasone, prochlorperazine, phenytoin, carbamazepine, ondansetron, H2-receptor antagonists, or phenobarbital on the clearance of orally administered temozolomide.

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION.


14 CLINICAL STUDIES. 14.1 Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme. Five hundred and seventy-three patients were randomized to receive either temozolomide (TMZ)+Radiotherapy (RT) (n=287) or RT alone (n=286). Patients in the temozolomide+RT arm received concomitant temozolomide (75 mg/m2) once daily, starting the first day of RT until the last day of RT, for 42 days (with maximum of 49 days). This was followed by cycles of temozolomide alone (150 or 200 mg/m2) on Days to of every 28-day cycle, starting weeks after the end of RT. Patients in the control arm received RT only. In both arms, focal radiation therapy was delivered as 60 Gy/30 fractions. Focal RT includes the tumor bed or resection site with 2- to 3- cm margin. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) prophylaxis was required during the TMZ+RT, regardless of lymphocyte count, and was to continue until recovery of lymphocyte count to less than or equal to Grade 1.At the time of disease progression, temozolomide was administered as salvage therapy in 161 patients of the 282 (57%) in the RT alone arm, and 62 patients of the 277 (22%) in the temozolomide+RT arm.The addition of concomitant and maintenance temozolomide to radiotherapy in the treatment of patients with newly diagnosed GBM showed statistically significant improvement in overall survival compared to radiotherapy alone (Figure 1). The hazard ratio (HR) for overall survival was 0.63 (95% CI for HR=0.52-0.75) with log-rank P<0.0001 in favor of the temozolomide arm. The median survival was increased by 2.5 months in the temozolomide arm.FIGURE 1: Kaplan-Meier Curves for Overall Survival (ITT Population). temozolomide-figure-1. 14.2 Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma. single-arm, multicenter study was conducted in 162 patients who had anaplastic astrocytoma at first relapse and who had baseline Karnofsky performance status of 70 or greater. Patients had previously received radiation therapy and may also have previously received nitrosourea with or without other chemotherapy. Fifty-four patients had disease progression on prior therapy with both nitrosourea and procarbazine, and their malignancy was considered refractory to chemotherapy (refractory anaplastic astrocytoma population). Median age of this subgroup of 54 patients was 42 years (19-76). Sixty-five percent were male. Seventy-two percent of patients had KPS of greater than 80. Sixty-three percent of patients had surgery other than biopsy at the time of initial diagnosis. Of those patients undergoing resection, 73% underwent subtotal resection and 27% underwent gross total resection. Eighteen percent of patients had surgery at the time of first relapse. The median time from initial diagnosis to first relapse was 13.8 months (4.2-75.4).Temozolomide capsules were given for the first consecutive days of 28-day cycle at starting dose of 150 mg/m2/day. If the nadir and day of dosing (Day 29, Day of next cycle) absolute neutrophil count was greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L (1500/uL) and the nadir and Day 29, Day of next cycle platelet count was greater than or equal to 100 109/L (100,000/uL), the temozolomide dose was increased to 200 mg/m2/day for the first consecutive days of 28-day cycle.In the refractory anaplastic astrocytoma population, the overall tumor response rate (CR+PR) was 22% (12/54 patients) and the complete response rate was 9% (5/54 patients). The median duration of all responses was 50 weeks (range: 16-114 weeks) and the median duration of complete responses was 64 weeks (range: 52-114 weeks). In this population, progression-free survival at months was 45% (95% CI: 31%-58%) and progression-free survival at 12 months was 29% (95% CI: 16%-42%). Median progression-free survival was 4.4 months. Overall survival at months was 74% (95% CI: 62%-86%) and 12-month overall survival was 65% (95% CI: 52%-78%). Median overall survival was 15.9 months.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.


4 CONTRAINDICATIONS. Known hypersensitivity to any temozolomide component or to dacarbazine (DTIC). (4.1) Known hypersensitivity to any temozolomide component or to dacarbazine (DTIC). (4.1) 4.1 Hypersensitivity. Temozolomide is contraindicated in patients who have history of hypersensitivity reaction (such as urticaria, allergic reaction including anaphylaxis, toxic epidermal necrolysis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to any of its components. Temozolomide is also contraindicated in patients who have history of hypersensitivity to dacarbazine (DTIC), since both drugs are metabolized to 5-(3-methyltriazen-1-yl)-imidazole-4-carboxamide (MTIC).

DESCRIPTION SECTION.


11 DESCRIPTION. Temozolomide capsules contain temozolomide, an imidazotetrazine derivative. The chemical name of temozolomide is 3,4-dihydro-3-methyl-4-oxoimidazo[5,1-d]-s-tetrazine-8-carboxamide. The structural formula is:The material is white to light tan/light pink powder with molecular formula of C6H6N6O2 and molecular weight of 194.15. The molecule is stable at acidic pH (less than 5) and labile at pH greater than 7; hence temozolomide can be administered orally and intravenously. The prodrug, temozolomide, is rapidly hydrolyzed to the active 5-(3-methyltriazen-1-yl) imidazole-4-carboxamide (MTIC) at neutral and alkaline pH values, with hydrolysis taking place even faster at alkaline pH. Temozolomide Capsules: Each capsule for oral use contains either mg, 20 mg, 100 mg, 140 mg, 180 mg, or 250 mg of temozolomide. The inactive ingredients for temozolomide capsules are as follows: mannitol, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, citric acid anhydrous, colloidal silicon dioxide, and sodium lauryl sulfate. The body of the capsules is made of gelatin, and is opaque white. The cap is also made of gelatin, and the colors vary based on the dosage strength. The capsule body and cap are imprinted with pharmaceutical branding ink, which contains shellac glaze in ethanol, iron oxide black, n-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, ethanol, methanol, FD&C Blue No. Aluminum Lake, FD&C Red No. 40 Aluminum Lake, FD&C Blue No. Aluminum Lake, and D&C Yellow No. 10 Aluminum Lake. Temozolomide mg: The olive cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, and FD&C Blue No.1Temozolomide 20 mg: The orange cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, and red iron oxideTemozolomide 100 mg: The flesh cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and FD&C Red No. 40.Temozolomide 140 mg: The aqua blue cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and FD&C Blue No.1.Temozolomide 180 mg: The swedish orange cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, FD&C Red No. 40, and FD&C Blue No. 1.Temozolomide 250 mg: The white cap contains gelatin and titanium dioxide.. temozolomide-molec-structure.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.


2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. Newly Diagnosed GBM: 75 mg/m2 for 42 days concomitant with focal radiotherapy followed by initial maintenance dose of 150 mg/m2 once daily for Days 1-5 of 28-day cycle of temozolomide for cycles. (2.1) Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma: Initial dose 150 mg/m2 once daily for consecutive days per 28-day treatment cycle. (2.1) Newly Diagnosed GBM: 75 mg/m2 for 42 days concomitant with focal radiotherapy followed by initial maintenance dose of 150 mg/m2 once daily for Days 1-5 of 28-day cycle of temozolomide for cycles. (2.1) Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma: Initial dose 150 mg/m2 once daily for consecutive days per 28-day treatment cycle. (2.1) 2.1 Recommended Dosing and Dose Modification Guidelines. The recommended dose for temozolomide as an intravenous infusion over 90 minutes is the same as the dose for the oral capsule formulation. Bioequivalence has been established only when temozolomide for Injection was given over 90 minutes [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Dosage of temozolomide must be adjusted according to nadir neutrophil and platelet counts in the previous cycle and the neutrophil and platelet counts at the time of initiating the next cycle. For temozolomide dosage calculations based on body surface area (BSA) see Table 5. For suggested capsule combinations on daily dose see Table 6. Patients with Newly Diagnosed High Grade Glioma: Concomitant Phase: Temozolomide is administered at 75 mg/m2 daily for 42 days concomitant with focal radiotherapy (60 Gy administered in 30 fractions) followed by maintenance temozolomide for cycles. Focal RT includes the tumor bed or resection site with 2- to 3-cm margin. No dose reductions are recommended during the concomitant phase; however, dose interruptions or discontinuation may occur based on toxicity. The temozolomide dose should be continued throughout the 42-day concomitant period up to 49 days if all of the following conditions are met: absolute neutrophil count greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L, platelet count greater than or equal to 100 109/L, common toxicity criteria (CTC) nonhematological toxicity less than or equal to Grade (except for alopecia, nausea, and vomiting). During treatment complete blood count should be obtained weekly. Temozolomide dosing should be interrupted or discontinued during concomitant phase according to the hematological and nonhematological toxicity criteria as noted in Table 1. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) prophylaxis is required during the concomitant administration of temozolomide and radiotherapy, and should be continued in patients who develop lymphocytopenia until recovery from lymphocytopenia (CTC Grade less than or equal to 1).TABLE 1: Temozolomide Dosing Interruption or Discontinuation During Concomitant Radiotherapy and TemozolomideToxicityTMZ InterruptionTMZ DiscontinuationAbsolute Neutrophil Countgreater than or equal to 0.5 and less than 1.5 109/Lless than 0.5 109/LPlatelet Countgreater than or equal to 10 and less than 100 109/Lless than 10 109/LCTC Nonhematological Toxicity(except for alopecia, nausea, vomiting)CTC Grade 2CTC Grade or 4Treatment with concomitant TMZ could be continued when all of the following conditions were met: absolute neutrophil count greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L; platelet count greater than or equal to 100 109/L; CTC nonhematological toxicity less than or equal to Grade (except for alopecia, nausea, vomiting).TMZ=temozolomide; CTC=Common Toxicity Criteria.Maintenance Phase:Cycle 1: Four weeks after completing the temozolomide+RT phase, temozolomide is administered for an additional cycles of maintenance treatment. Dosage in Cycle (maintenance) is 150 mg/m2 once daily for days followed by 23 days without treatment. Cycles 2-6: At the start of Cycle 2, the dose can be escalated to 200 mg/m2, if the CTC nonhematologic toxicity for Cycle is Grade less than or equal to (except for alopecia, nausea, and vomiting), absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L, and the platelet count is greater than or equal to 100 109/L. The dose remains at 200 mg/m2 per day for the first days of each subsequent cycle except if toxicity occurs. If the dose was not escalated at Cycle 2, escalation should not be done in subsequent cycles. Dose Reduction or Discontinuation During Maintenance: Dose reductions during the maintenance phase should be applied according to Tables and 3. During treatment, complete blood count should be obtained on Day 22 (21 days after the first dose of temozolomide) or within 48 hours of that day, and weekly until the ANC is above 1.5 109/L (1500/uL) and the platelet count exceeds 100 109/L (100,000/uL). The next cycle of temozolomide should not be started until the ANC and platelet count exceed these levels. Dose reductions during the next cycle should be based on the lowest blood counts and worst nonhematologic toxicity during the previous cycle. Dose reductions or discontinuations during the maintenance phase should be applied according to Tables and 3.TABLE 2: Temozolomide Dose Levels for Maintenance TreatmentDose LevelDose (mg/m2/day)Remarks-1100Reduction for prior toxicity0150Dose during Cycle 11200Dose during Cycles 2-6 in absence of toxicityTABLE 3: Temozolomide Dose Reduction or Discontinuation During Maintenance TreatmentToxicityReduce TMZ by Dose LevelDiscontinue TMZAbsolute Neutrophil Countless than 1.0 109/LSee footnote+ Platelet Countless than 50 109/LSee footnote+ CTC Nonhematological Toxicity(except for alopecia, nausea, vomiting)CTC Grade 3CTC Grade 4+ TMZ dose levels are listed in Table 2. +TMZ is to be discontinued if dose reduction to less than 100 mg/m2 is required or if the same Grade nonhematological toxicity (except for alopecia, nausea, vomiting) recurs after dose reduction.TMZ=temozolomide; CTC=Common Toxicity Criteria.Patients with Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma: For adults the initial dose is 150 mg/m2 once daily for consecutive days per 28-day treatment cycle. For adult patients, if both the nadir and day of dosing (Day 29, Day of next cycle) ANC are greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L (1500/uL) and both the nadir and Day 29, Day of next cycle platelet counts are greater than or equal to 100 109/L (100,000/uL), the temozolomide dose may be increased to 200 mg/m2/day for consecutive days per 28-day treatment cycle. During treatment, complete blood count should be obtained on Day 22 (21 days after the first dose) or within 48 hours of that day, and weekly until the ANC is above 1.5 109/L (1500/uL) and the platelet count exceeds 100 109/L (100,000/uL). The next cycle of temozolomide should not be started until the ANC and platelet count exceed these levels. If the ANC falls to less than x 109/L (1000/uL) or the platelet count is less than 50 109/L (50,000/uL) during any cycle, the next cycle should be reduced by 50 mg/m2, but not below 100 mg/m2, the lowest recommended dose (see Table 4). Temozolomide therapy can be continued until disease progression. In the clinical trial, treatment could be continued for maximum of years, but the optimum duration of therapy is not known.TABLE 4: Dosing Modification Table150 mg/m2/d 5d(Starting Dose) or200 mg/m2/d 5dMeasure Day 22ANC and plateletsMeasure ANC and platelets on Day 29 (Day of next cycle)Based on lowest counts at either Day 22 or Day 29ANC less than1000/uL or plateletsless than 50,000/uLANC 1000/uL 1500/uL or platelets 50,000/uL 100,000/uLANC greater than1500/uL and platelets greater than 100,000/uLPostpone therapy until ANC greater than 1500/uL and platelets greater than 100,000/uL; reduce dose by 50 mg/m2/d for subsequent cyclePostpone therapy until ANC greater than 1500/uL and platelets greater than 100,000/uL; maintain initial doseIncrease dose to, or maintain dose at, 200 mg/m2/d 5d for subsequent cycleTABLE 5: Daily Dose Calculations by Body Surface Area (BSA)Total BSA (m2)75 mg/m2 (mg daily)150 mg/m2 (mg daily)200 mg/m2 (mg daily)1751502001.182.51652201.2901802401.397.51952601.41052102801.5112.52253001.61202403201.7127.52553401.81352703601.9142.528538021503004002.1157.53154202.21653304402.3172.53454602.41803604802.5187.5375500TABLE 6: Suggested Capsule Combinations Based on Daily Dose in AdultsNumber of Daily Capsules by Strength (mg)Total Daily Dose(mg)250 mg180 mg140 mg100 mg20 mg5 mg7500003382.50000409000004297.5000100105000101112.5000102120000110127.5000111135000113142.5001000150001002157.5001010165001011172.5001012180010000187.5010001195010003200010010210000202220000210225000211240001100255100001260100002270100010280002000285002001300000300315000303320011000330011002340011010345011011360020000375020003380010200400000400420003000440003010460020100480010300500200000. table10-right-arrow. table10-diagonal-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. table10-down-arrow. 2.2 Preparation and Administration. Temozolomide Capsules: In clinical trials, temozolomide was administered under both fasting and nonfasting conditions; however, absorption is affected by food [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)], and consistency of administration with respect to food is recommended. There are no dietary restrictions with temozolomide. To reduce nausea and vomiting, temozolomide should be taken on an empty stomach. Bedtime administration may be advised. Antiemetic therapy may be administered prior to and/or following administration of temozolomide. Temozolomide capsules should not be opened or chewed. They should be swallowed whole with glass of water. If capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, precautions should be taken to avoid inhalation or contact with the skin or mucous membranes [see How Supplied/Storage and Handling (16.1)].

DOSAGE FORMS & STRENGTHS SECTION.


3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS. Temozolomide Capsules for oral administration 5-mg capsules have an olive opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1777 over 5 mg on the body.20-mg capsules have an orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1778 over 20 mg on the body.100-mg capsules have flesh opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1779 over 100 mg on the body.140-mg capsules have an aqua blue opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1780 over 140 mg on the body.180-mg capsules have Swedish orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1781 over 180 mg on the body.250-mg capsules have white opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1782 over 250 mg on the body. Temozolomide Capsules for oral administration 5-mg capsules have an olive opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1777 over 5 mg on the body.20-mg capsules have an orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1778 over 20 mg on the body.100-mg capsules have flesh opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1779 over 100 mg on the body.140-mg capsules have an aqua blue opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1780 over 140 mg on the body.180-mg capsules have Swedish orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1781 over 180 mg on the body.250-mg capsules have white opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1782 over 250 mg on the body. 5-mg capsules have an olive opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1777 over 5 mg on the body.. 20-mg capsules have an orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1778 over 20 mg on the body.. 100-mg capsules have flesh opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1779 over 100 mg on the body.. 140-mg capsules have an aqua blue opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1780 over 140 mg on the body.. 180-mg capsules have Swedish orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1781 over 180 mg on the body.. 250-mg capsules have white opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1782 over 250 mg on the body.. 5-mg, 20-mg, 100-mg, 140-mg, 180-mg, and 250-mg capsules. (3) 5-mg, 20-mg, 100-mg, 140-mg, 180-mg, and 250-mg capsules. (3).

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.


7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Valproic acid: decreases oral clearance of temozolomide. (7.1) Valproic acid: decreases oral clearance of temozolomide. (7.1) 7.1 Valproic Acid. Administration of valproic acid decreases oral clearance of temozolomide by about 5%. The clinical implication of this effect is not known [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ].

GERIATRIC USE SECTION.


8.5 Geriatric Use. Clinical studies of temozolomide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they responded differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. In the anaplastic astrocytoma study population, patients 70 years of age or older had higher incidence of Grade neutropenia and Grade thrombocytopenia (2/8; 25%, P=0.31 and 2/10; 20%, P=0.09, respectively) in the first cycle of therapy than patients under 70 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. In newly diagnosed patients with glioblastoma multiforme, the adverse reaction profile was similar in younger patients (less than 65 years) vs. older (greater than or equal to 65 years).

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.


16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING. 16.1 Safe Handling and Disposal. Care should be exercised in the handling and preparation of temozolomide. Capsules should not be opened. If capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, rigorous precautions should be taken with the contents to avoid inhalation or contact with the skin or mucous membranes. The use of gloves and safety glasses is recommended to avoid exposure in case of breakage of the capsules. Procedures for proper handling and disposal of anticancer drugs should be considered 1-4. Several guidelines on this subject have been published.. 16.2 How Supplied. Temozolomide Capsules: Temozolomide capsules are supplied in amber glass bottles with child-resistant polypropylene caps containing the following capsule strengths: Temozolomide Capsules mg: have an olive opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1777 over 5 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1777-55)Bottles of 14 (NDC 0527-1777-14) Temozolomide Capsules 20 mg: have an orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1778 over 20 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1778-55)Bottles of 14 (NDC 0527-1778-14)Temozolomide Capsules 100 mg: have flesh opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1779 over 100 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1779-55)Bottles of 14 (NDC 0527-1779-14)Temozolomide Capsules 140 mg: have an aqua blue opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1780 over 140 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1780-55)Bottles of 14 (NDC 0527-1780-14)Temozolomide Capsules 180 mg: have swedish orange opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1781 over 180 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1781-55)Bottles of 14 (NDC 0527-1781-14)Temozolomide Capsules 250 mg: have white opaque cap and white opaque body. They are imprinted with Lannett on the cap and 1782 over 250 mg on the body and are supplied in:Bottles of (NDC 0527-1782-55). 16.3 Storage. Store temozolomide capsules at 25C (77F); excursions permitted to 15-30C (59-86F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.


1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE. Temozolomide is an alkylating drug indicated for the treatment of adult patients with: Newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) concomitantly with radiotherapy and then as maintenance treatment. (1.1) Refractory anaplastic astrocytoma patients who have experienced disease progression on drug regimen containing nitrosourea and procarbazine. (1.2) Newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) concomitantly with radiotherapy and then as maintenance treatment. (1.1) Refractory anaplastic astrocytoma patients who have experienced disease progression on drug regimen containing nitrosourea and procarbazine. (1.2) 1.1 Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme. Temozolomide is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme concomitantly with radiotherapy and then as maintenance treatment.. 1.2 Refractory Anaplastic Astrocytoma. Temozolomide is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with refractory anaplastic astrocytoma, i.e., patients who have experienced disease progression on drug regimen containing nitrosourea and procarbazine.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.


17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling (Patient Information).. 17.1 Information for the Patient. Physicians should discuss the following with their patients: Nausea and vomiting are the most frequently occurring adverse reactions. Nausea and vomiting are usually either self-limiting or readily controlled with standard antiemetic therapy. Capsules should not be opened. If capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, rigorous precautions should be taken with the capsule contents to avoid inhalation or contact with the skin or mucous membranes. The medication should be kept away from children and pets.Manufactured by:Lannett Company, Inc.Philadelphia, PA 19136 Made in the USARev. 12/2015, Revision 10-605. Nausea and vomiting are the most frequently occurring adverse reactions. Nausea and vomiting are usually either self-limiting or readily controlled with standard antiemetic therapy. Capsules should not be opened. If capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, rigorous precautions should be taken with the capsule contents to avoid inhalation or contact with the skin or mucous membranes. The medication should be kept away from children and pets.

MECHANISM OF ACTION SECTION.


12.1 Mechanism of Action. Temozolomide is not directly active but undergoes rapid nonenzymatic conversion at physiologic pH to the reactive compound 5-(3-methyltriazen-1-yl)-imidazoIe-4-carboxamide (MTIC). The cytotoxicity of MTIC is thought to be primarily due to alkylation of DNA. Alkylation (methylation) occurs mainly at the O6 and N7 positions of guanine.

NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY SECTION.


13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY. 13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility. Temozolomide is carcinogenic in rats at doses less than the maximum recommended human dose. Temozolomide induced mammary carcinomas in both males and females at doses 0.13 to 0.63 times the maximum human dose (25-125 mg/m2) when administered orally on consecutive days every 28 days for cycles. Temozolomide also induced fibrosarcomas of the heart, eye, seminal vesicles, salivary glands, abdominal cavity, uterus, and prostate, carcinomas of the seminal vesicles, schwannomas of the heart, optic nerve, and harderian gland, and adenomas of the skin, lung, pituitary, and thyroid at doses 0.5 times the maximum daily dose. Mammary tumors were also induced following cycles of temozolomide at the maximum recommended daily dose.Temozolomide is mutagen and clastogen. In reverse bacterial mutagenesis assay (Ames assay), temozolomide increased revertant frequency in the absence and presence of metabolic activation. Temozolomide was clastogenic in human lymphocytes in the presence and absence of metabolic activation.Temozolomide impairs male fertility. Temozolomide caused syncytial cells/immature sperm formation at 0.25 and 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (50 and 125 mg/m2) in rats and dogs, respectively, and testicular atrophy in dogs at 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (125 mg/m2).. 13.2 Animal Toxicology and/or Pharmacology. Toxicology studies in rats and dogs identified low incidence of hemorrhage, degeneration, and necrosis of the retina at temozolomide doses equal to or greater than 0.63 times the maximum recommended human dose (125 mg/m2). These changes were most commonly seen at doses where mortality was observed.

NURSING MOTHERS SECTION.


8.3 Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether this drug 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 and tumorigenicity shown for temozolomide in animal studies, decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of temozolomide to the mother.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.


10 OVERDOSAGE. Doses of 500, 750, 1000, and 1250 mg/m2 (total dose per cycle over days) have been evaluated clinically in patients. Dose-limiting toxicity was hematologic and was reported with any dose but is expected to be more severe at higher doses. An overdose of 2000 mg per day for days was taken by one patient and the adverse reactions reported were pancytopenia, pyrexia, multi-organ failure, and death. There are reports of patients who have taken more than days of treatment (up to 64 days), with adverse reactions reported including bone marrow suppression, which in some cases was severe and prolonged, and infections and resulted in death. In the event of an overdose, hematologic evaluation is needed. Supportive measures should be provided as necessary.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.


PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL -- mg. NDC 0527-1777-55TEMOZOLOMIDE CAPSULES5 mg per capsuleFor Oral AdministrationRx OnlyThis package contains5 CapsulesLannett. tmz-5mg.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.


8.4 Pediatric Use. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Temozolomide capsules have been studied in open-label studies in pediatric patients (aged 3-18 years) at dose of 160 to 200 mg/m2 daily for days every 28 days. In one trial, 29 patients with recurrent brain stem glioma and 34 patients with recurrent high grade astrocytoma were enrolled. All patients had recurrence following surgery and radiation therapy, while 31% also had disease progression following chemotherapy. In second study conducted by the Childrens Oncology Group (COG), 122 patients were enrolled, including patients with medulloblastoma/PNET (29), high grade astrocytoma (23), low grade astrocytoma (22), brain stem glioma (16), ependymoma (14), other CNS tumors (9), and non-CNS tumors (9). The temozolomide toxicity profile in pediatric patients is similar to adults. Table 10 shows the adverse reactions in 122 children in the COG study.TABLE 10: Adverse Reactions Reported in the Pediatric Cooperative Group Trial (>=10%)No. (%) of Temozolomide Capsules Patients (N=122)Body System/Organ Class Adverse ReactionAll ReactionsGrade 3/4Subjects Reporting an AE107 (88)69 (57)Body as WholeCentral and Peripheral Nervous SystemCentral cerebral CNS cortex22 (18)13 (11)Gastrointestinal SystemNausea56 (46)5 (4)Vomiting62 (51)4 (3)Platelet, Bleeding and ClottingThrombocytopenia71 (58)31 (25)Red Blood Cell DisordersDecreased Hemoglobin62 (51)7 (6)White Cell and RES DisordersDecreased WBC71 (58)21 (17)Lymphopenia73 (60)48 (39)Neutropenia62 (51)24 (20)These various tumors included the following: PNET-medulloblastoma, glioblastoma, low grade astrocytoma, brain stem tumor, ependymoma, mixed glioma, oligodendroglioma, neuroblastoma, Ewings sarcoma, pineoblastoma, alveolar soft part sarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma, optic glioma, and osteosarcoma.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.


12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Absorption: Temozolomide is rapidly and completely absorbed after oral administration with peak plasma concentration (Cmax) achieved in median Tmax of hour. Food reduces the rate and extent of temozolomide absorption. Mean peak plasma concentration and AUC decreased by 32% and 9%, respectively, and median Tmax increased by 2-fold (from 1-2.25 hours) when temozolomide was administered after modified high-fat breakfast.A pharmacokinetic study comparing oral and intravenous temozolomide in 19 patients with primary CNS malignancies showed that 150 mg/m2 temozolomide for injection administered over 90 minutes is bioequivalent to 150 mg/m2 temozolomide oral capsules with respect to both Cmax and AUC of temozolomide and MTIC. Following single 90-minute intravenous infusion of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean Cmax values for temozolomide and MTIC were 7.3 mcg/mL and 276 ng/mL, respectively. Following single oral dose of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean Cmax values for temozolomide and MTIC were 7.5 mcg/mL and 282 ng/mL, respectively. Following single 90-minute intravenous infusion of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean AUC values for temozolomide and MTIC were 24.6 mcg.hr/mL and 891 ng.hr/mL, respectively. Following single oral dose of 150 mg/m2, the geometric mean AUC values for temozolomide and MTIC were 23.4 mcg.hr/mL and 864 ng.hr/mL, respectively. Distribution: Temozolomide has mean apparent volume of distribution of 0.4 L/kg (%CV=13%). It is weakly bound to human plasma proteins; the mean percent bound of drug-related total radioactivity is 15%. Metabolism and Elimination: Temozolomide is spontaneously hydrolyzed at physiologic pH to the active species, MTIC and to temozolomide acid metabolite. MTIC is further hydrolyzed to 5-amino-imidazole-4-carboxamide (AIC), which is known to be an intermediate in purine and nucleic acid biosynthesis, and to methylhydrazine, which is believed to be the active alkylating species. Cytochrome P450 enzymes play only minor role in the metabolism of temozolomide and MTIC. Relative to the AUC of temozolomide, the exposure to MTIC and AIC is 2.4% and 23%, respectively. Excretion: About 38% of the administered temozolomide total radioactive dose is recovered over days: 37.7% in urine and 0.8% in feces. The majority of the recovery of radioactivity in urine is unchanged temozolomide (5.6%), AIC (12%), temozolomide acid metabolite (2.3%), and unidentified polar metabolite(s) (17%). Overall clearance of temozolomide is about 5.5 L/hr/m2. Temozolomide is rapidly eliminated, with mean elimination half-life of 1.8 hours, and exhibits linear kinetics over the therapeutic dosing range of 75 to 250 mg/m2/day. Effect of Age: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that age (range: 19-78 years) has no influence on the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide. Effect of Gender: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that women have an approximately 5% lower clearance (adjusted for body surface area) for temozolomide than men. Effect of Race: The effect of race on the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide has not been studied. Tobacco Use: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that the oral clearance of temozolomide is similar in smokers and nonsmokers. Effect of Renal Impairment: population pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that creatinine clearance over the range of 36 to 130 mL/min/m2 has no effect on the clearance of temozolomide after oral administration. The pharmacokinetics of temozolomide have not been studied in patients with severely impaired renal function (CLcr less than 36 mL/min/m2). Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe renal impairment [see Use in Special Populations (8.6)]. Temozolomide has not been studied in patients on dialysis. Effect of Hepatic Impairment: study showed that the pharmacokinetics of temozolomide in patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class - II) were similar to those observed in patients with normal hepatic function. Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)]. Effect of Other Drugs on Temozolomide Pharmacokinetics: In multiple-dose study, administration of temozolomide capsules with ranitidine did not change the Cmax or AUC values for temozolomide or MTIC. population analysis indicated that administration of valproic acid decreases the clearance of temozolomide by about 5% [see Drug Interactions (7.1)]. population analysis did not demonstrate any influence of coadministered dexamethasone, prochlorperazine, phenytoin, carbamazepine, ondansetron, H2-receptor antagonists, or phenobarbital on the clearance of orally administered temozolomide.

PREGNANCY SECTION.


8.1 Pregnancy. Pregnancy Category D. See Warnings and Precautions section. Temozolomide can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. Five consecutive days of oral temozolomide administration of 0.38 and 0.75 times the highest recommended human dose (75 and 150 mg/m2) in rats and rabbits, respectively, during the period of organogenesis caused numerous malformations of the external and internal soft tissues and skeleton in both species. Doses equivalent to 0.75 times the highest recommended human dose (150 mg/m2) caused embryolethality in rats and rabbits as indicated by increased resorptions. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during therapy with temozolomide.

REFERENCES SECTION.


15 REFERENCES. OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP guidelines on handling hazardous drugs. Am Health-Syst Pharm. 2006; 63:1172-1193. NIOSH Alert: Preventing occupational exposures to antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. 2004. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-165.[3]Polovich, M., White, J. M., Kelleher, L.O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology. OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP guidelines on handling hazardous drugs. Am Health-Syst Pharm. 2006; 63:1172-1193. NIOSH Alert: Preventing occupational exposures to antineoplastic and other hazardous drugs in healthcare settings. 2004. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, DHHS (NIOSH) Publication No. 2004-165.[3]. Polovich, M., White, J. M., Kelleher, L.O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology.

SPL PATIENT PACKAGE INSERT SECTION.


Patient Information TEMOZOLOMIDE (tem-oh-ZOHL-oh-mide) Capsules What is the most important information should know about temozolomide Temozolomide may cause birth defects. Male and female patients who take temozolomide capsules should use effective birth control. Female patients and female partners of male patients should avoid becoming pregnant while taking temozolomide.See the section What are the possible side effects of temozolomide for more information about side effects. What is temozolomide Temozolomide is prescription medicine used to treat adults with certain brain cancer tumors. Temozolomide blocks cell growth, especially cells that grow fast, such as cancer cells. Temozolomide may decrease the size of certain brain tumors in some patients. It is not known if temozolomide is safe and effective in children. Who should not take temozolomide Do not take temozolomide if you: have had an allergic reaction to dacarbazine (DTIC), another cancer medicine.have had red itchy rash, or severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, or severe skin reaction to temozolomide or any of the ingredients in temozolomide. If you are not sure, ask your doctor. See the end of the leaflet for list of ingredients in temozolomide.What should tell my doctor before taking temozolomide Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, including if you: are allergic to dacarbazine (DTIC) or have had severe allergic reaction to temozolomide. See Who should not take temozolomide have kidney problems have liver problems are pregnant. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomide are breast-feeding. It is not known whether temozolomide passes into breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you will breast-feed or take temozolomide. You should not do both without talking with your doctor. Tell your doctor about all the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Especially tell your doctor if you take medicine that contains valproic acid (Stavzor(R), Depakene(R)). Know the medicines you take. Keep list of them and show it to your doctor and pharmacist when you get new medicine. How should take temozolomide Temozolomide may be taken by mouth as capsule at home, or you may receive temozolomide by injection into vein (intravenous). Your doctor will decide the best way for you to take temozolomide. There are two common dosing schedules for taking temozolomide. Some people take temozolomide for 42 days in row (possibly 49 days depending on side effects) with radiation treatment. This is one cycle of treatment. After this, you may have maintenance treatment. Your doctor may prescribe more cycles of temozolomide. For each of these cycles, you take temozolomide one time each day for days in row and then you stop taking it for the next 23 days. This is 28-day maintenance treatment cycle. Another way to take temozolomide is to take it one time each day for days in row only, and then you stop taking it for the next 23 days. This is one cycle of treatment (28 days). Your doctor will watch your progress on temozolomide and decide how long you should take it. You might take temozolomide until your tumor gets worse or for possibly up to years. Your dose is based on your height and weight, and the number of treatment cycles will depend on how you respond to and tolerate this treatment. Your doctor may modify your schedule based on how you tolerate the treatment. If your doctor prescribes treatment regimen that is different from the information in this leaflet, make sure you follow the specific instructions given to you by your doctor. Temozolomide Capsules: Take temozolomide capsules exactly as prescribed. Temozolomide capsules come in different strengths. Each strength has different color cap. Your doctor may prescribe more than one strength of temozolomide capsules for you, so it is important that you understand how to take your medicine the right way. Be sure that you understand exactly how many capsules you need to take on each day of your treatment, and what strengths to take. This may be different whenever you start new cycle. Talk to your doctor before you take your dose if you are not sure how much to take. This will help to prevent taking too much temozolomide and decrease your chances of getting serious side effects. Take each days dose of temozolomide capsules at one time, with full glass of water. Swallow temozolomide capsules whole. Do not chew, open, or split the capsules. If temozolomide capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, be careful not to breathe in (inhale) the powder from the capsules or get the powder on your skin or mucous membranes (for example, in your nose or mouth). If contact with any of these areas happens, flush the area with water. If you vomit temozolomide capsules, do not take any more capsules. Wait and take your next planned dose. The medicine is used best by your body if you take it at the same time every day in relation to meal. To lessen nausea, try to take temozolomide on an empty stomach or at bedtime. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent or treat nausea, or other medicines to lessen side effects with temozolomide. See your doctor regularly to check your progress. Your doctor will check you for side effects that you might not notice. If you miss dose of temozolomide, talk with your doctor for instructions about when to take your next dose of temozolomide. Call your doctor right away if you take more than the prescribed amount of temozolomide. It is important that you do not take more than the amount of temozolomide prescribed for you. Temozolomide for Injection:You will receive temozolomide as an infusion directly into your vein. Your treatment will take about 90 minutes.Your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent or treat nausea, or other medicines to relieve side effects with temozolomide.What should avoid while taking temozolomide Female patients and female partners of male patients should avoid becoming pregnant while taking temozolomide. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomideWhat are the possible side effects of temozolomide Temozolomide can cause serious side effects. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomide Decreased blood cells. Temozolomide affects cells that grow rapidly, including bone marrow cells. This can cause you to have decrease in blood cells. Your doctor can monitor your blood for these effects. White blood cells are needed to fight infections. Neutrophils are type of white blood cell that help prevent bacterial infections. Decreased neutrophils can lead to serious infections that can lead to death. Other white blood cells called lymphocytes may also be decreased. Platelets are blood cells needed for normal blood clotting. Low platelet counts can lead to bleeding. Tell your doctor about any unusual bruising or bleeding. Your doctor will check your blood regularly while you are taking temozolomide to see if these side effects are happening. Your doctor may need to change the dose of temozolomide or when you get it depending on your blood cell counts. People who are age 70 or older and women may be more likely to have their blood cells affected. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). PCP is an infection that people can get when their immune system is weak. Temozolomide decreases white blood cells, which makes your immune system weaker and can increase your risk of getting PCP. All patients taking temozolomide will be watched carefully by their doctor for this infection, especially patients who take steroids. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following signs and symptoms of PCP infection: shortness of breath and/or fever, chills, dry cough.Secondary cancers. Blood problems such as myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary cancers, such as certain kind of leukemia, can happen in people who take temozolomide. Your doctor will watch you for this. Convulsions. Convulsions may be severe or life-threatening in people who take temozolomide. Liver side effects have been reported, which very rarely included death. Common side effects with temozolomide include: nausea and vomiting. Your doctor can prescribe medicines that may help reduce these symptoms. headache feeling tired loss of appetite hair loss constipation bruising rash paralysis on one side of the body diarrhea weakness fever dizziness coordination problems viral infection sleep problems memory losspain, irritation, itching, warmth, swelling or redness at the site of infusionbruising or small red or purple spots under the skin Tell your doctor about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all the possible side effects with temozolomide. For more information, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088. How should store temozolomide capsules Store temozolomide capsules at 77F (controlled room temperature). Storage at 59F to 86F (15C to 30C) is permitted occasionally. Keep temozolomide capsules out of the reach of children and pets. General information about temozolomide. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in the Patient Information leaflet. Do not use temozolomide for condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give temozolomide to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. This leaflet summarizes the most important information about temozolomide. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about temozolomide that is written for health professionals. For more information, contact Lannett Company, Inc. at 1-800-325-9994. How are temozolomide capsules suppliedTemozolomide capsules contain white capsule body with color cap and the colors vary based on the dosage strength. The capsules are available in six different strengths.Temozolomide Capsule StrengthColor mg Olive Cap 20 mg Orange Cap 100 mg Flesh Cap 140 mg Aqua Blue Cap 180 mg Swedish Orange Cap 250 mg White CapWhat are the ingredients in temozolomide Temozolomide Capsules: Active ingredient: temozolomide. Inactive ingredients: mannitol, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, citric acid anhydrous, colloidal silicon dioxide, and sodium lauryl sulfate. The body of the capsules is made of gelatin and is opaque white. The cap is also made of gelatin, and the colors vary based on the dosage strength. The capsule body and cap are imprinted with pharmaceutical branding ink, which contains shellac glaze in ethanol, iron oxide black, n-butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, ethanol, methanol, FD&C blue aluminum lake, FD&C red 40 aluminum lake, FD&C blue aluminum lake, and D&C yellow 10 aluminum lake.Temozolomide mg: The olive cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, black iron oxide, and FD&C Blue 1.Temozolomide 20 mg: The orange cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, yellow iron oxide, and red iron oxide.Temozolomide 100 mg: The flesh cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and FD&C Red 40.Temozolomide 140 mg: The aqua blue cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, and FD&C Blue 1.Temozolomide 180 mg: The swedish orange cap contains gelatin, titanium dioxide, FD&C Red 40, and FD&C Blue 1.Temozolomide 250 mg: The white cap contains gelatin, and titanium dioxide.Manufactured by:Lannett Company, Inc.Philadelphia, PA 19136Made in the USARev. 12/201510-614 The trademarks depicted herein are owned by their respective companies.. Temozolomide may cause birth defects. Male and female patients who take temozolomide capsules should use effective birth control. Female patients and female partners of male patients should avoid becoming pregnant while taking temozolomide.. have had an allergic reaction to dacarbazine (DTIC), another cancer medicine.. have had red itchy rash, or severe allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, swelling of the face, throat, or tongue, or severe skin reaction to temozolomide or any of the ingredients in temozolomide. If you are not sure, ask your doctor. See the end of the leaflet for list of ingredients in temozolomide.. are allergic to dacarbazine (DTIC) or have had severe allergic reaction to temozolomide. See Who should not take temozolomide have kidney problems have liver problems are pregnant. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomide are breast-feeding. It is not known whether temozolomide passes into breast milk. You and your doctor should decide if you will breast-feed or take temozolomide. You should not do both without talking with your doctor. Some people take temozolomide for 42 days in row (possibly 49 days depending on side effects) with radiation treatment. This is one cycle of treatment. After this, you may have maintenance treatment. Your doctor may prescribe more cycles of temozolomide. For each of these cycles, you take temozolomide one time each day for days in row and then you stop taking it for the next 23 days. This is 28-day maintenance treatment cycle. Another way to take temozolomide is to take it one time each day for days in row only, and then you stop taking it for the next 23 days. This is one cycle of treatment (28 days). Your doctor will watch your progress on temozolomide and decide how long you should take it. You might take temozolomide until your tumor gets worse or for possibly up to years. Your dose is based on your height and weight, and the number of treatment cycles will depend on how you respond to and tolerate this treatment. Your doctor may modify your schedule based on how you tolerate the treatment. If your doctor prescribes treatment regimen that is different from the information in this leaflet, make sure you follow the specific instructions given to you by your doctor.. Take temozolomide capsules exactly as prescribed. Temozolomide capsules come in different strengths. Each strength has different color cap. Your doctor may prescribe more than one strength of temozolomide capsules for you, so it is important that you understand how to take your medicine the right way. Be sure that you understand exactly how many capsules you need to take on each day of your treatment, and what strengths to take. This may be different whenever you start new cycle. Talk to your doctor before you take your dose if you are not sure how much to take. This will help to prevent taking too much temozolomide and decrease your chances of getting serious side effects. Take each days dose of temozolomide capsules at one time, with full glass of water. Swallow temozolomide capsules whole. Do not chew, open, or split the capsules. If temozolomide capsules are accidentally opened or damaged, be careful not to breathe in (inhale) the powder from the capsules or get the powder on your skin or mucous membranes (for example, in your nose or mouth). If contact with any of these areas happens, flush the area with water. If you vomit temozolomide capsules, do not take any more capsules. Wait and take your next planned dose. The medicine is used best by your body if you take it at the same time every day in relation to meal. To lessen nausea, try to take temozolomide on an empty stomach or at bedtime. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent or treat nausea, or other medicines to lessen side effects with temozolomide. See your doctor regularly to check your progress. Your doctor will check you for side effects that you might not notice. If you miss dose of temozolomide, talk with your doctor for instructions about when to take your next dose of temozolomide. Call your doctor right away if you take more than the prescribed amount of temozolomide. It is important that you do not take more than the amount of temozolomide prescribed for you. You will receive temozolomide as an infusion directly into your vein. Your treatment will take about 90 minutes.. Your doctor may prescribe medicine to prevent or treat nausea, or other medicines to relieve side effects with temozolomide.. Female patients and female partners of male patients should avoid becoming pregnant while taking temozolomide. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomide. See What is the most important information should know about temozolomide Decreased blood cells. Temozolomide affects cells that grow rapidly, including bone marrow cells. This can cause you to have decrease in blood cells. Your doctor can monitor your blood for these effects. White blood cells are needed to fight infections. Neutrophils are type of white blood cell that help prevent bacterial infections. Decreased neutrophils can lead to serious infections that can lead to death. Other white blood cells called lymphocytes may also be decreased. Platelets are blood cells needed for normal blood clotting. Low platelet counts can lead to bleeding. Tell your doctor about any unusual bruising or bleeding. White blood cells are needed to fight infections. Neutrophils are type of white blood cell that help prevent bacterial infections. Decreased neutrophils can lead to serious infections that can lead to death. Other white blood cells called lymphocytes may also be decreased. Platelets are blood cells needed for normal blood clotting. Low platelet counts can lead to bleeding. Tell your doctor about any unusual bruising or bleeding.. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP). PCP is an infection that people can get when their immune system is weak. Temozolomide decreases white blood cells, which makes your immune system weaker and can increase your risk of getting PCP. All patients taking temozolomide will be watched carefully by their doctor for this infection, especially patients who take steroids. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following signs and symptoms of PCP infection: shortness of breath and/or fever, chills, dry cough.. Secondary cancers. Blood problems such as myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary cancers, such as certain kind of leukemia, can happen in people who take temozolomide. Your doctor will watch you for this. Convulsions. Convulsions may be severe or life-threatening in people who take temozolomide. Liver side effects have been reported, which very rarely included death. nausea and vomiting. Your doctor can prescribe medicines that may help reduce these symptoms. headache feeling tired loss of appetite hair loss constipation bruising rash paralysis on one side of the body diarrhea weakness fever dizziness coordination problems viral infection sleep problems memory loss. pain, irritation, itching, warmth, swelling or redness at the site of infusion. bruising or small red or purple spots under the skin Store temozolomide capsules at 77F (controlled room temperature). Storage at 59F to 86F (15C to 30C) is permitted occasionally. Keep temozolomide capsules out of the reach of children and pets.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.


1.1 Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Multiforme. Temozolomide is indicated for the treatment of adult patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme concomitantly with radiotherapy and then as maintenance treatment.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.


8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. Nursing mothers: Not recommended. (8.3) Pediatric use: No established use. (8.4) Hepatic/Renal Impairment: Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment. (8.6, 8.7). Nursing mothers: Not recommended. (8.3) Pediatric use: No established use. (8.4) Hepatic/Renal Impairment: Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment. (8.6, 8.7). 8.1 Pregnancy. Pregnancy Category D. See Warnings and Precautions section. Temozolomide can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. Five consecutive days of oral temozolomide administration of 0.38 and 0.75 times the highest recommended human dose (75 and 150 mg/m2) in rats and rabbits, respectively, during the period of organogenesis caused numerous malformations of the external and internal soft tissues and skeleton in both species. Doses equivalent to 0.75 times the highest recommended human dose (150 mg/m2) caused embryolethality in rats and rabbits as indicated by increased resorptions. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to fetus. Women of childbearing potential should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant during therapy with temozolomide.. 8.3 Nursing Mothers. It is not known whether this drug 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 and tumorigenicity shown for temozolomide in animal studies, decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of temozolomide to the mother.. 8.4 Pediatric Use. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. Temozolomide capsules have been studied in open-label studies in pediatric patients (aged 3-18 years) at dose of 160 to 200 mg/m2 daily for days every 28 days. In one trial, 29 patients with recurrent brain stem glioma and 34 patients with recurrent high grade astrocytoma were enrolled. All patients had recurrence following surgery and radiation therapy, while 31% also had disease progression following chemotherapy. In second study conducted by the Childrens Oncology Group (COG), 122 patients were enrolled, including patients with medulloblastoma/PNET (29), high grade astrocytoma (23), low grade astrocytoma (22), brain stem glioma (16), ependymoma (14), other CNS tumors (9), and non-CNS tumors (9). The temozolomide toxicity profile in pediatric patients is similar to adults. Table 10 shows the adverse reactions in 122 children in the COG study.TABLE 10: Adverse Reactions Reported in the Pediatric Cooperative Group Trial (>=10%)No. (%) of Temozolomide Capsules Patients (N=122)Body System/Organ Class Adverse ReactionAll ReactionsGrade 3/4Subjects Reporting an AE107 (88)69 (57)Body as WholeCentral and Peripheral Nervous SystemCentral cerebral CNS cortex22 (18)13 (11)Gastrointestinal SystemNausea56 (46)5 (4)Vomiting62 (51)4 (3)Platelet, Bleeding and ClottingThrombocytopenia71 (58)31 (25)Red Blood Cell DisordersDecreased Hemoglobin62 (51)7 (6)White Cell and RES DisordersDecreased WBC71 (58)21 (17)Lymphopenia73 (60)48 (39)Neutropenia62 (51)24 (20)These various tumors included the following: PNET-medulloblastoma, glioblastoma, low grade astrocytoma, brain stem tumor, ependymoma, mixed glioma, oligodendroglioma, neuroblastoma, Ewings sarcoma, pineoblastoma, alveolar soft part sarcoma, neurofibrosarcoma, optic glioma, and osteosarcoma.. 8.5 Geriatric Use. Clinical studies of temozolomide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they responded differently from younger subjects. Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. In the anaplastic astrocytoma study population, patients 70 years of age or older had higher incidence of Grade neutropenia and Grade thrombocytopenia (2/8; 25%, P=0.31 and 2/10; 20%, P=0.09, respectively) in the first cycle of therapy than patients under 70 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Adverse Reactions (6.1)]. In newly diagnosed patients with glioblastoma multiforme, the adverse reaction profile was similar in younger patients (less than 65 years) vs. older (greater than or equal to 65 years).. 8.6 Renal Impairment. Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe renal impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment. Caution should be exercised when temozolomide is administered to patients with severe hepatic impairment [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.


5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS. Myelosuppression monitor Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) and platelet count prior to dosing and throughout treatment. Geriatric patients and women have higher risk of developing myelosuppression. (5.1) Cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary malignancies, including myeloid leukemia, have been observed. (5.2)Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) PCP prophylaxis required for all patients receiving concomitant temozolomide and radiotherapy for the 42-day regimen for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme. (5.3) All patients, particularly those receiving steroids, should be observed closely for the development of lymphopenia and PCP. (5.4) Complete blood counts should be obtained throughout the treatment course as specified. (5.4) Hepatotoxicity -fatal and severe hepatotoxicity have been reported. Perform liver function tests at baseline, midway through the first cycle, prior to each subsequent cycle, and approximately two to four weeks after the last dose of temozolomide. (5.5)Fetal harm can occur when administered to pregnant woman. Women should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant when receiving temozolomide. (5.6)As bioequivalence has been established only when given over 90 minutes, infusion over shorter or longer period of time may result in suboptimal dosing; the possibility of an increase in infusion-related adverse reactions cannot be ruled out. (5.7) Myelosuppression monitor Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) and platelet count prior to dosing and throughout treatment. Geriatric patients and women have higher risk of developing myelosuppression. (5.1) Cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary malignancies, including myeloid leukemia, have been observed. (5.2). Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) PCP prophylaxis required for all patients receiving concomitant temozolomide and radiotherapy for the 42-day regimen for the treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme. (5.3) All patients, particularly those receiving steroids, should be observed closely for the development of lymphopenia and PCP. (5.4) Complete blood counts should be obtained throughout the treatment course as specified. (5.4) Hepatotoxicity -fatal and severe hepatotoxicity have been reported. Perform liver function tests at baseline, midway through the first cycle, prior to each subsequent cycle, and approximately two to four weeks after the last dose of temozolomide. (5.5). Fetal harm can occur when administered to pregnant woman. Women should be advised to avoid becoming pregnant when receiving temozolomide. (5.6). As bioequivalence has been established only when given over 90 minutes, infusion over shorter or longer period of time may result in suboptimal dosing; the possibility of an increase in infusion-related adverse reactions cannot be ruled out. (5.7) 5.1 Myelosuppression. Patients treated with temozolomide may experience myelosuppression, including prolonged pancytopenia, which may result in aplastic anemia, which in some cases has resulted in fatal outcome. In some cases, exposure to concomitant medications associated with aplastic anemia, including carbamazepine, phenytoin, and sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim, complicates assessment. Prior to dosing, patients must have an absolute neutrophil count (ANC) greater than or equal to 1.5 109/L and platelet count greater than or equal to 100 109/L. complete blood count should be obtained on Day 22 (21 days after the first dose) or within 48 hours of that day, and weekly until the ANC is above 1.5 109/L and platelet count exceeds 100 109/L. Geriatric patients and women have been shown in clinical trials to have higher risk of developing myelosuppression.. 5.2 Myelodysplastic Syndrome. Cases of myelodysplastic syndrome and secondary malignancies, including myeloid leukemia, have been observed. 5.3 Pneumocystis Pneumonia. For treatment of newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme: Prophylaxis against Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is required for all patients receiving concomitant temozolomide and radiotherapy for the 42-day regimen. There may be higher occurrence of PCP when temozolomide is administered during longer dosing regimen. However, all patients receiving temozolomide, particularly patients receiving steroids, should be observed closely for the development of PCP regardless of the regimen. 5.4 Laboratory Tests. For the concomitant treatment phase with RT, complete blood count should be obtained prior to initiation of treatment and weekly during treatment. For the 28-day treatment cycles, complete blood count should be obtained prior to treatment on Day and on Day 22 (21 days after the first dose) of each cycle. Blood counts should be performed weekly until recovery if the ANC falls below 1.5 109/L and the platelet count falls below 100 109/L [see Recommended Dosing and Dose Modification Guidelines (2.1)]. 5.5 Hepatotoxicity. Fatal and severe hepatotoxicity have been reported in patients receiving temozolomide. Perform liver function tests at baseline, midway through the first cycle, prior to each subsequent cycle, and approximately two to four weeks after the last dose of temozolomide.. 5.6 Use in Pregnancy. Temozolomide can cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant woman. Administration of temozolomide to rats and rabbits during organogenesis at 0.38 and 0.75 times the maximum recommended human dose (75 and 150 mg/m2), respectively, caused numerous fetal malformations of the external organs, soft tissues, and skeleton in both species [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. 5.7 Infusion Time. As bioequivalence has been established only when temozolomide for Injection was given over 90 minutes, infusion over shorter or longer period of time may result in suboptimal dosing. Additionally, the possibility of an increase in infusion-related adverse reactions cannot be ruled out.