ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

6 ADVERSE REACTIONS. The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling: Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Central Nervous System Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] QT Shortening [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Multi-Organ Hypersensitivity/Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Leukopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)] Suicidal Behavior and Ideation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)] Central Nervous System Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] QT Shortening [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3)] Multi-Organ Hypersensitivity/Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS) [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)] Leukopenia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7)] Most common adverse reactions (>= 10% and greater than placebo) were headache, dizziness, fatigue, somnolence, and nausea (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 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. Adverse Reactions in Adult and Pediatric Patients ages to 17 years of age In the pooled, double-blind, adjunctive therapy studies in adult and pediatric patients ages to 17 years of age, the most common (>=10%) adverse reactions in rufinamide-treated patients, in all doses studied (200 to 3200 mg per day) with higher frequency than in patients on placebo were: headache, dizziness, fatigue, somnolence, and nausea. Table lists adverse reactions that occurred in at least 3% of pediatric patients (ages to less than 17 years) with epilepsy treated with rufinamide in controlled adjunctive studies and were numerically more common in patients treated with rufinamide than in patients on placebo. At the target dose of 45 mg/kg per day for adjunctive therapy in pediatric patients (ages to less than 17 years), the most common (>=3%) adverse reactions with an incidence greater than in placebo for rufinamide were somnolence, vomiting, and headache. Table 2: Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients (Ages to less than 17 years) in Pooled Double-Blind Adjunctive TrialsAdverse ReactionRufinamide (N=187) %Placebo (N=182) Somnolence 17 Vomiting 17 Headache 16 Fatigue 8 Dizziness 6 Nausea 3 Influenza 4 Nasopharyngitis 3 Decreased Appetite 2 Rash 2 Ataxia 1 Diplopia 1 Bronchitis 2 Sinusitis 2 Psychomotor Hyperactivity 1 Upper Abdominal Pain 2 Aggression 2 Ear Infection 1 Disturbance in Attention 1 Pruritis 0 Table lists adverse reactions that occurred in at least 3% of adult patients with epilepsy treated with rufinamide (up to 3200 mg per day) in adjunctive controlled studies and were numerically more common in patients treated with rufinamide than in patients on placebo. In these studies, either rufinamide or placebo was added to the current AED therapy. At all doses studied of up to 3200 mg per day given as adjunctive therapy in adults, the most common (>= 3%) adverse reactions, and with the greatest increase in incidence compared to placebo, for rufinamide were dizziness, fatigue, nausea, diplopia, vision blurred, and ataxia. Table 3: Adverse Reactions in Adults in Pooled Double-Blind Adjunctive TrialsAdverse ReactionRufinamide (N=823) %Placebo (N=376) Headache 27 26 Dizziness 19 12 Fatigue 16 10 Nausea 12 Somnolence 11 Diplopia 3 Tremor 5 Nystagmus 5 Blurred Vision 2 Vomiting 4 Ataxia 0 Upper Abdominal Pain 2 Anxiety 2 Constipation 2 Dyspepsia 2 Back Pain 1 Gait Disturbance 1 Vertigo 1 Discontinuation in Controlled Clinical Studies In controlled, double-blind, adjunctive clinical studies, 9% of pediatric and adult patients receiving rufinamide as adjunctive therapy and 4% receiving placebo discontinued as result of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly leading to discontinuation of rufinamide (>1%) used as adjunctive therapy were generally similar in adults and pediatric patients. In pediatric patients (ages to less than 17 years) double-blind adjunctive clinical studies, 8% of patients receiving rufinamide as adjunctive therapy (at the recommended dose of 45 mg/kg per day) and 2% receiving placebo discontinued as result of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly leading to discontinuation of rufinamide (>1%) used as adjunctive therapy are presented in Table 4. Table 4: Most Common Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation in Pediatric Patients (Ages to less than 17 years) in Pooled Double-Blind Adjunctive TrialsAdverse ReactionRufinamide (N=187) %Placebo (N=182) %Convulsion 1 Rash 1 Fatigue 0 Vomiting 0 In adult double-blind, adjunctive clinical studies, 10% of patients receiving rufinamide as adjunctive therapy (at doses up to 3200 mg per day) and 6% receiving placebo discontinued as result of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly leading to discontinuation of rufinamide (>1%) used as adjunctive therapy are presented in Table 5. Table 5: Most Common Adverse Reactions Leading to Discontinuation in Adult Patients in Pooled Double-Blind Adjunctive TrialsAdverse ReactionRufinamide (N=823) %Placebo (N=376) %Dizziness 1 Fatigue 1 Headache 1 Nausea 0 Ataxia 0 Pediatric Patients ages to less than years In multicenter, parallel group, open-label study comparing rufinamide (45 mg/kg per day) adjunctive treatment (n=25) to the adjunctive treatment with an AED of the investigators choice (n=11) in pediatric patients (1 year to less than years of age) with inadequately controlled Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, the adverse reaction profile was generally similar to that observed in adults and pediatric patients years of age and older treated with rufinamide. Adverse reactions that occurred in at least (8 %) rufinamide-treated patients and with higher frequency than in the AED comparator group were: vomiting (24%), somnolence (16%), bronchitis (12%), constipation (12%), cough (12%), decreased appetite (12%), rash (12%), otitis media (8%), pneumonia (8%), decreased weight (8%), gastroenteritis (8%), nasal congestion (8%), and pneumonia aspiration (8%). Other Adverse Reactions Observed During Clinical Trials Rufinamide has been administered to 1978 individuals during all epilepsy clinical trials (placebo-controlled and open-label). Adverse reactions occurring during these studies were recorded by the investigators using terminology of their own choosing. To provide meaningful estimate of the proportion of patients having adverse reactions, these events were grouped into standardized categories using the MedDRA dictionary. Adverse events occurring at least three times and considered possibly related to treatment are included in the System Organ Class listings below. Terms not included in the listings are those already included in the tables above, those too general to be informative, those related to procedures, and terms describing events common in the population. Some events occurring fewer than times are also included based on their medical significance. Because the reports include events observed in open-label, uncontrolled observations, the role of rufinamide in their causation cannot be reliably determined. Events are classified by body system and listed in order of decreasing frequency as follows: frequent adverse events--those occurring in at least 1/100 patients; infrequent adverse events--those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients; rare--those occurring in fewer than 1/1000 patients. Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: Frequent: anemia. Infrequent: lymphadenopathy, leukopenia, neutropenia, iron deficiency anemia, thrombocytopenia. Cardiac Disorders: Infrequent: bundle branch block right, atrioventricular block first degree. Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: Frequent: decreased appetite, increased appetite. Renal and Urinary Disorders: Frequent: pollakiuria. Infrequent: urinary incontinence, dysuria, hematuria, nephrolithiasis, polyuria, enuresis, nocturia, incontinence. 6.2 Postmarketing Experience. The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of rufinamide. 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 drug exposure. Dermatologic: Stevens-Johnson syndrome and other serious skin rashes with mucosal involvement.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. 12.1 Mechanism of Action. The precise mechanism(s) by which rufinamide exerts its antiepileptic effect is unknown. The results of in vitro studies suggest that the principal mechanism of action of rufinamide is modulation of the activity of sodium channels and, in particular, prolongation of the inactive state of the channel. Rufinamide (>= uM) significantly slowed sodium channel recovery from inactivation after prolonged prepulse in cultured cortical neurons, and limited sustained repetitive firing of sodium-dependent action potentials (EC50 of 3.8 uM). 12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Overview Rufinamide oral suspension is bioequivalent on mg per mg basis to rufinamide tablets. Rufinamide is well absorbed after oral administration. However, the rate of absorption is relatively slow and the extent of absorption is decreased as dose is increased. The pharmacokinetics does not change with multiple dosing. Most elimination of rufinamide is via metabolism, with the primary metabolite resulting from enzymatic hydrolysis of the carboxamide moiety to form the carboxylic acid. This metabolic route is not cytochrome P450 dependent. There are no known active metabolites. Plasma half-life of rufinamide is approximately to 10 hours. Absorption and Distribution Following oral administration of rufinamide, peak plasma concentrations occur between and hours (Tmax) both under fed and fasted conditions. Rufinamide tablets display decreasing bioavailability with increasing dose after single and multiple dose administration. Based on urinary excretion, the extent of absorption was at least 85% following oral administration of single dose of 600 mg rufinamide tablet under fed conditions. Multiple dose pharmacokinetics can be predicted from single dose data for both rufinamide and its metabolite. Given the dosing frequency of every 12 hours and the half-life of to 10 hours, the observed steady-state peak concentration of about two to three times the peak concentration after single dose is expected. Food increased the extent of absorption of rufinamide in healthy volunteers by 34% and increased peak exposure by 56% after single dose of 400 mg tablet, although the Tmax was not elevated [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Only small fraction of rufinamide (34%) is bound to human serum proteins, predominantly to albumin (27%), giving little risk of displacement drug-drug interactions. Rufinamide was evenly distributed between erythrocytes and plasma. The apparent volume of distribution is dependent upon dose and varies with body surface area. The apparent volume of distribution was about 50 at 3200 mg per day. Metabolism Rufinamide is extensively metabolized but has no active metabolites. Following radiolabeled dose of rufinamide, less than 2% of the dose was recovered unchanged in urine. The primary biotransformation pathway is carboxylesterase(s) mediated hydrolysis of the carboxamide group to the acid derivative CGP 47292. few minor additional metabolites were detected in urine, which appeared to be acyl-glucuronides of CGP 47292. There is no involvement of oxidizing cytochrome P450 enzymes or glutathione in the biotransformation process. Rufinamide is weak inhibitor of CYP 2E1. It did not show significant inhibition of other CYP enzymes. Rufinamide is weak inducer of CYP 3A4 enzymes. Rufinamide did not show any significant inhibition of P-glycoprotein in an in vitro study. Elimination/Excretion Renal excretion is the predominant route of elimination for drug related material, accounting for 85% of the dose based on radiolabeled study. Of the metabolites identified in urine, at least 66% of the rufinamide dose was excreted as the acid metabolite CGP 47292, with 2% of the dose excreted as rufinamide. The plasma elimination half-life is approximately to 10 hours in healthy subjects and patients with epilepsy. Special Populations Age Pediatrics Based on population analysis which included total of 115 patients, including 85 pediatric patients (24 patients ages to years, 40 patients ages to 11 years, and 21 patients ages 12 to 17 years), the pharmacokinetics of rufinamide was similar across all age groups. Elderly The results of study evaluating single-dose (400 mg) and multiple dose (800 mg per day for days) pharmacokinetics of rufinamide in healthy elderly subjects (65 to 80 years old) and younger healthy subjects (18 to 45 years old) found no significant age-related differences in the pharmacokinetics of rufinamide. Sex Population pharmacokinetic analyses of females show 6 to 14% lower apparent clearance of rufinamide compared to males. This effect is not clinically important. Race In population pharmacokinetic analysis of clinical studies, no difference in clearance or volume of distribution of rufinamide was observed between the black and Caucasian subjects, after controlling for body size. Information on other races could not be obtained because of smaller numbers of these subjects. Renal Impairment Rufinamide pharmacokinetics in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30 mL per min) was similar to that of healthy subjects. Patients undergoing dialysis hours post rufinamide dosing showed reduction in AUC and Cmax by 29% and 16%, respectively. Drug Interactions Based on in vitro studies, rufinamide shows little or no inhibition of most cytochrome P450 enzymes at clinically relevant concentrations, with weak inhibition of CYP 2E1. Drugs that are substrates of CYP 2E1 (e.g., chlorzoxazone) may have increased plasma levels in the presence of rufinamide, but this has not been studied. Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, rufinamide clearance was decreased by valproate. In pediatric patients, valproate administration may lead to elevated levels of rufinamide by up to 70% [see Drug Interactions (7.2)]. Based on in vivo drug interaction studies with triazolam and oral contraceptives, rufinamide is weak inducer of the CYP 3A4 enzyme and can decrease exposure of drugs that are substrates of CYP 3A4. Co-administration and pre-treatment of rufinamide (400 mg twice daily) and triazolam resulted in 37% decrease in AUC and 23% decrease in Cmax of triazolam, CYP 3A4 substrate. Co-administration of rufinamide (800 mg twice daily for 14 days) and Ortho-Novum 1/35(R) resulted in mean decrease in the ethinyl estradiol AUC0-24 of 22% and Cmax by 31% and norethindrone AUC0-24 by 14% and Cmax by 18%, respectively. The clinical significance of this decrease is unknown [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. Rufinamide is metabolized by carboxylesterases. Drugs that may induce the activity of carboxylesterases may increase the clearance of rufinamide. Broad-spectrum inducers such as carbamazepine and phenobarbital may have minor effects on rufinamide metabolism via this mechanism. Drugs that are inhibitors of carboxylesterases may decrease metabolism of rufinamide.. Pediatrics Elderly Co-administration and pre-treatment of rufinamide (400 mg twice daily) and triazolam resulted in 37% decrease in AUC and 23% decrease in Cmax of triazolam, CYP 3A4 substrate. Co-administration of rufinamide (800 mg twice daily for 14 days) and Ortho-Novum 1/35(R) resulted in mean decrease in the ethinyl estradiol AUC0-24 of 22% and Cmax by 31% and norethindrone AUC0-24 by 14% and Cmax by 18%, respectively. The clinical significance of this decrease is unknown [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

CLINICAL STUDIES SECTION.

14 CLINICAL STUDIES. Adult and Pediatric Patients ages years and older The effectiveness of rufinamide as adjunctive treatment for the seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) in adult and pediatric patients ages years and older was established in single multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, parallel-group study (N=138). Male and female patients (between and 30 years of age) were included if they had diagnosis of inadequately controlled seizures associated with LGS (including both atypical absence seizures and drop attacks) and were being treated with to concomitant stable dose AEDs. Each patient must have had at least 90 seizures in the month prior to study entry. After completing 4-week Baseline Phase on stable therapy, patients were randomized to have rufinamide or placebo added to their ongoing therapy during the 12 -week Double-blind Phase. The Double-blind Phase consisted of periods: the Titration Period (1 to weeks) and the Maintenance Period (10 weeks). During the Titration Period, the dose was increased to target dosage of approximately 45 mg/kg per day (3200 mg in adults of >= 70 kg), given on twice daily schedule. Dosage reductions were permitted during titration if problems in tolerability were encountered. Final doses at titration were to remain stable during the maintenance period. Target dosage was achieved in 88% of the rufinamide-treated patients. The majority of these patients reached the target dose within days, with the remaining patients achieving the target dose within 14 days. The primary efficacy variables were: The percent change in total seizure frequency per 28 days; The percent change in tonic-atonic (drop attacks) seizure frequency per 28 days; Seizure severity from the Parent/Guardian Global Evaluation of the patients condition. This was 7-point assessment performed at the end of the Double-blind Phase. score of +3 indicated that the patients seizure severity was very much improved, score of that the seizure severity was unchanged, and score of -3 that the seizure severity was very much worse. The results of the three primary endpoints are shown in Table below. Table 7: Lennox -Gastaut Syndrome Trial Seizure Frequency Primary Efficacy Variable ResultsVariable Placebo Rufinamide Median percent change in total seizure frequency per 28 days -11.7 -32.7 (p=0.0015) Median percent change in tonic-atonic seizure frequency per 28 days 1.4 -42.5 (p<0.0001) Improvement in Seizure Severity Rating from Global Evaluation 30.6 53.4 (p=0.0041) Pediatric Patients ages to less than years The effectiveness of rufinamide as adjunctive treatment for the seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome in pediatric patients ages year to less than years was established based on single multi-center, open-label, active-controlled, randomized, pharmacokinetic bridging study. The pharmacokinetic profile of rufinamide is not significantly affected by age either as continuous covariate (1 to 35 years) or as categorical covariate (age categories: to less than years and years of age and older), after body weight is taken into consideration.. The percent change in total seizure frequency per 28 days; The percent change in tonic-atonic (drop attacks) seizure frequency per 28 days; Seizure severity from the Parent/Guardian Global Evaluation of the patients condition. This was 7-point assessment performed at the end of the Double-blind Phase. score of +3 indicated that the patients seizure severity was very much improved, score of that the seizure severity was unchanged, and score of -3 that the seizure severity was very much worse.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. Rufinamide tablets should be given with food. Tablets can be administered whole, as half tablets, or crushed (2.2) Pediatric patients year and older: Starting daily dose: 10 mg/kg per day in two equally divided doses (2.1) Increase by 10 mg/kg increments every other day to maximum dose of 45 mg/kg per day, not to exceed 3200 mg per day, in two divided doses (2.1) Adults: Starting daily dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day in two equally divided doses (2.1) Increase by 400 mg to 800 mg every other day until maximum dose of 3200 mg per day, in two divided doses, is reached (2.1) Rufinamide tablets should be given with food. Tablets can be administered whole, as half tablets, or crushed (2.2) Starting daily dose: 10 mg/kg per day in two equally divided doses (2.1) Increase by 10 mg/kg increments every other day to maximum dose of 45 mg/kg per day, not to exceed 3200 mg per day, in two divided doses (2.1) Starting daily dose: 400 mg to 800 mg per day in two equally divided doses (2.1) Increase by 400 mg to 800 mg every other day until maximum dose of 3200 mg per day, in two divided doses, is reached (2.1) 2.1 Dosage Information. Pediatric patients (1 year to less than 17 years) The recommended starting daily dose of rufinamide tablets in pediatric patients with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome is approximately 10 mg/kg administered in two equally divided doses. The dose should be increased by approximately 10 mg/kg increments every other day until maximum daily dose of 45 mg/kg, not to exceed 3200 mg, administered in two equally divided doses, is reached. It is not known whether doses lower than the target doses are effective. Adults (17 years and older) The recommended starting daily dose of rufinamide tablets in adults with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome is 400 mg to 800 mg per day administered in two equally divided doses. The dose should be increased by 400 mg to 800 mg every other day until maximum daily dose of 3200 mg, administered in two equally divided doses, is reached. It is not known whether doses lower than 3200 mg are effective.. 2.2 Administration Information. Administer rufinamide tablets with food. Rufinamide film-coated tablets can be administered whole, as half tablets or crushed.. 2.3 Dosing in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis. Hemodialysis may reduce exposure to limited (about 30%) extent. Accordingly, adjusting the rufinamide tablets dose during the dialysis process should be considered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. 2.4 Dosing in Patients with Hepatic Disease. Use of rufinamide tablets in patients with hepatic impairment has not been studied. Therefore, use in patients with severe hepatic impairment is not recommended. Caution should be exercised in treating patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7)].. 2.5 Dosing in Patients Taking Valproate. Patients taking valproate should begin rufinamide tablets at dose lower than 10 mg/kg per day in pediatric patients or 400 mg per day in adults [see Drug Interactions (7.2)].

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

7 DRUG INTERACTIONS. Patients on valproate should begin at rufinamide dose lower than 10 mg/kg per day (pediatric patients) or 400 mg per day (adults) (7.2) Hormonal contraceptives may be less effective with rufinamide; use additional non-hormonal forms of contraception (7.3) Patients on valproate should begin at rufinamide dose lower than 10 mg/kg per day (pediatric patients) or 400 mg per day (adults) (7.2) Hormonal contraceptives may be less effective with rufinamide; use additional non-hormonal forms of contraception (7.3) 7.1 Effects of Rufinamide on other AEDs. Population pharmacokinetic analysis of average concentration at steady state of carbamazepine, lamotrigine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, topiramate, and valproate showed that typical rufinamide Cavss levels had little effect on the pharmacokinetics of other AEDs. Any effects, when they occur, have been more marked in the pediatric population. Table summarizes the drug-drug interactions of rufinamide with other AEDs. Table 6: Summary of drug-drug interactions of rufinamide with other antiepileptic drugsAED Co-administeredInfluence of Rufinamide on AED concentrationa) Influence of AED on Rufinamide concentrationCarbamazepine Decrease by to 13%b) Decrease by 19 to 26% Dependent on dose of carbamazepine Lamotrigine Decrease by to 13%b) No Effect Phenobarbital Increase by to 13%b) Decrease by 25 to 46%c), d) Independent of dose or concentration of phenobarbital Phenytoin Increase by to 21%b) Decrease by 25 to 46%c), d) Independent of dose or concentration of phenytoin Topiramate No Effect No Effect Valproate No Effect Increase by <16 to 70%c) Dependent on concentration of valproate Primidone Not Investigated Decrease by 25 to 46%c), d) Independent of dose or concentration of primidone Benzodiazepinese) Not Investigated No Effect a) Predictions are based on rufinamide concentrations at the maximum recommended dose of rufinamide. b) Maximum changes predicted to be in pediatric patients and in adult patients who achieve significantly higher levels of rufinamide, as the effect of rufinamide on these AEDs is concentration-dependent. c) Larger effects in pediatric patients at high doses/concentrations of AEDs. d) Phenobarbital, primidone and phenytoin were treated as single covariate (phenobarbital-type inducers) to examine the effect of these agents on rufinamide clearance. e) All compounds of the benzodiazepine class were pooled to examine for class effect on rufinamide clearance. Phenytoin: The decrease in clearance of phenytoin estimated at typical levels of rufinamide (Cavss 15 mcg/mL) is predicted to increase plasma levels of phenytoin by to 21%. As phenytoin is known to have non-linear pharmacokinetics (clearance becomes saturated at higher doses), it is possible that exposure will be greater than the model prediction. 7.2 Effects of Other AEDs on Rufinamide. Potent cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, primidone, and phenobarbital, appear to increase the clearance of rufinamide (see Table 6). Given that the majority of clearance of rufinamide is via non-CYP-dependent route, the observed decreases in blood levels seen with carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, and primidone are unlikely to be entirely attributable to induction of P450 enzyme. Other factors explaining this interaction are not understood. Any effects, where they occurred, were likely to be more marked in the pediatric population. Valproate Patients stabilized on rufinamide before being prescribed valproate should begin valproate therapy at low dose, and titrate to clinically effective dose. Similarly, patients on valproate should begin at rufinamide dose lower than 10 mg/kg per day (pediatric patients) or 400 mg per day (adults) [see Dosage and Administration (2.5), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. 7.3 Effects of Rufinamide on Hormonal Contraceptives. Female patients of childbearing age should be warned that the concurrent use of rufinamide with hormonal contraceptives may render this method of contraception less effective. Additional non-hormonal forms of contraception are recommended when using rufinamide [see Use in Specific Populations (8.3), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) and Patient Counseling Information (17)].

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.

17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION. Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Administration Information Advise patients to take rufinamide tablets with food [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Advise patients who are prescribed the oral suspension to shake the bottle vigorously before every administration and to use the adaptor and oral dosing syringe [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Suicidal Thinking and Behavior Inform patients, their caregivers, and families that antiepileptic drugs increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior and should be advised of the need to be alert for the emergence or worsening of the signs and symptoms of depression, any unusual changes in mood or behavior, or the emergence of suicidal thoughts, behavior, or thoughts about self-harm. Behaviors of concern should be reported immediately to healthcare providers [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1)]. Central Nervous System Reactions Inform patients about the potential for somnolence or dizziness and advise them not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on rufinamide tablets to gauge whether it adversely affects their mental and/or motor performance [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)]. Multi-Organ Hypersensitivity Reactions Advise patients to notify their physician if they experience rash associated with fever [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4)]. Drug Interactions Inform female patients of childbearing age that the concurrent use of rufinamide tablets with hormonal contraceptives may render this method of contraception less effective. Recommend patients use additional non-hormonal forms of contraception when using rufinamide tablets [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. Inform patients that alcohol in combination with rufinamide tablets may cause additive central nervous system effects. Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during therapy. Encourage patients to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry if they become pregnant. To enroll, patients can call the toll free number 1-888-233-2334 [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)]. Breast-feeding Advise patients to notify their physician if they are breast-feeding or intend to breast-feed [see Use in Specific Populations (8.2)]. The brands listed are trademarks of their respective owners and are not trademarks of Aurobindo Pharma Limited. Dispense with Medication Guide available at: www.aurobindousa.com/medication-guides Distributed by: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. 279 Princeton-Hightstown RoadEast Windsor, NJ 08520 Manufactured by: Aurobindo Pharma Limited Hyderabad-500 032, India Issued: December 2022. Advise patients to take rufinamide tablets with food [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Advise patients who are prescribed the oral suspension to shake the bottle vigorously before every administration and to use the adaptor and oral dosing syringe [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Inform female patients of childbearing age that the concurrent use of rufinamide tablets with hormonal contraceptives may render this method of contraception less effective. Recommend patients use additional non-hormonal forms of contraception when using rufinamide tablets [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. Inform patients that alcohol in combination with rufinamide tablets may cause additive central nervous system effects.

PHARMACOKINETICS SECTION.

12.3 Pharmacokinetics. Overview Rufinamide oral suspension is bioequivalent on mg per mg basis to rufinamide tablets. Rufinamide is well absorbed after oral administration. However, the rate of absorption is relatively slow and the extent of absorption is decreased as dose is increased. The pharmacokinetics does not change with multiple dosing. Most elimination of rufinamide is via metabolism, with the primary metabolite resulting from enzymatic hydrolysis of the carboxamide moiety to form the carboxylic acid. This metabolic route is not cytochrome P450 dependent. There are no known active metabolites. Plasma half-life of rufinamide is approximately to 10 hours. Absorption and Distribution Following oral administration of rufinamide, peak plasma concentrations occur between and hours (Tmax) both under fed and fasted conditions. Rufinamide tablets display decreasing bioavailability with increasing dose after single and multiple dose administration. Based on urinary excretion, the extent of absorption was at least 85% following oral administration of single dose of 600 mg rufinamide tablet under fed conditions. Multiple dose pharmacokinetics can be predicted from single dose data for both rufinamide and its metabolite. Given the dosing frequency of every 12 hours and the half-life of to 10 hours, the observed steady-state peak concentration of about two to three times the peak concentration after single dose is expected. Food increased the extent of absorption of rufinamide in healthy volunteers by 34% and increased peak exposure by 56% after single dose of 400 mg tablet, although the Tmax was not elevated [see Dosage and Administration (2.2)]. Only small fraction of rufinamide (34%) is bound to human serum proteins, predominantly to albumin (27%), giving little risk of displacement drug-drug interactions. Rufinamide was evenly distributed between erythrocytes and plasma. The apparent volume of distribution is dependent upon dose and varies with body surface area. The apparent volume of distribution was about 50 at 3200 mg per day. Metabolism Rufinamide is extensively metabolized but has no active metabolites. Following radiolabeled dose of rufinamide, less than 2% of the dose was recovered unchanged in urine. The primary biotransformation pathway is carboxylesterase(s) mediated hydrolysis of the carboxamide group to the acid derivative CGP 47292. few minor additional metabolites were detected in urine, which appeared to be acyl-glucuronides of CGP 47292. There is no involvement of oxidizing cytochrome P450 enzymes or glutathione in the biotransformation process. Rufinamide is weak inhibitor of CYP 2E1. It did not show significant inhibition of other CYP enzymes. Rufinamide is weak inducer of CYP 3A4 enzymes. Rufinamide did not show any significant inhibition of P-glycoprotein in an in vitro study. Elimination/Excretion Renal excretion is the predominant route of elimination for drug related material, accounting for 85% of the dose based on radiolabeled study. Of the metabolites identified in urine, at least 66% of the rufinamide dose was excreted as the acid metabolite CGP 47292, with 2% of the dose excreted as rufinamide. The plasma elimination half-life is approximately to 10 hours in healthy subjects and patients with epilepsy. Special Populations Age Pediatrics Based on population analysis which included total of 115 patients, including 85 pediatric patients (24 patients ages to years, 40 patients ages to 11 years, and 21 patients ages 12 to 17 years), the pharmacokinetics of rufinamide was similar across all age groups. Elderly The results of study evaluating single-dose (400 mg) and multiple dose (800 mg per day for days) pharmacokinetics of rufinamide in healthy elderly subjects (65 to 80 years old) and younger healthy subjects (18 to 45 years old) found no significant age-related differences in the pharmacokinetics of rufinamide. Sex Population pharmacokinetic analyses of females show 6 to 14% lower apparent clearance of rufinamide compared to males. This effect is not clinically important. Race In population pharmacokinetic analysis of clinical studies, no difference in clearance or volume of distribution of rufinamide was observed between the black and Caucasian subjects, after controlling for body size. Information on other races could not be obtained because of smaller numbers of these subjects. Renal Impairment Rufinamide pharmacokinetics in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30 mL per min) was similar to that of healthy subjects. Patients undergoing dialysis hours post rufinamide dosing showed reduction in AUC and Cmax by 29% and 16%, respectively. Drug Interactions Based on in vitro studies, rufinamide shows little or no inhibition of most cytochrome P450 enzymes at clinically relevant concentrations, with weak inhibition of CYP 2E1. Drugs that are substrates of CYP 2E1 (e.g., chlorzoxazone) may have increased plasma levels in the presence of rufinamide, but this has not been studied. Based on population pharmacokinetic analysis, rufinamide clearance was decreased by valproate. In pediatric patients, valproate administration may lead to elevated levels of rufinamide by up to 70% [see Drug Interactions (7.2)]. Based on in vivo drug interaction studies with triazolam and oral contraceptives, rufinamide is weak inducer of the CYP 3A4 enzyme and can decrease exposure of drugs that are substrates of CYP 3A4. Co-administration and pre-treatment of rufinamide (400 mg twice daily) and triazolam resulted in 37% decrease in AUC and 23% decrease in Cmax of triazolam, CYP 3A4 substrate. Co-administration of rufinamide (800 mg twice daily for 14 days) and Ortho-Novum 1/35(R) resulted in mean decrease in the ethinyl estradiol AUC0-24 of 22% and Cmax by 31% and norethindrone AUC0-24 by 14% and Cmax by 18%, respectively. The clinical significance of this decrease is unknown [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)]. Rufinamide is metabolized by carboxylesterases. Drugs that may induce the activity of carboxylesterases may increase the clearance of rufinamide. Broad-spectrum inducers such as carbamazepine and phenobarbital may have minor effects on rufinamide metabolism via this mechanism. Drugs that are inhibitors of carboxylesterases may decrease metabolism of rufinamide.. Pediatrics Elderly Co-administration and pre-treatment of rufinamide (400 mg twice daily) and triazolam resulted in 37% decrease in AUC and 23% decrease in Cmax of triazolam, CYP 3A4 substrate. Co-administration of rufinamide (800 mg twice daily for 14 days) and Ortho-Novum 1/35(R) resulted in mean decrease in the ethinyl estradiol AUC0-24 of 22% and Cmax by 31% and norethindrone AUC0-24 by 14% and Cmax by 18%, respectively. The clinical significance of this decrease is unknown [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Use in Specific Populations (8.3)].

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION.

Medication GuideRufinamide Tablets, USP (roo fin mide)Read this Medication Guide before you start taking rufinamide tablets and each time you get refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment. What is the most important information should know about rufinamide tabletsDo not stop taking rufinamide tablets without first talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping rufinamide tablets suddenly can cause serious problems. Rufinamide tablets can cause serious side effects, including: 1. Like other antiepileptic drugs, rufinamide tablets may cause suicidal thoughts or actions in very small number of people, about in 500. Call healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you: thoughts about suicide or dying attempt to commit suicide new or worse depression new or worse anxiety feeling agitated or restless panic attacks trouble sleeping (insomnia) new or worse irritability acting aggressive, being angry, or violent acting on dangerous impulses an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania) other unusual changes in behavior or mood Suicidal thoughts or actions can be caused by things other than medicines. If you have suicidal thoughts or actions, your healthcare provider may check for other causes.How can watch for early symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actionsPay attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider as scheduled. Call your healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you are worried about symptoms. Do not stop rufinamide tablets without first talking to healthcare provider. Stopping rufinamide tablets suddenly can cause serious problems. Stopping seizure medicine suddenly in patient who has epilepsy can cause seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus). 2. Rufinamide tablets may cause you to feel sleepy, tired, weak, dizzy, or have problems with coordination and walking. What are rufinamide tablets Rufinamide tablet is prescription medicine used with other medicines to treat seizures associated with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) in adults and pediatric patients year of age and older. It is not known if rufinamide tablets are safe and effective in the treatment of Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome in pediatric patients under year of age. Who should not take rufinamide tablets Do not take rufinamide tablets if you have genetic condition called familial short QT syndrome, problem that affects the electrical system of the heart. What should tell my healthcare provider before taking rufinamide tablets Before you take rufinamide tablets, tell your healthcare provider if you: have heart problems have liver problems have any other medical problems have or have had suicidal thoughts or actions, depression or mood problems are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if rufinamide tablets can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while taking rufinamide tablets. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take rufinamide tablets while you are pregnant. rufinamide tablets may make certain types of birth control less effective. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best birth control methods for you while you take rufinamide tablets. If you become pregnant while taking rufinamide tablets, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. You can enroll in this registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of antiepileptic medicines during pregnancy. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if rufinamide will pass into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take rufinamide tablets.Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non--prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Taking rufinamide tablets with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well they work. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider. Know the medicines you take. Keep list of them and show it to your healthcare provider and pharmacist each time you get new medicine. How should take rufinamide tablets Take rufinamide tablets exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much rufinamide tablets to take. Your healthcare provider may change your dose. Do not change your dose of rufinamide tablets without talking to your healthcare provider. Take rufinamide tablets with food. Rufinamide tablets can be swallowed whole, cut in half or crushed. If you take too much rufinamide, call your local Poison Control Center or get emergency medical help right away. What should avoid while taking rufinamide tablets Do not drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy while taking rufinamide tablets until you talk to your healthcare provider. Rufinamide tablets taken with alcohol or medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness may make your sleepiness or dizziness worse. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how rufinamide tablets affect you. Rufinamide tablets can slow your thinking and motor skills. What are the possible side effects of rufinamide tablets See What is the most important information should know about rufinamide tablets Rufinamide tablets may cause serious side effects including: Rufinamide tablets can also cause allergic reactions or serious problems which may affect organs and other parts of your body like the liver or blood cells. You may or may not have rash with these types of reactions. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following. Symptoms may include: swelling of your face, eyes, lips, or tongue trouble swallowing or breathing skin rash hives fever, swollen glands, or sore throat that do not go away or come and go swollen glands yellowing of your skin or eyes dark urine unusual bruising or bleeding severe fatigue or weakness severe muscle pain your seizures happen more often or become worse Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the symptoms listed above. The most common side effects of rufinamide tablets include: headache dizziness tiredness sleepiness nausea vomiting Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away. These are not all of the possible side effects of rufinamide tablets. For more information, ask your healthcare provider 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 rufinamide tablets Store rufinamide tablets at 59oF to 86oF (15oC to 30oC). Keep rufinamide tablets in dry place. Keep rufinamide tablets and all medicines out of the reach of children. General Information about the safe and effective use of rufinamide tabletsMedicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in Medication Guide. Do not use rufinamide tablets for condition for which they were not prescribed. Do not give rufinamide tablets to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. They may harm them. This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about rufinamide tablets. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about rufinamide tablets that is written for health professionals. For more information, call Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. at 1-866-850-2876.What are the ingredients in rufinamide tablets Active ingredient: rufinamide Inactive ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, corn starch, croscarmellose sodium, hypromellose, iron oxide red, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc, and titanium dioxide.Dispense with Medication Guide available at: www.aurobindousa.com/medication-guides Distributed by: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. 279 Princeton-Hightstown RoadEast Windsor, NJ 08520 Manufactured by: Aurobindo Pharma Limited Hyderabad-500 032, India Issued: December 2022 This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.. thoughts about suicide or dying attempt to commit suicide new or worse depression new or worse anxiety feeling agitated or restless panic attacks trouble sleeping (insomnia) new or worse irritability acting aggressive, being angry, or violent acting on dangerous impulses an extreme increase in activity and talking (mania) other unusual changes in behavior or mood Suicidal thoughts or actions can be caused by things other than medicines. If you have suicidal thoughts or actions, your healthcare provider may check for other causes.. Pay attention to any changes, especially sudden changes, in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings. Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider as scheduled. Stopping rufinamide tablets suddenly can cause serious problems. Stopping seizure medicine suddenly in patient who has epilepsy can cause seizures that will not stop (status epilepticus). have heart problems have liver problems have any other medical problems have or have had suicidal thoughts or actions, depression or mood problems are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. It is not known if rufinamide tablets can harm your unborn baby. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant while taking rufinamide tablets. You and your healthcare provider will decide if you should take rufinamide tablets while you are pregnant. rufinamide tablets may make certain types of birth control less effective. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best birth control methods for you while you take rufinamide tablets. If you become pregnant while taking rufinamide tablets, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. You can enroll in this registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of antiepileptic medicines during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking rufinamide tablets, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the North American Antiepileptic Drug Pregnancy Registry. You can enroll in this registry by calling 1-888-233-2334. The purpose of this registry is to collect information about the safety of antiepileptic medicines during pregnancy. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if rufinamide will pass into your breast milk. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take rufinamide tablets.. Take rufinamide tablets exactly as your healthcare provider tells you. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much rufinamide tablets to take. Your healthcare provider may change your dose. Do not change your dose of rufinamide tablets without talking to your healthcare provider. Take rufinamide tablets with food. Rufinamide tablets can be swallowed whole, cut in half or crushed. If you take too much rufinamide, call your local Poison Control Center or get emergency medical help right away. Do not drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy or dizzy while taking rufinamide tablets until you talk to your healthcare provider. Rufinamide tablets taken with alcohol or medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness may make your sleepiness or dizziness worse. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how rufinamide tablets affect you. Rufinamide tablets can slow your thinking and motor skills. Rufinamide tablets can also cause allergic reactions or serious problems which may affect organs and other parts of your body like the liver or blood cells. You may or may not have rash with these types of reactions. swelling of your face, eyes, lips, or tongue trouble swallowing or breathing a skin rash hives fever, swollen glands, or sore throat that do not go away or come and go swollen glands yellowing of your skin or eyes dark urine unusual bruising or bleeding severe fatigue or weakness severe muscle pain your seizures happen more often or become worse headache dizziness tiredness sleepiness nausea vomiting Store rufinamide tablets at 59oF to 86oF (15oC to 30oC). Keep rufinamide tablets in dry place.

USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS SECTION.

8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS. Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm. (8.1) Renal impairment: Consider adjusting the rufinamide dose for the loss of drug upon dialysis (8.6) Not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (8.7) Pregnancy: Based on animal data, may cause fetal harm. (8.1) Renal impairment: Consider adjusting the rufinamide dose for the loss of drug upon dialysis (8.6) Not recommended in patients with severe hepatic impairment (8.7) 8.1 Pregnancy. Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to AEDs, such as rufinamide, during pregnancy. Encourage women who are taking rufinamide during pregnancy to enroll in the North American Antiepileptic Drug (NAAED) Pregnancy Registry by calling 1-888-233-2334 or visiting http://www.aedpregnancyregistry.org. Risk SummaryThere are no adequate data on the developmental risks associated with use of rufinamide in pregnant women. In animal reproduction studies, oral administration of rufinamide resulted in developmental toxicity in pregnant rats and rabbits at clinically relevant doses [see Data]. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. Data Animal data Oral administration of rufinamide (0, 20, 100, or 300 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rats throughout organogenesis resulted in decreased fetal weight and increased incidence of fetal skeletal abnormalities at 100 and 300 mg/kg/day, which were associated with maternal toxicity. The maternal plasma exposure (AUC) at the no-adverse effect dose (20 mg/kg/day) for developmental toxicity was less than that in humans at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 3200 mg/day. Oral administration of rufinamide (0, 30, 200, or 1000 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rabbits throughout organogenesis resulted in embryofetal death, decreased fetal body weight, and increased incidence of fetal visceral and skeletal abnormalities at doses of 200 and 1000 mg/kg/day. The high dose (1000 mg/kg/day) was associated with abortion. Plasma exposure (AUC) at the no-adverse effect dose (30 mg/kg/day) was less than that in humans at the MRHD. When rufinamide was orally administered (0, 5, 30, or 150 mg/kg/day) to pregnant rats throughout pregnancy and lactation, decreased offspring growth and survival were observed at all doses tested. no-effect dose for adverse effects on pre- and postnatal development was not established. At the lowest dose tested (5 mg/kg/day), plasma exposure (AUC) was less than that in humans at the MRHD. 8.2 Lactation. Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of rufinamide in human milk, the effects on the breastfed infant, or the effects of the drug on milk production. The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mothers clinical need for rufinamide and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed infant from rufinamide or from the underlying maternal condition.. 8.3 Females and Males of Reproductive Potential. Contraception Use of rufinamide may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives containing ethinyl estradiol or norethindrone. Advise women of reproductive potential taking rufinamide who are using contraceptive containing ethinyl estradiol and norethindrone to use an additional non-hormonal form of contraception [see Drug Interactions (7.3) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Infertility The effect of rufinamide on fertility in humans has not been established. Oral administration of rufinamide (20, 60, 200, and 600 mg/kg/day) to male and female rats prior to mating, during mating, and during early gestation (females only) resulted in the impairment of fertility at all dose levels tested. The no-effect dose was not established. The plasma exposure level at 20 mg/kg was approximately 0.2 times the human plasma AUC at the MRHD [see Nonclinical Toxicology (13.1)]. 8.4 Pediatric Use. Safety and effectiveness have been established in pediatric patients to 17 years of age. The effectiveness of rufinamide in pediatric patients years of age and older was based upon an adequate and well-controlled trial of rufinamide that included both adults and pediatric patients, years of age and older, with Lennox Gastaut Syndrome. The effectiveness in patients to less than years was based upon bridging pharmacokinetic and safety study [see Dosage and Administration (2.1), Adverse Reactions (6.1), and Clinical Studies (14)]. The pharmacokinetics of rufinamide in the pediatric patients, ages to less than years of age is similar to children older than years of age and adults [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)]. Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients below the age of year has not been established. Oral administration of rufinamide (0, 15, 50, or 150 mg/kg) to young rats for 10 weeks starting on postnatal day resulted in decreased brain weights at the mid and high doses and neurobehavioral impairment (learning and memory deficit, altered startle response, decreased locomotor activity) and decreased growth (decreased body weight) at the highest dose tested. The no-effect dose for adverse effects on postnatal development in rats (15 mg/kg) was associated with plasma exposure (AUC) lower than that in humans at the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 3200 mg/day. 8.5 Geriatric Use. Clinical studies of rufinamide did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged 65 and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects. In general, dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy. Pharmacokinetics of rufinamide in the elderly are similar to that in the young subjects [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].. 8.6 Renal Impairment. Rufinamide pharmacokinetics in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance 30 mL/min) was similar to that of healthy subjects. Dose adjustment in patients undergoing dialysis should be considered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].. 8.7 Hepatic Impairment. Use of rufinamide in patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score 10 to 15) is not recommended. Caution should be exercised in treating patients with mild (Child-Pugh score to 6) to moderate (Child-Pugh score to 9) hepatic impairment.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS. Monitor patients for new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts/behavior, and unusual changes in mood or behavior (5.1) Central nervous system reactions can occur (5.2) Use caution when administering rufinamide with other drugs that shorten the QT interval (5.3) Discontinue rufinamide if multi-organ hypersensitivity reaction occurs (5.4) Withdraw rufinamide gradually to minimize the risk of precipitating seizures, seizure exacerbation, or status epilepticus (5.5). Monitor patients for new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts/behavior, and unusual changes in mood or behavior (5.1) Central nervous system reactions can occur (5.2) Use caution when administering rufinamide with other drugs that shorten the QT interval (5.3) Discontinue rufinamide if multi-organ hypersensitivity reaction occurs (5.4) Withdraw rufinamide gradually to minimize the risk of precipitating seizures, seizure exacerbation, or status epilepticus (5.5). 5.1 Suicidal Behavior and Ideation. Antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), including rufinamide, increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in patients taking these drugs for any indication. Patients treated with any AED for any indication should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behavior, and/or any unusual changes in mood or behavior. Pooled analyses of 199 placebo-controlled clinical trials (mono- and adjunctive therapy) of 11 different AEDs showed that patients randomized to one of the AEDs had approximately twice the risk (adjusted Relative Risk 1.8, 95% CI:1.2, 2.7) of suicidal thinking or behavior compared to patients randomized to placebo. In these trials, which had median treatment duration of 12 weeks, the estimated incidence rate of suicidal behavior or ideation among 27,863 AED-treated patients was 0.43%, compared to 0.24% among 16,029 placebo-treated patients, representing an increase of approximately one case of suicidal thinking or behavior for every 530 patients treated. There were four suicides in drug-treated patients in the trials and none in placebo-treated patients, but the number is too small to allow any conclusion about drug effect on suicide. The increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with AEDs was observed as early as week after starting drug treatment with AEDs and persisted for the duration of treatment assessed. Because most trials included in the analysis did not extend beyond 24 weeks, the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior beyond 24 weeks could not be assessed. The risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior was generally consistent among drugs in the data analyzed. The finding of increased risk with AEDs of varying mechanisms of action and across range of indications suggests that the risk applies to all AEDs used for any indication. The risk did not vary substantially by age (5 to 100 years) in the clinical trials analyzed. Table shows absolute and relative risk by indication for all evaluated AEDs. Table 1: Absolute and Relative Risk of Suicidal Behavior and IdeationIndication Placebo Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Drug Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Relative Risk: Incidence of Events in Drug Patients/Incidence in Placebo Patients Risk Difference: Additional Drug Patients with Events Per 1000 Patients Epilepsy 1.0 3.4 3.5 2.4 Psychiatric 5.7 8.5 1.5 2.9 Other 1.0 1.8 1.9 0.9 Total 2.4 4.3 1.8 1.9 The relative risk for suicidal thoughts or behavior was higher in clinical trials for epilepsy than in clinical trials for psychiatric or other conditions, but the absolute risk differences were similar for the epilepsy and psychiatric indications. Anyone considering prescribing rufinamide or any other AED must balance the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior with the risk of untreated illness. Epilepsy and many other illnesses for which AEDs are prescribed are themselves associated with morbidity and mortality and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior. Should suicidal thoughts and behavior emerge during treatment, consider whether the emergence of these symptoms in any given patient may be related to the illness being treated. 5.2 Central Nervous System Reactions. Use of rufinamide has been associated with central nervous system-related adverse reactions in the controlled clinical trial of patients years or older with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. The most significant of these can be classified into two general categories: 1) somnolence or fatigue, and 2) coordination abnormalities, dizziness, gait disturbances, and ataxia. Somnolence was reported in 24% of rufinamide-treated patients compared to 13% of patients on placebo, and led to study discontinuation in 3% of rufinamide-treated patients compared to 0% of patients on placebo. Fatigue was reported in 10% of rufinamide-treated patients compared to 8% of patients on placebo patients. It led to study discontinuation in 1% of rufinamide-treated patients and 0% of patients on placebo patients. Dizziness was reported in 2.7% of rufinamide-treated patients compared to 0% of patients on placebo, and did not lead to study discontinuation. Ataxia and gait disturbance were reported in 5.4% and 1.4% of rufinamide-treated patients, respectively, compared to no patient on placebo. None of these reactions led to study discontinuation. Accordingly, patients should be advised not to drive or operate machinery until they have gained sufficient experience on rufinamide to gauge whether it adversely affects their ability to drive or operate machinery.. 5.3 QT Shortening. Formal cardiac ECG studies demonstrated shortening of the QT interval (mean 20 msec, for doses >2400 mg twice daily) with rufinamide. In placebo-controlled study of the QT interval, higher percentage of rufinamide-treated subjects (46% at 2400 mg, 46% at 3200 mg, and 65% at 4800 mg) had QT shortening of greater than 20 msec at Tmax compared to placebo (5 to 10%). Reductions of the QT interval below 300 msec were not observed in the formal QT studies with doses up to 7200 mg per day. Moreover, there was no signal for drug-induced sudden death or ventricular arrhythmias. The degree of QT shortening induced by rufinamide is without any known clinical risk. Familial Short QT syndrome is associated with an increased risk of sudden death and ventricular arrhythmias, particularly ventricular fibrillation. Such events in this syndrome are believed to occur primarily when the corrected QT interval falls below 300 msec. Non-clinical data also indicate that QT shortening is associated with ventricular fibrillation. Patients with Familial Short QT syndrome should not be treated with rufinamide. Caution should be used when administering rufinamide with other drugs that shorten the QT interval [see Contraindications (4)].. 5.4 Multi-organ Hypersensitivity/Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS). Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS), also known as multi-organ hypersensitivity, has been reported in patients taking antiepileptic drugs, including rufinamide. DRESS may be fatal or life-threatening. DRESS typically, although not exclusively, presents with fever, rash, and/or lymphadenopathy, and/or facial swelling, in association with other organ system involvement, such as hepatitis, nephritis, hematological abnormalities, myocarditis, or myositis, sometimes resembling an acute viral infection. Eosinophilia is often present. It is important to note that early manifestations of hypersensitivity, such as fever or lymphadenopathy, may be present even though rash is not evident. Because this disorder is variable in its expression, other organ systems not noted here may be involved. All cases of DRESS identified in clinical trials with rufinamide occurred in pediatric patients less than 12 years of age, occurred within weeks of treatment initiation, and resolved or improved with rufinamide discontinuation. DRESS has also been reported in adult and pediatric patients taking rufinamide in the postmarketing setting. If DRESS is suspected, the patient should be evaluated immediately, rufinamide should be discontinued, and alternative treatment should be started.. 5.5 Withdrawal of AEDs. As with all antiepileptic drugs, rufinamide should be withdrawn gradually to minimize the risk of precipitating seizures, seizure exacerbation, or status epilepticus. If abrupt discontinuation of the drug is medically necessary, the transition to another AED should be made under close medical supervision. In clinical trials, rufinamide discontinuation was achieved by reducing the dose by approximately 25% every days.. 5.6 Status Epilepticus. Estimates of the incidence of treatment emergent status epilepticus among patients treated with rufinamide are difficult because standard definitions were not employed. In controlled Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome trial, of 74 (4.1%) rufinamide-treated patients had episodes that could be described as status epilepticus in the rufinamide-treated patients compared with none of the 64 patients in the placebo-treated patients. In all controlled trials that included patients with different epilepsies, 11 of 1240 (0.9%) rufinamide-treated patients had episodes that could be described as status epilepticus compared with none of 635 patients in the placebo-treated patients.. 5.7 Leukopenia. Rufinamide has been shown to reduce white cell count. Leukopenia (white cell count 3X109 L) was more commonly observed in rufinamide-treated patients 43 of 1171 (3.7%) than placebo-treated patients, of 579 (1.2%) in all controlled trials.