COPAXONE
(glatiramer acetate) Solution for Subcutaneous Injection
COPAXONE is the brand name for glatiramer acetate (formerly known as copolymer-1). Glatiramer acetate, the active ingredient of COPAXONE, consists of the acetate salts of synthetic polypeptides, containing four naturally occurring amino acids: L-glutamic acid, L-alanine, L-tyrosine, and L-lysine with an average molar fraction of 0.141, 0.427, 0.095, and 0.338, respectively. The average molecular weight of glatiramer acetate is 5,000 – 9,000 daltons. Glatiramer acetate is identified by specific antibodies.
Chemically, glatiramer acetate is designated L-glutamic acid polymer with L-alanine, L-lysine and L-tyrosine, acetate (salt). Its structural formula is:
(Glu, Ala, Lys, Tyr)x•xCH3COOH
(C5H9NO4•C3H7NO2•C6H14N2O2•C9H11NO3)x•xC2H4O2
CAS - 147245-92-9
COPAXONE is a clear, colorless to slightly yellow, sterile, nonpyrogenic solution for subcutaneous injection. Each 1 mL of solution contains 20 mg of glatiramer acetate and 40 mg of mannitol. The pH range of the solution is approximately 5.5 to 7.0. The biological activity of COPAXONE is determined by its ability to block the induction of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) in mice.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
COPAXONE is indicated for reduction of the frequency of relapses in patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS), including patients who have experienced a first clinical episode and have MRI features consistent with multiple sclerosis.
COPAXONE is for subcutaneous use only. Do not administer intravenously. The recommended dose of COPAXONE is 20 mg/day.
Remove one blister that contains the syringe from the COPAXONE prefilled syringes package. Since this product should be refrigerated, let the prefilled syringe stand at room temperature for 20 minutes to allow the solution to warm to room temperature. Inspect the COPAXONE syringe visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit. The solution in the syringe should appear clear, colorless to slightly yellow. If particulate matter or discoloration is observed, discard the COPAXONE syringe.
Areas for self-injection include arms, abdomen, hips, and thighs. The prefilled syringe is for single use only. Discard unused portions.
Single-use prefilled syringe containing 1 mL solution with 20 mg of glatiramer acetate and 40 mg of mannitol.
COPAXONE is supplied as a single-use prefilled syringe containing 1 mL of a clear, colorless to slightly yellow, sterile, nonpyrogenic solution containing 20 mg of glatiramer acetate and 40 mg of mannitol in cartons of 30 single-use prefilled syringes with 33 alcohol preps (NDC 68546-317-30).
The recommended storage condition for the COPAXONE is refrigeration (2°C to 8°C /36°F to 46°F). However, excursions from recommended storage conditions (15°C to 30°C / 59°F to 86°F) for up to one month have been shown to have no adverse impact on the product. Exposure to higher temperatures or intense light should be avoided. COPAXONE should not be frozen. If a COPAXONE syringe freezes, it should be discarded.
COPAXONE contains no preservative. Do not use if the solution contains any particulate matter.
Marketed by: TEVA Neuroscience, Inc., Kansas City, MO 64131. Distributed by: TEVA Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc., North Wales, PA 19454. Product of Israel.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.
Among 563 patients treated with COPAXONE in blinded placebo controlled trials, approximately 5% of the subjects discontinued treatment because of an adverse reaction. The adverse reactions most commonly associated with discontinuation were: injection site reactions, dyspnea, urticaria, vasodilatation, and hypersensitivity. The most common adverse reactions were: injection site reactions, vasodilatation, rash, dyspnea, and chest pain.
Table 1 lists treatment-emergent signs and symptoms that occurred in at least 2% of patients treated with COPAXONE in the placebo-controlled trials. These signs and symptoms were numerically more common in patients treated with COPAXONE than in patients treated with placebo. Adverse reactions were usually mild in intensity.
Table 1: Adverse reactions in controlled clinical trials
with an incidence ≥ 2% of patients and more frequent with COPAXONE than
with placebo
| GA 20 mg (N=563) |
Placebo (N=564) |
||
| Blood And Lymphatic System Disorders | Lymphadenopathy | 7% | 3% |
| Cardiac Disorders | Palpitations | 9% | 4% |
| Tachycardia | 5% | 2% | |
| Eye Disorders | Eye Disorder | 3% | 1% |
| Diplopia | 3% | 2% | |
| Gastrointestinal Disorders | Nausea | 15% | 11% |
| Vomiting | 7% | 4% | |
| Dysphagia | 2% | 1% | |
| General Disorders And Administration Site Conditions | Injection Site Erythema | 43% | 10% |
| Injection Site Pain | 40% | 20% | |
| Injection Site Pruritus | 27% | 4% | |
| Injection Site Mass | 26% | 6% | |
| Asthenia | 22% | 21% | |
| Pain | 20% | 17% | |
| Injection Site Edema | 19% | 4% | |
| Chest Pain | 13% | 6% | |
| Injection Site Inflammation | 9% | 1% | |
| Edema | 8% | 2% | |
| Injection Site Reaction | 8% | 1% | |
| Pyrexia | 6% | 5% | |
| Injection Site Hypersensitivity | 4% | 0% | |
| Local Reaction | 3% | 1% | |
| Chills | 3% | 1% | |
| Face Edema | 3% | 1% | |
| Edema Peripheral | 3% | 2% | |
| Injection Site Fibrosis | 2% | 1% | |
| Injection Site Atrophy* | 2% | 0% | |
| Immune System Disorders | Hypersensitivity | 3% | 2% |
| Infections And Infestations | Infection | 30% | 28% |
| Influenza | 14% | 13% | |
| Rhinitis | 7% | 5% | |
| Bronchitis | 6% | 5% | |
| Gastroenteritis | 6% | 4% | |
| Vaginal Candidiasis | 4% | 2% | |
| Metabolism And Nutrition Disorders | Weight Increased | 3% | 1% |
| Musculoskeletal And Connective Tissue Disorders | Back Pain | 12% | 10% |
| Neoplasms Benign, Malignant And Unspecified (Incl Cysts And Polyps) | Benign Neoplasm of Skin | 2% | 1% |
| Nervous System Disorders | Tremor | 4% | 2% |
| Migraine | 4% | 2% | |
| Syncope | 3% | 2% | |
| Speech Disorder | 2% | 1% | |
| Psychiatric Disorders | Anxiety | 13% | 10% |
| Nervousness | 2% | 1% | |
| Renal And Urinary Disorders | Micturition Urgency | 5% | 4% |
| Respiratory, Thoracic And Mediastinal Disorders | Dyspnea | 14% | 4% |
| Cough | 6% | 5% | |
| Laryngospasm | 2% | 1% | |
| Skin And Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders | Rash | 19% | 11% |
| Hyperhidrosis | 7% | 5% | |
| Pruritus | 5% | 4% | |
| Urticaria | 3% | 1% | |
| Skin Disorder | 3% | 1% | |
| Vascular Disorders | Vasodilatation | 20% | 5% |
| *Injection site atrophy comprises terms relating to localized lipoatrophy at injection site | |||
Adverse reactions which occurred only in 4-5 more subjects in the COPAXONE group than in the placebo group (less than 1% difference), but for which a relationship to COPAXONE could not be excluded, were arthralgia and herpes simplex.
Laboratory analyses were performed on all patients participating in the clinical program for COPAXONE. Clinically significant laboratory values for hematology, chemistry, and urinalysis were similar for both COPAXONE and placebo groups in blinded clinical trials. In controlled trials one patient discontinued treatment due to thrombocytopenia (16 x109/L), which resolved after discontinuation of treatment.
Data on adverse reactions occurring in the controlled clinical trials were analyzed to evaluate differences based on sex. No clinically significant differences were identified. Ninety-six percent of patients in these clinical trials were Caucasian. The majority of patients treated with COPAXONE were between the ages of 18 and 45. Consequently, data are inadequate to perform an analysis of the adverse reaction incidence related to clinically relevant age subgroups.
In the paragraphs that follow, the frequencies of less commonly reported adverse clinical reactions are presented. Because the reports include reactions observed in open and uncontrolled premarketing studies (n= 979), the role of COPAXONE in their causation cannot be reliably determined. Furthermore, variability associated with adverse reaction reporting, the terminology used to describe adverse reactions, etc., limit the value of the quantitative frequency estimates provided. Reaction frequencies are calculated as the number of patients who used COPAXONE and reported a reaction divided by the total number of patients exposed to COPAXONE. All reported reactions are included except those already listed in the previous table, those too general to be informative, and those not reasonably associated with the use of the drug. Reactions are further classified within body system categories and enumerated in order of decreasing frequency using the following definitions: Frequent adverse reactions are defined as those occurring in at least 1/100 patients and infrequent adverse reactions are those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1,000 patients.
Body as a Whole:
Frequent:Abscess
Infrequent: Injection site hematoma, injection site fibrosis, moon face, cellulitis, generalized edema, hernia, injection site abscess, serum sickness, suicide attempt, injection site hypertrophy, injection site melanosis, lipoma, and photosensitivity reaction.
Cardiovascular:
Frequent:Hypertension.
Infrequent:Hypotension, midsystolic click, systolic murmur, atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, fourth heart sound, postural hypotension, and varicose veins.
Digestive:
Infrequent: Dry mouth, stomatitis, burning sensation on tongue, cholecystitis, colitis, esophageal ulcer, esophagitis, gastrointestinal carcinoma, gum hemorrhage, hepatomegaly, increased appetite, melena, mouth ulceration, pancreas disorder, pancreatitis, rectal hemorrhage, tenesmus, tongue discoloration, and duodenal ulcer.
Endocrine:
Infrequent: Goiter, hyperthyroidism, and hypothyroidism.
Gastrointestinal:
Frequent:Bowel urgency, oral moniliasis, salivary gland enlargement, tooth caries, and ulcerative stomatitis.
Hemic and Lymphatic:
Infrequent: Leukopenia, anemia, cyanosis, eosinophilia, hematemesis, lymphedema, pancytopenia, and splenomegaly.
Metabolic and Nutritional:
Infrequent: Weight loss, alcohol intolerance, Cushing's syndrome, gout, abnormal healing, and xanthoma.
Musculoskeletal:
Infrequent: Arthritis, muscle atrophy, bone pain, bursitis, kidney pain, muscle disorder, myopathy, osteomyelitis, tendon pain, and tenosynovitis.
Nervous:
Frequent: Abnormal dreams, emotional lability, and stupor.
Infrequent: Aphasia, ataxia, convulsion, circumoral paresthesia, depersonalization, hallucinations, hostility, hypokinesia, coma, concentration disorder, facial paralysis, decreased libido, manic reaction, memory impairment, myoclonus, neuralgia, paranoid reaction, paraplegia, psychotic depression, and transient stupor.
Respiratory:
Frequent: Hyperventilation and hay fever.
Infrequent: Asthma, pneumonia, epistaxis, hypoventilation, and voice alteration.
Skin and Appendages:
Frequent: Eczema, herpes zoster, pustular rash, skin atrophy, and warts.
Infrequent: Dry skin, skin hypertrophy, dermatitis, furunculosis, psoriasis, angioedema, contact dermatitis, erythema nodosum, fungal dermatitis, maculopapular rash, pigmentation, benign skin neoplasm, skin carcinoma, skin striae, and vesiculobullous rash.
Special Senses:
Frequent: Visual field defect.
Infrequent: Dry eyes, otitis externa, ptosis, cataract, corneal ulcer, mydriasis, optic neuritis, photophobia, and taste loss.
Urogenital:
Frequent: Amenorrhea, hematuria, impotence, menorrhagia, suspicious papanicolaou smear, urinary frequency, and vaginal hemorrhage.
Infrequent: Vaginitis, flank pain (kidney), abortion, breast engorgement, breast enlargement, carcinoma in situ cervix, fibrocystic breast, kidney calculus, nocturia, ovarian cyst, priapism, pyelonephritis, abnormal sexual function, and urethritis.
Reports of adverse events occurring under treatment with COPAXONE not mentioned above that have been received since market introduction and may or may not have causal relationship to COPAXONE are listed below. Because these events are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.
Body as a Whole: sepsis; SLE syndrome; hydrocephalus; enlarged abdomen; injection site hypersensitivity; allergic reaction; anaphylactoid reaction
Cardiovascular System: thrombosis; peripheral vascular disease; pericardial effusion; myocardial infarct; deep thrombophlebitis; coronary occlusion; congestive heart failure; cardiomyopathy; cardiomegaly; arrhythmia; angina pectoris
Digestive System: tongue edema; stomach ulcer; hemorrhage; liver function abnormality; liver damage; hepatitis; eructation; cirrhosis of the liver; cholelithiasis
Hemic and Lymphatic System: thrombocytopenia; lymphoma-like reaction; acute leukemia
Metabolic and Nutritional Disorders: hypercholesterolemia
Musculoskeletal System: rheumatoid arthritis; generalized spasm
Nervous System: myelitis; meningitis; CNS neoplasm; cerebrovascular accident; brain edema; abnormal dreams; aphasia; convulsion; neuralgia
Respiratory System: pulmonary embolus; pleural effusion; carcinoma of lung; hay fever
Special Senses: glaucoma; blindness; visual field defect
Urogenital System: urogenital neoplasm; urine abnormality; ovarian carcinoma; nephrosis; kidney failure; breast carcinoma; bladder carcinoma; urinary frequency
Interactions between COPAXONE and other drugs have not been fully evaluated. Results from existing clinical trials do not suggest any significant interactions of COPAXONE with therapies commonly used in MS patients, including the concurrent use of corticosteroids for up to 28 days. COPAXONE has not been formally evaluated in combination with interferon beta.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
Approximately 16% of patients exposed to COPAXONE in the 5 placebo-controlled trials compared to 4% of those on placebo experienced a constellation of symptoms immediately after injection that included at least two of the following: flushing, chest pain, palpitations, anxiety, dyspnea, constriction of the throat, and urticaria. The symptoms were generally transient and self-limited and did not require treatment. In general, these symptoms have their onset several months after the initiation of treatment, although they may occur earlier, and a given patient may experience one or several episodes of these symptoms. Whether or not any of these symptoms actually represent a specific syndrome is uncertain. During the postmarketing period, there have been reports of patients with similar symptoms who received emergency medical care.
Whether an immunologic or nonimmunologic mechanism mediates these episodes, or whether several similar episodes seen in a given patient have identical mechanisms, is unknown.
Approximately 13% of COPAXONE patients in the 5 placebo-controlled studies compared to 6% of placebo patients experienced at least one episode of what was described as transient chest pain. While some of these episodes occurred in the context of the Immediate Post-Injection Reaction described above, many did not. The temporal relationship of this chest pain to an injection of COPAXONE was not always known. The pain was transient (usually lasting only a few minutes), often unassociated with other symptoms, and appeared to have no clinical sequelae. Some patients experienced more than one such episode, and episodes usually began at least 1 month after the initiation of treatment. The pathogenesis of this symptom is unknown.
At injection sites, localized lipoatrophy and, rarely, injection site skin necrosis have been reported during the postmarketing experience. Lipoatrophy may occur at various times after treatment onset (sometimes after several months) and is thought to be permanent. There is no known therapy for lipoatrophy. To assist in possibly minimizing these events, the patient should be advised to follow proper injection technique and to rotate injection sites daily.
Because COPAXONE can modify immune response, it may interfere with immune functions. For example, treatment with COPAXONE may interfere with the recognition of foreign antigens in a way that would undermine the body's tumor surveillance and its defenses against infection. There is no evidence that COPAXONE does this, but there has not been a systematic evaluation of this risk. Because COPAXONE is an antigenic material, it is possible that its use may lead to the induction of host responses that are untoward, but systematic surveillance for these effects has not been undertaken.
Although COPAXONE is intended to minimize the autoimmune response to myelin, there is the possibility that continued alteration of cellular immunity due to chronic treatment with COPAXONE may result in untoward effects.
Glatiramer acetate-reactive antibodies are formed in most patients exposed to daily treatment with the recommended dose. Studies in both the rat and monkey have suggested that immune complexes are deposited in the renal glomeruli. Furthermore, in a controlled trial of 125 RRMS patients given COPAXONE, 20 mg, subcutaneously every day for 2 years, serum IgG levels reached at least 3 times baseline values in 80% of patients by 3 months of initiation of treatment. By 12 months of treatment, however, 30% of patients still had IgG levels at least 3 times baseline values, and 90% had levels above baseline by 12 months. The antibodies are exclusively of the lgG subtype and predominantly of the lgG-1 subtype. No lgE type antibodies could be detected in any of the 94 sera tested; nevertheless, anaphylaxis can be associated with the administration of most any foreign substance, and therefore, this risk cannot be excluded.
[See FDA-Approved Patient Labeling]
Instruct patients that if they are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking COPAXONE they should inform their physician.
Advise patients that COPAXONE may cause various symptoms after injection, include flushing, chest pain, palpitations, anxiety, dyspnea, constriction of the throat, and urticaria. These symptoms are generally transient and self-limited and do not require specific treatment. Inform patients that these symptoms may occur early or may have their onset several months after the initiation of treatment. A patient may experience one or several episodes of these symptoms.
Advise patients that they may experience transient chest pain either as part of the Immediate Post-Injection Reaction or in isolation. Inform patients that the pain should be transient (usually only lasting a few minutes). Some patients may experience more than one such episode, usually beginning at least one month after the initiation of treatment. Patient should be advised to seek medical attention if they experience chest pain of unusual duration or intensity.
Advise patients that localized lipoatrophy, and rarely, injection site necrosis may occur at injections sites. Instruct patients to follow proper injection technique and to rotate injection areas and sites on a daily basis.
Instruct patients to read the COPAXONE Patient Information leaflet carefully. Caution patients to use aseptic technique. The first injection should be performed under the supervision of a health care professional. Instruct patients to rotate injection areas and sites on a daily basis. Caution patients against the reuse of needles or syringes. Instruct patients in safe disposal procedures.
Advise patients that the recommended storage condition for COPAXONE is refrigeration (36-46°F /2-8°C), although COPAXONE can be stored at room temperature (59-86°F /15-30°C) for up to one month. COPAXONE should not be exposed to higher temperatures or intense light.
In a 2-year carcinogenicity study, mice were administered up to 60 mg/kg/day glatiramer acetate by subcutaneous injection (up to 15 times the human therapeutic dose of 20 mg/day on a mg/m2 basis). No increase in systemic neoplasms was observed. In males receiving the 60-mg/kg/day dose, there was an increased incidence of fibrosarcomas at the injection sites. These sarcomas were associated with skin damage precipitated by repetitive injections of an irritant over a limited skin area.
In a 2-year carcinogenicity study, rats were administered up to 30 mg/kg/day glatiramer acetate by subcutaneous injection (up to 15 times the human therapeutic dose on a mg/m2 basis). No increase in neoplasms was observed.
Glatiramer acetate was not mutagenic in in vitro (Ames test, mouse lymphoma tk) assays. Glatiramer acetate was clastogenic in two separate in vitro chromosomal aberration assays in cultured human lymphocytes but not clastogenic in an in vivo mouse bone marrow micronucleus assay.
When glatiramer acetate was administered by subcutaneous injection prior to and during mating (males and females) and throughout gestation and lactation (females) at doses up to 36 mg/kg/day (18 times the human therapeutic dose on a mg/m2 basis) no adverse effects were observed on reproductive or developmental parameters.
Administration of glatiramer acetate by subcutaneous injection to pregnant rats and rabbits resulted in no adverse effects on offspring development. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Because animal reproduction studies are not always predictive of human response, COPAXONE should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
In rats or rabbits receiving glatiramer acetate by subcutaneous injection during the period of organogenesis, no adverse effects on embryo-fetal development were observed at doses up to 37.5 mg/kg/day (18 and 36 times, respectively, the therapeutic human dose of 20 mg/day on a mg/m2 basis). In rats receiving subcutaneous glatiramer acetate at doses of up to 36 mg/kg from day 15 of pregnancy throughout lactation, no significant effects on delivery or on offspring growth and development were observed.
The effects of COPAXONE on labor and delivery in pregnant women are unknown.
It is not known if glatiramer acetate is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when COPAXONE is administered to a nursing woman.
The safety and effectiveness of COPAXONE have not been established in patients under 18 years of age.
COPAXONE has not been studied in elderly patients.
The pharmacokinetics of glatiramer acetate in patients with impaired renal function have not been determined.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
COPAXONE is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to glatiramer acetate or mannitol.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
The mechanism(s) by which glatiramer acetate exerts its effects in patients with MS are not fully understood. However, glatiramer acetate is thought to act by modifying immune processes that are believed to be responsible for the pathogenesis of MS. This hypothesis is supported by findings of studies that have been carried out to explore the pathogenesis of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, a condition induced in animals through immunization against central nervous system derived material containing myelin and often used as an experimental animal model of MS. Studies in animals and in vitro systems suggest that upon its administration, glatiramer acetate-specific suppressor T-cells are induced and activated in the periphery.
Because glatiramer acetate can modify immune functions, concerns exist about its potential to alter naturally occurring immune responses. There is no evidence that glatiramer acetate does this, but this has not been systematically evaluated [see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS].
Results obtained in pharmacokinetic studies performed in humans (healthy volunteers) and animals support that a substantial fraction of the therapeutic dose delivered to patients subcutaneously is hydrolyzed locally. Larger fragments of glatiramer acetate can be recognized by glatiramer acetate-reactive antibodies. Some fraction of the injected material, either intact or partially hydrolyzed, is presumed to enter the lymphatic circulation, enabling it to reach regional lymph nodes, and some may enter the systemic circulation intact.
Evidence supporting the effectiveness of COPAXONE in decreasing the frequency of relapses derives from 3 placebo-controlled trials, all of which used a COPAXONE dose of 20 mg/day.
Study 1 was performed at a single center. Fifty patients were enrolled and randomized to receive daily doses of either COPAXONE, 20 mg subcutaneously, or placebo (COPAXONE: n=25; placebo: n=25). Patients were diagnosed with RRMS by standard criteria, and had had at least 2 exacerbations during the 2 years immediately preceding enrollment. Patients were ambulatory, as evidenced by a score of no more than 6 on the Kurtzke Disability Scale Score (DSS), a standard scale ranging from 0–Normal to 10–Death due to MS. A score of 6 is defined as one at which a patient is still ambulatory with assistance; a score of 7 means the patient must use a wheelchair.
Patients were examined every 3 months for 2 years, as well as within several days of a presumed exacerbation. To confirm an exacerbation, a blinded neurologist had to document objective neurologic signs, as well as document the existence of other criteria (e.g., the persistence of the neurological signs for at least 48 hours).
The protocol-specified primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients in each treatment group who remained exacerbation free for the 2 years of the trial, but two other important outcomes were also specified as endpoints: the frequency of attacks during the trial, and the change in the number of attacks compared with the number which occurred during the previous 2 years.
Table 2 presents the values of the three outcomes described above, as well as several protocol specified secondary measures. These values are based on the intent-to-treat population (i.e., all patients who received at least 1 dose of treatment and who had at least 1 on-treatment assessment):
Table 2: Study 1 Efficacy Results
| COPAXONE (N=25) |
Placebo (N=25) |
P-Value | |
| % Relapse-Free Patients | 14/25 (56%) | 7/25 (28%) | 0.085 |
| Mean Relapse Frequency | 0.6/2 years | 2.4/2 years | 0.005 |
| Reduction in Relapse Rate Compared to Prestudy | 3.2 | 1.6 | 0.025 |
| Median Time to First Relapse (days) | > 700 | 150 | 0.03 |
| % of Progression-Free* Patients | 20/25 (80%) | 13/25 (52%) | 0.07 |
| *Progression was defined as an increase of at least 1 point on the DSS, persisting for at least 3 consecutive months. | |||
Study 2 was a multicenter trial of similar design which was performed in 11 US centers. A total of 251 patients (COPAXONE: n=125; placebo: n=126) were enrolled. The primary outcome measure was the Mean 2-Year Relapse Rate. Table 3 presents the values of this outcome for the intent-to-treat population, as well as several secondary measures:
Table 3: Study 2 Efficacy Results
| COPAXONE (N=125) |
Placebo (N=126) |
P-Value | |
| Mean No. of Relapses | 1.19/2 years | 1.68 /2 years | 0.055 |
| % Relapse-Free Patients | 42/125 (34%) | 34/126 (27%) | 0.25 |
| Median Time to First Relapse (days) | 287 | 198 | 0.23 |
| % of Progression-Free Patients | 98/125 (78%) | 95/126 (75%) | 0.48 |
| Mean Change in DSS | -0.05 | +0.21 | 0.023 |
In both studies, COPAXONE exhibited a clear beneficial effect on relapse rate, and it is based on this evidence that COPAXONE is considered effective.
In Study 3, 481 patients who had recently (within 90 days) experienced an isolated demyelinating event and who had lesions typical of multiple sclerosis on brain MRI were randomized to receive either COPAXONE 20 mg/day (n=243) or placebo (n=238). The primary outcome measure was time to development of a second exacerbation. Patients were followed for up to three years or until they reached the primary endpoint. Secondary outcomes were brain MRI measures, including number of new T2 lesions and T2 lesion volume.
Time to development of a second exacerbation was significantly delayed in patients treated with COPAXONE compared to placebo (Hazard Ratio = 0.55; 95% confidence interval 0.40 to 0.77; Figure 1). The Kaplan-Meier estimates of the percentage of patients developing a relapse within 36 months were 42.9% in the placebo group and 24.7% in the COPAXONE group.
Figure 1: Time to Second Exacerbation
 |
Patients treated with COPAXONE demonstrated fewer new T2 lesions at the last observation (rate ratio 0.41; confidence interval 0.28 to 0.59; p < 0.0001). Additionally, baseline-adjusted T2 lesion volume at the last observation was lower for patients treated with COPAXONE (ratio of 0.89; confidence interval 0.84 to 0.94; p = 0.0001).
Study 4 was a multinational study in which MRI parameters were used both as primary and secondary endpoints. A total of 239 patients with RRMS (COPAXONE: n=119; and placebo: n=120) were randomized. Inclusion criteria were similar to those in the second study with the additional criterion that patients had to have at least one Gd-enhancing lesion on the screening MRI. The patients were treated in a double-blind manner for nine months, during which they underwent monthly MRI scanning. The primary endpoint for the double-blind phase was the total cumulative number of T1 Gd-enhancing lesions over the nine months. Table 4 summarizes the results for the primary outcome measure monitored during the trial for the intent-to-treat cohort.
Table 4: Study 4 MRI Results
| COPAXONE (N=119) |
Placebo (N=120) |
P-Value | |
| Medians of the Cumulative Number of T1 Gd-Enhancing Lesions | 11 | 17 | 0.0030 |
Figure 2 displays the results of the primary outcome on a monthly basis.
Figure 2: Median Cumulative Number of Gd-Enhancing Lesions
 |
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
Read this information carefully before you use COPAXONE. Read the information you get when you refill your COPAXONE prescriptions because there may be new information. This information does not take the place of your doctor's advice. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand some of this information or if you want to know more about this medicine.
What is COPAXONE?
COPAXONE (co-PAX-own) is a medicine you inject to treat Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Although COPAXONE is not a cure; patients treated with COPAXONE have fewer relapses.
Who should not use COPAXONE?
What are the possible side effects of COPAXONE?
These are not all the possible side effects of COPAXONE. For a complete list, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Tell your doctor about any side effects you have while taking COPAXONE.
Information for pregnant and nursing women
How should I use COPAXONE?
How do I inject COPAXONE?
There are 3 basic steps for injecting COPAXONE prefilled syringes:
Step 1: Gather the materials
Step 2: Choose the injection site
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Step 3: Give yourself the injection
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What is the proper use and disposal of prefilled syringes?
Each prefilled syringe should be used for only 1 injection. Throw away all used prefilled syringes in a hard-walled plastic container, such as an empty liquid laundry detergent bottle. Keep the container closed tightly and out of the reach of children. When the container is full, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse about proper disposal, as laws vary from state to state.
How should I store COPAXONE prefilled syringes?
Keep the COPAXONE prefilled syringe carton in the refrigerator, out of the reach of children.
The COPAXONE package should be refrigerated at 36-46°F (2-8°C). You can store it at room temperature, 59-86°F (15-30°C), for up to one month. Do not store
COPAXONE at room temperature for longer than one month. Do not freeze COPAXONE. If a COPAXONE prefilled syringe freezes, throw it away in a proper container.
COPAXONE is light sensitive. Protect it from light when not injecting. Do not use the prefilled syringe if the solution contains particles or is cloudy.
General advice about prescription medicines
Medicines are sometimes prescribed for conditions that are not mentioned in patient information leaflets. Do not use COPAXONE for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give COPAXONE to other people, even if they have the same condition you have. It may harm them.
This leaflet summarizes the most important information about COPAXONE. If you would like more information, talk with your doctor. You can ask your pharmacist or doctor for information about COPAXONE that is written for health professionals. Also, you can call Shared Solutions® for any questions about COPAXONE and its use. The phone number for Shared Solutions® is 1-800-887-8100.
Last updated on RxList: 4/15/2009
IMPORTANT NOTE: This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your health care professional. Always seek the advice of your health care professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your health care professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you.
GLATIRAMER - INJECTION
(glah-TEE-ruh-mer)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Copaxone
USES: This medication is used to treat a type of multiple sclerosis that occurs when symptoms appear in cycles of worsening and improvement (relapsing/remitting multiple sclerosis-MS). It is a protein that is thought to work by preventing your immune system from attacking the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. This effect can decrease the number of periods of disease worsening (relapses) and prevent or delay disability. This drug is known as an immunomodulator. It is not a cure for MS.
HOW TO USE: This medicine comes with a Patient Information Leaflet. Read it carefully. Ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist any questions that you may have about this medicine.
This drug is administered by injection under the skin. Learn all preparation and usage instructions in the product package. Your health care professional will teach you how to use this medication. If any of the information is unclear, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Your doctor will usually have you give your first injection in the office.
Wash and dry your hands before injecting glatiramer. Before using, warm the drug if it has been refrigerated by keeping the syringe at room temperature for 20 minutes. Do not inject cold glatiramer because this can be painful. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Glatiramer is usually given at a dose of 20 milligrams once daily at the same time each day or as directed by your doctor.
Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the injection site daily to prevent problem areas under the skin. Keep track of your injections and do not reuse the same injection site for at least 1 week. Inject the medication under the skin of the hip, thigh, abdomen, buttock, or back of the upper arm. Do not inject into a vein. After pulling out the needle, apply gentle pressure on the injection site. Do not rub the area. Discard any unused portion in the syringe after a single use. Do not save for later use.
Dosage is based on your condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day. Do not change your dose or stop using this medication without talking with your doctor.
Learn how to discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.
Immediately after injection, you may experience flushing, chest pain, fast heartbeat, anxiety, shortness of breath, or itching. This injection reaction usually starts to occur after you have used the drug for a few months but can occur after any injection. These symptoms disappear fairly quickly and usually do not require treatment. If these symptoms do not go away in a few minutes, seek immediate medical attention. Tell your doctor immediately about this reaction before your next injection. Ask your doctor if you should continue using this medication.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: dizziness/fainting, infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), mental/mood changes (e.g., depression), severe pain at the injection site, shakiness (tremor), swelling of the legs/feet (water retention), vision problems.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Contact your doctor for medical advice about side effects. The following numbers do not provide medical advice, but in the US you may report side effects to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) at 1-800-FDA-1088. In Canada, you may call Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using glatiramer, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to mannitol; or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., chest pain, heart attack).
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use.
Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US National Poison Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
NOTES: Do not share this medication, needles, or syringes with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Refrigerate the syringes in their carton between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C). Do not freeze. Do not use syringes that have been frozen. If refrigeration is not possible, the drug may be stored at room temperature at 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) for up to 1 week. Do not expose medication to strong light or high temperatures.
Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.
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