IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) is a microtubule inhibitor belonging to a class of antineoplastic agents, the epothilones and their analogs. The epothilones are isolated from the myxobacterium Sorangium cellulosum. Ixabepilone is a semisynthetic analog of epothilone B, a 16-membered polyketide macrolide, with a chemically modified lactam substitution for the naturally existing lactone.

The chemical name for ixabepilone is (1S,3S,7S,10R,11S,12S,16R)-7,11 dihydroxy-8,8,10,12,16-pentamethyl-3-[(1E)-1-methyl-2-(2-methyl-4-thiazolyl)ethenyl]-17-oxa-4-azabicyclo[14.1.0] heptadecane-5,9-dione, and it has a molecular weight of 506.7. Ixabepilone has the following structural formula:

IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) for injection is intended for intravenous infusion only after constitution with the supplied DILUENT and after further dilution with a specified infusion fluid [see Instructions for Preparation and IV Administration]. IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) for injection is supplied as a sterile, non-pyrogenic single-use vial providing 15 mg or 45 mg ixabepilone as a lyophilized white powder. The DILUENT for IXEMPRA is a sterile, non-pyrogenic solution of 52.8% (w/v) purified polyoxyethylated castor oil and 39.8% (w/v) dehydrated alcohol, USP. The IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) for injection and the DILUENT for IXEMPRA are co-packaged and supplied as IXEMPRA Kit.

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) is indicated in combination with capecitabine for the treatment of patients with metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer resistant to treatment with an anthracycline and a taxane, or whose cancer is taxane resistant and for whom further anthracycline therapy is contraindicated. Anthracycline resistance is defined as progression while on therapy or within 6 months in the adjuvant setting or 3 months in the metastatic setting. Taxane resistance is defined as progression while on therapy or within 12 months in the adjuvant setting or 4 months in the metastatic setting.

IXEMPRA is indicated as monotherapy for the treatment of metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer in patients whose tumors are resistant or refractory to anthracyclines, taxanes, and capecitabine.

General Dosing Information

The recommended dosage of IXEMPRA is 40 mg/m² administered intravenously over 3 hours every 3 weeks. Doses for patients with body surface area (BSA) greater than 2.2 m² should be calculated based on 2.2 m².

Dose Modification

Dose Adjustments During Treatment

Patients should be evaluated during treatment by periodic clinical observation and laboratory tests including complete blood cell counts. If toxicities are present, treatment should be delayed to allow recovery. Dosing adjustment guidelines for monotherapy and combination therapy are shown in Table 1. If toxicities recur, an additional 20% dose reduction should be made.

Table 1: Dose Adjustment Guidelines^a

IXEMPRA (Monotherapy or Combination Therapy)	IXEMPRA Dose Modification
Nonhematologic:
Grade 2 neuropathy (moderate) lasting ≥ 7 days	Decrease the dose by 20%
Grade 3 neuropathy (severe) lasting < 7 days	Decrease the dose by 20%
Grade 3 neuropathy (severe) lasting ≥ 7 days or disabling neuropathy	Discontinue treatment
Any grade 3 toxicity (severe) other than neuropathy	Decrease the dose by 20%
Transient grade 3 arthralgia/myalgia or fatigue Grade 3 hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia)	No change in dose of IXEMPRA
Any grade 4 toxicity (disabling)	Discontinue treatment
Hematologic
Neutrophil < 500 cells/mm3 for ≥ 7 days	Decrease the dose by 20%
Febrile neutropenia	Decrease the dose by 20%
Platelets < 25,000/mm3 or platelets < 50,000/mm3 with bleeding	Decrease the dose by 20%
CAPECITABINE (when used in combination with IXEMPRA)	Capecitabine Dose Modification
Nonhematologic:	Follow Capecitabine Label
Hematologic:
Platelets < 25,000/mm3 or < 50,000/mm3 with bleeding	Hold for concurrent diarrhea or stomatitis until platelet count > 50,000/mm3, then continue at same dose.
Neutrophils < 500 cells/mm3 for ≥ 7 days or febrile neutropenia	Hold for concurrent diarrhea or stomatitis until neutrophil count > 1,000 cells/mm3, then continue at same dose.
a Toxicities graded in accordance with National Cancer Institute (NCI) Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE v3.0).

Re-treatment Criteria: Dose adjustments at the start of a cycle should be based on nonhematologic toxicity or blood counts from the preceding cycle following the guidelines in Table 1. Patients should not begin a new cycle of treatment unless the neutrophil count is at least 1500 cells/mm³, the platelet count is at least 100,000 cells/mm³, and nonhematologic toxicities have improved to grade 1 (mild) or resolved.

Dose Adjustments in Special Populations - Hepatic Impairment

Combination Therapy

IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine is contraindicated in patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1 x ULN. Patients receiving combination treatment who have AST and ALT ≤ 2.5 x ULN and bilirubin ≤ 1 x ULN may receive the standard dose of ixabepilone (40 mg/m²) [see Boxed Warning, CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS, and Use in Specific Populations].

Monotherapy

Patients with hepatic impairment should be dosed with IXEMPRA based on the guidelines in Table 2. Patients with moderate hepatic impairment should be started at 20 mg/m², the dosage in subsequent cycles may be escalated up to, but not exceeding, 30 mg/m² if tolerated. Use in patients with AST or ALT > 10 x ULN or bilirubin > 3 x ULN is not recommended. Limited data are available for patients with baseline AST or ALT > 5 x ULN. Caution should be used when treating these patients [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Use in Specific Populations].

Table 2: Dose Adjustments for IXEMPRA as Monotherapy in Patients with Hepatic Impairment

	Transaminase Levels		Bilirubin Levelsa	IXEMPRAb (mg/m2)
Mild	AST and ALT ≤ 2.5 x ULN	and	≤ 1 x ULN	40
	AST and ALT ≤ 10 x ULN	and	≤ 1.5 x ULN	32
Moderate	AST and ALT ≤ 10 x ULN	and	> 1.5 x ULN - ≤ 3 x ULN	20 - 30
a Excluding patients whose total bilirubin is elevated due to Gilbert's disease. b Dosage recommendations are for first course of therapy; further decreases in subsequent courses should be based on individual tolerance.

Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors

The use of concomitant strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided (eg, ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin, atazanavir, nefazodone, saquinavir, telithromycin, ritonavir, amprenavir, indinavir, nelfinavir, delavirdine, or voriconazole). Grapefruit juice may also increase plasma concentrations of IXEMPRA and should be avoided. Based on pharmacokinetic studies, if a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor must be coadministered, a dose reduction to 20 mg/m² is predicted to adjust the ixabepilone AUC to the range observed without inhibitors and should be considered. If the strong inhibitor is discontinued, a washout period of approximately 1 week should be allowed before the IXEMPRA dose is adjusted upward to the indicated dose [see DRUG INTERACTIONS].

Premedication

To minimize the chance of occurrence of a hypersensitivity reaction, all patients must be premedicated approximately 1 hour before the infusion of IXEMPRA with:

• An H₁ antagonist (eg, diphenhydramine 50 mg orally or equivalent) and
• An H₂ antagonist (eg, ranitidine 150 - 300 mg orally or equivalent).

Patients who experienced a hypersensitivity reaction to IXEMPRA require premedication with corticosteroids (eg, dexamethasone 20 mg intravenously, 30 minutes before infusion or orally, 60 minutes before infusion) in addition to pretreatment with H1 and H2 antagonists.

Instructions for Preparation and IV Administration

IXEMPRA Kit contains two vials, a vial labeled IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) for injection which contains ixabepilone powder and a vial containing DILUENT for IXEMPRA. Only supplied DILUENT must be used for constituting IXEMPRA (ixabepilone) for injection. IXEMPRA Kit must be stored in a refrigerator at 2° C - 8° C (36° F - 46° F) in the original package to protect from light. Prior to constituting IXEMPRA for injection, the Kit should be removed from the refrigerator and allowed to stand at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes. When the vials are first removed from the refrigerator, a white precipitate may be observed in the DILUENT vial. This precipitate will dissolve to form a clear solution once the DILUENT warms to room temperature. To allow for withdrawal losses, the vial labeled as 15 mg IXEMPRA for injection contains 16 mg of ixabepilone and the vial labeled as 45 mg IXEMPRA for injection contains 47 mg of ixabepilone. The 15-mg IXEMPRA Kit is supplied with a vial providing 8 mL of the DILUENT and the 45-mg IXEMPRA Kit is supplied with a vial providing 23.5 mL of the DILUENT. After constituting with the DILUENT, the concentration of ixabepilone is 2 mg/mL.

Please refer to Preparation and Handling Precautions [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION] before preparation.

A. To constitute:

1. With a suitable syringe, aseptically withdraw the DILUENT and slowly inject it into the IXEMPRA for injection vial. The 15-mg IXEMPRA is constituted with 8 mL of DILUENT and the 45-mg IXEMPRA is constituted with 23.5 mL of DILUENT.
2. Gently swirl and invert the vial until the powder in IXEMPRA is completely dissolved.

B. To dilute:

Before administration, the constituted solution must be further diluted with one of the specified infusion fluids listed below. The IXEMPRA infusion must be prepared in a DEHP [di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate] free bag.

The following infusion fluids have been qualified for use in the dilution of IXEMPRA:

• Lactated Ringer's Injection, USP
• 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (pH adjusted with Sodium Bicarbonate Injection, USP)
  • When using a 250 mL or a 500 mL bag of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection to prepare the infusion, the pH must be adjusted to a pH between 6.0 and 9.0 by adding 2 mEq (ie, 2 mL of an 8.4% w/v solution or 4 mL of a 4.2% w/v solution) of Sodium Bicarbonate Injection, prior to the addition of the constituted IXEMPRA solution.
• PLASMA-LYTE A Injection pH 7.4®

For most doses, a 250 mL bag of infusion fluid is sufficient. However, it is necessary to check the final IXEMPRA infusion concentration of each dose based on the volume of infusion fluid to be used.

The final concentration for infusion must be between 0.2 mg/mL and 0.6 mg/mL. To calculate the final infusion concentration, use the following formulas:

Total Infusion Volume = mL of Constituted Solution + mL of infusion fluid

Final Infusion Concentration = Dose of IXEMPRA (mg)/Total Infusion Volume (mL)

1. Aseptically, withdraw the appropriate volume of constituted solution containing 2 mg of ixabepilone per mL.
2. Aseptically, transfer to an intravenous (IV) bag containing an appropriate volume of infusion fluid to achieve the final desired concentration of IXEMPRA.
3. Thoroughly mix the infusion bag by manual rotation.

The infusion solution must be administered through an appropriate in-line filter with a microporous membrane of 0.2 to 1.2 microns. DEHP-free infusion containers and administration sets must be used. Any remaining solution should be discarded according to institutional procedures for antineoplastics.

Stability

After constituting IXEMPRA, the constituted solution should be further diluted with infusion fluid as soon as possible, but may be stored in the vial (not the syringe) for a maximum of 1 hour at room temperature and room light. Once diluted with infusion fluid, the solution is stable at room temperature and room light for a maximum of 6 hours. Administration of diluted IXEMPRA must be completed within this 6-hour period. The infusion fluids previously mentioned are specified because their pH is in the range of 6.0 to 9.0, which is required to maintain IXEMPRA stability. Other infusion fluids should not be used with IXEMPRA.

Preparation and Handling Precautions

Procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastic drugs [see References] should be followed. To minimize the risk of dermal exposure, impervious gloves should be worn when handling vials containing IXEMPRA, regardless of the setting, including unpacking and inspection, transport within a facility, and dose preparation and administration.

Dosage Forms And Strengths

IXEMPRA for injection, 15 mg supplied with DILUENT for IXEMPRA, 8 mL. IXEMPRA for injection, 45 mg supplied with DILUENT for IXEMPRA, 23.5 mL.

IXEMPRA is supplied as a Kit containing one vial of IXEMPRA® (ixabepilone) for injection and one vial of DILUENT for IXEMPRA.

NDC 0015-1910-12	IXEMPRA® Kit containing one vial of IXEMPRA® (ixabepilone) for injection, 15 mg and one vial of DILUENT for IXEMPRA, 8 mL
NDC 0015-1911-13	IXEMPRA® Kit containing one vial of IXEMPRA® (ixabepilone) for injection, 45 mg and one vial of DILUENT for IXEMPRA, 23.5 mL

IXEMPRA Kit must be stored in a refrigerator at 2° C to 8° C (36° F to 46° F). Retain in original package until time of use to protect from light.

Procedures for proper handling and disposal of antineoplastic drugs [see References] should be followed. To minimize the risk of dermal exposure, impervious gloves should be worn when handling vials containing IXEMPRA, regardless of the setting, including unpacking and inspection, transport within a facility, and dose preparation and administration.

REFERENCES

1. Preventing Occupational Exposures to Antineoplastic and Other Hazardous Drugs in Health Care Settings. NIOSH Alert 2004-165.

2. OSHA Technical Manual, TED 1-0.15A, Section VI: Chapter 2. Controlling Occupational Exposure to Hazardous Drugs. OSHA, 1999. http://www.osha.gov/dts/osta/otm/otm_vi/otm_vi_2.html

3. American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. ASHP guidelines on handling hazardous drugs. Am J Health-Syst Pharm. 2006;63:1172-1193.

4. Polovich, M., White, J. M., & Kelleher, L.O. (eds.) 2005. Chemotherapy and biotherapy guidelines and recommendations for practice (2nd. ed.) Pittsburgh, PA: Oncology Nursing Society.

IXEMPRA® (ixabepilone) for injection Manufactured by: Baxter Oncology GmbH, 33790 Halle/Westfalen, Germany. DILUENT for IXEMPRA Manufactured by: Baxter Oncology GmbH, 33790 Halle/Westfalen, Germany. Distributed by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Princeton, NJ 08543 USA. Rev October 2009

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections.

• Peripheral neuropathy [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Myelosuppression [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]
• Hypersensitivity reactions [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]

Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, the adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in other clinical trials and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice.

Unless otherwise specified, assessment of adverse reactions is based on one randomized study (Study 046) and one single-arm study (Study 081). In Study 046, 369 patients with metastatic breast cancer were treated with IXEMPRA 40 mg/m² administered intravenously over 3 hours every 21 days, combined with capecitabine 1000 mg/m² twice daily for 2 weeks followed by a 1-week rest period. Patients treated with capecitabine as monotherapy (n=368) in this study received 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 2 weeks every 21 days. In Study 081, 126 patients with metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer were treated with IXEMPRA 40 mg/m² administered intravenously over 3 hours every 3 weeks.

The most common adverse reactions ( ≥ 20%) reported by patients receiving IXEMPRA were peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue/asthenia, myalgia/arthralgia, alopecia, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis/mucositis, diarrhea, and musculoskeletal pain. The following additional reactions occurred in ≥ 20% in combination treatment: palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (hand-foot) syndrome, anorexia, abdominal pain nail disorder, and constipation. The most common hematologic abnormalities ( > 40%) include neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia.

Table 4 presents nonhematologic adverse reactions reported in 5% or more of patients. Hematologic abnormalities are presented separately in Table 5.

Table 4: Nonhematologic Drug-related Adverse Reactions Occurring in at Least 5% of Patients with Metastatic or Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Treated with IXEMPRA

System Organ Classa/ Preferred Term	Study 046				Study 081
	IXEMPRA with capecitabine n=369		Capecitabine n=368		IXEMPRA monotherapy n=126
	Total (%)	Grade 3/4 (%)	Total (%)	Grade 3/4 (%)	Total (%)	Grade 3/4 (%)
Infections and Infestations
Upper respiratory tract infectionb	4	0	3	0	6	0
Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders
Febrile neutropenia	5	4c	1	1d	3	3d
Immune System Disorders
Hypersensitivityb	2	1d	0	0	5	1d
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
Anorexiab	34	3d	15	1d	19	2d
Dehydrationb	5	2	2	< 1d	2	1d
Psychiatric
Insomniab	9	< 1d	2	0	5	0
Nervous System Disorders
Peripheral neuropathy Sensory neuropathyb,e	65	21	16	0	62	14
Motor neuropathyb	16	5d	< 1	0	10	1d
Headache	8	< 1d	3	0	11	0
Taste disorderb	12	0	4	0	6	0
Dizziness	8	1d	5	1d	7	0
Eye Disorders
Lacrimation increased	5	0	4	< 1d	4	0
Vascular Disorders
Hot flushb	5	0	2	0	6	0
Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders
Dyspneab	7	1	4	1	9	1d
Coughb	6	0	2	0	2	0
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Nausea	53	3d	40	2d	42	2d
Vomitingb	39	4d	24	2	29	1d
Stomatitis/mucositisb	31	4	20	3d	29	6
Diarrheab	44	6d	39	9	22	1d
Constipation	22	0	6	< 1d	16	2d
Abdominal painb	24	2d	14	1d	13	2d
Gastroesophageal reflux diseaseb	7	1d	8	0	6	0
Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders
Alopeciab	31	0	3	0	48	0
Skin rashb	17	1d	7	0	9	2d
Nail disorderb	24	2d	10	< 1d	9	0
Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndromeb,f	64	18d	63	17d	8	2d
Pruritus	5	0	2	0	6	1d
Skin exfoliationb	5	< 1d	3	0	2	0
Skin hyperpigmentationb	11	0	14	0	2	0
Musculoskeletal, Connective Tissue, and Bone Disorders
Myalgia/arthralgiab	39	8d	5	< 1d	49	8d
Musculoskeletal painb	23	2d	5	0	20	3d
General Disorders and Administrative Site Conditions
Fatigue/astheniab	60	16	29	4	56	13
Edemab	8	0	5	< 1d	9	1d
Pyrexia	10	1d	4	0	8	1d
Painb	9	1d	2	0	8	3d
Chest painb	4	1d	< 1	0	5	1d
Investigations
Weight decreased	11	0	3	0	6	0
a System organ class presented as outlined in Guidelines for Preparing Core Clinical Safety Information on Drugs by the Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences (CIOMS). b A composite of multiple MedDRA Preferred Terms. c NCI CTC grading for febrile neutropenia ranges from Grade 3 to 5. Three patients (1%) experienced Grade 5 (fatal) febrile neutropenia. Other neutropenia-related deaths (9) occurred in the absence of reported febrile neutropenia [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. d No grade 4 reports. e Peripheral sensory neuropathy (graded with the NCI CTC scale) was defined as the occurrence of any of the following: areflexia, burning sensation, dysesthesia, hyperesthesia, hypoesthesia, hyporeflexia, neuralgia, neuritis, neuropathy, neuropathy peripheral, neurotoxicity, painful response to normal stimuli, paresthesia, pallanesthesia, peripheral sensory neuropathy, polyneuropathy, polyneuropathy toxic and sensorimotor disorder. Peripheral motor neuropathy was defined as the occurrence of any of the following: multifocal motor neuropathy, neuromuscular toxicity, peripheral motor neuropathy, and peripheral sensorimotor neuropathy. f Palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia (hand-foot syndrome) was graded on a 1-3 severity scale in Study 046.

Table 5: Hematologic Abnormalities in Patients with Metastatic or Locally Advanced Breast Cancer Treated with IXEMPRA

Hematology Parameter	Study 046				Study 081
	IXEMPRA with capecitabine n=369		Capecitabine n=368		IXEMPRA monotherapy n=126
	Grade 3 (%)	Grade 4 (%)	Grade 3 (%)	Grade 4 (%)	Grade 3 (%)	Grade 4 (%)
Neutropeniaa	32	36	9	2	31	23
Leukopenia (WBC)	41	16	5	1	36	13
Anemia (Hgb)	8	2	4	1	6	2
Thrombocytopenia	5	3	2	2	5	2
a G-CSF (granulocyte colony stimulating factor) or GM-CSF (granulocyte macrophage stimulating factor) was used in 20% and 17% of patients who received IXEMPRA in Study 046 and Study 081, respectively.

The following serious adverse reactions were also reported in 1323 patients treated with IXEMPRA as monotherapy or in combination with other therapies in Phase 2 and 3 studies.

Infections and Infestations: sepsis, pneumonia, infection, neutropenic infection, urinary tract infection, bacterial infection, enterocolitis, laryngitis, lower respiratory tract infection

Blood and Lymphatic System Disorders: coagulopathy, lymphopenia

Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders: hyponatremia, metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, hypovolemia

Nervous System Disorders: cognitive disorder, syncope, cerebral hemorrhage, abnormal coordination, lethargy

Cardiac Disorders: myocardial infarction, supraventricular arrhythmia, left ventricular dysfunction, angina pectoris, atrial flutter, cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia

Vascular Disorders: hypotension, thrombosis, embolism, hemorrhage, hypovolemic shock, vasculitis

Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders: pneumonitis, hypoxia, respiratory failure, acute pulmonary edema, dysphonia, pharyngolaryngeal pain

Gastrointestinal Disorders: ileus, colitis, impaired gastric emptying, esophagitis, dysphagia, gastritis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage

Hepatobiliary Disorders: acute hepatic failure, jaundice

Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders: erythema multiforme

Musculoskeletal, Connective Tissue Disorders, and Bone Disorders: muscular weakness, muscle spasms, trismus

Renal and Urinary Disorders: nephrolithiasis, renal failure

General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions: chills

Investigations: increased transaminases, increased blood alkaline phosphatase, increased gamma-glutamyltransferase

Effect of Other Drugs on Ixabepilone

Drugs That May Increase Ixabepilone Plasma Concentrations

CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Co-administration of ixabepilone with ketoconazole, a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor, increased ixabepilone AUC by 79% compared to ixabepilone treatment alone. If alternative treatment cannot be administered, a dose adjustment should be considered. The effect of mild or moderate inhibitors (eg, erythromycin, fluconazole, or verapamil) on exposure to ixabepilone has not been studied. Therefore, caution should be used when administering mild or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors during treatment with IXEMPRA, and alternative therapeutic agents that do not inhibit CYP3A4 should be

considered. Patients receiving CYP3A4 inhibitors during treatment with IXEMPRA should be monitored closely for acute toxicities (eg, frequent monitoring of peripheral blood counts between cycles of IXEMPRA) [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Drugs That May Decrease Ixabepilone Plasma Concentrations

CYP3A4 Inducers: IXEMPRA is a CYP3A4 substrate. Strong CYP3A4 inducers (eg, dexamethasone, phenytoin, carbamazepine, rifampin, rifampicin, rifabutin, and phenobarbital) may decrease ixabepilone concentrations leading to subtherapeutic levels. Therefore, therapeutic agents with low enzyme induction potential should be considered for coadministration with IXEMPRA. St. John's Wort may decrease ixabepilone plasma concentrations unpredictably and should be avoided.

Effect of Ixabepilone on Other Drugs

Ixabepilone does not inhibit CYP enzymes at relevant clinical concentrations and is not expected to alter the plasma concentrations of other drugs [see CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY].

Capecitabine

In patients with cancer who received ixabepilone (40 mg/m²) in combination with capecitabine (1000 mg/m²), ixabepilone Cmax decreased by 19%, capecitabine Cmax decreased by 27%, and 5-fluorouracil AUC increased by 14%, as compared to ixabepilone or capecitabine administered separately. The interaction is not clinically significant given that the combination treatment is supported by efficacy data.

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

Included as part of the PRECAUTIONS section.

Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy was common (see Table 3). Patients treated with IXEMPRA should be monitored for symptoms of neuropathy, such as burning sensation, hyperesthesia, hypoesthesia, paresthesia, discomfort, or neuropathic pain. Neuropathy occurred early during treatment; ~75% of new onset or worsening neuropathy occurred during the first 3 cycles. Patients experiencing new or worsening symptoms may require a reduction or delay in the dose of IXEMPRA [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. In clinical studies, peripheral neuropathy was managed through dose reductions, dose delays, and treatment discontinuation. Neuropathy was the most frequent cause of treatment discontinuation due to drug toxicity. In Studies 046 and 081, 80% and 87%, respectively, of patients with peripheral neuropathy who received IXEMPRA had improvement or no worsening of their neuropathy following dose reduction. For patients with grade 3/4 neuropathy in Studies 046 and 081, 76% and 79%, respectively, had documented improvement to baseline or grade 1, twelve weeks after onset.

Table 3: Treatment-related Peripheral Neuropathy

	IXEMPRA with capecitabine Study 046	IXEMPRA as monotherapy Study 081
Peripheral neuropathy (all grades)a,b	67%	63%
Peripheral neuropathy (grades 3/4)a,b	23%	14%
Discontinuation due to neuropathy	21%	6%
Median number of cycles to onset of grade 3/4 neuropathy	4	4
Median time to improvement of grade 3/4 neuropathy to baseline or to grade 1	6.0 weeks	4.6 weeks
a Sensory and motor neuropathy combined. b 24% and 27 % of patients in 046 and 081, respectively, had preexisting neuropathy (grade 1).

A pooled analysis of 1540 cancer patients treated with IXEMPRA indicated that patients with diabetes mellitus or preexisting peripheral neuropathy may be at increased risk of severe neuropathy. Prior therapy with neurotoxic chemotherapy agents did not predict the development of neuropathy. Patients with moderate to severe neuropathy (grade 2 or greater) were excluded from studies with IXEMPRA. Caution should be used when treating patients with diabetes mellitus or preexisting peripheral neuropathy.

Myelosuppression

Myelosuppression is dose-dependent and primarily manifested as neutropenia. In clinical studies, grade 4 neutropenia ( < 500 cells/mm³) occurred in 36% of patients treated with IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine and 23% of patients treated with IXEMPRA monotherapy. Febrile neutropenia and infection with neutropenia were reported in 5% and 6% of patients treated with IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine, respectively, and 3% and 5% of patients treated with IXEMPRA as monotherapy, respectively. Neutropenia-related death occurred in 1.9% of 414 patients with normal hepatic function or mild hepatic impairment treated with IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine. The rate of neutropenia-related deaths was higher (29%, 5 out of 17) in patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1.5 x ULN [see Boxed Warning, CONTRAINDICATIONS]. Neutropenia-related death occurred in 0.4% of 240 patients treated with IXEMPRA as monotherapy. No neutropenia-related deaths were reported in 24 patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1.5 x ULN treated with IXEMPRA monotherapy. IXEMPRA must not be administered to patients with a neutrophil count < 1500 cells/mm³. To monitor for myelosuppression, frequent peripheral blood cell counts are recommended for all patients receiving IXEMPRA. Patients who experience severe neutropenia or thrombocytopenia should have their dose reduced [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with baseline AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1.5 x ULN experienced greater toxicity than patients with baseline AST or ALT ≤ 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin ≤ 1.5 x ULN when treated with IXEMPRA at 40 mg/m² in combination with capecitabine or as monotherapy in breast cancer studies. In combination with capecitabine, the overall frequency of grade 3/4 adverse reactions, febrile neutropenia, serious adverse reactions, and toxicity-related deaths was greater. With monotherapy, grade 4 neutropenia, febrile neutropenia, and serious adverse reactions were more frequent. The safety and pharmacokinetics of IXEMPRA as monotherapy were evaluated in a dose escalation study in 56 patients with varying degrees of hepatic impairment. Exposure was increased in patients with elevated AST or bilirubin [see Use in Specific Populations].

IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine is contraindicated in patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1 x ULN due to increased risk of toxicity- and neutropenia-related death [see Boxed Warning, CONTRAINDICATIONS]. Patients who are treated with IXEMPRA as monotherapy should receive a reduced dose depending on the degree of hepatic impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Use in patients with AST or ALT > 10 x ULN or bilirubin > 3 x ULN is not recommended. Limited data are available for patients with AST or ALT > 5 x ULN. Caution should be used when treating these patients [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Patients with a history of a severe hypersensitivity reaction to agents containing Cremophor® EL or its derivatives (eg, polyoxyethylated castor oil) should not be treated with IXEMPRA. All patients should be premedicated with an H1 and an H2 antagonist approximately 1 hour before IXEMPRA infusion and be observed for hypersensitivity reactions (eg, flushing, rash, dyspnea, and bronchospasm). In case of severe hypersensitivity reactions, infusion of IXEMPRA should be stopped and aggressive supportive treatment (eg, epinephrine, corticosteroids) started. Of the 1323 patients treated with IXEMPRA in clinical studies, 9 patients (1%) had experienced severe hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis). Three of the 9 patients were able to be retreated. Patients who experience a hypersensitivity reaction in one cycle of IXEMPRA must be premedicated in subsequent cycles with a corticosteroid in addition to the H₁ and H₂ antagonists, and extension of the infusion time should be considered [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and CONTRAINDICATIONS].

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category D.

IXEMPRA may cause fetal harm when administered to pregnant women. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies with IXEMPRA in pregnant women. Women should be advised not to become pregnant when taking IXEMPRA. If this drug is used during pregnancy, or if the patient becomes pregnant while taking this drug, the patient should be apprised of the potential hazard to the fetus.

Ixabepilone was studied for effects on embryo-fetal development in pregnant rats and rabbits given IV doses of 0.02, 0.08, and 0.3 mg/kg/day and 0.01, 0.03, 0.11, and 0.3 mg/kg/day, respectively. There were no teratogenic effects. In rats, an increase in resorptions and post-implantation loss and a decrease in the number of live fetuses and fetal weight was observed at the maternally toxic dose of 0.3 mg/kg/day (approximately one-tenth the human clinical exposure based on AUC). Abnormalities included a reduced ossification of caudal vertebrae, sternebrae, and metacarpals. In rabbits, ixabepilone caused maternal toxicity (death) and embryo-fetal toxicity (resorptions) at 0.3 mg/kg/day (approximately one-tenth the human clinical dose based on body surface area). No fetuses were available at this dose for evaluation.

Cardiac Adverse Reactions

The frequency of cardiac adverse reactions (myocardial ischemia and ventricular dysfunction) was higher in the IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine (1.9%) than in the capecitabine alone (0.3%) treatment group. Supraventricular arrhythmias were observed in the combination arm (0.5%) and not in the capecitabine alone arm. Caution should be exercised in patients with a history of cardiac disease. Discontinuation of IXEMPRA should be considered in patients who develop cardiac ischemia or impaired cardiac function.

Potential for Cognitive Impairment from Excipients

Since IXEMPRA contains dehydrated alcohol USP, consideration should be given to the possibility of central nervous system and other effects of alcohol [see DESCRIPTION].

Patient Counseling Information

[see FDA-Approved Patient Labeling]

Peripheral Neuropathy

Patients should be advised to report to their physician any numbness and tingling of the hands or feet [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Fever/Neutropenia

Patients should be instructed to call their physician if a fever of 100.5° F or greater or other evidence of potential infection such as chills, cough, or burning or pain on urination develops [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Hypersensitivity Reactions

Patients should be advised to call their physician if they experience urticaria, pruritus, rash, flushing, swelling, dyspnea, chest tightness or other hypersensitivity-related symptoms following an infusion of IXEMPRA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Pregnancy

Patients should be advised to use effective contraceptive measures to prevent pregnancy and to avoid nursing during treatment with IXEMPRA [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS and Use in Specific Populations].

Cardiac Adverse Reactions

Patients should be advised to report to their physician chest pain, difficulty breathing, palpitations or unusual weight gain [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Nonclinical Toxicology

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

Carcinogenicity studies with ixabepilone have not been conducted. Ixabepilone did not induce mutations in the microbial mutagenesis (Ames) assay and was not clastogenic in an in vitro cytogenetic assay using primary human lymphocytes. Ixabepilone was clastogenic (induction of micronuclei) in the in vivo rat micronucleus assay at doses ≥ 0.625 mg/kg/day.

There were no effects on male or female rat mating or fertility at doses up to 0.2 mg/kg/day in both males and females (approximately one-fifteenth the expected human clinical exposure based on AUC). The effect of ixabepilone on human fertility is unknown. However, when rats were given an IV infusion of ixabepilone during breeding and through the first 7 days of gestation, a significant increase in resorptions and pre- and post-implantation loss and a decrease in the number of corpora lutea was observed at 0.2 mg/kg/day. Testicular atrophy or degeneration was observed in 6-month rat and 9-month dog studies when ixabepilone was given every 21 days at intravenous doses of 6.7 mg/kg (40 mg/m²) in rats (approximately 2.1 times the expected clinical exposure based on AUC) and 0.5 and 0.75 mg/kg (10 and 15 mg/m²) in dogs (approximately 0.2 and 0.4 times the expected clinical exposure based on AUC).

Use In Specific Populations

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category D [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether ixabepilone is excreted into human milk. Following intravenous administration of radiolabeled ixabepilone to rats on days 7 to 9 postpartum, concentrations of radioactivity in milk were comparable with those in plasma and declined in parallel with the plasma concentrations. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from ixabepilone, a decision must be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue IXEMPRA taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.

Pediatric Use

Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.

Geriatric Use

Clinical studies of IXEMPRA did not include sufficient numbers of subjects aged sixty-five and over to determine whether they respond differently from younger subjects.

Forty-five of 431 patients treated with IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine were ≥ 65 years of age and 3 patients were ≥ 75. Overall, the incidence of grade 3/4 adverse reactions were higher in patients ≥ 65 years of age versus those < 65 years of age (82% versus 68%) including grade 3/4 stomatitis (9% versus 1%), diarrhea (9% versus 6%), palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome (27% versus 20%), peripheral neuropathy (24% versus 22%), febrile neutropenia (9% versus 3%), fatigue (16% versus 12%), and asthenia (11% versus 6%). Toxicity-related deaths occurred in 2 (4.7%) of 43 patients ≥ 65 years with normal baseline hepatic function or mild impairment.

Thirty-two of 240 breast cancer patients treated with IXEMPRA as monotherapy were ≥ 65 years of age and 6 patients were ≥ 75. No overall differences in safety were observed in these patients compared to those < 65 years of age.

Hepatic Impairment

IXEMPRA was evaluated in 56 patients with mild to severe hepatic impairment defined by bilirubin levels and AST levels. Compared to patients with normal hepatic function (n=17), the area under the curve (AUC_0-infinity) of ixabepilone increased by:

• 22% in patients with a) bilirubin > 1 – 1.5 x ULN or b) AST > ULN but bilirubin < 1.5 x ULN;
• 30% in patients with bilirubin > 1.5 – 3 x ULN and any AST level; and
• 81% in patients with bilirubin > 3 x ULN and any AST level.

Doses of 10 and 20 mg/m² as monotherapy were tolerated in 17 patients with severe hepatic impairment (bilirubin > 3 x ULN).

IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine must not be given to patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1 x ULN [see Boxed Warning, CONTRAINDICATIONS, and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS]. Dose reduction is recommended when administering IXEMPRA as monotherapy to patients with hepatic impairment [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION]. Because there is a need for dosage adjustment based upon hepatic function, assessment of hepatic function is recommended before initiation of IXEMPRA and periodically thereafter.

Renal Impairment

Ixabepilone is minimally excreted via the kidney. No controlled pharmacokinetic studies were conducted with IXEMPRA in patients with renal impairment. IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine has not been evaluated in patients with calculated creatinine clearance of < 50 mL/min. IXEMPRA as monotherapy has not been evaluated in patients with creatinine > 1.5 times ULN. In a population pharmacokinetic analysis of IXEMPRA as monotherapy, there was no meaningful effect of mild and moderate renal insufficiency (CrCL > 30 mL/min) on the pharmacokinetics of ixabepilone.

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

Experience with overdose of IXEMPRA is limited to isolated cases. The adverse reactions reported in these cases included peripheral neuropathy, fatigue, musculoskeletal pain/myalgia, and gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, anorexia, diarrhea, abdominal pain, stomatitis). The highest dose mistakenly received was 100 mg/m² (total dose 185 mg).

There is no known antidote for overdosage of IXEMPRA. In case of overdosage, the patient should be closely monitored and supportive treatment should be administered. Management of overdose should include supportive medical interventions to treat the presenting clinical manifestations.

IXEMPRA is contraindicated in patients with a history of a severe (CTC grade 3/4) hypersensitivity reaction to agents containing Cremophor® EL or its derivatives (eg, polyoxyethylated castor oil) [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

IXEMPRA is contraindicated in patients who have a neutrophil count < 1500 cells/mm³ or a platelet count < 100,000 cells/mm³ [see WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine is contraindicated in patients with AST or ALT > 2.5 x ULN or bilirubin > 1 x ULN [see Boxed Warning and WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS].

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

Mechanism of Action

Ixabepilone is a semi-synthetic analog of epothilone B. Ixabepilone binds directly to β-tubulin subunits on microtubules, leading to suppression of microtubule dynamics. Ixabepilone suppresses the dynamic instability of αβ-II and αβ-III microtubules. Ixabepilone possesses low in vitro susceptibility to multiple tumor resistance mechanisms including efflux transporters, such as MRP-1 and P-glycoprotein (P-gp). Ixabepilone blocks cells in the mitotic phase of the cell division cycle, leading to cell death.

Pharmacodynamics

In cancer patients, ixabepilone has a plasma concentration-dependent effect on tubulin dynamics in peripheral blood mononuclear cells that is observed as the formation of microtubule bundles. Ixabepilone has antitumor activity in vivo against multiple human tumor xenografts, including drug-resistant types that overexpress P-gp, MRP-1, and βIII tubulin isoforms, or harbor tubulin mutations. Ixabepilone is active in xenografts that are resistant to multiple agents including taxanes, anthracyclines, and vinca alkaloids. Ixabepilone demonstrated synergistic antitumor activity in combination with capecitabine in vivo. In addition to direct antitumor activity, ixabepilone has antiangiogenic activity.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption

Following administration of a single 40 mg/m² dose of IXEMPRA in patients with cancer, the mean Cmax was 252 ng/mL (coefficient of variation, CV 56%) and the mean AUC was 2143 ng•hr/mL (CV 48%). Typically Cmax occurred at the end of the 3 hour infusion. In cancer patients, the pharmacokinetics of ixabepilone were linear at doses of 15 to 57 mg/m².

Distribution

The mean volume of distribution of 40 mg/m² ixabepilone at steady-state was in excess of 1000 L. In vitro, the binding of ixabepilone to human serum proteins ranged from 67 to 77%, and the blood-to-plasma concentration ratios in human blood ranged from 0.65 to 0.85 over a concentration range of 50 to 5000 ng/mL.

Metabolism

Ixabepilone is extensively metabolized in the liver. In vitro studies indicated that the main route of oxidative metabolism of ixabepilone is via CYP3A4. More than 30 metabolites of ixabepilone are excreted into human urine and feces. No single metabolite accounted for more than 6% of the administered dose. The biotransformation products generated from ixabepilone by human liver microsomes were not active when tested for in vitro cytotoxicity against a human tumor cell line.

In vitro studies using human liver microsomes indicate that clinically relevant concentrations of ixabepilone do not inhibit CYP3A4, CYP1A2, CYP2A6, CYP2B6, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, or CYP2D6. Ixabepilone does not induce the activity or the corresponding mRNA levels of CYP1A2, CYP2B6, CYP2C9, or CYP3A4 in cultured human hepatocytes at clinically relevant concentrations. Therefore, it is unlikely that ixabepilone will affect the plasma levels of drugs that are substrates of CYP enzymes.

Elimination

Ixabepilone is eliminated primarily as metabolized drug. After an intravenous ¹⁴[C]-ixabepilone dose to patients, approximately 86% of the dose was eliminated within 7 days in feces (65% of the dose) and in urine (21% of the dose). Unchanged ixabepilone accounted for approximately 1.6% and 5.6% of the dose in feces and urine, respectively. Ixabepilone has a terminal elimination half-life of approximately 52 hours. No accumulation in plasma is expected for ixabepilone administered every 3 weeks.

Effects of Age, Gender, and Race

Based upon a population pharmacokinetic analysis in 676 cancer patients, gender, race, and age do not have meaningful effects on the pharmacokinetics of ixabepilone.

Animal Toxicology

Overdose

In rats, single intravenous doses of ixabepilone from 60 to 180 mg/m² (mean AUC values ≥ 8156 ng•h/mL) were associated with mortality occurring between 5 and 14 days after dosing, and toxicity was principally manifested in the gastrointestinal, hematopoietic (bone-marrow), lymphatic, peripheral-nervous, and male-reproductive systems. In dogs, a single intravenous dose of 100 mg/m² (mean AUC value of 6925 ng•h/mL) was markedly toxic, inducing severe gastrointestinal toxicity and death 3 days after dosing.

Clinical Studies

Combination Therapy

In an open-label, multicenter, multinational, randomized trial of 752 patients with metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer, the efficacy and safety of IXEMPRA (40 mg/m² every 3 weeks) in combination with capecitabine (at 1000 mg/m² twice daily for 2 weeks followed by 1 week rest) were assessed in comparison with capecitabine as monotherapy (at 1250 mg/m² twice daily for 2 weeks followed by 1 week rest). Patients were previously treated with anthracyclines and taxanes. Patients were required to have demonstrated tumor progression or resistance to taxanes and anthracyclines as follows:

• tumor progression within 3 months of the last anthracycline dose in the metastatic setting or recurrence within 6 months in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting, and
• tumor progression within 4 months of the last taxane dose in the metastatic setting or recurrence within 12 months in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting.

For anthracyclines, patients who received a minimum cumulative dose of 240 mg/m² of doxorubicin or 360 mg/m² of epirubicin were also eligible.

Sixty-seven percent of patients were White, 23% were Asian, and 3% were Black. Both arms were evenly matched with regards to race, age (median 53 years), baseline performance status (Karnofsky 70-100%), and receipt of prior adjuvant or neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (75%). Tumors were ER-positive in 47% of patients, ER-negative in 43%, HER2-positive in 15%, HER2-negative in 61%, and ER-negative, PR-negative, HER2-negative in 25%. The baseline disease characteristics and previous therapies for all patients (n=752) are shown in Table 6.

Table 6: Baseline Disease Characteristics and Previous Therapies

	IXEMPRA with capecitabine n=375	Capecitabine n=377
Site of disease
Visceral disease (liver or lung)	316 (84%)	315 (84%)
Liver	245 (65%)	228 (61%)
Lung	180 (48%)	174 (46%)
Lymph node	250 (67%)	249 (66%)
Bone	168 (45%)	162 (43%)
Skin/soft tissue	60 (16%)	62 (16%)
Number of prior chemotherapy regimens in metastatic settinga
0	27 (7%)	33 (9%)
1	179 (48%)	184 (49%)
2	152 (41%)	138 (37%)
≥ 3	17 (5%)	22 (6%)
Anthracycline resistanceb	164 (44%)	165 (44%)
Taxane Resistancec
Neoadjuvant/adjuvant setting	40 (11%)	44 (12%)
Metastatic setting	327 (87%)	319 (85%)
a For IXEMPRA plus capecitabine versus capecitabine only, prior treatment in the metastatic setting included cyclophosphamide (25% vs. 23%), fluorouracil (22% vs. 16%), vinorelbine (11% vs. 12%), gemcitabine (9% each arm), carboplatin (9% vs. 7%), liposomal doxorubicin (3% each arm), and cisplatin (2% vs. 3%). b Tumor progression within 3 months in the metastatic setting or recurrence within 6 months in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting. c 24% and 21% of patients had received 2 or more taxane-containing regimens in the combination and single agent treatment groups, respectively.

The patients in the combination treatment group received a median of 5 cycles of treatment and patients in the capecitabine monotherapy treatment group received a median of 4 cycles of treatment.

The primary endpoint of the study was progression-free survival (PFS) defined as time from randomization to radiologic progression as determined by Independent Radiologic Review (IRR), clinical progression of measurable skin lesions or death from any cause. Other study endpoints included objective tumor response based on Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST), time to response, response duration, and overall survival.

IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine resulted in a statistically significant improvement in PFS compared to capecitabine. The results of the study are presented in Table 7 and Figure 1.

Table 7: Efficacy of IXEMPRA in Combination with Capecitabine vs Capecitabine Alone – Intent-to-Treat Analysis

Efficacy Parameter	IXEMPRA with Capecitabine n=375	Capecitabine n=377
PFS
Number of eventsa	242	256
Median	5.7 months	4.1 months
(95% CI)	(4.8 - 6.7)	(3.1 - 4.3)
Hazard Ratiob (95% CI)	0.69 (0.58 - 0.83)
p-valuec (Log rank)	< 0.0001
Objective Tumor Response Rate (95% CI)	34.7% (29.9 - 39.7)	14.3% (10.9 - 18.3)
p-valuec (CMH)d	< 0.0001
Duration of Response, Median (95% CI)	6.4 months (5.6 - 7.1)	5.6 months (4.2 - 7.5)
a Patients were censored for PFS at the last date of tumor assessment prior to the start of subsequent therapy. In patients where independent review was not available PFS was censored at the randomization date. b For the hazard ratio, a value less than 1.00 favors combination treatment. c Stratified by visceral metastasis in liver/lung, prior chemotherapy in metastatic setting, and anthracycline resistance. d Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test

Figure 1: Progression-free Survival Kaplan Meier Curves

There was no statistically significant difference in overall survival between treatment arms in this study, as well as in a second similar study. In the study described above, the median overall survivals were 12.9 months (95% CI: 11.5, 14.2) in the combination therapy arm and 11.1 months (95% CI: 10.0, 12.5) in the capecitabine alone arm [Hazard Ratio 0.90 (95% CI: 0.77, 1.05), p-value=0.19].

In the second trial, comparing IXEMPRA in combination with capecitabine versus capecitabine alone, conducted in 1221 patients pretreated with an anthracycline and taxane, the median overall survivals were 16.4 months (95% CI: 15.0, 17.9) in the combination therapy arm and 15.6 months (95% CI: 13.9, 17.0), in the capecitabine alone arm [Hazard Ratio 0.90 (95% CI: 0.78, 1.03), p-value=0.12].

Monotherapy

IXEMPRA was evaluated as a single agent in a multicenter single-arm study in 126 women with metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer. The study enrolled patients whose tumors had recurred or had progressed following two or more chemotherapy regimens including an anthracycline, a taxane, and capecitabine. Patients who had received a minimum cumulative dose of 240 mg/m² of doxorubicin or 360 mg/m² of epirubicin were also eligible. Tumor progression or recurrence were prospectively defined as follows:

• Disease progression while on therapy in the metastatic setting (defined as progression while on treatment or within 8 weeks of last dose),
• Recurrence within 6 months of the last dose in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting (only for anthracycline and taxane),
• HER2-positive patients must also have progressed during or after discontinuation of trastuzumab.

In this study, the median age was 51 years (range, 30-78), and 79% were White, 5% Black, and 2% Asian, Karnofsky performance status was 70-100%, 88% had received two or more prior chemotherapy regimens for metastatic disease, and 86% had liver and/or lung metastases. Tumors were ER-positive in 48% of patients, ER-negative in 44%, HER2-positive in 7%, HER2-negative in 72%, and ER-negative, PR-negative, HER2-negative in 33%.

IXEMPRA was administered at a dose of 40 mg/m² intravenously over 3 hours every 3 weeks. Patients received a median of 4 cycles (range 1 to 18) of IXEMPRA therapy.

Objective tumor response was determined by independent radiologic and investigator review using RECIST. Efficacy results are presented in Table 8.

Table 8: Efficacy of IXEMPRA in Metastatic and Locally Advanced Breast Cancer

Endpoint	Result
Objective tumor response rate (95% CI)
IRR Assessmenta (n=113)	12.4% (6.9 - 19.9)
Investigator Assessment (n=126)	18.3% (11.9 - 26.1)
Time to responseb (n=14) Median, weeks (min - max)	6.1 (5 - 54.4)
Duration of responseb (n=14) Median, months (95% CI)	6.0 (5.0 - 7.6)
a All responses were partial. b As assessed by IRR.

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

IXEMPRA® Kit
(pronounced as ik-'sem-pra)
(ixabepilone) for Injection, for Intravenous Infusion Only

Read the Patient Information that comes with IXEMPRA before you start receiving it and before each injection. There may be new information. This leaflet does not take the place of talking with your healthcare provider about your medical condition or your treatment

What is the most important information I should know about IXEMPRA?

Your healthcare provider should do blood tests to check your liver function:

• before you begin receiving IXEMPRA
• as needed while you are receiving IXEMPRA

If blood tests show that you have liver problems, do not receive injections of IXEMPRA along with the medicine capecitabine. Taking these two medicines together if you have liver problems increases your chance of serious problems. These include: serious infection and death due to a very low white blood cell count (neutropenia).

What is IXEMPRA?

IXEMPRA is a cancer medicine. IXEMPRA is used alone or with another cancer medicine called capecitabine. IXEMPRA is used to treat breast cancer, when certain other medicines have not worked or no longer work.

Who should not take IXEMPRA?

Do not receive injections of IXEMPRA if you:

• are allergic to a medicine, such as TAXOL®, that contains Cremophor® EL or polyoxyethylated castor oil.
• have low white blood cell or platelet counts. Your healthcare provider will check your blood counts.
• are also taking a cancer medicine called capecitabine and you have liver problems. See “What is the most important information I should know about IXEMPRA?”

What should I tell my healthcare provider before receiving IXEMPRA?

IXEMPRA may not be right for you. Before you receive IXEMPRA, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

• have liver problems
• have heart problems or a history of heart problems
• have had an allergic reaction to IXEMPRA. You will receive medicines before each injection of IXEMPRA to decrease the chance of an allergic reaction. See “How will I receive IXEMPRA?”
• are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not receive IXEMPRA during pregnancy because it may harm your unborn baby. Talk with your healthcare provider about how to prevent pregnancy while receiving IXEMPRA. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you are pregnant while receiving IXEMPRA.
• are breast-feeding. It is not known if IXEMPRA passes into breast milk. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you will take IXEMPRA or breast-feed. You should not do both.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

IXEMPRA and certain other medicines may affect each other causing side effects. IXEMPRA may affect the way other medicines work, and other medicines may affect how IXEMPRA works. Know the medicines you take. Keep a list of your medicines with you to show your healthcare provider.

How will I receive IXEMPRA?

IXEMPRA is given by an injection directly into your vein (intravenous infusion). IXEMPRA is usually given once every three weeks. Each treatment with IXEMPRA will take about 3 hours.

Your healthcare provider will decide how much IXEMPRA you will receive and how often you will receive it.

To lower the chance of allergic reaction, you will receive other medicines about 1 hour before each treatment with IXEMPRA. (See “What are the possible side effects of IXEMPRA?”)

If you have an allergic reaction to IXEMPRA, you will receive a steroid medicine before future doses of IXEMPRA. You may also need to receive your doses of IXEMPRA more slowly.

What should I avoid while receiving IXEMPRA?

IXEMPRA contains alcohol. If you are dizzy or drowsy, avoid activities that may be dangerous, such as driving or operating machinery.

Do not drink grapefruit juice while receiving IXEMPRA. Drinking grapefruit juice may cause you to have too much IXEMPRA in your blood and lead to side effects.

What are the possible side effects of IXEMPRA?

IXEMPRA may cause serious side effects including:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands or feet can occur while taking IXEMPRA (neuropathy). These symptoms may be new or get worse while you are receiving IXEMPRA. These symptoms often occur early during treatment with IXEMPRA. Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms. Your dose of IXEMPRA may need to be decreased, stopped until your symptoms get better, or totally stopped.
• Low white blood cell count (neutropenia). White blood cells help protect the body from infections caused by bacteria. If you get a fever or infection when your white blood cells are very low, you can become seriously ill and die. You may need treatment in the hospital with antibiotic medicines. Your healthcare provider will monitor your white blood cell count often with blood tests. Tell your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest hospital emergency room if you have a fever (temperature above 100.5° F) or other sign of infection, such as chills, cough, burning or pain when you urinate, any time between treatments with IXEMPRA.
• Allergic Reactions. Severe allergic reactions can occur with IXEMPRA and may cause death in rare cases. Allergic reactions are most likely to occur while IXEMPRA is being injected into your vein. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you get any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction:
• itching, hives (raised itchy welts), rash
• flushed face
• sudden swelling of face, throat or tongue
• chest tightness, trouble breathing
• feel dizzy or faint
• feel your heart beating (palpitations)
• Harm to an unborn child. See “What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking IXEMPRA?”
• Heart problems. IXEMPRA might cause decreased blood flow to the heart, problems with heart function, and abnormal heart beat. This is seen more often in patients who also take capecitabine. Tell your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms:
• chest pain,
• difficulty breathing,
• feel your heart beating (palpitations), or
• unusual weight gain.

The most common side effects with IXEMPRA used alone or with capecitabine may include:

• tiredness
• loss of appetite
• disorders of toenails and fingernails
• hair loss
• fever
• decreased red blood cells (anemia)
• joint and muscle pain
• headache
• decreased platelets (thrombocytopenia)
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain
• sores on the lip, in the mouth and esophagus
• tender, red palms and soles of feet (hand-foot syndrome) that looks like a sunburn; the skin may become dry and peel. There may also be numbness and tingling.

Tell your healthcare provider about any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.

These are not all of the side effects of IXEMPRA. Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for more information if you have questions or concerns.

General information about IXEMPRA

This patient information leaflet summarizes the most important information about IXEMPRA. Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Patient Information Leaflet. If you would like more information about IXEMPRA, talk with your healthcare provider. You can ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about IXEMPRA that is written for health professionals. For more information about IXEMPRA, call 1-888-IXEMPRA.

Last updated on RxList: 10/15/2009

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.

IXABEPILONE - INJECTION

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ixempra

WARNING: Ixabepilone should not be used with capecitabine if blood tests show you have liver problems. Using these 2 medications together may increase the risk of severe (sometimes fatal) immune problems and serious infection.

USES: This medication is used alone or with other medications to treat advanced cancer. Ixabepilone is a chemotherapy drug that works to slow or stop cancer cell growth.

HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start using ixabepilone. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of this medication in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

This medication is usually given into a vein over 3 hours by a health care professional. It is usually given every 3 weeks. You will need blood tests (complete blood count) before each appointment. Your doctor will adjust the dosage and how often you receive the medication based on the blood tests.

Your doctor will direct you to take 2 types of antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine and ranitidine) by mouth 1 hour before your treatment to prevent or lessen a severe allergic reaction. Your doctor may give you another medication (a corticosteroid such as dexamethasone) and give ixabepilone over more than 3 hours if you had a severe reaction during your last treatment.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, body size, and response to treatment.

Health care professionals, follow all instructions for properly mixing and giving this drug. If you have any questions about using this medication properly, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Before use, check the product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid.

SIDE EFFECTS: Pain/redness/swelling at the injection site, weakness, tiredness, muscle/joint pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, or drowsiness may occur. Nausea and vomiting may be severe in some patients. Your doctor may prescribe medication to prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting. Eating several small meals, not eating before treatment, or limiting activity may help lessen some of these effects. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Temporary hair loss may occur. Normal hair growth should return after treatment has ended.

Many people using this medication have serious side effects. However, your doctor has prescribed this drug because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Careful monitoring by your doctor may decrease your risk.

This medication can lower your body's ability to fight an infection. Tell your doctor promptly if you develop any signs of an infection such as painful urination, fever, chills, or persistent sore throat.

Painful sores on the lips, mouth, and throat may occur. To decrease the risk, limit hot foods and drinks, brush your teeth carefully, avoid using mouthwash that contains alcohol, and rinse your mouth frequently with cool water.

Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: swollen hands/ankles/feet, fainting, pale skin, easy/unusual bruising/bleeding, sudden weight gain, signs of a loss of too much body water (e.g., decreased urination, increased thirst, dry mouth).

Ixabepilone can sometimes affect how your nerves work (peripheral neuropathy). Tell your doctor immediately if you develop pain/burning/numbness/tingling of the hands/feet.

You may lessen these types of nerve problems by avoiding cold drinks and ice and by dressing warmly. Tell your doctor immediately if your nerve problems begin to interfere with your normal daily activities (e.g., walking, writing, eating).

Treatment with ixabepilone may sometimes cause your hands/feet to develop a skin reaction called hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia), especially when this drug is given with capecitabine. You can prevent or reduce these problems by protecting your hands and feet from a great deal of heat or pressure. Avoid unnecessary exposure to heat (e.g., hot dishwater, long hot baths). Avoid pressure on elbows, knees, and soles of feet (e.g., leaning on elbows, kneeling, long walks). Wear loose clothing. Depending on how severe your hand-foot syndrome is, your doctor may prescribe a medication to reduce the symptoms or decrease/delay your next treatment. If you experience pain/swelling/redness, blisters, or numbness of the hands/feet that affects your usual activities, tell your doctor immediately.

Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: fast/irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, bloody/black stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, vision changes, seizures, sudden confusion.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: rash, itching/swelling (especially of face/tongue/throat), face flushing, tight feeling in chest, 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 ixabepilone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other drugs containing polyoxyethylated castor oil; or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: bleeding problems, diabetes, heart problems (e.g., chest pain, heart failure, heart attack), liver problems, bone marrow problems (e.g., low white count, anemia), nerve problem (peripheral neuropathy).

This medication contains alcohol. It may make you dizzy or drowsy. Use caution while driving, using machinery, or doing any activity that requires alertness. Limit alcoholic beverages.

Do not have immunizations/vaccinations without the consent of your doctor, and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine or flu vaccine inhaled through the nose. Wash your hands well to prevent the spread of infections.

To lower your risk of getting cut, bruised, or injured, use caution with sharp objects like razors and nail cutters, and avoid activities such as contact sports.

This medication must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. It is recommended that women of child-bearing age and men using this medication use 2 effective forms of birth control (e.g., condoms and birth control pills) to prevent pregnancy. Consult your doctor for more information.

It is not known if ixabepilone passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also Warning section.

Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with them first.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: drugs that cause a reaction with alcohol (e.g., disulfiram, metronidazole), drugs affecting liver enzymes that remove ixabepilone from your body (e.g., azole antifungals such as itraconazole/ketoconazole, macrolide antibiotics such as clarithromycin/erythromycin, anti-HIV medications such as delavirdine/ritonavir/saquinavir, rifamycins including rifabutin, St. John's wort, anti-seizure medicines such as carbamazepine/phenytoin).

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you also take drugs that cause drowsiness such as: certain antihistamines (e.g., diphenhydramine), anti-seizure drugs (e.g., levetiracetam), medicine for sleep or anxiety (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), psychiatric medicines (e.g., chlorpromazine, risperidone, amitriptyline, trazodone).

Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you 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: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., complete blood count, liver function tests) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

MISSED DOSE: For the best possible benefit, it is important to receive each scheduled dose of this medication as directed. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor to establish a new dosing schedule.

STORAGE: Store the unmixed medication in the refrigerator between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light. Do not freeze. Once prepared, this medication may be stored at room temperature and must be used within 6 hours. Read the package labeling for complete preparation and storage information.

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.

MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For information about enrolling in MedicAlert, call 1-800-854-1166 (USA) or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

Information last revised July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.