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MENOPUR®
(menotropins) for Injection, USP
FOR SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION
Menopur® (menotropins for injection, USP) is a preparation of gonadotropins, extracted from the urine of postmenopausal women, which has undergone additional steps for purification. Each vial of Menopur® contains 75 International Units (IU) of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) activity and 75 IU of luteinizing hormone (LH) activity, plus 21 mg lactose monohydrate and 0.005 mg Polysorbate 20 and Sodium Phosphate Buffer (Sodium Phosphate Dibasic, Heptahydrate and Phosphoric Acid) in a sterile, lyophilized form intended for reconstitution with sterile 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP. Menopur® is administered by subcutaneous (SC) injection.
The biological activity of Menopur® is determined using the USP bioassays for FSH (ovarian weight gain assay in female rats) and LH (seminal vesicle weight gain assay in male rats), modified to increase the accuracy and reproducibility of these assays. The FSH and LH activity assays are standardized using the Fourth International Standard for Urinary FSH and Urinary LH, November 2000, by the Expert Committee on Biological Standardization of the World Health Organization (WHO ECBS). Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is detected in Menopur®.
Both FSH and LH are glycoproteins that are acidic and water soluble.
Therapeutic class: Infertility.
Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
Menopur® administered subcutaneously is indicated for the development of multiple follicles and pregnancy in the ovulatory patients participating in an ART program.
The recommended initial dose of Menopur® for patients who have received a GnRH agonist for pituitary suppression is 225 IU. Based on clinical monitoring (including serum estradiol levels and vaginal ultrasound results) subsequent dosing should be adjusted according to individual patient response. Adjustments in dose should not be made more frequently than once every two days and should not exceed 150 IU per adjustment. The maximum daily dose of Menopur® given should not exceed 450 IU and dosing beyond 20 days is not recommended.
Once adequate follicular development is evident, hCG should be administered to induce final follicular maturation in preparation for oocyte retrieval. The administration of hCG must be withheld in cases where the ovaries are abnormally enlarged on the last day of therapy. This should reduce the chance of developing OHSS.
Dissolve the contents of one to six vials of Menopur® in one mL of sterile saline and ADMINISTER SUBCUTANEOUSLY immediately. Any unused reconstituted material should be discarded.
Parenteral drug products should be visually inspected for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.
The lower abdomen (alternating sides) should be used for subcutaneous administration.
Menopur® (menotropins for injection, USP) is supplied in sterile vials as a lyophilized, white to off-white powder or pellet.
Each vial of Menopur® is accompanied by a vial of sterile diluent containing 2 mL of 0.9 % Sodium Chloride Injection, USP:
75 IU FSH and 75 IU of LH activity, supplied as:
NDC 55566-7501-1 : Box of 5 vials + 5 vials diluent.
NDC 55566-7501-2 : Box of 5 vials + 5 vials diluent + 5 Q•Cap™ vial
adapters.
Lyophilized powder may be stored refrigerated or at room temperature (3° to 25°C/37° to 77°F). Protect from light. Use immediately after reconstitution. Discard unused material.
DIRECTIONS FOR USING MENOPUR®
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Toll free number for providers and patients to call with questions: 1 -(888)-FERRING (1 -(888)-337-7464).
Vials of sterile diluent of 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP manufactured for Ferring Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
The safety of Menopur® was examined in 3 clinical studies that enrolled a total of 575 patients receiving Menopur® in the IVF and 01 studies. All adverse events (without regard to causality assessment) occurring at an incidence of > 2 % in women treated with Menopur® are listed in Table 3.
Table 3: HIGHLY PURIFIED MENOTROPIN SC AND IM IN FEMALE PATIENTS
UNDERGOING IVF AND 01 ADVERSE EVENTS WITH ONSET ON OR AFTER GnRH ADMINISTRATION,
COSTART CLASSIFICATION (FOR INCIDENCE OF 2% OR GREATER)
| BODY SYSTEM/PREFERRED TERM | IVF* n=499 |
01** n=76 |
||
| N | % | N | % | |
| BODY AS A WHOLE | ||||
| Abdomen Enlarged | 12 | 2.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Abdominal cramps | 30 | 6.0 | 5 | 6.6 |
| Abdominal fullness | 16 | 3.2 | 7 | 9.2 |
| Abdominal pain | 88 | 17.6 | 7 | 9.2 |
| Back pain | 16 | 3.2 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Elevated estradiol | 12 | 2.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Flu syndrome | 13 | 2.6 | 1 | 1.3 |
| Flushing | 12 | 2.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Headache | 170 | 34.1 | 12 | 15.8 |
| Injection site pain | 27 | 5.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Injection site reaction | 48 | 9.6 | 9 | 11.8 |
| Malaise | 14 | 2.8 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Pain | 16 | 3.2 | 2 | 2.6 |
| CARDIOVASCULAR | ||||
| Migraine | 12 | 2.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| DIGESTIVE | ||||
| Constipation | 8 | 1.6 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Diarrhea | 14 | 2.8 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Nausea | 60 | 12.0 | 6 | 7.9 |
| Vomitinq | 21 | 4.2 | 2 | 2.6 |
| NERVOUS | ||||
| Dizziness | 13 | 2.6 | 0 | 0.0 |
| RESPIRATORY | ||||
| Cough increased | 8 | 1.6 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Respiratory disorder | 29 | 5.8 | 3 | 3.9 |
| UROGENITAL | ||||
| Breast tenderness | 9 | 1.8 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Hot flash | 3 | 0.6 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Menstrual disorder | 16 | 3.2 | 0 | 0.0 |
| OHSS | 19 | 3.8 | 10 | 13.2 |
| Pelvic cramps | 0 | 0.0 | 3 | 3.9 |
| Pelvic discomfort | 2 | 0.4 | 2 | 2.6 |
| Post retrieval pain | 32 | 6.4 | 0 | 0.0 |
| Uterine spasm | 8 | 1.6 | 3 | 3.9 |
| * INCLUDES IM AND SC SUBJECTS FROM PROTOCOLS
MFK/IVF/0399E AND MENOPUR 2000-02. **INCLUDES IM AND SC SUBJECTS FROM PROTOCOL MENOPUR 2000-01. |
||||
There have been no reports of abuse or dependence with menotropins.
Menopur® is a drug that should only be used by physicians who are thoroughly familiar with infertility problems. It is a potent gonadotropic substance capable of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in women with or without pulmonary or vascular complications. Gonadotropin therapy requires a certain time commitment by physicians and supportive health professionals, and its use requires the availability of appropriate monitoring facilities (see PRECAUTIONS -Laboratory Tests).
Ovarian Enlargement: Mild to moderate uncomplicated ovarian enlargement which may be accompanied by abdominal distension and/or abdominal pain occurs in approximately 5 to 10 % of women treated with menotropins and hCG, and generally regresses without treatment within two or three weeks. The lowest dose consistent with expectation of good results and careful monitoring of ovarian response can further minimize the risk of overstimulation.
If the ovaries are abnormally enlarged on the last day of Menopur® therapy, hCG should not be administered in this course of treatment; this will reduce the chances of development of the Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS).
OHSS: OHSS is a medical event distinct from uncomplicated ovarian enlargement. OHSS may progress rapidly to become a serious medical event. It is characterized by an apparent dramatic increase in vascular permeability which can result in a rapid accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity, thorax, and potentially, the pericardium. The early warning signs of development of OHSS are severe pelvic pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight gain. The following symptomatology has been seen with cases of OHSS: abdominal pain, abdominal distension, gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, severe ovarian enlargement, weight gain, dyspnea, and oliguria. Clinical evaluation may reveal hypovolemia, hemoconcentration, electrolyte imbalances, ascites, hemoperitoneum, pleural effusions, hydrothorax, acute pulmonary distress, and thromboembolic events (See "Pulmonary and Vascular Complications"). Transient liver function test abnormalities suggestive of hepatic dysfunction, which may be accompanied by morphologic changes on liver biopsy, have been reported in association with the OHSS.
In the IVF clinical study, 0399E, OHSS occurred in 7.2% of the 373 Menopur® treated women.
Cases of OHSS are more common, more severe and more protracted if pregnancy occurs. OHSS develops rapidly; therefore patients should be followed for at least two weeks after hCG administration. Most often, OHSS occurs after treatment has been discontinued and reaches its maximum at about seven to ten days following treatment. Usually, OHSS resolves spontaneously with the onset of menses. If there is evidence that OHSS may be developing prior to hCG administration (see PRECAUTIONS -Laboratory Tests), the hCG should be withheld. If severe OHSS occurs, treatment must be stopped and the patient should be hospitalized.
A physician experienced in the management of the syndrome, or who is experienced in the management of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, should be consulted.
Serious pulmonary conditions (e.g. atelectasis, acute respiratory distress syndrome) have been reported. In addition, thromboembolic events both in association with, and separate from, the OHSS have been reported following menotropins therapy. Intravascular thrombosis and embolism, which may originate in venous or arterial vessels, can result in reduced blood flow to critical organs or the extremities. Sequelae of such events have included venous tbrombophlebitis, pulmonary embolism, pulmonary infarction, cerebral vascular occlusion (stroke), and arterial occlusion resulting in loss of limb. In rare cases, pulmonary complications and/or thromboembolic events have resulted in death.
In the clinical trial multiple pregnancy as diagnosed by ultrasound occurred in 35.3% (n=30) of 85 total pregnancies.
The patient and her partner should be advised of the potential risk of multiple births before starting treatment.
Careful attention should be given to the diagnosis of infertility in the selection of candidates for Menopur® therapy (see "INDICATIONS AND USAGE - Selection of Patients").
The combination of both estradiol levels and ultrasonography are useful for monitoring the growth and development of follicles, timing hCG administration, as well as minimizing the risk of the OHSS and multiple gestations.
The clinical confirmation of ovulation, is determined by:
When used in conjunction with indices of progesterone production, sonographic visualization of the ovaries will assist in determining if ovulation has occurred. Sonographic evidence of ovulation may include the following:
Because of the subjectivity of the various tests for the determination of follicular maturation and ovulation, it cannot be overemphasized that the physician should choose tests with which he/she is thoroughly familiar.
Long-term toxicity studies in animals have not been performed to evaluate the carcinogenic potential of menotropins.
Pregnancy Category X: See CONTRAINDICATIONS section.
It is not known whether this drug is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised if menotropins are administered to a nursing woman.
Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Safety and effectiveness in geriatric patients have not been established.
Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
Menopur® is contraindicated in women who have:
Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
Menopur®, administered for 7 to 20 days, produces ovarian follicular growth and maturation in women who do not have primary ovarian failure. In order to produce final follicular maturation and ovulation in the absence of an endogenous LH surge, hCG must be administered following Menopur® treatment, at a time when patient monitoring indicates sufficient follicular development has occurred.
Two open-label, randomized, controlled trials were conducted to assess the pharmacokinetics of Menopur®. Study 2003-02 compared single doses of SC administration of the US and European (EU) formulations of Menopur® in 57 healthy, pre-menopausal females who had undergone pituitary suppression. The study established that the two formulations are bioequivalent. Study 2000-03 assessed single and multiple doses of Menopur® administered SC and IM in a 3 phase cross-over design in 33 healthy, pre-menopausal females who had undergone pituitary suppression. The primary pharmacokinetic endpoints were FSH AUC and Cmax values. The results are summarized in Table 1.
Table 1: Mean (±SD) FSH Pharmacokinetic Parameters
Following Menopur® Administration (Study 2000-03)
| PK Parameters | Single Dose (225 IU) |
Multiple Dose (225 IU x 1 day then 150 IU x 6 days) |
||
| SC | IM | SC | IM | |
| Cmax† (mlU/mL) | 8.5 (2.5) | 7.8 (2.4) | 15.0 (3.6) | 12.5 (2.3) |
| Tmax (hr) | 17.9 (5.8) | 27.5 (25.4) | 8.0 (3.0) | 9.0 (7.0) |
| AUC† ( hr-mIU/mL) | 726.2 (243.0) | 656.1 (233.7) | 622.7 (153.0) | 546.2 (91.2) |
| †Single dose Cmax,AUC120 and multiple dose Cmaxss, AUCss | ||||
The SC route of administration trends toward greater bioavailability than the IM route for single and multiple doses of Menopur®.
Human tissue or organ distribution of FSH and LH has not been studied for Menopur®.
Metabolism of FSH and LH has not been studied for Menopur® in humans.
The elimination half-lives for FSH in the multiple-dose phase were similar (11-13 hours) for Menopur® SC and Menopur® IM.
Menopur® has not been studied in the pediatric population.
Menopur® has not been studied in the geriatric population.
The safety and efficacy of Menopur® in renal and hepatic insufficiency have not been studied.
No drug/drug interaction studies have been conducted for Menopur® in humans.
The efficacy and safety of Menopur® have been established in one randomized, controlled, clinical study, 0399E, of women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or IVF plus intracytoplasmic injection to achieve pregnancy.
Study 0399E was a Phase 3, randomized, open-label, multicenter, multinational (in Europe and Israel), comparative clinical trial of ovulatory, infertile females undergoing ovarian stimulation to produce multiple follicles for IVF and embryo transfer (IVF/ET) after pituitary suppression with a GnRH agonist. A total of 373 patients were randomized to the Menopur® arm. Randomization was stratified by insemination technique [conventional in-vitro fertilization (IVF) vs. intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)]. Efficacy was assessed based on the primary efficacy parameter of continuing pregnancy. The initial daily dose of Menopur® was 225 IU SC for five days. Thereafter, the dose was individualized according to each patient's response, up to a maximum of 450 lU/day for a total maximum duration of stimulation of 20 days. Treatment outcomes are summarized in Table 2.
Table 2: Efficacy Outcomes for IVF Study 0399E (one cycle
of treatment)
| Parameter | Menopur® SC |
| n=373 | |
| Continuing Pregnancy (%)a | 87 (23) b |
| Clinical Pregnancy (%) | 98 (26)c |
| aContinuning pregnancy was defined as ultrasound
visualization of a gestational sac with fetal heartbeat at > 10 weeks
after ET bNon-inferior to comparator recombinant human FSH based on a two-sided 95% confidence interval, intent-to-treat analysis cSecondary efficacy parameter. Study 0399E was not powered to demonstrate differences in this parameter |
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Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
Prior to therapy with Menopur®, patients should be informed of the duration of treatment and the monitoring of their condition that will be required. Possible adverse reactions (see ADVERSE REACTIONS section) and the risk of multiple births should also be discussed.
Last updated on RxList: 2/25/2009
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.
MENOTROPINS - SUBCUTANEOUS INJECTION
(men-oh-TROW-pins)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Menopur
USES: This medication is used to treat certain fertility problems in women. It provides follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that help healthy ovaries to make eggs. This medication is usually used in combination with another hormone (human chorionic gonadotropin-hCG) to help you become pregnant by bringing about the growth and release of a mature egg (ovulation).
This medication is not recommended for women whose ovaries no longer make eggs properly (primary ovarian failure).
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before starting this medication and each time you get a refill. You will be trained by a healthcare professional on how to properly use this medication. Learn and understand all preparation and usage instructions. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Use this medication exactly as directed by your doctor in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time each day.
Inject this medication under the skin exactly as directed by your doctor. Your dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
Be sure to keep all medical appointments so your doctor can closely monitor your response to determine the dosage that is right for you. The manufacturer recommends that your dose should not be more than 450 international units per day and that the medication should not be used for more than 20 days per treatment cycle. Do not change the dose or use this drug for a longer period than prescribed unless instructed by your doctor.
Follow all instructions for proper mixing with the correct fluid provided with this medication. Before using, check the solution visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Use the solution immediately after the medication is mixed. Discard any unused solution. If you have questions regarding the use of this medication, consult your pharmacist.
Wash hands with soap and water before using this medication. Before injecting each dose, clean the injection site with rubbing alcohol. It is important to change the location of the injection site daily to avoid discomfort and problem areas under the skin.
Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely. Consult your pharmacist.
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: flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, chills, joint pain, muscle ache, tiredness).
Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, sudden vision changes, sudden severe headache, pain/swelling of the calf muscles, chest pain, shortness of breath.
This medication may cause a condition known as Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS). This condition may occur during therapy or after treatment has been stopped. Rarely, serious OHSS causes fluid to suddenly build up in the stomach, chest, and heart area. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop the following side effects: severe pain/swelling in the lower abdominal (pelvic) area, nausea/vomiting, sudden/rapid weight gain, change in the amount of urine.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may 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 this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other products containing follicle stimulating hormone or luteinizing hormone; or if you have any other allergies.
This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: other fertility problems (e.g., primary ovarian failure), abnormal uterine/vaginal bleeding, thyroid problems, adrenal gland problems, cancer of the reproductive organs (breast, uterus, ovary), tumor in the brain (e.g., pituitary tumor), ovarian cysts/enlarged ovaries (not due to polycystic ovary syndrome).
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: blood clots, stroke, certain heart diseases (e.g., heart attack), lung problems (e.g., asthma).
This drug may make you dizzy; use caution while engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery.
Multiple births may occur because of this treatment. Consult your doctor for more details.
Stop using this medication when you become pregnant. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor immediately.
It is not known whether this drug 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.
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. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.
NOTES: Do not share this medication with others.
Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., blood hormone tests such as estradiol level, vaginal ultrasound) should be performed regularly to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.
It is important to keep all regular medical and laboratory appointments so your doctor can closely monitor your response to help reduce the risk of serious side effects and determine the timing of your hCG dose.
Lifestyle changes that may help improve the effect of this medication include limiting alcohol and stopping smoking. Consult your doctor or pharmacist to discuss lifestyle changes that might benefit you.
MISSED DOSE: It is important to use this medication on a fixed schedule exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist immediately for instructions. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store the medication refrigerated or at room temperature between 37-77 degrees F (3-25 degrees C). Protect from light. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines 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 August 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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