PRIALT® contains ziconotide, a synthetic equivalent of a naturally occurring conopeptide found in the piscivorous marine snail, Conus magus. Ziconotide is a 25 amino acid, poly-basic peptide containing three disulfide bridges with a molecular weight of 2639 daltons and a molecular formula of C₁₀₂H₁₇₂N₃₆O₃₂S₇. The amino acid sequence and disulfide bridging pattern are given below:

Ziconotide is a hydrophilic molecule that is freely soluble in water and is practically insoluble in methyl t-butyl ether.

PRIALT is formulated as a sterile, preservative free, isotonic solution for intrathecal (IT) administration using an appropriate microinfusion device (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Each 1, 2, or 5 mL vial of PRIALT (100 mcg/mL) respectively contains 100, 200, or 500 mcg of ziconotide acetate, and the 20 mL vial of PRIALT (25 mcg/mL) contains 500 mcg of ziconotide acetate, with L-methionine and sodium chloride as excipients at pH 4.0-5.0. Each vial is intended for single use only, either undiluted or after dilution to the appropriate concentration with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (preservative free).

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

PRIALT (ziconotide intrathecal infusion) is indicated for the management of severe chronic pain in patients for whom intrathecal (IT) therapy is warranted, and who are intolerant of or refractory to other treatment, such as systemic analgesics, adjunctive therapies, or IT morphine.

IT PRIALT should be initiated at no more than 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) and titrated to patient response. Doses may be titrated upward by up to 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) at intervals of no more than 2–3 times per week, up to a recommended maximum of 19.2 mcg/day (0.8 mcg/hr) by Day 21. Dose increases in increments of less than 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) and increases in dose less frequently than 2–3 times per week may be used. For each dose titration, assess the dosing requirements and adjust the pump infusion flow rate as required to achieve the new dosing. Controlled studies of pain relief have not been conducted for longer than 3 weeks duration, although 977 patients have been treated with IT PRIALT in long-term open-label trials.

The dose of IT PRIALT should be adjusted according to the patient's severity of pain, their response to therapy, and the occurrence of adverse events. The effective dose of PRIALT for analgesia is variable. The average dose level at the end of the 21-day titration used in the slow titration clinical trial (see Clinical Trials) was 6.9 mcg/day (0.29 mcg/hr) and the maximum dose was 19.2 mcg/day (0.8 mcg/hr) on Day 21. Due to the frequency of adverse events, 19.2 mcg/day (0.8 mcg/hr) is the maximum recommended dose. Because of the lower incidence of serious adverse events and discontinuations for adverse events associated with the slower titration (see ADVERSE REACTIONS), a faster titration schedule should only be used if there is an urgent need for analgesia that outweighs the risk to patient safety.

In clinical trials, no rebound or other adverse events related to discontinuation of PRIALT were noted, although treatment was almost always discontinued abruptly.

Vials of PRIALT should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

Administration

PRIALT should be administered intrathecally (IT) by or under the direction of a physician experienced in the technique of IT administration and who is familiar with the drug and device labeling. PRIALT is not intended for intravenous administration. PRIALT is intended for IT delivery using a programmable implanted variable-rate micro-infusion device or an external microinfusion device and catheter (see PRECAUTIONS-Meningitis and Other Infections). Refer to the manufacturer's manual for specific instructions and precautions for programming the microinfusion device and/or refilling the reservoir.

PRIALT is used for therapy undiluted (25 mcg/mL in 20mL vial) or diluted (100 mcg/mL in 1, 2, or 5 mL vials). Diluted PRIALT is prepared with 0.9% Sodium Chloride Injection, USP (preservative free) using aseptic procedures to the desired concentration prior to placement in the microinfusion pump. The 100 mcg/mL formulation may be administered undiluted once an appropriate dose has been established. SALINE SOLUTIONS CONTAINING PRESERVATIVES ARE NOT APPROPRIATE FOR IT DRUG ADMINISTRATION AND SHOULD NOT BE USED. Refrigerate but do not freeze all PRIALT solutions after preparation and begin infusion within 24 hours. Discard any PRIALT solution with observed particulate matter or discoloration and any unused portion left in the vial.

Medtronic SynchroMed EL or SynchroMed II Infusion System

(see PRECAUTIONS-Meningitis and Other Infections)

Refer to the manufacturer's manuals for specific instructions and precautions for performing a reservoir rinse, initial filling, refilling the reservoir, and programming.

Instructions for Use of PRIALT with Pump

1. Naïve Pump Priming (i.e., first time use with PRIALT)

Only the undiluted 25 mcg/mL formulation should be used for naïve pump priming.

Rinse the internal surfaces of the pump with 2 mL of PRIALT at 25 mcg/mL. Repeat twice for a total of three rinses.

2. Initial Pump Fill

Only the undiluted 25 mcg/mL formulation should be used for initial pump fill. Fill the naïve pump after priming as above with the appropriate volume of PRIALT at 25 mcg/mL. Begin dosing at a delivery rate no higher than 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr). In a naïve pump, PRIALT is lost due to two factors that do not occur upon subsequent refills: adsorption on internal device surfaces, such as the titanium, and by dilution in the residual space of the device. Consequently, the pump reservoir should be refilled with PRIALT within 14 days of the initial fill to ensure appropriate dose administration.

3. Pump Refills

For subsequent pump refills, fill the pump at least every 40 days if PRIALT is used diluted. For undiluted PRIALT, fill the pump at least every 84 days. To ensure aseptic transfer of PRIALT into the device, it is recommended that the Medtronic refill kit be used. The pump contents should be emptied prior to refill with PRIALT. If the internal infusion system must be surgically replaced while the person is receiving PRIALT, the replacement pump should be rinsed with PRIALT (No. 1 above), and this initial fill solution must be replaced within 14 days (No. 2 above). Subsequent refills should be done at least every 84 days if PRIALT is used undiluted or at least every 40 days if PRIALT is used diluted.

PRIALT (ziconotide intrathecal infusion)	Initial Fill Expiry	Refill Expiry
25 mcg/mL, undiluted	14 Days	84 Days
100 mcg/mL, undiluted	N/A	84 Days
100 mcg/mL, diluted	N/A	40 Days

CADD-Micro ambulatory infusion pump

(see PRECAUTIONS-Meningitis and Other Infections)

Refer to the manufacturer's manuals for specific instructions and precautions for performing the initial filling, refilling of the reservoir or replacement of the drug cartridge, and operation. The appropriate external microinfusion device is filled for the first time with PRIALT solution at a concentration of 5 mcg/mL. This solution is prepared by diluting PRIALT with 0.9% Sodium Chloride, USP (preservative free). The flow rate for the external microinfusion device usually starts at 0.02 mL/hr to deliver the initial dose rate of 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) of PRIALT. Changes in dose rate are made by adjusting the flow rate of the infusion system and/or the concentration of PRIALT solution.

PRIALT is supplied as a 25 mcg/mL solution in a single-use 20 mL glass vial and as a 100 mcg/mL solution in single-use glass vials containing 1 mL, or 5 mL of solution. One vial is packaged per carton. Presentation (NDC)

25 mcg/mL: 20 mL vial (59075-723-10). Only the undiluted 25 mcg/mL formulation should be used for PRIALT naïve pump priming.

100 mcg/mL:	1 mL (59075-720-10)
	5 mL (59075-722-10)

Storage

• Refrigerate PRIALT during transit.
• Store PRIALT at 2°C–8°C (36°F–46°F).
• PRIALT, once diluted aseptically with saline, may be stored at 2°C–8°C for 24 hours.
• Do NOT freeze PRIALT.
• Protect from light.

Distributed by: Elan Pharmaceuticals, Inc. South San Francisco, CA 94080. Rev. 10/08.

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

The safety of IT PRIALT administered as a continuous infusion has been evaluated in 1254 patients participating in acute and severe chronic pain trials. The duration of treatment has ranged from a one-hour IT infusion to treatment lasting for more than 7.5 years. The mean duration of treatment was 193 days with 173 patients (14%) treated for at least 1 year. The average final dose was 17.6 mcg/day (0.73 mcg/hr).

The most frequently reported adverse events ( ≥ 25%) in the 1254 patients (662 patient years) in clinical trials were dizziness, nausea, confusional state, and nystagmus. Serious adverse events and discontinuation of PRIALT for adverse events are less frequent when the drug is slowly titrated over 21 days than with a faster titration schedule (see Clinical Trials and DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION).

Table 2 summarizes the treatment-emergent adverse events with a frequency of 5% or greater in the PRIALT-treated group from the one placebo-controlled trial using the slow titration schedule in patients with severe chronic pain. All events reported during the initial placebo-controlled period of the studies (21 days in the slow titration schedule) are tabulated, regardless of relationship to PRIALT.

Table 2. Incidence of Treatment-Emergent Adverse Events in Slow Titration Placebo-Controlled Trial by Percent (Events That Occurred in ≥ 5% of Patients and More Commonly with PRIALT than with Placebo)

MedDRA System Organ Class MedDRA Preferred term	PRIALT N=112	Placebo N=108
	Percentages of Patients
Any AE	93	82
Ear and Labyrinth Disorders
Vertigo	7	0
Eye Disorders
Vision Blurred	12	3
Gastrointestinal Disorders
Diarrhea NOS	18	15
Nausea	40	29
Vomiting NOS	16	14
General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions
Asthenia	18	6
Gait Abnormal	14	2
Pyrexia	5	3
Rigors	7	5
Infections and Infestations
Sinusitis NOS	5	2
Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders
Anorexia	6	2
Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders
Muscle Spasms	6	4
Pain in Limb	5	2
Nervous System Disorders
Amnesia	8	0
Ataxia	14	1
Dizziness	46	13
Dysarthria	7	0
Dysgeusia	5	5
Headache	13	11
Memory Impairment	7	1
Nystagmus NOS	8	0
Somnolence	17	10
Tremor	7	3
Psychiatric Disorders
Anxiety	8	3
Confusional State	15	5
Insomnia	6	9
Renal and Urinary Disorders
Urinary Retention	9	0
Skin and Subcutaneous Disorders
Pruritis	7	7
Sweating Increased	5	6

The following adverse events assessed as related to PRIALT have been reported in 2% or greater of patients participating in the clinical studies (MedDRA preferred terms, by system organ class):

EAR AND LABYRINTH DISORDERS: vertigo; EYE DISORDERS: diplopia, vision blurred, visual disturbance NOS; GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS: abdominal pain NOS, constipation, diarrhea NOS, dry mouth, nausea, nausea aggravated, vomiting NOS; GENERAL DISORDERS AND ADMINISTRATION SITE CONDITIONS: asthenia, fall, fatigue, gait abnormal, lethargy, edema peripheral, pain NOS, pyrexia, rigors; INVESTIGATIONS: blood creatine phosphokinase increased; METABOLISM AND NUTRITION DISORDERS: anorexia, appetite decreased NOS; MUSCULOSKELETAL AND CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISORDERS: muscle cramp, muscle spasms, muscle weakness NOS, myalgia, pain in limb; NERVOUS SYSTEM DISORDERS: amnesia, aphasia, areflexia, ataxia, balance impaired NOS, burning sensation NOS, coordination abnormal NOS, disturbance in attention, dizziness, dizziness postural, dysarthria, dysgeusia, headache, hypoaesthesia, memory impairment, mental impairment NOS, nystagmus NOS, paraesthesia, sedation, somnolence, speech disorder, tremor; PSYCHIATRIC DISORDERS: agitation, anxiety, cognitive disorder NOS, confusional state, depression, depression aggravated, disorientation, hallucination NOS, hallucination auditory, hallucination visual, insomnia, irritability, mood disorder NOS, nervousness, paranoia; RENAL AND URINARY DISORDERS: dysuria, urinary hesitation, urinary retention; SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE DISORDERS: pruritus, sweating increased; VASCULAR DISORDERS: hypotension NOS, orthostatic hypotension.

At less than 2%, the following medically important events were assessed by the clinical investigators as related to PRIALT: acute renal failure, atrial fibrillation, cerebrovascular accident, sepsis, meningitis, psychotic disorder, suicidal ideation, respiratory distress, rhabdomyolysis, electrocardiogram abnormal, stupor, loss of consciousness, incoherent, clonic convulsion and grand mal convulsion. Rare instances of fatal pneumonia aspiration and suicide attempt were reported ( < 1%).

Formal PK drug-drug interaction studies have not been performed with PRIALT. As ziconotide is a peptide, it is expected to be completely degraded by endopeptidases and exopeptidases (Phase I hydrolytic enzymes) widely located throughout the body, and not by other Phase I biotransformation processes (including the cytochrome P450 system) or by Phase II conjugation reactions. Thus, IT administration, low plasma ziconotide concentrations, and metabolism by ubiquitous peptidases make metabolic interactions of other drugs with ziconotide unlikely. Further, as ziconotide is not highly bound in plasma (approximately 50%) and has low plasma exposure following IT administration, clinically relevant plasma protein displacement reactions involving ziconotide and co-administered medications are unlikely.

Over 90% of patients treated with IT PRIALT used systemic opiates and in the slow titra-tion study, 98% of patients received opioids.

Combination of PRIALT with intrathecal opiates has not been studied in placebo-controlled clinical trials and is not recommended.

Interaction with CNS Depressants

Almost all patients in the PRIALT clinical trials received concomitant non-IT medication. Of the 1254 patients treated, most received several concomitant drugs, including antidepressants (66%), anxiolytics (52%), antiepileptics (47%), neuroleptics (46%), and sedatives (34%). The use of drugs with CNS-depressant activities may be associated with an increased incidence of CNS adverse events such as dizziness and confusion (see PRECAUTIONS).

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

Patients should be cautioned against engaging in hazardous activity requiring complete mental alertness or motor coordination such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle during treatment with PRIALT. Patients should also be cautioned about possible combined effects with other CNS-depressant drugs. Dosage adjustments may be necessary when PRIALT is administered with such agents because of the potentially additive effects.

Withdrawal From Opiates

PRIALT is not an opiate and cannot prevent or relieve the symptoms associated with the withdrawal of opiates. To avoid withdrawal syndrome when opiate withdrawal is necessary, patients must NOT be abruptly withdrawn from opiates. For patients being withdrawn from IT opiates, the IT opiate infusion should be gradually tapered over a few weeks and replaced with a pharmacologically equivalent dose of oral opiates. PRIALT does not interact with opiate receptors and does not potentiate opiate-induced respiratory depression.

General

Meningitis And Other Infections

Meningitis can occur due to inadvertent contamination of the microinfusion device and other means such as CSF seeding due to hematogenous or direct spread from an infected pump pocket or catheter tract. While meningitis is rare with an internal microinfusion device and surgically-implanted catheter, the incidence increases substantially with external devices. In the 1254 patients in PRIALT clinical trials with an exposure of 662 patient-years, meningitis occurred at 3% (40 cases) in the PRIALT group using either internal or external microinfusion devices and 1% (1 case) in the placebo group with an exposure of only 5 patient-years. The risk of meningitis with external microinfusion devices and catheters was higher with 93% cases (38/41) occurring with external infusion systems (37 PRIALT, 1 placebo).

Patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers must be particularly vigilant for the signs and symptoms of meningitis, including but not limited to fever, headache, stiff neck, altered mental status (e.g., lethargy, confusion, disorientation), nausea or vomiting, and occasionally seizures. Serious infection or meningitis can occur within 24 hours of a breach in sterility such as a disconnected catheter, the most common cause of meningitis with external microinfusion devices. The patient and health care provider should be familiar with the handling of the external microinfusion device and care of the catheter skin exit site at risk of infection. Strict aseptic procedures must be used during the preparation of the PRIALT solution or refilling of the microinfusion device to prevent accidental introduction of any contaminants or other environmental pathogens into the reservoir. In suspected cases (especially in immuno-compromised patients) or in confirmed cases of meningitis, CSF cultures must be obtained and appropriate antibiotic therapy must be promptly instituted. Treatment of meningitis usually requires removal of the microinfusion system, catheter, and any other foreign body materials within the IT space and therefore discontinuation of PRIALT therapy.

Cognitive And Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events

Use of PRIALT has been associated with CNS-related adverse events, including psychiatric symptoms, cognitive impairment, and decreased alertness/unresponsiveness. For the 1254 patients treated, the following cognitive adverse event rates were reported: confusion (33%), memory impairment (22%), speech disorder (14%), aphasia (12%), thinking abnormal (8%), and amnesia (1%). Cognitive impairment may appear gradually after several weeks of treatment. The PRIALT dose should be reduced or discontinued if signs or symptoms of cognitive impairment develop, but other contributing causes should also be considered. The various cognitive effects of PRIALT are generally reversible within 2 weeks after drug discontinuation. The medians for time to reversal of the individual cognitive effects ranged from 3 to 15 days. The elderly ( ≥ 65 years of age) are at higher risk for confusion (see Geriatric Use).

In placebo-controlled trials, there was a higher incidence of suicide, suicide attempts, and suicide ideations in PRIALT-treated patients (N=3) than in the placebo group (N=1). The incidence was 0.10/patient year for placebo patients and 0.27/patient year for PRIALT patients.

Events of acute psychiatric disturbances such as hallucinations (12%), paranoid reactions (3%), hostility (2%), delirium (2%), psychosis (1%), and manic reactions (0.4%) have been reported in patients treated with PRIALT. Patients with pretreatment psychiatric disorders may be at an increased risk. PRIALT may cause or worsen depression with the risk of suicide in susceptible patients. If appropriate, management of psychiatric complications should include discontinuation of PRIALT, treatment with psychotherapeutic agents if appropriate, and/or short-term hospitalization. Before drug is reinitiated, careful evaluation must be performed on an individual basis.

Reduced Level of Consciousness

Patients have become unresponsive or stuporous while receiving PRIALT. The incidence of unresponsiveness or stupor in clinical trials was 2%. During these episodes, the patient sometimes appears to be conscious and breathing is not depressed. If reduced levels of consciousness occur, PRIALT should be discontinued until the event resolves, and other etiologies (e.g., meningitis) should be considered. There is no known pharmacologic antagonist for this effect. Patients taking concomitant antiepileptics, neuroleptics, sedatives, or diuretics may be at higher risk of depressed levels of consciousness. If altered consciousness occurs, other CNS-depressant drugs should also be discontinued as clinically appropriate.

Elevation of Serum Creatine Kinase (CK-MM)

In clinical studies (mostly open label), 40% of patients had serum creatine kinase (CK) levels above the upper limit of normal (ULN), and 11% had CK levels that were ≥ 3 times the ULN. In cases where CK was fractionated, only the muscle isoenzyme (MM) was elevated. The time to occurrence was sporadic, but the greatest incidence of CK elevation was during the first two months of treatment. Elevated CKs were more often seen in males, in patients who were being treated with anti-depressants or anti-epileptics, and in patients treated with IT morphine. Most patients who experienced elevations in CK, even for prolonged periods of time, did not have limiting side effects. However, one case of symptomatic myopathy with EMG findings, and two cases of acute renal failure associated with rhabdomyolysis and extreme CK elevations (17,000–27,000 IU/L) have been reported.

Therefore, it is recommended that physicians monitor serum CK in patients undergoing treatment with PRIALT periodically (e.g., every other week for the first month and monthly as appropriate thereafter). Patients should be clinically evaluated and CK measurements obtained in the setting of new neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., myalgias, myasthenia, muscle cramps, asthenia) or a reduction in physical activity. Should these symptoms continue and CK levels remain elevated or continue to rise, it is recommended that the physician consider PRIALT dose reduction or discontinuation.

Laboratory Tests

In clinical studies (mostly open label), up to 40% of patients had serum creatine kinase (CK) levels above the ULN, and 11% had CK levels that were ≥ 3 times the ULN (see Elevation of Serum Creatine Kinase). Most cases of CK elevation were not associated with muscle weakness, however one case of myopathy with EMG findings, and two cases of acute renal failure associated with rhabdomyolysis and extreme CK elevations (17,000–27,000 IU/L) were reported.

Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

No carcinogenicity studies have been conducted in animals.

Ziconotide was negative in the in vitro bacterial reverse mutation assay, in vitro mouse lymphoma assay, in vivo mouse micronucleus assay, and in the in vitro Syrian hamster embryo (SHE) cell transformation assay.

Ziconotide did not affect male fertility in rats when administered as a continuous intravenous (IV) infusion at a dose of up to 10 mg/kg/day when administered for approximately 8 weeks, including a 28-day pre-mating period, or female fertility at a dose of 3 mg/kg/day when administered for approximately 6 weeks, including a 14-day pre-mating period. Estimated exposures for the male and female rats were approximately 6500-fold and 1700-fold higher, respectively, than the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily intrathecal (IT) dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day) based on plasma exposure. Female fertility in rats was significantly affected following continuous IV infusion at a dose of 10 mg/kg/day. Significant reductions in corpora lutea, implantation sites, and number of live fetuses were observed.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy Category C

Ziconotide was embryolethal in rats when given as a continuous IV infusion during the major period of organogenesis as evidenced by significant increases in post-implantation loss because of an absence or a reduced number of live fetuses. Estimated exposure for embryolethality in the rat was approximately 700-fold above the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily intrathecal (IT) dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day). Ziconotide was not teratogenic in female rats when given as a continuous IV infusion at doses up to 30 mg/kg/day or in female rabbits up to 5 mg/kg/day during the major period of organ development. Estimated exposures in the female rat and rabbit were approximately 26,000-fold and 940-fold higher than the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily intrathecal (IT) dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day) based on plasma exposure. Maternal toxicity in the rat and rabbit, as evidenced by decreased body weight gain and food consumption, was present at all dose levels. Maternal toxicity in the rat led to reduced fetal weights and transient, delayed ossification of the pubic bones at doses ≥ 15 mg/kg/day, which is approximately 8900-fold higher than the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily IT dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day) based on plasma exposure. The no observable adverse effect level (NOAEL) for embryo-fetal development in rats was 0.5 mg/kg/day and in rabbits was 5 mg/kg/day. Estimated NOAEL exposures in the rat and rabbit were approximately 400-fold and 940-fold higher than the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily IT dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day) based on plasma exposure.

In a pre- and post-natal study in rats, ziconotide given as a continuous IV infusion did not affect pup development or reproductive performance up to a dose of 10 mg/kg/day, which is approximately 3800-fold higher than the expected exposure resulting from the maximum recommended human daily intrathecal (IT) dose of 0.8 mcg/hr (19.2 mcg/day) based on plasma exposure. Maternal toxicity, as evidenced by clinical observations, and decreases in body weight gain and food consumption were observed at all doses. No adequate and well-controlled studies have been conducted in pregnant women. Because animal studies are not always predictive of human response, PRIALT should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies risk to the fetus.

Labor and Delivery

The effect of PRIALT on labor and delivery in humans is not known.

Nursing Mothers

It is not known whether PRIALT is excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, and because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants from PRIALT, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, 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

Of the total number of subjects in clinical studies of PRIALT, 22% were 65 and over, while 7% were 75 and over. In all trials, there was a higher incidence of confusion in older patients (42% for ≥ 65 year old versus 29% for < 65 year old subgroups). Other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between the elderly and younger patients. In general, the dose selection for an elderly patient should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.

Hepatic and Renal Impairment

Formal PK studies were not conducted in patients with hepatic or renal impairment.

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

The maximum recommended IT PRIALT dose is 19.2 mcg/day. The maximum IT dose of PRIALT in clinical trials was 912 mcg/day. In some patients who received IT doses greater than the maximum recommended dose, exaggerated pharmacological effects (e.g., ataxia, nystagmus, dizziness, stupor, unresponsiveness, spinal myoclonus, confusion, sedation, hypotension, word-finding difficulties, garbled speech, nausea, and vomiting) were observed. There was no indication of respiratory depression. Overdoses may occur due to pump programming errors or incorrect drug concentration preparations. In these cases, patients were observed and ziconotide was either temporarily discontinued or permanently withdrawn. Most patients recovered within 24 hours after withdrawal of drug. In the event of an IT overdose, elimination of ziconotide from CSF would be expected to remain constant (CSF t_1/2=4.6 hours). Therefore, within 24 hours of stopping therapy, the ziconotide CSF concentration should be less than 5% of peak levels.

There is no known antidote to ziconotide. General medical supportive measures should be administered to patients who receive an overdose until the exaggerated pharmacological effects of the drug have resolved. Treatment for an overdose is hospitalization, when needed, and symptom-related supportive care. Ziconotide does not bind to opiate receptors and its pharmacological effects are not blocked by opioid antagonists.

In the event of an inadvertent intravenous or epidural administration, adverse events could include hypotension, which can be treated with a recumbent posture and blood pressure support as required. The half-life of PRIALT in serum is 1.3 hours.

PRIALT is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to ziconotide or any of its formulation components and in patients with any other concomitant treatment or medical condition that would render IT administration hazardous.

Patients with a pre-existing history of psychosis should not be treated with ziconotide.

Contraindications to the use of IT analgesia include conditions such as the presence of infection at the microinfusion injection site, uncontrolled bleeding diathesis, and spinal canal obstruction that impairs circulation of CSF.

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

Pharmacodynamics

Mechanism of Action

Ziconotide binds to N-type calcium channels located on the primary nociceptive (A-δ and C) afferent nerves in the superficial layers (Rexed laminae I and II) of the dorsal horn in the spinal cord. Although the mechanism of action of ziconotide has not been established in humans, results in animals suggest that its binding blocks N-type calcium channels, which leads to a blockade of excitatory neurotransmitter release from the primary afferent nerve terminals and antinociception.

Interaction with opioids

Ziconotide does not bind to opioid receptors and its pharmacological effects are not blocked by opioid antagonists. In animal models, IT ziconotide potentiated opioid-induced reduction in gastrointestinal (GI) motility, but did not potentiate morphine-induced respiratory depression. In rats receiving IT ziconotide, additive analgesic effects were observed with concurrent administration of morphine, baclofen, or clonidine. Concurrent administration of IT ziconotide and morphine did not prevent the development of morphine tolerance in rats.

Pharmacokinetics

The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pharmacokinetics (PK) of ziconotide have been studied after one-hour IT infusions of 1-10 mcg of PRIALT to patients with chronic pain. The plasma PK following intravenous (IV) infusion (0.3-1 0mcg/kg/day) have also been studied. Both IT and IV data are shown below (Table 1).

Table 1: PRIALT PK Parameters (Mean ± SD)

Route	Fluid	N	CL (mL/min)	Vd (mL)	T½elim (hr)
IT	CSF	23	0.38 ± 0.56	155 ± 263	4.6 ± 0.9
IV	Plasma	21	270 ± 44	30,460 ± 6,366	1.3 ± 0.3

Following one-hour IT administration of 1–10 mcg of PRIALT, both total exposure (AUC; range: 83.6–608 ng•h/mL) and peak exposure (Cmax; range: 16.4–132 ng/mL) values in the CSF were variable and dose-dependent, but appeared approximately dose-proportional. During 5 or 6 days of continuous IT infusions of PRIALT at infusion rates ranging from 0.1 to 7.0 mcg/hr in patients with chronic pain, plasma ziconotide levels could not be quantified in 56% of patients using an assay with a lower limit of detection of approximately 0.04 ng/mL. Predictably, patients requiring higher IT infusion dose rates were more likely to have quantifiable ziconotide levels in plasma. Plasma ziconotide levels, when detectable, remain constant after many months of IT PRIALT infusion in patients followed for up to 9 months.

Distribution

Ziconotide is about 50% bound to human plasma proteins. The mean CSF volume of distribution (Vd) of ziconotide following IT administration approximates the estimated total CSF volume (140 mL).

Metabolism

Ziconotide is cleaved by endopeptidases and exopeptidases at multiple sites on the peptide. Following passage from the CSF into the systemic circulation during continuous IT administration, ziconotide is expected to be susceptible to proteolytic cleavage by various ubiquitous peptidases/proteases present in most organs (e.g., kidney, liver, lung, muscle, etc.), and thus readily degraded to peptide fragments and their individual constituent free amino acids. Human and animal CSF and blood exhibit minimal hydrolytic activity toward ziconotide in vitro. The biological activity of the various expected proteolytic degradation products of ziconotide has not been assessed.

Elimination

Minimal amounts of ziconotide ( < 1%) were recovered in human urine following IV infusion. The terminal half-life of ziconotide in CSF after an IT administration was around 4.6 hours (range 2.9–6.5 hours). Mean CSF clearance (CL) of ziconotide approximates adult human CSF turnover rate (0.3–0.4 mL/min).

Special populations

No formal studies were conducted to assess the effect of demographic factors (age, race, gender, and weight), renal or hepatic dysfunction, or to assess the effect of concomitant drugs on the pharmacokinetics of ziconotide due to the low systemic exposure of ziconotide following IT administration.

Clinical Trials

The safety and efficacy of IT PRIALT in the management of severe chronic pain were studied in three double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter studies in a total of 457 patients (268 PRIALT, 189 placebo) using two different titration schedules. The slow titra-tion schedule tested dose increases 2–3 times per week with a maximum dose of 19.2 mcg/day (0.8 mcg/hr) at 21 days. The fast titration schedule used daily increases up to a maximum dose of 57.6 mcg/day (2.4 mcg/hr) in 5–6 days. The safety in chronic use was studied in four additional open-label, long-term studies in 977 patients.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted at 39 centers to evaluate the efficacy of IT PRIALT administered using a slow titration schedule in 220 patients with severe chronic pain. Patients were randomized 1:1 between PRIALT (112 patients) and placebo (108 patients). At baseline, 97% of these patients reported that their pain was refractory to treatment including IT morphine, IT bupivacaine (an off-label use for this drug), and/or IT clonidine (an off-label use for this drug) in addition to their systemic analgesics and adjunctive therapy. All IT medications were discontinued over a one to three week period, and patients were maintained on a stable regimen of non-IT analgesics, including opiates, for at least 7 days prior to randomization. This period was successfully completed by 93% of the patients screened. Dosing with PRIALT was started at 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) and the dose could be increased by 2.4 mcg/day (0.1 mcg/hr) two to three times/week (minimum titration interval 24 hours) to a maximum dose of 19.2 mcg/day (0.8 mcg/hr). The final mean dose at the end of the trial at 21 days was 6.9 mcg/day (0.29 mcg/hr).

Using a 100 mm Visual Analog Scale of Pain Intensity (VASPI) where 100 mm=worst possible pain, mean baseline pain scores were 81 in both the PRIALT and placebo groups. The primary efficacy variable was the mean percent change in the VASPI score from baseline to day 21. In the intent-to-treat (ITT) efficacy analysis, there was a statistically significant difference between groups in the mean percent change in VASPI score from baseline with the PRIALT group having a 12% mean improvement at Week 3 compared to a 5% mean improvement in the placebo group (p=0.04). The 95% confidence interval for the treatment difference (PRIALT–placebo) was 0.4%, 13%.

The effect of IT PRIALT on pain was variable over the time period of treatment for some patients. Some patients had a reduction in VASPI in the first or second week but did not maintain pain relief by the end of the third week. Other patients, who did not exhibit a reduction in VASPI early in treatment, did have a reduction in VASPI by the third week.

Patients exhibited various degrees of improvement in pain after three weeks of treatment compared with baseline pain assessment. Figure 1 depicts the fraction of patients by their degree of improvement. The figure is cumulative, so that patients whose change from baseline is, for example 30%, are also included at every level of improvement below 30%. Patients who did not have a VASPI score recorded at Week 3 (Study days 17-23, inclusive) were assigned 0% improvement. The improvement in the proportion of “responders,” defined as having a ≥ 30% improvement from baseline in VASPI, was 16% in the PRIALT group compared to 12% in the placebo group, for a net difference of 4%. The use of non-IT opioids decreased by 24% in the PRIALT group and by 17% in the placebo group.

Figure 1: Patients Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief from Baseline to Week 3

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

Patients should be cautioned against engaging in hazardous activity requiring complete mental alertness or motor coordination such as operating machinery or driving a motor vehicle during treatment with PRIALT. Patients should also be cautioned about possible combined effects with other CNS-depressant drugs. Dosage adjustments may be necessary when PRIALT is administered with such agents because of the potentially additive effects. The physician should be contacted if the patient experiences new or worsening muscle pain, soreness, weakness with or without darkened urine.

PATIENTS AND THEIR CAREGIVERS SHOULD BE INSTRUCTED TO CONTACT A PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF THE PATIENT HAS

• A change in mental status (e.g., lethargy, confusion, disorientation, decreased alertness)
• A change in mood, perception (hallucinations, including unusual tactile sensations in the oral cavity)
• Symptoms of depression or suicidal ideation
• Nausea, vomiting, seizures, fever, headache, and/or stiff neck, as these may be symptoms of developing meningitis

Last updated on RxList: 8/28/2009

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.

ZICONOTIDE - INJECTION

(zico-NO-tide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Prialt

WARNING: Severe mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, depression, hallucinations, decreased alertness) may occur in some patients. This medication should not be used if you have a history of certain mental disorders (e.g., psychosis) because it increases the risk of those side effects. (See also Side Effects, Precautions sections.)

USES: This medication is a non-narcotic pain reliever that is used to treat ongoing pain when other treatments or medications cannot control your pain. Ziconotide works by blocking the nerves in the spinal cord that send pain signals. It decreases ongoing pain caused by cancer, AIDS, failed back surgery, multiple sclerosis, neuropathy, and other causes.

HOW TO USE: Read the instruction manual and directions that come with your infusion pump. If you have any questions regarding the information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

This medication is injected, usually continuously, into the spinal fluid (intrathecal) using a small pump or as directed by your doctor. To decrease the risk of side effects, treatment is usually started slowly and then gradually increased to the best dose for you. Your dose is based on your condition and response to therapy.

This medication should not be given into a vein (IV) or under the skin. It can cause fainting due to a dangerous drop in blood pressure if it is accidentally given into a vein.

To prevent infection, learn how to handle the infusion pump, and learn proper care of the injection site. Call your doctor immediately if there is any sign of infection around the injection site (e.g., swelling, redness, tenderness). See also Side Effects section.

Contact your doctor or pharmacist to set up a schedule for refilling your pump.

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

Inform your doctor if your pain persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, headache, and weakness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

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: decreased alertness (unresponsiveness), confusion, memory problems, mental/mood changes (e.g., anxiety, depression, hallucinations, thoughts of suicide), new or worsening muscle pain/soreness, numbness/tingling, trouble speaking/swallowing, difficult/unsteady walking, trouble urinating, dark urine, vision changes.

A very serious infection (meningitis) may occur if the site of your infusion or the solution going into your spinal cord becomes contaminated. Symptoms of meningitis include mental changes (e.g., extreme drowsiness, confusion), high fever, seizures, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, and vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these unlikely but very serious side effects occur.

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 taking ziconotide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; 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: uncontrolled bleeding, any infection near the injection site, mental/mood disorders (e.g., depression, psychosis, thoughts of suicide), spinal canal blockage.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: regular/long-term use of narcotic medication.

This medication is not a narcotic (morphine-like drug). If you have been using a narcotic (e.g., codeine, hydrocodone, morphine) regularly for more than a few weeks, or if it has been used in high doses, you may be dependent on it. In such cases, if you suddenly stop the narcotic, withdrawal reactions may occur. This medication will not prevent withdrawal reactions from narcotics. When stopping extended, regular treatment with narcotics, gradually reducing the dosage as directed will help prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its effects, especially confusion.

This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to a nursing infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your healthcare professionals (e.g., doctor or pharmacist) may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for it. 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/herbal products you may use, especially of: "water pills" (e.g., furosemide, thiazide diuretics).

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., carbamazepine), 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 drowsiness-causing ingredients. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products.

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. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly.

NOTES: Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., CK levels) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

Do not share this medication with others.

MISSED DOSE: Not Applicable.

STORAGE: Refrigerate between 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) away from light and moisture at all times, including during transport. After being mixed with saline, it may be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. 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 July 2008 Copyright(c) 2008 First DataBank, Inc.