Saturday, 28 July 2012

Gabapentin 600mg film-coated tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Gabapentin 600mg film-coated tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each film-coated tablet contains 600 mg gabapentin.



For a full list of excipients, see section 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Film-coated tablet.



A white, capsule shaped, film-coated tablet.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Epilepsy



Adults and children over 12 years



Gabapentin is an anti-epileptic agent indicated as add-on therapy for partial seizures (with or without secondary generalisation) in patients who have not achieved satisfactory control with, or who exhibit intolerance to, standard anticonvulsants whether used alone or in combination.



Children 6-12 years of age



Gabapentin may be used as add-on therapy for partial seizures (with or without secondary generalisation) in children aged between 6-12 years, who have not achieved satisfactory control with, or who exhibit intolerance to, standard anticonvulsants whether used alone or in combination, if the risk-benefit ratio is considered favourable. Treatment should be initiated and supervised by a neurological specialist.



Children under 6 years of age



The use of gabapentin is not recommended in this age group owing to the lack of sufficient supporting data.



Neuropathic Pain



Gabapentin is indicated for the treatment of neuropathic pain in adults.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



Note:



Gabapentin capsules, of strengths 100mg, 300mg and 400mg, and Gabapentin 800mg tablets are also available for construction of an appropriate patient dosage regimen.



Epilepsy



Adults and children (over 12 years)



Gabapentin tablets are administered orally, and may be taken with or without food.



The anti-epileptic effect of gabapentin generally occurs at a daily dose of 900 to 1200mg. It is not necessary to monitor gabapentin plasma concentrations to optimise therapy.



An effective dose can be achieved rapidly by titration over a few days, by administering 300mg once a day on the first day, 300mg twice a day on the second day and 300mg three times a day on the third day (refer to Table 1 below).



Table 1:Dosing chart for initial titration












Dose




Day 1




Day 2




Day 3




900mg



 




300mg



 



once a day



 




300mg



 



two times a day




300mg



 



three times a day



Dosage can be increased subsequently with increments of 300mg per day given in three equally divided doses, to a daily maximum of 2400mg. The maximum time between doses in a three times daily schedule should not be more than 12 hours.



Discontinuation of gabapentin, and/or addition of an alternative anticonvulsant medicinal product to the treatment regimen, should be accomplished gradually over a minimum period of one week.



Elderly



Dosage adjustment may be necessary in elderly patients, due to declining renal function with age (refer to Table 2).



Children 6-12 years of age



The recommended dose of gabapentin is 25mg/kg/day to 35 mg/kg/day, given in divided doses three times a day. An effective dose can be achieved by titration over three days, by administering 10 mg/kg/day on the first day, 20 mg/kg/day on the second day and 25mg/kg/day to 35 mg/kg/day on the third day. A suggested maintenance dosing schedule is given below:










Weight Range (kg)




Total mg daily dose




26 - 36




900




37 - 50




1200



Neuropathic Pain



Adults (over 18 years)



Gabapentin tablets are administered orally, and may be taken with or without food.



Gabapentin should be titrated to a maximum dose of 1800mg per day. An effective dose can be achieved rapidly by titration over a few days, by administering 300mg once a day on the first day, 300mg twice a day on the second day and 300mg three times a day on the third day (refer to Table 1).



Dosage can be increased subsequently with increments of 300mg per day to a daily maximum of 1800mg, given in three divided doses. There is no need to divide the doses equally when titrating gabapentin, and it is not necessary to monitor gabapentin plasma concentrations to optimise therapy. The maximum time between doses in a three times daily schedule should not be more than 12 hours.



In the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain such as painful diabetic neuropathy and post-herpetic neuralgia, efficacy and safety have not been examined in clinical studies for treatment periods longer than 5 months. If a patient requires dosing longer than 5 months for the treatment of peripheral neuropathic pain, the treating physician should assess the patient's clinical status and determine the need for additional therapy.



Discontinuation of gabapentin, dosage reduction or substitution with an alternative medicinal product, should be achieved gradually during a minimum period of one week.



Elderly



It may be necessary to adjust the dose in elderly patients, due to declining renal function with age (refer to Table 2).



Patients with impaired renal function or undergoing haemodialysis



It is recommended that a dose adjustment is made for patients with impaired renal function and those undergoing haemodialysis. The dosage recommendations for impaired renal function are summarised in Table 2 overleaf.



For patients undergoing haemodialysis who have not previously been given gabapentin, a loading dose of 300 to 400mg is recommended, with a further 200 to 300mg of gabapentin following each 4 hours of haemodialysis.



Table 2:Maintenance dosage of gabapentin in patients with impaired renal function




























Renal function



(creatinine clearance, ml/min)




Total daily dose1 mg/day


  


> 80




900




1200




2400




50-79




600




600




1200




30-49




300




300




600




15-29




1502




300




300




< 153




1502




1502




1502



1 Total daily dose should be administered as a three times daily regimen. For patients with normal renal function (creatine clearance>80 ml/min), the daily dose will range from 900 - 2400mg. Dosage reduction is recommended for patients with impaired renal function (creatinine clearance <79 ml/min).



2 To be administered as 300mg on alternate days.



3 For patients with creatinine clearance <15 ml/min, the daily dose should be reduced in proportion to creatinine clearance (e.g., patients with a creatinine clearance of 7.5 ml/min should receive one-half the daily dose that patients with a creatinine clearance of 15 ml/min receive).



Use in patients undergoing haemodialysis



For anuric patients undergoing haemodialysis who have never received gabapentin, a loading dose of 300 to 400 mg, then 200 to 300 mg of gabapentin following each 4 hours of haemodialysis, is recommended. On dialysis-free days, there should be no treatment with gabapentin.



For renally impaired patients undergoing haemodialysis, the maintenance dose of gabapentin should be based on the dosing recommendations found in Table 2. In addition to the maintenance dose, an additional 200 to 300 mg dose following each 4-hour haemodialysis treatment is recommended.



4.3 Contraindications



Hypersensitivity to the active substance gabapentin, or to any of the excipients of gabapentin tablets.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Although there is no evidence of rebound seizures with gabapentin, abrupt withdrawal of anticonvulsant agents in epileptic patients may precipitate status epilepticus. When, in the judgement of the clinician, there is a need for dose reduction, discontinuation or substitution of alternative anticonvulsant medicinal products, this should be effected gradually over a period of at least one week.



Gabapentin is not considered effective against primary generalised seizures such as absences and may aggravate these seizures in some patients. Therefore, gabapentin should be used with caution in patients with mixed seizures including absences.



If a patient develops acute pancreatitis under treatment with gabapentin, discontinuation of gabapentin should be considered (see section 4.8).



As with other antiepileptic medicinal products, some patients may experience an increase in seizure frequency or the onset of new types of seizures with gabapentin.



As with other anti-epileptics, attempts to withdraw concomitant anti-epileptics in treatment refractive patients on more than one anti-epileptic, in order to reach gabapentin monotherapy have a low success rate.



No systematic studies in patients 65 years or older have been conducted with gabapentin. In one double blind study in patients with neuropathic pain, somnolence, peripheral oedema and asthenia occurred in a somewhat higher percentage in patients aged 65 years or above, than in younger patients. Apart from these findings, clinical investigations in this age group do not indicate an adverse event profile different from that observed in younger patients.



The effects of long-term (greater than 36 weeks) gabapentin therapy on learning, intelligence, and development in children and adolescents have not been adequately studied. The benefits of prolonged therapy must therefore be weighed against the potential risks of such therapy.



Laboratory tests



False positive readings may be obtained in the semi-quantitative determination of total urine protein by dipstick tests. It is therefore recommended to verify such a positive dipstick test result by methods based on a different analytical principle such as the Biuret method, turbidimetric or dye-binding methods, or to use these alternative methods from the beginning.



Patients taking gabapentin can be the subject of mood and behavioural disturbances. Such reports have been noted in patients receiving gabapentin, although a causal link has not been established.



Caution is recommended in patients with a history of psychotic illness. On commencing treatment with gabapentin, psychotic episodes have been reported in some patients with, and rarely without, a history of psychotic illness. Most of these events resolved when gabapentin was discontinued, or the dosage reduced.



Suicide/suicidal thoughts:



Suicidal ideation and behaviour have been reported in patients treated with anti-epileptic agent in several indications. A meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials of anti-epileptic drugs has shown a small increased risk of suicidal ideation and behaviour. The mechanism of this risk is not known and the available data do not exclude the possibility of an increased risk for gabapentin.



Therfore patients should be monitored for signs of suicidal ideation and behaviour and appropriate treatment should be considered. Patients (and caregivers of patients) should be advised to seek medical advice should signs of suicidal ideation or behaviour emerge.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



In a study involving healthy volunteers (N=12), when a 60mg controlled-release morphine capsule was administered 2 hours prior to a 600mg gabapentin capsule, mean gabapentin AUC increased by 44% compared to gabapentin administered without morphine. Therefore, patients should be carefully observed for signs of CNS depression, such as somnolence, and the dose of gabapentin or morphine should be reduced appropriately.



The anticonvulsant effect of antiepileptics is antagonised by tricyclic antidepressants, selective-serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and mefloquine, and may be antagonised by monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and tricyclic-related antidepressants. There is a possibility of increased risk of convulsions when antiepileptics are given with chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine.



Gabapentin may be used in combination with other anti-epileptic medicinal products, without concern for alteration of the plasma concentrations of gabapentin or the serum concentrations of other anti-epileptic active substances.



There are no interactions between gabapentin and phenytoin, valproic acid, carbamazepine or phenobarbitone. Steady-state pharmacokinetics of gabapentin are similar in healthy subjects and in patients with epilepsy receiving anti-epileptic agents.



Co-administration of gabapentin with oral contraceptives including norethisterone and/or ethinyl oestradiol does not influence the steady-state pharmacokinetics of either component.



In a clinical study where gabapentin was given at the same time as an aluminium and magnesium containing antacid, the bioavailability of gabapentin was reduced by up to 24%. It is recommended that gabapentin should be taken about two hours following any such antacid administration.



The renal excretion of gabapentin is not altered by probenecid, whereas a slight decrease in renal excretion of gabapentin is observed when co-administered with cimetidine. However, this is not expected to be of clinical importance.



False positive readings have been reported with the Ames N-Multistix SG® dipstick test when gabapentin was added to other anticonvulsant drugs. The more specific sulphosalicylic acid precipitation procedure is recommended to determine urinary protein.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Risk related to epilepsy and antiepileptic medicinal products in general



The risk of birth defects is increased by a factor of 2 – 3 in the offspring of mothers treated with an antiepileptic medicinal product. Most frequently reported are cleft lip, cardiovascular malformations and neural tube defects. Multiple antiepileptic drug therapy may be associated with a higher risk of congenital malformations than monotherapy, therefore it is important that monotherapy is practised whenever possible. Specialist advice should be given to women who are likely to become pregnant or who are of childbearing potential and the need for antiepileptic treatment should be reviewed when a woman is planning to become pregnant. No sudden discontinuation of antiepileptic therapy should be undertaken as this may lead to breakthrough seizures, which could have serious consequences for both mother and child. Developmental delay in children of mothers with epilepsy has been observed rarely. It is not possible to differentiate if the developmental delay is caused by genetic, social factors, maternal epilepsy or the antiepileptic therapy.



Risk related to gabapentin



There are no adequate data from the use of gabapentin in pregnant women.



Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity (see section 5.3). The potential risk for humans is unknown. Gabapentin should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit to the mother clearly outweighs the potential risk to the foetus.



No definite conclusion can be made as to whether gabapentin is associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations when taken during pregnancy, because of epilepsy itself and the presence of concomitant antiepileptic medicinal products during each reported pregnancy.



Gabapentin is excreted in human milk. Because the effect on the breast-fed infant is unknown, caution should be exercised when gabapentin is administered to a breast-feeding mother. Gabapentin should be used in breast-feeding mothers only if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



Gabapentin acts on the central nervous system and may produce drowsiness, dizziness, or related symptoms. Whilst these adverse events are otherwise mild or moderate, they pose a potential danger for patients who are driving or operating machinery, particularly until such time as the individual patient's experience with gabapentin is characterised. This is especially true at the beginning of the treatment and after increase in dose.



4.8 Undesirable Effects



The adverse reactions observed during clinical studies conducted in epilepsy (adjunctive and monotherapy) and neuropathic pain have been provided in a single list below by class and frequency (very common (



Additional reactions reported from the post-marketing experience are included as frequency Not known (cannot be estimated from the available data)



Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.



Infections and infestations







Very Common:

Viral infection

Common:

Pneumonia, respiratory infection, urinary tract infection, infection, otitis media


Blood and the lymphatic system disorders







Common:

leucopenia

Not known:

thrombocytopenia


Immune system disorders





Uncommon:

allergic reactions (e.g. urticaria)


Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders





Common:

anorexia, increased appetite


Psychiatric disorders







Common:

hostility, confusion and emotional lability, depression, anxiety, nervousness, thinking abnormal

Not known:

hallucinations


Nervous system disorders











Very Common:

somnolence, dizziness, ataxia,

Common:

convulsions, hyperkinesias, dysarthria, amnesia, tremor, insomnia, headache, sensations such as paraesthesia, hypaesthesia, coordination abnormal, nystagmus, increased, decreased, or absent reflexes

Uncommon:

hypokinesia

Not known:

other movement disorders (e.g. choreoathetosis, dyskinesia, dystonia)


Eye disorders





Common:

visual disturbances such as amblyopia, diplopia


Ear and Labyrinth disorders







Common:

vertigo

Not known:

tinnitus


Cardiac disorders





Uncommon:

palpitations


Vascular disorder





Common:

hypertension, vasodilatation


Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders





Common:

dyspnoea, bronchitis, pharyngitis, cough, rhinitis


Gastrointestinal disorders







Common:

vomiting, nausea, dental abnormalities, gingivitis, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, constipation, dry mouth or throat, flatulence

Not known:

pancreatitis


Hepatobiliary disorders





Not known:

hepatitis, jaundice


Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders







Common:

facial oedema, purpura most often described as bruises resulting from physical trauma, rash, pruritus, acne

Not known:

Stevens-Johnson syndrome, angioedema, erythema multiforme, alopecia


Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders







Common:

arthralgia, myalgia, back pain, twitching

Not known:

myoclonus


Renal and urinary disorders





Not known:

acute renal failure, incontinence


Reproductive system and breast disorders







Common:

impotence

Not known:

breast hypertrophy, gynaecomastia


General disorders and administration site conditions











Very Common:

fatigue, fever

Common:

peripheral oedema, abnormal gait, asthenia, pain, malaise, flu syndrome

Uncommon:

generalised oedema

Not known:

withdrawal reactions (mostly anxiety, insomnia, nausea, pains, sweating), chest pain. Sudden unexplained deaths have been reported where a causal relationship to treatment with gabapentin has not been established.


Investigations









Common:

WBC (white blood cell count) decreased, weight gain

Uncommon:

elevated liver function tests SGOT (AST), SGPT (ALT) and bilirubin

Not known:

Blood glucose fluctuations in patients with diabetes


Injury and poisoning





Common:

accidental injury, fracture, abrasion


Under treatment with gabapentin cases of acute pancreatitis were reported. Causality with gabapentin is unclear (see section 4.4).



In patients on haemodialysis due to end-stage renal failure, myopathy with elevated creatine kinase levels has been reported.



Respiratory tract infections, otitis media, convulsions and bronchitis were reported only in clinical studies in children. Additionally, in clinical studies in children, aggressive behaviour and hyperkinesias were reported commonly.



4.9 Overdose



Acute, life-threatening toxicity has not been observed in overdoses with gabapentin of up to 49 grams. Symptoms of overdose included dizziness, double vision, slurred speech, drowsiness, lethargy and mild diarrhoea. All patients recovered fully with supportive care. Reduced absorption of gabapentin at higher doses may limit drug absorption at the time of overdosing, and thus minimise toxicity from overdoses.



Overdoses of gabapentin, particularly in combination with other CNS depressant medications, may result in coma.



Although gabapentin can be removed by haemodialysis, based on prior experience it is not usually required. However, in patients with severe renal impairment, haemodialysis may be indicated.



An oral lethal dose of gabapentin was not identified in mice and rats given doses as high as 8000 mg/kg. Signs of acute toxicity in animals included ataxia, laboured breathing, ptosis, hypoactivity, or excitation.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Other antiepileptics, ATC code: N03A X12



The precise mechanism of action of gabapentin is not known.



Gabapentin is structurally related to the neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) but its mechanism of action is different from that of several other active substances that interact with GABA synapses including valproate, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, GABA transaminase inhibitors, GABA uptake inhibitors, GABA agonists, and GABA prodrugs. In vitro studies with radiolabelled gabapentin have characterised a novel peptide binding site in rat brain tissues including neocortex and hippocampus that may relate to anticonvulsant and analgesic activity of gabapentin and its structural derivatives.



The binding site for gabapentin has been identified as the alpha2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels.



Gabapentin at relevant clinical concentrations does not bind to other common drug or neurotransmitter receptors of the brain including GABAA, GABAB, benzodiazepine, glutamate, glycine or N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors.



Gabapentin does not interact with sodium channels in vitro and so differs from phenytoin and carbamazepine. Gabapentin partially reduces responses to the glutamate agonist N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) in some test systems in vitro, but only at concentrations greater than 100 μM, which are not achieved in vivo. Gabapentin slightly reduces the release of monoamine neurotransmitters in vitro. Gabapentin administration to rats increases GABA turnover in several brain regions in a manner similar to valproate sodium, although in different regions of brain. The relevance of these various actions of gabapentin to the anticonvulsant effects remains to be established. In animals, gabapentin readily enters the brain and prevents seizures from maximal electroshock, from chemical convulsants including inhibitors of GABA synthesis, and in genetic models of seizures.



A clinical trial of adjunctive treatment of partial seizures in paediatric subjects ranging in age from 3 to 12 years, showed a numerical but not statistically significant difference in the 50% responder rate in favour of the gabapentin group compared to placebo. Additional post-hoc analyses of the responder rates by age did not reveal a statistically significant effect of age, either as a continuous or dichotomous variable (age groups 3-5 and 6-12 years).



The data from this additional post-hoc analysis are summarised in the table below:




















Response (


   


Age Category



 




Placebo




Gabapentin




P-Value




< 6 Years Old



 




4/21 (19.0%)




4/17 (23.5%)




0.7362




6 to 12 Years Old



 




17/99 (17.2%)




20/96 (20.8%)




0.5144



*The modified intent to treat population was defined as all patients randomised to study medication who also had evaluable seizure diaries available for 28 days during both the baseline and double-blind phases.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption



Following oral administration, peak plasma gabapentin concentrations are observed within 2 to 3 hours. Gabapentin bioavailability (fraction of dose absorbed) tends to decrease with increasing dose. Absolute bioavailability of a 300 mg capsule is approximately 60%. Food, including a high-fat diet, has no clinically significant effect on gabapentin pharmacokinetics.



Gabapentin pharmacokinetics are not affected by repeated administration. Although plasma gabapentin concentrations were generally between 2 μg/ml and 20 μg/ml in clinical studies, such concentrations were not predictive of safety or efficacy. Pharmacokinetic parameters are given in Table 3.



Table 3



Summary of gabapentin mean (%CV) steady-state pharmacokinetic parameters following every eight hours administration




























































Pharmacokinetic parameter




300 mg



(N = 7)




400 mg



(N = 14)




800 mg



(N=14)


   

 


Mean




%CV




Mean




%CV




Mean




%CV




Cmax (μg/ml)




4.02




(24)




5.74




(38)




8.71




(29)




Tmax (hr)




2.7




(18)




2.1




(54)




1.6




(76)




T1/2 (hr)




5.2




(12)




10.8




(89)




10.6




(41)




AUC (0-8) μg•hr/ml)




24.8




(24)




34.5




(34)




51.4




(27)




Ae% (%)




NA




NA




47.2




(25)




34.4




(37)




Cmax = Maximum steady state plasma concentration



Tmax = Time for Cmax



T1/2 = Elimination half-life



AUC(0-8) = Steady state area under plasma concentration-time curve from time 0 to 8 hours postdose



Ae% = Percent of dose excreted unchanged into the urine from time 0 to 8 hours postdose



NA = Not available


      


Based on the results of bioavailability studies performed with gabapentin tablets, 600 and 800mg tablets are bioequivalent to gabapentin capsules. 600mg gabapentin tablets were found to be bioequivalent to 2 x 300mg capsules based on a similar rate and extent of drug absorption. Likewise, 800mg tablets were found to be bioequivalent to 2 x 400mg capsules.



Distribution



Gabapentin is not bound to plasma proteins and has a volume of distribution equal to 57.7 litres. In patients with epilepsy, gabapentin concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are approximately 20% of corresponding steady-state trough plasma concentrations. Gabapentin is present in the breast milk of breast-feeding women.



Metabolism



There is no evidence of gabapentin metabolism in humans. Gabapentin does not induce hepatic mixed function oxidase enzymes responsible for drug metabolism.



Elimination



Gabapentin is eliminated unchanged solely by renal excretion. The elimination half-life of gabapentin is independent of dose and averages 5 to 7 hours.



In elderly patients, and in patients with impaired renal function, gabapentin plasma clearance is reduced. Gabapentin elimination-rate constant, plasma clearance, and renal clearance are directly proportional to creatinine clearance.



Gabapentin is removed from plasma by haemodialysis. Dosage adjustment in patients with compromised renal function or undergoing haemodialysis is recommended (see section 4.2).



Gabapentin pharmacokinetics in children were determined in 50 healthy subjects between the ages of 1 month and 12 years. In general, plasma gabapentin concentrations in children> 5 years of age are similar to those in adults when dosed on a mg/kg basis.



Linearity/Non-linearity



Gabapentin bioavailability (fraction of dose absorbed) decreases with increasing dose which imparts non-linearity to pharmacokinetic parameters which include the bioavailability parameter (F) e.g. Ae%, CL/F, Vd/F. Elimination pharmacokinetics (pharmacokinetic parameters which do not include F such as CLr and T1/2), are best described by linear pharmacokinetics. Steady state plasma gabapentin concentrations are predictable from single-dose data.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Carcinogenicity



Gabapentin was administered in the diet to mice at 200, 600, and 2000mg/kg/day and to rats at 250, 1000, and 2000mg/kg/day for two years. A statistically significant increase in the incidence of pancreatic acinar cell tumours was noted only in male rats at the highest dose. Peak plasma drug concentrations and areas under the concentration time curve in rats at 2000mg/kg are 10 times higher than plasma concentrations in humans receiving 3600mg/day.



The pancreatic acinar cell tumours in male rats were low-grade malignancies, without effect on survival, which did not metastasise or invade surrounding tissue. These tumours were similar to those seen in concurrent controls. The relevance of pancreatic acinar cell tumours in male rats to carcinogenic risk in humans is therefore of uncertain significance.



Mutagenesis



Gabapentin has no genotoxic potential. It was not mutagenic in the Ames bacterial plate incorporation assay, or at the HGPRT locus in mammalian cells in the presence or absence of metabolic activation. Gabapentin did not induce structural chromosome aberrations in mammalian cells in vitro or in vivo, and did not induce micronucleus formation in the bone marrow of hamsters.



Impairment of Fertility



No adverse effects on fertility or reproduction were observed in rats at doses up to 2000 mg/kg (approximately five times the maximum daily human dose on a mg/m2 of body surface area basis).



Teratogenesis



Gabapentin did not increase the incidence of malformations, compared to controls, in the offspring of mice, rats, or rabbits at doses up to 50, 30 and 25 times respectively, the daily human dose of 3600 mg, (four, five or eight times, respectively, the human daily dose on a mg/m2 basis).



Gabapentin induced delayed ossification in the skull, vertebrae, forelimbs, and hindlimbs in rodents, indicative of fetal growth retardation. These effects occurred when pregnant mice received oral doses of 1000 or 3000 mg/kg/day during organogenesis and in rats given 500, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg prior to and during mating and throughout gestation. These doses are approximately 1 to 5 times the human dose of 3600 mg on a mg/m2 basis.



No effects were observed in pregnant mice given 500 mg/kg/day (approximately 1/2 of the daily human dose on a mg/m2 basis).



An increased incidence of hydroureter and/or hydronephrosis was observed in rats given 2000 mg/kg/day in a fertility and general reproduction study, 1500 mg/kg/day in a teratology study, and 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg/day in a perinatal and postnatal study. The significance of these findings is unknown, but they have been associated with delayed development. These doses are also approximately 1 to 5 times the human dose of 3600 mg on a mg/m2 basis.



In a teratology study in rabbits, an increased incidence of post-implantation foetal loss, occurred in doses given 60, 300, and 1500 mg/kg/day during organogenesis. These doses are approximately 1/4 to 8 times the daily human dose of 3600 mg on a mg/m2 basis.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Tablets Core:



Macrogol 4000



Pre-gelatinised starch



Colloidal anhydrous silica



Magnesium stearate



Tablet film coating:



Polyvinyl alcohol



Titanium dioxide (E171)



Talc



Lecithin



Xanthan gum



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



24 months.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store below 25ºC.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



PVC/Aluminium blister pack. Supplied in pack sizes of 50, 90, 100 and 200 tablets.



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Epinephrine Solution



Pronunciation: EP-i-NEF-rin
Generic Name: Epinephrine
Brand Name: Generic only. No brands available.


Epinephrine Solution is used for:

Treating severe allergic reactions (eg, difficulty breathing; rash; hives; itching; tightness in the chest; severe dizziness swelling of the mouth, lips, or tongue) caused by insect stings or bites, foods, drugs, or other causes. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.


Epinephrine Solution is a sympathomimetic. It works on blood vessels to improve blood pressure and on the smooth muscle of the lungs to help breathing. It also works by decreasing rash, hives, and swelling.


Do NOT use Epinephrine Solution if:


  • you are allergic to any ingredient in Epinephrine Solution, unless your doctor tells you otherwise

Contact your doctor or health care provider right away if any of these apply to you.



Before using Epinephrine Solution:


Some medical conditions may interact with Epinephrine Solution. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if any of the following apply to you:


  • if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding

  • if you are taking any prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement

  • if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances (eg, sulfites)

  • if you have heart disease, chest pain, high blood pressure, blood vessel problems, diabetes, Parkinson disease, thyroid problems, mood or mental disorders (eg, depression), asthma, or an irregular heartbeat

Some MEDICINES MAY INTERACT with Epinephrine Solution. Tell your health care provider if you are taking any other medicines, especially any of the following:


  • Bromocriptine, furazolidone, or linezolid because the risk of side effects, such as headache, high temperature, and high blood pressure, may be increased

  • Antiarrhythmics (eg, quinidine), digoxin, diuretics (eg, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide), or droxidopa because the risk of irregular heartbeat may be increased

  • Antihistamines (eg, chlorpheniramine), catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) inhibitors (eg, entacapone), levothyroxine, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) (eg, phenelzine), or tricyclic antidepressants (eg, amitriptyline) because they may increase the risk of Epinephrine Solution's side effects

  • Alpha-blockers (eg, prazosin), beta-blockers (eg, propranolol), ergot alkaloids (eg, ergotamine), or phenothiazines (eg, chlorpromazine) because they may decrease Epinephrine Solution's effectiveness

  • Guanethidine because its effectiveness may be decreased by Epinephrine Solution

This may not be a complete list of all interactions that may occur. Ask your health care provider if Epinephrine Solution may interact with other medicines that you take. Check with your health care provider before you start, stop, or change the dose of any medicine.


How to use Epinephrine Solution:


Use Epinephrine Solution as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions.


  • An extra patient leaflet is available with Epinephrine Solution. Talk to your pharmacist if you have questions about this information.

  • Epinephrine Solution may be given as an injection at your doctor's office, hospital, or clinic. If you will be using Epinephrine Solution at home, a health care provider will teach you how to use it. Be sure you understand how to use Epinephrine Solution. Follow the procedures you are taught when you use a dose. Contact your health care provider if you have any questions.

  • Check Epinephrine Solution regularly. Replace Epinephrine Solution if the expiration date has passed, if it contains particles or is discolored (pink or darker than slightly yellow), or if the syringe is cracked or damaged in any way.

  • Inject Epinephrine Solution only into the outer thigh as directed by your health care provider. Do not inject into the buttocks or into a vein.

  • Go to the nearest hospital emergency room immediately after use. You may need further medical attention. Tell the doctor or health care provider that you have received an injection of epinephrine. Show the thigh where the injection was given to the doctor. Give your used syringe to the doctor for inspection and proper disposal.

  • If you accidentally inject yourself with Epinephrine Solution, seek immediate medical attention.

  • Keep this product, as well as syringes and needles, out of the reach of children and pets. Do not reuse needles, syringes, or other materials. Ask your health care provider how to dispose of these materials after use. Follow all local rules for disposal.

  • Epinephrine Solution is usually given in an emergency situation. If you are unable to use Epinephrine Solution, seek medical attention immediately.

  • If you miss a dose of Epinephrine Solution, seek immediate medical attention.

Ask your health care provider any questions you may have about how to use Epinephrine Solution.



Important safety information:


  • Only inject Epinephrine Solution into the outer thigh. Never inject Epinephrine Solution into hands, fingers, feet, or toes. Doing so may cause a loss of blood flow and result in tissue damage to these areas. If you accidentally inject Epinephrine Solution into any of these areas, seek immediate emergency medical attention.

  • It may be helpful to train others how to give Epinephrine Solution in case you are unable to give it to yourself during a reaction.

  • Diabetes patients - Epinephrine Solution may raise your blood sugar. High blood sugar may make you feel confused, drowsy, or thirsty. It can also make you flush, breathe faster, or have a fruit-like breath odor. If these symptoms occur or persist, tell your doctor right away.

  • Patients with Parkinson disease may notice a temporary worsening of symptoms (eg, uncontrolled muscle movements). If these symptoms persist, contact your doctor.

  • Use Epinephrine Solution with caution in the ELDERLY; they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • Caution is advised if Epinephrine Solution is used in CHILDREN who weigh less than 66 lbs (30 kg); they may be more sensitive to its effects.

  • PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING: If you become pregnant, contact your doctor. You will need to discuss the benefits and risks of using Epinephrine Solution while you are pregnant. It is not known if Epinephrine Solution is found in breast milk. If you are or will be breast-feeding while you use Epinephrine Solution, check with your doctor. Discuss any possible risks to your baby.


Possible side effects of Epinephrine Solution:


All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome:



Dizziness; feeling anxious, nervous, or fearful; headache; nausea; paleness; restlessness; shakiness or weakness; sweating; vomiting.



Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur:

Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; fast or irregular heartbeat; wheezing.



This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. To report side effects to the appropriate agency, please read the Guide to Reporting Problems to FDA.



If OVERDOSE is suspected:


Contact 1-800-222-1222 (the American Association of Poison Control Centers), your local poison control center, or emergency room immediately. Symptoms may include chest pain; confusion; extreme paleness or coldness of the skin; fast or irregular heartbeat; one-sided weakness; severe headache or dizziness; slurred speech; trouble breathing; vision problems.


Proper storage of Epinephrine Solution:

Store Epinephrine Solution at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C). Brief storage at temperatures between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. Store in the carrying case provided. Do not refrigerate, freeze, or expose to extreme heat. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Epinephrine Solution out of the reach of children and away from pets.


General information:


  • If you have any questions about Epinephrine Solution, please talk with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.

  • Epinephrine Solution is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.

  • If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.

  • Check with your pharmacist about how to dispose of unused medicine.

This information is a summary only. It does not contain all information about Epinephrine Solution. If you have questions about the medicine you are taking or would like more information, check with your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.



Issue Date: February 1, 2012

Database Edition 12.1.1.002

Copyright © 2012 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc.

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Tuesday, 24 July 2012

Folic Acid 5mg Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Folic Acid 5mg Tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Folic Acid BP 5.00 mg.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablet.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



For the treatment and prophylaxis of megaloblastic anaemia or pernicious anaemia administered with adequate amounts of hydroxocobalamin.



For the treatment of folic acid deficiency e.g. caused by administration of phenytoin.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



For the treatment of anaemias:



Adults: 5mg daily for up to 4 months, with adequate amounts of hydroxocobalamin by injection. Up to 15mg daily in malabsorption states.



For prophylaxis in haemolytic states or in renal dialysis, adults 5mg daily or even weekly.



This strength tablet is not recommended for children or in pregnancy.



There is no evidence that the dose for the elderly differs.



For oral administration.



4.3 Contraindications



● Known hypersensitivity to the active ingredient or any of the excipients.



● Long -term folate therapy is contraindicated in any patient with untreated cobalamin deficiency. This can be untreated pernicious anaemia or other cause of cobalamin deficiency, including lifelong vegetarians. In elderly people, a cobalamin absorption test should be done before long-term folate therapy. Folate given to such patients for 3 months or longer has precipitated cobalamin neuropathy. No harm results from short courses of folate



Should not be given alone in Addisons or other Vitamin B12 deficiency states because it may precipitate the onset of subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord



Do not use in malignant disease unless megaloblastic anaemia due to folate deficiency is an important complication.



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Caution should be exercised when administering folic acid to patients who may have folate dependent tumours.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



• Antiepileptics – Folic Acid possibly reduces plasma concentration of Phenobarbital, phenytoin and primidone. If folic acid supplements are given to treat folate deficiency, caused by these antiepileptics, the serum antiepileptic levels may fall, leading to decreased seizure control in some patients.



• Antibacterials – chloramphenicol and co-trimoxazole may interfere with folate metabolism.



• Sulfasalazine - can reduce the absorption of folic acid.



• Folic acid may interfere with the toxic and therapeutic effects of Methotrexate.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



Pregnancy



There are no known hazards to the use of folic acid in pregnancy, supplements of folic acid are often beneficial.



Non-drug induced folic acid deficiency, or abnormal folate metabolism, is related to the occurrence of birth defects and some neural tube defects. Interference with folic acid metabolism or folate deficiency induced by drugs such as anticonvulsants and some antineoplastics early in pregnancy results in congenital anomalies. Lack of the vitamin or its metabolites may also be responsible for some cases of spontaneous abortion and intrauterine growth retardation.



Lactation:



Folic acid is actively excreted in human breast milk. Accumulation of folate in milk takes precedence over maternal folate needs. Levels of folic acid are relatively low in colostrum but as lactation proceeds, concentrations of the vitamins rise. No adverse effects have been observed in breast fed infants whose mothers were receiving folic acid.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



None stated.



4.8 Undesirable Effects








Gastrointestinal disorders



Rare (




Anorexia, nausea, abdominal distension and flatulence




Immune system disorders



Rare (




Allergic reactions, comprising erythema, rash, pruritus, urticaria, dyspnoea, and anaphylactic reactions (including shock).



4.9 Overdose



No data available.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



ATC Code BO3B B01



Folic acid is a member of Vitamin B group. It is used in the treatment and prevention of folate deficiency states.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Folic acid is absorbed mainly from the proximal part of the small intestine. Folate polyglutamates are considered to be deconjugated to monoglutamates during absorption. Folic acid rapidly appears in the blood where it is extensively bound to plasma protein.



When large amounts are absorbed a high proportion is metabolised in the liver to other active forms of folate and a proportion is stored as reduced and methylated folate. Large amounts of folate are excreted in the urine.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Not applicable.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Calcium hydrogen phosphate



Starch



Sodium lauryl sulphate



Magnesium stearate.



6.2 Incompatibilities



None stated.



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years for Securitainer



3 years for Blister pack



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Store in a cool dry place protected from light below 25°C.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



Securitainers containing 50, 100, 250, 1000 or 5000 tablets



Blister packs containing 28 tablets



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



Not applicable.



Administrative Data


7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Forley Generics Ltd



NLA tower



12-16 Addiscombe Road



Croydon



CR0 0XT



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 16201/0011



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



22 July 1999



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



05/10/2010




Saturday, 21 July 2012

Amlodipine 5mg Tablets





1. Name Of The Medicinal Product



Amlodipine 5mg tablets


2. Qualitative And Quantitative Composition



Each tablet contains 5 mg amlodipine (as amlodipine mesilate monohydrate).



For excipients, see 6.1.



3. Pharmaceutical Form



Tablet



The tablets are white to off-white, round biconvex and embossed with “5” on one side.



4. Clinical Particulars



4.1 Therapeutic Indications



Essential hypertension.



Chronic stable and vasospastic angina pectoris.



4.2 Posology And Method Of Administration



In adults



For treatment of both hypertension and angina pectoris the usual initial dose is 5 mg once daily. If the desired therapeutic effect cannot be achieved within 2-4 weeks this dose may be increased to a maximum dose of 10 mg daily (as single dose) depending on the individual patient's response.



Children with hypertension from 6 years to 17 years of age.



The recommended antihypertensive oral dose in pediatric patients ages 6-17 years is 2.5 mg once daily as a starting dose, up-titrated to 5 mg once daily if blood pressure goal is not achieved after 4 weeks. Doses in excess of 5 mg daily have not been studied in pediatric patients (see section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties and section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties). The effect of amlodipine on blood pressure in patients less than 6 years of age is not known.



The 2.5 mg dose cannot be obtained with Amlodipine tablets 5 mg as these tablets are not manufactured to break into two equal halves



In the elderly



Normal dosage regimens are recommended in the elderly, however, increase of the dosage should take place with care (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties).



In patients with renal impairment



Amlodipine is not dialysable. In these patients amlodipine can be used in the normal dosage (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties)



In patients with hepatic impairment



A dosage regimen for patients with hepatic impairment has not been established , therefore amlodipine should be administered with caution (see Section 4.4 Special warnings and precautions for use).



The tablets should be taken with a glass of water independently from meals.



4.3 Contraindications



Amlodipine is contra-indicated in patients with:



• severe hypotension



• shock, including cardiogenic shock



• hypersensitivity to dihydropyridine derivatives, amlodipine or any of the excipients



• heart failure after acute myocardial infarction (during the first 28 days)



• obstruction of the outflow-tract of the left ventricle (e.g. high grade aortic stenosis)



• unstable angina pectoris



4.4 Special Warnings And Precautions For Use



Amlodipine should be administered with caution to patients with low cardiac reserve. There are no data to support the use of amlodipine alone, during or within one month of myocardial infarction. The safety and efficacy of amlodipine in hypertensive crisis has not been established.



Patients with cardiac failure



Patients with cardiac failure should be treated with caution In a long-term study including patients suffering from severe heart failure (NYHA grade III and IV) the reported incidence of pulmonary oedema was higher in the amlodipine treated group than in the placebo group, but this was not indicating an aggravation of the heart failure (see Section 5.1 Pharmacodynamic properties).



Use in patients with impaired hepatic function



Amlodipine's half-life is prolonged in patients with impaired liver function; dosage recommendations have not been established. Amlodipine should therefore be administered with caution in these patients.



Use in elderly patients



In the elderly, increase of the dosage should take place with care (see Section 5.2 Pharmacokinetic properties).



Use in children (under 18 years of age)



Amlodipine should not be given to children due to insufficient clinical experience.



4.5 Interaction With Other Medicinal Products And Other Forms Of Interaction



Effects of other medicinal products on amlodipine



CYP3A4 inhibitors: A study of elderly patients has shown that diltiazem inhibits metabolism of amlodipine, probably via CYP3A4, since plasma concentration increases by approx. 50% and the effect of amlodipine is increased. It cannot be excluded that stronger inhibitors of CYP3A4 (i.e. ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir) increase the plasma concentration of amlodipine to a greater extent than diltiazem. Caution should be exercised in combination of amlodipine and CYP3A4 inhibitors.



CYP3A4 inducers: There is no information available on the effect of CYP3A4 inducers (i.e. rifampicin, St. John's wort) on amlodipine. Co-administration may lead to reduced plasma concentration of amlodipine. Caution should be exercised in combination of amlodipine and CYP3A4 inducers.



In clinical interaction studies grapefruit juice, cimetidine, aluminium/magnesium (antacid) and sildenafil did not affect the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.



Effects of amlodipine on other medicinal products



Amlodipine may potentiate the effect of other antihypertensive agents, such as beta-adrenoceptor blocking agents, ACE-inhibitors, alpha-1-blockers and diuretics. In patients with an increased risk (for example after myocardial infarction) the combination of a calcium channel blocker with a beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent may lead to heart failure, to hypotension and to a (new) myocardial infarction.



In clinical interaction studies, amlodipine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, digoxin, warfarin or ciclosporin.



There is no effect of amlodipine on laboratory parameters.



4.6 Pregnancy And Lactation



There are no adequate data from the use of amlodipine in pregnant women. Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity at high doses (see Section 5.3 Preclinical safety data). The potential risk for humans is unknown. Amlodipine should not be used during pregnancy unless clearly necessary.



It is not known whether amlodipine is excreted in breast milk. It is advised to stop breastfeeding during treatment with amlodipine.



4.7 Effects On Ability To Drive And Use Machines



In patients suffering from dizziness, headache, fatigue or nausea the ability to react may be impaired.



4.8 Undesirable Effects






Very common:



Common:



Uncommon:



Rare:



Very rare:




>1/10



>1/100 and <1/10



>1/1000 and <1/100



>1/10 000 and <1/1000



<1/10 000 including isolated cases
































































































Blood and lymphatic system disorders:


 


Very rare:




Leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia.




Endocrine disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Gynaecomastia.




Metabolism and nutrition disorders:


 


Very rare:




Hyperglycaemia.




Nervous system disorders:


 


Common:




Headache (especially at the beginning of the treatment), fatigue, dizziness, asthenia




Uncommon:




Malaise, dry mouth, tremor paraesthesia, increased sweating




Very rare:




Peripheral neuropathy.




Eye disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Visual disturbances.




Psychiatric disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Sleep disorder, irritability, depression




Rare:




Confusion, mood changes including anxiety.




Cardiac disorders:


 


Common:




Palpitations




Uncommon:




Syncope, tachycardia, chest pain, at the beginning of treatment aggravation of angina pectoris may happen, isolated cases of myocardial infarction and arrhythmias (including extrasystole, ventricular tachycardia, bradycardia and atrial arrhythmias) and chest pain have been reported in patients with coronary artery disease, but a clear association with amlodipine has not been established




Vascular disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Hypotension.




Very rare:




Vasculitis.




Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Dyspnoea, rhinitis.




Very rare:




Cough.




Gastrointestinal disorders:


 


Common:




Nausea, dyspepsia, abdominal pain




Uncommon:




Vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, gingival hyperplasia




Very rare:




Gastritis.




Hepato-biliary disorders:


 


Rare:




Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice, hepatitis




Very rare:




Pancreatitis




Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders:


 


Very common:




Ankle swelling




Common:




Facial flushing with heat sensation, especially at the beginning of the treatment




Uncommon:




Exanthema, pruritus, urticaria, alopecia, skin discolouration




Very rare:




Angioedema, isolated cases of allergic reactions including pruritus, rash and erythema exsudativum multiforme, exfoliative Dermatitis, Stevens Johnson syndrome and Quincke oedema have been reported.




Musculoskeletal, connective tissue and bone disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Muscle cramps, back pain, myalgia and arthralgia.




Renal and urinary disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Increased micturition frequency.




Reproductive system and breast disorders:


 


Uncommon:




Impotence.




General disorders and administration site conditions:


 


Uncommon:




Increase or decrease of weight.




Special senses


 


Uncommon:




Tinnitus



4.9 Overdose



In humans, experience with intentional overdose is limited. Available data suggest that large overdoses (> 100mg) could result in excessive peripheral vasodilatation with subsequent marked and probably prolonged systemic hypotension. Clinically significant hypotension due to amlodipine overdosage calls for active cardiovascular support including frequent monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function, elevation of extremities, and attention to circulating fluid volume and urine output.



A vasoconstrictor may be helpful in restoring vascular tone and blood pressure, provided that there is no contraindication to its use. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be beneficial in reversing the effects of calcium channel blockade. Gastric lavage may be worthwhile in some cases. In healthy volunteers the use of charcoal up to 2 hours after administration of amlodipine 10mg has been shown to reduce the absorption rate of amlodipine. Since amlodipine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be of benefit.



5. Pharmacological Properties



5.1 Pharmacodynamic Properties



Pharmacotherapeutic group: Dihydropyridine derivatives



ATC code: C08CA01



Amlodipine is a calcium antagonist and inhibits the influx of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. The mechanism of the antihypertensive action is due to a direct relaxant effect on vascular smooth muscle. The precise mechanism by which amlodipine relieves angina has not been fully determined but the following two actions play a role:



1. Amlodipine dilates peripheral arterioles and thus, reduces the total peripheral resistance (afterload) against which the heart works. This unloading of the heart reduces myocardial energy consumption and oxygen requirements.



2. The mechanism of action also probably involves dilatation of the main coronary arteries and coronary arterioles. This dilation increases the supply in oxygen to myocardiac muscle in patients with Prinzmetal anginal attack.



In patients with hypertension, once daily dosing provides clinically significant reductions of blood pressure (in both supine and standing positions) throughout the 24 hour interval.



In patients with angina, once daily administration of amlodipine increases total exercise time, the delay of occurrence of anginal attack and the delay of the occurrence of a 1-mm ST interval. Amlodipine decreases both angina attack frequency and glyceryl trinitrate tablet consumption.



Patients with cardiac failure



Haemodynamic studies and exercise based clinical trials in NYHA Class II-IV heart failure patients have shown that amlodipine did not lead to clinical deterioration as measured by exercise tolerance, left ventricular ejection fraction and clinical symptomatology.



A placebo controlled study (PRAISE) designed to evaluate patients in NYHA Class III-IV heart failure patients receiving digoxin, diuretics and ACE inhibitors has shown that amlodipine did not lead to an increase in risk of mortality or a combined risk of mortality and morbidity with heart failure.



A follow-up study (PRAISE 2) showed that amlodipine did not have an affect on the total or cardiovascular mortality of decompensatio cordis Class III-IV patients without ischaemic origin. In this study treatment with amlodipine was associated with an increase in pulmonary oedema, although this could not be related to an increase in symptoms.



In a study involving 268 children aged 6-17 years with predominantly secondary hypertension, comparison of a 2.5mg dose, and 5.0mg dose of amlodipine with placebo, showed that both doses reduced Systolic Blood Pressure significantly more than placebo. The difference between the two doses was not statistically significant.



The long-term effects of amlodipine on growth, puberty and general development have not been studied. The long-term efficacy of amlodipine on therapy in childhood to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in adulthood have also not been established.



5.2 Pharmacokinetic Properties



Absorption/Distribution



After oral administration of therapeutic doses, amlodipine is slowly absorbed. Absorption of amlodipine is not influenced by concomitant food intake. Absolute bioavailability of the unchanged active substance is estimated to be 64-80%. Peak plasma levels are reached 6-12 hours after administration. The volume of distribution is approximately 21 l/kg. The pKa of amlodipine is 8.6. In vitro studies have shown that amlodipine is bound to plasmatic proteins up to 97.5%.



Metabolism/Elimination



The plasma elimination half-life is about 35-50 hours. Steady-state plasma levels are reached after 7-8 consecutive days. Amlodipine is extensively metabolised to inactive metabolites. About 60% of the administered dose is excreted in the urine, of which 10% is as unchanged amlodipine.



In the elderly



The time to reach peak plasma concentrations is similar in elderly and younger patients. The clearance tends to be decreased with resulting increases in “area under the curve” (AUC) and terminal elimination half-life. The recommended dosage regimen for the elderly is the same, although increasing the dose should take place with caution.



In patients with renal failure



Amlodipine is extensively metabolised to inactive metabolites. 10% of the parent compound is excreted unchanged in urine. Changes in amlodipine concentration are not correlated with degree of renal impairment. Therefore the normal dosage is recommended. Amlodipine is not dialysable.



Patients with hepatic impairment:



The half-life of amlodipine is prolonged in patients with impaired hepatic function.



Children



A population PK study has been conducted in 74 hypertensive children aged from 12 month to 17 years (with 34 patients aged 6 to 12 years and 28 patients aged 13 to 17 years) receiving amlodipine between 1.25 and 20 mg given either once or twice daily. In children 6 to 12 years and in adolescents 13-17 years of age the typical oral clearance (CL/F) was 22.5 and 27.4 L/hr respectively in males and 16.4 and 21.3L/hr respectively in females. Large variability in exposure between individuals was observed. Data reported in children below 6 years is limited.



5.3 Preclinical Safety Data



Preclinical data reveal no special hazard for humans based on conventional studies of safety pharmacology, repeated dose toxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenic potential. In animal studies with respect to reproduction in rats at high doses delayed parturition, difficult labour and impaired foetal and pup survival were seen.



6. Pharmaceutical Particulars



6.1 List Of Excipients



Microcrystalline cellulose



Anhydrous calcium hydrogen phosphate



Sodium starch glycollate type A



Magnesium stearate



6.2 Incompatibilities



Not applicable.



6.3 Shelf Life



3 years.



6.4 Special Precautions For Storage



Do not store above 30°C. Store in the original package.



6.5 Nature And Contents Of Container



PVC/PE/PVdC-aluminium blister.



Pack sizes:



10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 50, 98, 100 and 200 tablets



Not all pack sizes may be marketed.



6.6 Special Precautions For Disposal And Other Handling



No special requirements.



7. Marketing Authorisation Holder



Actavis UK Limited



(Trading style: Actavis)



Whiddon Valley



BARNSTAPLE



N Devon EX32 8NS



United Kingdom



8. Marketing Authorisation Number(S)



PL 00142/0614



9. Date Of First Authorisation/Renewal Of The Authorisation



11th October 2004



10. Date Of Revision Of The Text



10.08.2010